On Saturday, February 16^th, 2008, The Progressive Business Group hosted its 6^th Annual Valentine Charity Ball to benefit The Center for Prevention of Abuse.  The black tie optional affair was held at the Par-a-Dice Hotel along the riverfront beginning with a champagne reception and hot hors d’oeuvres.

The all-inclusive event came complete with a gourmet four-course meal, a chocolate fountain, a keepsake photo & live entertainment, all setting the tone for a romantic Valentine’s celebration.  The event also featured a silent auction and a raffle with a chance to win a Scott Kay sterling silver jewelry set valued at almost $3,000.

The PBG is made up of business men and women in central Illinois who have a good time fostering leadership and building long lasting relationships, while helping local charities.  Their relationships in the community broaden the event’s recognition with major event sponsors including Bremer Jewelry, Par-a-Dice Hotel & Casino, Peoria Surgical Group, Regent Broadcasting & Pearl Companies.

The Valentine Charity Ball is just one way the group helps strengthen central Illinois, as attendance grows each year.  In its first year, the event drew 130 people. This year, almost 300 people attended.  “Each year, our invitation list gets longer because those who have attended are spreading the word to their family and friends. It’s a top notch event that’s an all around fun and romantic evening for everyone,” says Phil Jordan, event chairman.

As attendance grows, so does awareness and support for The Center for Prevention of Abuse, a not-for-profit agency that works to achieve its mission to build a safe, peaceful community.  For more than 30 years, The Center has served women and men, children and seniors in central Illinois affected by domestic violence, sexual assault/abuse and elder abuse.  It is the only agency in the state of Illinois to offer all of those services under one roof.  Each year, The Center serves more than 4,000 victims of violence and reaches another 20,000 students with violence prevention education in area schools. 

“The Center is critical in our community.  Every day 15 new people come to The Center. The PBG believes the Valentine Charity Ball is a great way for people to celebrate a special occasion while also doing good for others,” says John Gillies, PBG President.