It's time to place your bets for an evening of music, food and laughs.

Together We Cope’s annual Nite at the Races and Pasta Extravaganza will be held Wednesday, Sept. 14, at Orland Chateau. The fundraiser aids the Tinley Park-based nonprofit organization, which helps families in temporary crisis through a food pantry, resale shop and financial aid for basic expenses. The agency serves families from more than 23 south suburban communities.

“The need for our services is greater than ever before," said Karen Moran, fundraising chairwoman at Together We Cope. "It’s not uncommon to serve from 50 to 55 families a day”

PLEASE VISIT the Together We Cope listing in the Patch Places directory for more information.

Attendees Wednesday will bet on their favorite horses running in pre-recorded races shown throughout the evening. Bets are placed with “funny money” which is in turn used to buy chances to win more than 40 different themed raffle baskets.

Each race runs a field of horses whose names were chosen by event sponsors—area businesses, organizations and individuals. A dinner buffet worthy of the "sport of kings" will include everything from pizza and pasta to ribs and chicken, all supplied by local restaurants. Comedian Brian Hicks, a Mokena resident, will be on hand to provide laughs and emcee Wednesday's event.

Come out to take part this trifecta — entertainment, food and goodwill.

For more information or to make a donation, please visit their website or the event listing in our Patch directory.

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