Community Assisted Rides (CARS) is marking a milestone this fall — 25 years of providing safe, accompanied transportation and compassionate outreach to older adults across 22 local communities. To celebrate, supporters, volunteers, and friends will gather for the Annual Fall Benefit: Silver Soirée on Thursday, September 25 at Drury Lane in Oakbrook Terrace.
Guests can expect an evening as meaningful as it is festive, featuring live jazz, a gourmet dinner, beer and wine service, and a cash bar for cocktails. The program will include heartfelt stories from CARS’ riders and volunteers, a silent auction, a lively paddle raise, and the ever-popular silver balloon pop. Proceeds from the evening will help ensure that older adults in the region have access to essential transportation and social connections — both vital to maintaining independence and quality of life. Individual tickets can be purchased at https://one.bidpal.net/carsbenefit/welcome.
A New Way to Honor Someone Special
This year’s celebration introduces a special opportunity: the Driving Kindness Tribute Sponsorship. This program allows donors to honor someone who has made a meaningful impact — whether a beloved CARS VIP (Very Important Passenger), a devoted volunteer, or a cherished friend or family member — while supporting CARS’ mission.
Tribute sponsorships are available at Gold ($1,000), Silver ($500), and Bronze ($250) levels, each offering unique recognition, from floral arrangements and personalized cards to special mentions in event materials, newsletters, and social media. Gold sponsors can even include a brief video tribute to be shared during the event. No matter the level, each sponsorship connects a personal tribute with the broader community impact of CARS’ work. You can sponsor today at https://communityassistedrides.org/events-sponsorship/.
Driving Change, One Ride at a Time
For a quarter century, CARS has been more than just a transportation service. The organization fosters a sense of belonging, helping older adults remain connected to their communities, neighbors, and essential services. Riders are never charged for transportation, and the organization relies on community generosity to continue offering these life-enhancing services.
As one grateful rider put it: “Without CARS, what would seniors like me do?”
On September 25, the answer will be clear — the community will come together to raise a glass, share stories, and ensure that CARS’ mission rolls forward for years to come.