Carol Stream's free Thursday-night concert series raised $2,775 for five local food pantries and $1,000 for Operation Support Our Troops during its 2026 season at Ross Ferraro Town Center.
The village announced the fundraising totals Aug. 13, crediting raffle supporters, individual donors and Carol Stream VFW Post 10396 for the contributions. The food pantry funds will be split among Bloomingdale Township Food Pantry, Milton Township Food Pantry, Interfaith Food Pantry, Neighborhood Food Pantries and Wayne Township Food Pantry.
The series ran seven Thursdays from June 18 through Aug. 6 at the town center, 960 N. Gary Ave. The lineup included Dancing Queen, an ABBA tribute act, the Nate Manos Blues Band and closing act Mackenzie O'Brien Band.
One night stood out.
The July 16 concert featuring 7th Heaven doubled as the Concert for the Troops and the rescheduled America250 Independence Day fireworks, which had been postponed from July 4 due to weather. That evening also included the inaugural dedication of the Carol Stream Military Honors Banner Program, a partnership between the village and VFW Post 10396.
Operation Support Our Troops-America, the DuPage County-area nonprofit that received the $1,000 donation, ships comfort and care packages to deployed U.S. service members. According to the organization's website, it holds a 100% rating from Charity Navigator and a Platinum Award from Candid/GuideStar.
The village said it is grateful to volunteers, community partners, vendors, village staff and public safety personnel who helped run the events. Sponsors included Oppidan Connect Data Centers as the America250 presenting sponsor, with Flood Brothers Disposal and Baxter & Woodman at the platinum level. Village Trustee Jeff Berger was among those who donated event photography alongside Kristan Michelle Photography and Marc Meyer.
Carol Stream is already accepting sponsorship interest forms and band submissions for the 2027 series. Residents with questions can contact Eileen Tibble, the village's communications coordinator, at [email protected].
What's coming up at Ross Ferraro Town Center
- Fall Fest — Saturday, Sept. 19, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., featuring a car show, kids' activities, food vendors and live music by The Jolly Ringwalds.
