Alpha Phi Omega is holding its second annual holiday benefit dinner Wednesday to recognize NIU football coach Joe Novak.

Appearing as a guest speaker, Novak will speak about the importance of charity and community service.

“Joe Novak has dramatically increased publicity for both Northern Illinois University and DeKalb, not to mention that he brings back a lot of alumni to NIU,” said Nicholas Utech, APO’s fundraising and special events coordinator. “When alumni come back, they get to see the school and more alumni contribute to the school that way.”

The money raised in the event will be donated to local charities and programs of other student organizations.

“We try not to stay too close in just one organization to benefit, simply because we want charities to know that we’re very open,” Utech said. “We think it’s very important for everybody to get their fair share.”

APO is the largest service organization in the nation and is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year.

The dinner will be held at 6 p.m. Wednesday at the Best Western Inn and Suites, 1212 W. Lincoln Highway. Tickets are $25, which include dinner, an auction and entertainment. Tickets are for sale up to the day of the event, but walk-ins are accepted as well. Formal attire is required.

For more information or to reserve tickets, call Utech at 630-269-2470.