In recognition of domestic violence awareness month, a fundraiser benefitting the Family Shelter Service will be held on Thursday, October 16 at 7:30 PM at the York Theatre, 150 N. York St., in downtown Elmhurst. A $10 donation is recommended.

The event is designed to reach out to the community and provide a platform to discuss domestic violence. The evening will begin with a presentation by Dr. Lourdes Ferrer, an education consultant, researcher, motivational speaker and author, who will tell her personal story as a survivor of domestic abuse.

A clip of Lorena Gordon’s film, “Times Like These,” a documentary that is based on her mother’s experiences with domestic violence, will follow Dr. Ferrer’s presentation. Gordon will discuss the documentary and take questions from the audience.

Peggy Radke, director of training and community outreach at Family Shelter Service, will wrap up the event by providing statistics about domestic violence in DuPage County and educating the audience about the services the organization provides. Family Shelter Service, a nonprofit organization in Wheaton, provides shelter and a multitude of services to victims of domestic abuse. 

About Classic Cinemas

Classic Cinemas, based in Downers Grove, Illinois, is a family-owned company operated by Willis, Shirley and Chris Johnson. Established in 1978, Classic Cinemas operates 13 theatres, which comprise 104 screens in the northern Illinois area, with each auditorium equipped with state-of-the-art digital projection and sound technology.  Classic Cinemas recently celebrated its 35th anniversary as the hometown theatre to moviegoers.  For more information on Classic Cinemas, please visit www.classiccinemas.com.