A Downers Grove-based group that provides recreational opportunities to people with disabilities will be hosting a fundraiser in May to support its programs.
American English, a Beatles tribute band, will be taking the stage to benefit the South East Association for Special Parks And Recreation, which serves 11 communities in eastern DuPage and western Cook counties.
Lisa Rasin, who serves as the fund development coordinator, said she is hoping to sell all 1,000 tickets for the concert. In past years, the organization has hosted a Buddy Holly tribute band.
“We wanted to mix things up a little this year,” she said.
SEASPAR has been operating since 1976 and now works with local park districts to create programs geared toward people with disabilities. The organization mostly is funded through private grants and donations. Its more than 700 annual offerings include sports, day camps, adult dances, day trips and leisure activities.
“On Friday night we have a social club for our older participants,” Rasin said. “Sometimes they may go bowling, or even to a (Chicago) Bulls game. It depends on what activity is being held.”
Rasin said the organization serves about 2,000 individuals per year and has more than tripled its overall service population since it began.
A recent survey found roughly 71 percent of family members and participants feel program quality at the organization is excellent, and 26 percent said program quality is good. The top benefits include fun, improved social skills, improved self-esteem and confidence and learning to be independent.
The overall satisfaction with the value of service provided was 92 percent, according to the survey.
Rasin’s nephew, a local high school student with Down syndrome, also takes part in SEASPAR programs and has been involved in the organization since the age of 5.
“It gives him a chance to connect with people,” Rasin said.
The fundraiser runs from 7 to 9 p.m. May 2 at Tivoli Theatre, 5021 Highland Ave., Downers Grove. Tickets range from $20 to $25. They can be purchased by calling 630-960-7600 or going to seaspar.org. The organization is also looking for corporate sponsors.
