Guests of the 25th Annual Night of Stars fundraiser can expect an evening filled with food, champagne, a live and silent auction, and a tribute to the event’s silver anniversary — with funds raised benefiting both Iowa River Hospice and the American Cancer Society.

“We will be celebrating the past, while looking to the future,” said Iowa River Hospice Community Liaison Rhonda Miller.

The event will be held Saturday, April 8 at Elmwood Country Club, with guests arriving at 5:30 p.m. to enjoy champagne and hors d’oeuvres. From 5:30-7:30 p.m., people can browse the silent auction area, with dinner served at 6:30 p.m. At 7:30 p.m., longtime Night of Stars committee member Joel Greer will serve as guest speaker, with a live auction to follow.

Night of Stars was originally called Oscar Night, as guests were encouraged to arrive decked out in wardrobes fit for the red carpet. In the early years, the fundraiser only benefited the American Cancer Society, until Iowa River Hospice was added as a beneficiary in 2005.

Miller said the money raised is split between the two organization, with the money Iowa River Hospice receives going to fund a variety of special services.

“The funds will allow us to provide things such as massage and music therapy, help pay for a loved one to come visit a patient, for celebrations and to help with mundane living expenses people can’t afford,” Miller said.

There will be 25 items for the silent auction and another 25 available during the live auction — all prizes, packages and items donated by local folks and businesses. Some of the prizes include: a mystery dinner in a 1950s theme, a family portrait package, fresh flowers for a year, house cleaning services, a custom quilt, gourmet dinners and more.

“It is all volunteer-driven, and is such a great community effort,” Miller said.

The cost is $150 per couple, or $75 per person. Cocktail attire. Registration is required by March 25.

Those unable to attend can also donate to the event or leave a Legacy Star. A Legacy Star costs a minimum of $25, and the stars will hang at the event in memory of, or as a tribute to, a loved one.

The fundraiser is co-chaired by Susan Krough and Kyley and Brian Leger.

For more information and to register, visit: www.iowariverhospice.org/nightofstars or call Iowa River Hospice at: 641-753-7704.