Healthy relationships: A look at what’s on the menu at Twilight Dinners to benefit Centre Safe

Centre Safe is excited to officially be in a new season — Twilight Dinners season that is! For many years, the Twilight Dinner series has been a signature fundraiser for Centre Safe, bringing together community members for a shared, ticketed meal, with proceeds from the event benefiting Centre Safe.

This year, Centre Safe hopes to raise $20,000 from the events. Dinners are hosted by community members, and format — as well as theme — is up to individual hosts. Dinners can be private, with hosts choosing their attendees; open to the public; or a combination of both. They can also be held in private homes or in public spaces around Happy Valley — as is the case with the upcoming Twilight Dinner slated for March 22 at Webster’s Bookstore and Cafe. Hosted by Webster’s and featuring a 1920s Speakeasy theme, the event will be a one-of-a-kind dining experience.

All proceeds from the Twilight Dinners (tickets are $125 per person) go toward Centre Safe’s costs in assisting victims and survivors of sexual and relationship violence, providing them with shelter, legal support, outreach and education programs, and, in general, a community safety net. In 2024, Centre Safe served more than 900 domestic violence clients, as well as approximately 200 sexual assault victims and survivors and another 200 or so individuals and families seeking emergency shelter and housing. Our goal is to provide optimal services for all.

Details on the public Twilight Dinners are listed below. Additional dinners may be added later. Purchase Twilight Dinner tickets at www.centresafe.org/twilight-dinners, or by calling the Centre Safe office at 814-238-7066. You can also call the Centre Safe office to inquire about hosting an upcoming Twilight Dinner event. If you are unable to attend the dinners but want to contribute, you may donate to the Twilight Dinner Fund using the same ticket purchase link.

1920s Speakeasy

Hosted by Webster’s Bookstore & Café

7 p.m., Saturday, March 22, Webster’s Bookstore & Cafe

Join Webster’s Bookstore & Cafe and Centre Safe for one delicious night of fun and fundraising in honor of Centre Safe and its 50th anniversary. The dinner is in the model of Webster’s Vegan EpiCurious Dinners, so entirely vegan and with many courses of culinary delight.

We Are ... Inn Philipsburg

Hosted by Sara and Tom Songer

6 p.m., Thursday, April 10, We are Inn, Philipsburg

We Are Inn is the go-to spot for a fantastic dining experience in Philipsburg. Its restaurant specializes in both Italian and American cuisine, boasting a menu filled with family recipes that have been cherished and perfected over generations. From classic Italian specialties to mouthwatering Philly favorites like Cheese Steaks, Hoagies and Italian Roast Pork sandwiches, there’s something to delight every palate. This Twilight Dinner allows you to order off the menu and enjoy the cash bar.

Field of Dreams

Hosted by Char Morett Curtiss and Sharon Herlocher

6-8 p.m., Wednesday, May 21, Penn State Field Hockey Complex (Curtin Road, University Park, PA)

Join legendary Penn State field hockey coach Char Morett Curtiss and State College Field Hockey Coach Sharon Herlocher for an amazing Twilight Dinner at the newly renovated and expanded Penn State Field Hockey Complex. Heavy hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar will be featured. Morett-Curtiss retired from her position leading Nittany Lions field hockey after her 39th season as a collegiate head coach. Herlocher has an impressive coaching resume with State College, Penn State, Boston University, and club field hockey. She also co-owns Herlocher Foods and Ottis Properties. Morett Curtiss and Herlocher invite you to enjoy the views from the stadium and the comradery among friends as we celebrate all Penn State and Happy Valley has to offer.

South American Delight

6 p.m., Saturday, June 14, State College (specific address to be provided to registered guests)

Hosted by Joy Vincent-Killian and Richard Killian

Join for a culinary exploration of South America. Enjoy a gourmet dinner paired with beverages. Begin the evening at 6 pm. .on the deck with a garden tour, margaritas and appetizers. Formal dinner seating at 7 p.m. and wine pairing during engaging conversation. Dietary restrictions or requirements can be accommodated.