Gerard Academy and the Hormel families have a long and connected history. Now, the two Austin-area nonprofits — Gerard Academy and the Hormel Historic Home — will host a joint fundraiser to celebrate that heritage, at 6 p.m. on Saturday, May 19, at the Hormel Historic Home, 208 Fourth Ave. NW, in Austin.

George and Lillian Hormel raised their son, Jay C. Hormel, in the home now known as the Hormel Historic Home. Jay later built his mansion at 1111 28th St. NE, Austin, the current home of Gerard Academy. After his death, one of his sons, Geordie Hormel, reopened the mansion in 1958 as the King’s Wood Restaurant and Hotel, featuring fine French cuisine.

The King’s Wood Dinner fundraiser will treat diners to a French-inspired meal of filet mignon and a dessert bar with items from the original King’s Wood menu. Live music from the 1950s and 1960s will also be featured. Following a 6 p.m. social hour, guests will move into the event center salons for dinner and a program highlighting the work of Gerard Academy and the Hormel Historic Home.

Proceeds from the event will benefit both area nonprofits.

For information on sponsoring the event, contact Elaine Hansen, Gerard Academy, at 507-434-4408, ehansen@nexus-gerard.org. Tickets are $35 per person and can be purchased online at www.hormelhistorichome.org.

Gerard Academy is part of Nexus, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that offers residential treatment, foster care, and support services to individuals and families working to overcome emotional, behavioral, mental health challenges. Learn more at www.nexus-yfs.org.

The Hormel Historic Home, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a showcase of exceptional architecture and elegant décor of the early 1900s.

In 2010, The Hormel Historic Home began programming to support families with youth on the autism spectrum. It now includes summer camps and monthly respite opportunities for families. Learn more at www.hormelhistorichome.org.