The McCord Gallery & Cultural Center set the stage for an evening of celebration, creativity and community spirit Tuesday, April 28, as it hosted a kickoff event for its 22nd annual fundraiser gala.
Guests filtered into the gallery, where the buzz of conversation mixed with the clink of glasses and the aroma of light bites. The gathering offered more than just a social outing — it served as both a thank-you to those who made last year’s gala a success and an early glimpse at what organizers have in store for 2026.
Attendees enjoyed wine, refreshments and a first look at the theme for this year’s gala, set for Oct. 17 at Midlothian Country Club. Organizers unveiled “A Gilded Affair: Where Glamour Meets Giving,” a concept inspired by the elegance and energy of the 1920s.
Event chairs Cynthia Weglarz, Linda Buchanan and Ben Kubicki — all residents of Palos Park — are leading this year’s effort. Weglarz said the theme came to her in a moment of reflection.
“I was doing some dreaming, and this has led to the wonderful history behind McCord and the history behind the Palos Park Woman’s Club,” she said.
Drawing from the art deco style popular between World War I and World War II, the gala’s vision blends vintage flair with modern purpose. Organizers described a night that will lean into the opulence of the Roaring Twenties — a time marked by bold design, jazz-era sophistication and cultural transformation — while supporting the gallery’s mission to promote art and community engagement.
The trio said they hope to build on last year’s momentum and reach a goal of selling 225 tickets for the upcoming gala.
Throughout the evening, Kubicki and Buchanan thanked the volunteers, donors and supporters who helped make the previous fundraiser a success, emphasizing that the event’s impact extends far beyond a single night.
“We have so much to celebrate,” Weglarz said.
The kickoff event also served as an open invitation for new supporters to get involved, whether through attending, volunteering or contributing to the cause. As guests mingled and shared ideas, anticipation for October’s gala continued to grow.
If the kickoff was any indication, “A Gilded Affair” promises not only a stylish evening, but a meaningful one — where history, art and generosity come together under one roof.
