Dennis Raber was 30 when he died in February 2018 after a decade-long battle with addiction. His family and friends remembered him as a kind, talented young man who loved sports, cooking, music and animals.
His struggle with addiction became a turning point for his family, who have worked to raise awareness about the opioid epidemic and help others facing similar battles.
Hosted by Dennis’ parents, Mark and Kathy Raber, with help from family members including Maureen Esposito, Dash for Den is an annual 5K walk and run that honors Dennis’ life while raising money for addiction recovery services.
The event brought together families, friends and community members Sunday, Oct. 18, at The Children’s Farm at The Center in Palos Park. Participants gathered to remember loved ones lost to addiction and support men working toward recovery.
Dennis, a graduate of Lockport High School and Illinois State University, spent years trying to overcome addiction. He explored different approaches to recovery, including yoga, meditation and residential treatment. In 2015, he joined The Center’s Pathway to Sobriety program.
His experience with addiction and recovery remains central to his family’s mission. Through Dash for Den, they aim to help other families understand the challenges of substance use disorders and connect men struggling with addiction to support.
Pathway to Sobriety is a long-term, farm-based residential recovery program for men. Participants live and work at the farm while focusing on healing the body, mind and spirit. The program is funded entirely through donations and does not charge participants, their families or insurance companies.
Money raised through Dash for Den helps sustain the program and support men working toward recovery.
The fundraiser has become a powerful show of community support. Last year, hundreds of people attended the eighth annual event, making it the largest turnout in its history.
“People are great and totally dedicated to the cause,” said Mark Raber of Homer Glen, Dennis’ father.
Participants walked three laps around the farm in a family-friendly setting. There was no registration or entry fee, but attendees were encouraged to donate or gather sponsors. The event typically raises between $20,000 and $25,000 annually.
The Raber family’s annual fundraiser is about more than money. It is a way to keep Dennis’ memory alive while supporting people battling addiction and reminding grieving families that they are not alone.
