Mundelein, IL — The Lake County Extension Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a mission to generate resources that enhance the programming of Extension, will host its first “Give a Sip” Garden Social Fundraiser on Friday, August 28, 2026, at The Country Bumpkin Garden Center in Mundelein. Proceeds from the event will directly support University of Illinois Extension programs in all areas that serve residents across both counties.
The Foundation’s mission is to strengthen communities by supporting the work of Illinois Extension, which translates scientific research into practical, everyday information. Extension programming covers a wide range of topics—from gardening and environmental stewardship to entrepreneurship, nutrition, agriculture, and family well‑being—helping residents make informed decisions about their homes, careers, and communities.
Attendees will be welcomed into a garden in full summer bloom, where a local jazz trio will provide live music throughout the afternoon. Wine, non‑alcoholic beverages, and appetizers will be available at stations around the grounds. Each admission includes entry into a drawing for a variety of door prizes, and guests will have opportunities to participate in raffles and auctions featuring themed prize packages. Garden staff will offer live demonstrations on seasonal planter building, and the garden will feature numerous photo opportunities, including a special appearance by a mini‑yak. The event is open to everyone, and tickets are $35.
The event will take place from 3 to 6 p.m. at The Country Bumpkin Garden Center, 27691 N. Gilmer Road, Mundelein, IL. Tickets and additional information are available at www.lcextensionfoundation.org/giveasip.
The Foundation encourages individuals and businesses to increase their impact by becoming Give a Sip sponsors, helping expand educational outreach, youth development, environmental programs, and community initiatives throughout the region.
Individuals requiring accommodations to participate are encouraged to email the event contact, Brandon Fuchs, at brandon@lcextensionfoundation.org in advance to allow sufficient time to meet access needs.
University of Illinois Extension develops educational programs, extends knowledge, and builds partnerships to support people, communities, and their environments as part of the state's land-grant institution. Extension serves as the leading public outreach effort for University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences in all 102 Illinois counties through a network of 27 multi-county units and over 500 staff statewide. Extension’s mission is responsive to eight strategic priorities — community, economy, environment, food and agriculture, health, partnerships, technology and discovery, and workforce excellence — that are served through five program areas — 4-H youth development, agriculture and agribusiness, community and economic development, health and community wellness, and natural resources, environment, and energy.