The Ouilmette Foundation will host "Sunset Over The Beach" on Saturday, August 1, at Gillson Beach in Wilmette, raising money for Wilmette Park District scholarships that help lower-income families access youth sports and camps.
The lakefront fundraiser runs from 7 to 9:30 p.m. at 890 Michigan Ave and features live music, a bonfire, and sunset views over Lake Michigan. Tickets are $25 per person, available at wilmettepark.org. The event is 21 and older.
Proceeds support the Wilmette Park District's Financial Assistance Program, which awards scholarships of 25%, 50%, or 75% off program registration fees, capped at $2,000 per household per year, according to the district's scholarship application. Eligibility is limited to Wilmette residents and students attending Avoca, Marie Murphy, and Romona schools. A family of four earning up to $56,164 qualifies for the largest discount; families earning up to $99,848 can receive a 25% reduction. Those income thresholds are from the district's 2024 application, and current figures may differ. Families can check wilmettepark.org for updated eligibility.
The program covers youth athletics, camps, arts, and recreation. Court and ice time rentals, parties, and programs under $100 are excluded.
The Ouilmette Foundation partners with the Wilmette Park District to fund these scholarships and broader community projects. For families with questions about sports programming or scholarship eligibility, Brad Wessel, the Wilmette Park District's Recreation Supervisor for Sports, can be reached at (847) 256-9690 or [email protected].
North Shore Sports Week Ahead
- Saturday, August 1, 7–9:30 p.m. — Sunset Over The Beach fundraiser, Gillson Beach (890 Michigan Ave, Wilmette). $25/person, 21+. Supports Wilmette Park District scholarships.
- Tuesday, August 4, 10 a.m. — Wilmette Park District Early Fall resident registration opens online at wilmettepark.org.
- Saturday, August 8 — Wilmette Park District youth soccer league registration closes.
