“Hilltop Fest is a celebration with a purpose, making a real difference in our community,” said Jen Lane, Friendship Haven’s director of engagement. “It’s the perfect blend of entertainment and community support, and promises to be a fantastic experience for everyone.”

Hilltop Fest is an annual fundraiser that supports Friendship Haven’s Good Samaritan Fund and charitable mission. The fund and donations provided have ensured that for more than 70 years, no resident has been asked to move out of Friendship Haven because they could no longer afford it.

“Even when unforeseen circumstances have forced residents to exhaust their resources, they can continue to live a life filled with faith, passion, and purpose here thanks to Friendship Haven’s charitable mission,” said Lane.

According to Lane, the Good Samaritan Fund also helps residents in need and helps support the Companion program, in which one-on-one time is provided to residents to help combat loneliness.

The annual fundraiser will begin at 5:30 p.m. with DJ Dean Vinchattle. Dinner will be provided with the Webster County Pork Producers grilling up the main entree of the night. Olde Boston’s Restaurant and Pub will provide side dishes. Friendship Haven’s culinary department will provide a variety of desserts.

“Dean Vinchattle will be warming people up during dinner, and Tank’s soulful country sound with multiple genre influences will kick it up a notch for a high energy night of music, dancing, and most importantly: fun,” said Lane.

Hilltop Fest guests will also have an opportunity to purchase raffle tickets with a variety of prizes including including $2,500 cash, a $2,000 travel voucher, 75-inch Amazon Fire Omni Series UHD Smart TV, Amigos deck party, a ride to school in a fire truck, Wild Rose Casino stay and play package, Explore Des Moines package, family picture session and digital downloads, and more.

Tickets to Hilltop Fest are $20 per person and can be purchased at the Friendship Haven Welcome Center, at the gate or at hilltopfest24.givesmart.com.

The gate to the event will be located under the shaded oak trees on the town home lawn across from Kenyon Place.

Residents and staff will also celebrate Spirit Week, which will include themed dress-up days, visiting food trucks that will be open to the community, and a variety of activities.

Spirit Week

Monday: Pajama Day; Miss Casey’s Donuts & Wishbone Coffee in the morning; Big Acai Bowl in afternoon

Tuesday: Favorite Team Day; Feed Shack, Little Lemon Co.

Wednesday: Hat Day, Mama Dee’s Tacos

Thursday: Superhero Day, Texas Toast & Tots

Friday: Friendship Haven & Hilltop Fest Day; Ardys Mae, The Dariette in the afternoon, Pliner’s Popcorn at the event