Penn State Berks Benefitting THON student organization will host its ninth annual “Inspire the Night” benefit dinner Jan. 16 from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Redner’s Event Center at the Reading Fightin Phils FirstEnergy Stadium.
The event will provide an evening of fun and inspiration and is open to students, faculty, staff and community members. Tickets can be purchased directly through the Berks Benefitting THON website until Jan. 4. Individual tickets cost $100.
The dinner will immerse guests in an understanding of THON, the largest student-run philanthropic event in the world. During THON, Penn State students from each campus are selected to participate in the 46-hour dance marathon at University Park. THON’s mission is to provide emotional and financial support, spread awareness and ensure funding for critical research — all in pursuit of a cure. Proceeds benefit Four Diamonds at Penn State Health Children’s Hospital.
Last year’s event raised more than $16,000 to help families affected by pediatric cancer.
Christmas concert
The Reading Philharmonic Orchestra with Dave Kline will present a free Christmas concert at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 117 E. Arch St., Fleetwood, on Dec. 19 at 7 p.m. A free-will offering will be taken.
Support group
The sudSSpirit grief support group for those who have experienced the sudden, unexpected death of a spouse or significant other will meet on Dec. 16 at 6 p.m. in the Exeter Community Library. It is free and no registration is required. For more information and grief support resources visit dominicmurgido.com, email sudsspirit@gmail.com or call 717-866-2401.
Nativity display
Zion’s Lutheran Church, 354 Zion Church Road, Perry Township, will be open to the general public Dec. 20 from noon to 3 p.m. There will be a display of more than 300 Nativity sets from a private collection and a tree decorated with 50 Nativity ornaments. A free-will donation will be accepted with proceeds sent to the Lutheran Domestic Disaster Response. Complimentary cookies and hot and cold beverages will be available.
Collecting blankets, socks
Trulieve is inviting patients and community members to drop off blankets and socks for senior centers at the company’s dispensaries at 3225 N. Fifth Street Highway, Muhlenberg Township, and 201 Lancaster Ave., during business hours.