A series of culinary experiences will kick off this month to benefit Centre Safe and its work to support survivors of sexual and relationship violence.
Twilight Dinners have become a signature annual fundraiser for Centre Safe, and this year the State College-based nonprofit hopes to raise $20,000 from the ticketed meals.
Dinners are hosted by community members, and the formats and themes of each are up to the individual hosts. The events can be private, with hosts choosing their attendees, open to the public, or a combination of both, and can be held in homes or public venues around Centre County.
The first of four announced Twilight Dinners will be a “1920s Speakeasy” theme at 7 p.m. on March 22 hosted by Webster’s Bookstore & Cafe in downtown State College. (See details about each event below.)
Tickets for each dinner are $125 per person. Proceeds 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 a general community safety net.
To purchase tickets, visit centresafe.org/twilight-dinners or call the Centre Safe office at 814-238-7066. Community members can also inquire about hosting a Twilight Dinner, and can contribute a donation online even if they are unable to attend one of the events.
Centre Safe, which marks its 50th anniversary this year, served more than 900 domestic violence clients in 2024, as well as approximately 200 sexual assault victims and survivors and about 200 individuals and families seeking emergency shelter and housing.
“Our goal is to provide optimal services for all,” Jennifer Pencek, executive director of Centre Safe, said in a statement. “We always appreciate the support of the community, including the generous hosts of this year’s Twilight Dinners. The dinners provide amazing nights of culinary delights and also strengthen connections between Centre Safe and community members. Whether people purchase tickets to one dinner or more—or donate to the Twilight Dinners Fund—every dollar raised goes directly to support victims and survivors and provide critical services across Centre County.”
Here’s a look at the upcoming Twilight Dinners.
Saturday, March 22, 7 p.m.
1920s Speakeasy
Webster’s Bookstore Cafe, 133 E. Beaver Ave., State College
Hosted by Elaine Meder-Wilgus and Webster’s
Webster’s Bookstore Cafe hosts a 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 — entirely vegan and with many courses of culinary delight.
Thursday, April 10, 6 p.m.
We Are Inn, 1535 Port Matilda Highway, Philipsburg
Hosted by Sara and Tom Songer
We Are Inn specializes in Italian and American cuisine, featuring a menu filled with family recipes that have been cherished and perfected over generations — from classic Italian specialties to Philly favorites. This Twilight Dinner will allow attendees to tantalize their tastebuds with anything from the restaurant’s new menu and enjoy a cash bar.
Wednesday, May 21, 6 p.m.
Field of Dreams
Penn State Field Hockey Complex, Curtin Road, University Park
Hosted by Char Morett-Curtiss and Sharon Herlocher
Join legendary Penn State field hockey coach Char Morett-Curtiss and State College Area field hockey coach Sharon Herlocher for an evening at the newly renovated and expanded Penn State Field Hockey Complex. The event will feature heavy hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar while guests enjoy camaraderie and the stadium’s spectacular views.
Saturday, June 14, 6 p.m.
South American Delight
State College (address to be provided to registered guests)
Hosted by Joy Vincent-Killian and Richard Killian
This culinary exploration of South America will feature a gourmet dinner paired with beverages. The evening will begin on the deck with a garden tour, margaritas and appetizers at 6 p.m. followed by formal dinner seating and wine pairing at 7 p.m. Dietary restrictions or requirements can be accommodated.
