People's Resource Center Newsletter Fall 2019

2019 Fall Edition

People’s Resource Center Meeting Our Community’s Needs - Neighbor to Neighbor

It’s Time to Share the Spirit!

Give joy this holiday season Back cover Survey Says…

Client survey results on page 4

A Client Tale: Lubeca Page 3

ar d n e l a C y it n u m PRC Com

All events listed are open to the public. If you are hosting an event for the public in PRC’s honor, let us know.

Email us at rsvp@peoplesrc.org.

WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 9 2019

“One Book, One World” 12:00pm – 1:30pm PRC Wheaton, 201 S. Naperville Road October’s book of the month is Lincoln in the Bardo by George Saunders. The highlylauded novel is “a moving and original fatherson story featuring none other than Abraham Lincoln, as well as an unforgettable cast of supporting characters, living and dead, historical and invented.”

The PRC Book Group, “One Book, One People” brings volunteers, staff, and clients together to discuss some of the best books written about the various countries and cultures of the people we serve, and to get to know one another better. Bring your lunch and join us whether you read the book or not.

WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 16 2019

Dine Away Hunger 11am – 9pm Uncle Bub’s, 132 S. Cass Avenue, Westmont 630-493-9000 Treat yourself to authentic and awardwinning Pit-Smoked Barbeque from Uncle Bub’s in Westmont. While you enjoy a mouthwatering meal, hand-prepared and made with the finest ingredients, the restaurant will donate 10% of all food sales to the PRC Food Pantry. Don’t forget to mention Dine Away Hunger and thank your host for participating.

FRIDAY OCTOBER 25 SATURDAY OCTOBER 26 2019

TUESDAY

NOVEMBER 19

2019

Stuff-A-Truck 201 S. Naperville Road, Wheaton 104 Chestnut Avenue, Westmont For the tenth year in a row, People’s Resource Center (PRC) presents its annual Stuff-A-Truck food drive on Friday, October 25. The event coincides with Make a Difference Day, the largest community service event in the nation, Saturday, October 26. On Friday, our truck will be collecting food from a variety of schools.

On Make a Difference Day, the Wheaton Public Library, 225 North Cross Street, will host their annual “Food for Fines” event. Bring food for PRC to the library that day and get up to $5 off of outstanding book fines. PRC will also accept food donations at both locations Friday and Saturday. Thanks to Penske Trucks in West Chicago for their truck donation.

Dine Away Hunger 11:30am – 10:00pm Meson Sabika, 1025 Aurora Avenue, Naperville 630-983-3000 No, you didn’t read it wrong! Our November Dine Away Hunger event takes place on Tuesday, November 19. Meson Sabika offers an unmatched dining experience and a pleasant combination of exceptional food, friendly service, and unique atmosphere. Whether you choose tapas or a delicious entrée, your visit will be special. We thank Meson Sabika for donating 10% of sales to the PRC Food Pantry that day. Reservations recommended.

Save the Date

December 4, 2019 Holly & Hope Holiday Luncheon 11:30am– 2pm Le Jardin Cantigny Park 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton

Kick off the holiday season with PRC! Tickets on sale soon!

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December 6, 2019 “A Celtic Christmas” featuring Gavin Coyle

8:00 – 10:00pm McAninch Arts Center College of DuPage 425 Fawell Boulevard, Glen Ellyn Don’t miss this musical holiday celebration!

Tickets now on sale at the MAC Box Office: 630-942-4000 or atthemac.org.

A Message from PRC Fall is in the air!

Board of Directors President – Henry Davis, Jr.

We have such a long history that it’s truly inspirational to look back at the accomplishments of the past.

When we look through old files, we find stories that highlight just how much we’ve changed and grown over the years. Every now and then, we come across something that shows how much our heart has stayed the same.

Vice President – Jeff Zidell

I’d like to share an example like that with you today. When I was leafing through the manual for our Ambassador program, I came across a sheet titled “Why does DuPage County need the People’s Resource Center?” The lines below almost read like a beautiful poem.

Mary Constantino

Because suburban poverty is increasing.

Because people need to know they are not alone in their struggle.

Because people need to speak and have someone listen.

Because children need to grow physically, mentally and socially.

Because community needs are best solved by neighbors helping neighbors.

Too often we get caught up in the numbers of all we do – households, shopping carts, volunteers. It’s good to step back and focus on the humanity of our organization – successes, stories and moments that connect us together. We are so proud that you dedicate your time and resources to help your neighbors right here in DuPage County.

Jeni

Secretary – Prashant Parikh Treasurer – Joel Wilcoxen Jack Baldermann Ophelia Barsketis Sr. Mariette Kalbac, OSF Brent Loebig Erin Keyser Norton Kathy O’Malley Thomas G. Paulick Robert Russo Kimberly VanderSchaaf John Wallerius Founder Dorothy McIntyre Executive Director Jenifer Fabian Director of Operations Linda Cheatham

P.S. I invite you to see the impact of your generous support by taking a look at our recent Client Survey on page 4.

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With a heavy heart, People’s Resource Center (PRC) shares that our dear friend, Al White, passed away in July after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. Al was a long-time PRC friend, volunteer and staff member in several roles over the years, including his role in the Westmont food pantry.

PRC is grateful that Al was part of its family for so many years. He often spoke of the impact PRC founder Dorothy McIntyre had on his life.

We are all better for having known him.

Last month, PRC hosted a celebration of Al’s life at its Westmont location, 104 Chestnut. Coworkers and friends shared memories of Al and how he made a difference in the lives of PRC clients, volunteers and staff.

He will be missed.

Senior Director of Programs Christina LePage Development Debbie Dudek PR and Marketing Susan Bax Manning People’s Resource Center 201 S. Naperville Road Wheaton, IL 60187 104 Chestnut Avenue Westmont, IL 60559 Phone: (630) 682-5402 Fax: (630) 682-5412 Peoplesrc.org

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Lubeca’s Journey by Morgan Abate As the family settled in, the Darien Public Library became part of their weekly routine. One day, Lubeca came across a flyer for People’s Resource Center. “When I saw it, there was information about assistance, clothes, food. That flyer was for me.”

When she visited PRC Southeast in Westmont to inquire about programs, volunteers and staff welcomed her and told her she could get food that day. By that point in the month, she had $10 left. She was nervous, unsure how to explain she could not afford too much.

Before moving to the United States from Mexico, Lubeca was a high school teacher. She loved her job; she loved teaching.

Then three years ago, Lubeca’s husband, a higher education administration professional, was offered an opportunity with a college in the Pilsen neighborhood of Chicago.

“I didn’t know what to do. I was afraid to take the food. I didn’t know what I’d have to pay.” As Lubeca wheeled the cart out of the food pantry, she opened up to the volunteer with her. “I almost cried. She told me I didn’t need to pay.”

“We moved here with nothing,” Lubeca said. “Six of us travelled with just one luggage.”

In the last three years, Lubeca learned how to manage finances because of PRC’s Food Pantry Program and Clothes Closet.

With the money she saves on food and clothing, she can buy her kids athletic equipment and piano lessons.

The first month was stressful. She wanted to go back home, where a life had been built. “No one wanted to rent to us because we didn’t have a credit history,” she said. “No one would sell us a car for the same reason.”

Lubeca and her family have decided to stay in the U.S. and apply for residency in two years so she can go back to teaching.

She looks forward to the day when she can give back to the community that welcomed and helped her.

At one point, Lubeca contemplated whether the move had been “I feel myself a part of PRC. This is a part of my home,” she right for her family; she wasn’t able to work and two of her four said. “I want to come and volunteer and give others what I children were in English Language Learning tracks in school. have received. Not now, but I know it will come someday.”

Mariah Mallinger

Mariah Mallinger, currently a junior at Dominican University in River Forest, hadn’t heard of People’s Resource Center (PRC) before applying as a summer intern. The nutrition major was encouraged to apply for the Tyson Foods Summer Community Internship Program from Dominican’s Director of Nutrition. As she went through the application process, she

learned more about PRC. The Internship Program is a partnership between Illinois Campus Compact and Tyson Foods to provide an invaluable opportunity for select college students to gain professional experience while making a positive impact in our community.

The program provides full-time college students with an eightweek summer internship to assist community organizations and gain experience with diverse social issues. PRC was honored

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to receive this opportunity.

During her time at PRC, Mariah’s main focus was to create and run nutrition activities for kids in the Food Pantry waiting room. “The kids absolutely loved the activities I created, which was very heartwarming,” she reported. She also helped out in other programs including creating recipe kits, helping with the Back to School supply drive and assisting with art classes and the client satisfaction survey.

During her internship, Mariah was amazed by the level of support PRC receives. “PRC has so much community support,” she said. “It gives it a family-like feel.

“I also admire the passion and warmth each and every staff member and volunteer has here,” she continued. “I have never before worked in a place filled with such caring people who are committed to doing everything in their power to help people in need.”

As she returns to school, Mariah will turn her focus to community dietetics. “I have gained insight as to what I may encounter in my future profession. I feel more certain that I’ll find a fulfilling career working to serve the community.”

We Value Your Opinion!

2019 Client Satisfaction Survey Results 1,267 Surveys Completed

99% Would tell family and friends about PRC Services

90%

89%

Feel that the people working at PRC understand them

Feel that their life situation has improved because of PRC

Food Pantry Responses 90%

85%

Share that coming to the Food Pantry helps them pay other bills

89%

Agree that the Food Pantry helps improve the overall health of their families

Feel more hopeful after visiting the Food Pantry

How has your life improved as a result of using PRC Services?

I have less stress

-

I am happier

-

I have stability

-

I have hope

What could PRC do better?

Better parking - Reduce wait times - More bilingual staff & volunteers We want to hear more! If you have comments, please fill out a Comment Card and drop it in our Suggestion Box located near the front desk.

Neighbor to Neighbor

Thank You TW Group, Inc. The third annual TW Craft Beer Fest in Westmont was a great celebration on a beautiful day. Over 40 beers were on hand at Ty Warner Park along with many supporters of PRC. We were chosen as one of the recipients of the day’s proceeds and are very grateful.

Making an “Orange” Statement September is Hunger Action Month, when hunger relief organizations and their partners raise awareness of the existence of hunger and food insecurity. PRC food pantries feed 3,000 families a month, a part of the 6.7% DuPage population that is food insecure. To raise awareness of PRC’s fight against hunger, employees and volunteers went ORANGE FOR HUNGER on Sept 12.

Family Art is Back Family art workshops resume in the fall at our Wheaton location, 201 S. Naperville Road. Bring kids aged 4 to 13 (who must be accompanied by a parent or guardian) the last Saturday of each month and explore a variety of projects and materials! Next class is October 26 from 10:30am - 11:30am.

Starring on YouTube Watch Director of Computer Access and IT, John Victor, talk to the Daily Herald about a PRC computer shortage. Maybe you can help! http://bit.ly/prccomputers

Midwestern University Rocks!

Seven students from Midwestern University came to our Westmont location and cleaned: shopping carts, hallway walls, shelving in the walk-in cooler, non-perishable racks, and plastic produce bins. They even organized our boxes. In other words, they tidied up the entire food pantry! We are much cleaner thanks to their efforts.

Boosting our Bottoms PRC is always in need of diapers, especially those in sizes of 2, 5 and 6. If possible, please donate these must-have items to our Wheaton and Westmont locations. Thank you.

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People’s Resource Center Art Classes Did you know that People’s Resource Center offers free art classes that are open to the public?

Our art studios are busy throughout the week with artists and newcomers using their creative skills and having a good time. Below is a schedule of classes for veteran and rookie artists. If you’ve never taken a PRC art class, please call 630-682-5802, ext. 278 to register.

We will call you back to confirm.

Wheaton Art Studio – 201 S. Naperville Road • Watercolor/Landscape Focus In this class, you will learn how to paint landscapes successfully using watercolors.

Fall Session: September 30 – November 11 Every Monday 9:30 – 11:30am • Open Studio/Independent or Instruction During Open Studio you can work independently on a project or learn basic drawing and painting skills from an experienced artist.

Every Monday 11:30am – 1:30pm • 2D Art Studio/Variety This class will include a variety of exciting projects – from drawing and painting to collage and printmaking.

Every Tuesday 1:00 – 3:00pm

One Person - $100,000

• Women’s Wisdom Art/Mixed Media Looking for a way to meet new friends? This class is specifically designed for women and features fun projects like book arts and jewelry making.

Every Thursday 7:00pm – 9:00pm • Family Art Workshops Free art workshops for the whole family are a fun activity. The class explores a variety of projects and materials. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Saturdays, October 26, November 23 only.

Westmont Art Studio – 104 Chestnut Avenue • Painting Studio/Acrylic and Watercolors This class is for adults looking to explore their own projects.

It’s led by a teaching artist who gives feedback and also presents demonstrations on painting techniques.

Every Monday 6:30 – 8:30pm • Watercolor/Beginning and Intermediate In this class you will learn the basics of painting with watercolors and be able to paint images of your choice.

Every Tuesday 10:00 – 11:30am

At People’s Resource Center, (PRC) we’ve always believed one person can make a huge difference in the lives of others. We are thrilled to announce that the brilliant and talented Julie Stone, owner of “Cakes for a Cause,” has crossed the $100,000 mark in donations.

by hand, and her designs continue to be jaw-dropping and fun. Julie pays for the ingredients herself and now bakes for corporate events as well.

In 2010, Julie decided to bake cakes for friends as a fundraiser for PRC. Instead of charging for the delicious desserts, she asked customers to write donation checks to PRC in the amount of their choosing. She continued this practice as “Cakes for a Cause” grew from word of mouth. In addition to cakes, Julie bakes delicious cookies, too.

“PRC is about neighbors helping neighbors – Julie inspires us to find joy and creativity in helping others! We are delighted to celebrate Julie’s kindness, and grateful for the generosity inspired by Cakes for a Cause!”

Ten years later, Julie’s goods have raised over $100,000 for PRC. Her unique cakes and cookies are precisely decorated

Thank You

Thank you so very much for all your services. I was unemployed and your job coaching program, with help from individuals and retired experienced businesspeople, guided me on my search. I am forever grateful.

Christina

“Cakes for a Cause is a win/win/win. I get to do what I love, people get treats for their celebrations, and our neighbors get needed food. I’m so humbled and blessed by the success so far.”

If you’re yearning for the best tasting decorated cake or cookies, contact Julie at jcstone1@hotmail.com. All proceeds go directly to PRC. Thank you, Julie!

New Employees

What’s the strangest thing in the food pantry?

Dom Spagnuolo

Food Pantry Assistant - Wheaton “If we took the cans of garbanzo beans and pork patties and laid them end to end the pork patties would end up back in Iowa.”

If you are interested in joining the People’s Resource Center’s Team, please go to our website to view current openings. www.peoplesrc.org/employment-opportunities REPORTING A CORRECTION People’s Resource Center welcomes comments and suggestions, or concerns about errors that warrant correction. Messages regarding a correction can be emailed to prc1@ peoplesrc.org or you can call our marketing department at 630-682-5402.

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People’s Resource Center 201 S. Naperville Road Wheaton, IL 60187 630-682-5402 peoplesrc.org

NONPROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PAID CAROL STREAM, IL PERMIT #6030

Share the Spirit

Do you remember the excitement of the holidays? As kids, the waiting seemed unbearable. Our inspirational Share the Spirit event is a great way to bring back that joy!

Share the Spirit, People’s’ Resource Center’s (PRC) annual holiday program, offers an anonymous opportunity to donate new toys, books and games for local families in need.

PRC will accept new, unwrapped toys for low-income families on Friday, December 6, 2019 at PRC Southeast, 104 Chestnut Avenue, Westmont between 9am – 4pm OR Monday, December 9, 2019 at the DuPage County Fairgrounds, 2015 Manchester Road, Wheaton, between 9am – 3pm.

We’re looking for volunteers to collect, sort and gift wrap toys, and assist neighbors during our Share the Spirit Program December 9, 10, 11 and 12th at the DuPage County Fairgrounds in Wheaton. If you’re interested in helping, call 630-682-5402, ext. 325.

Go to peoplerc.com/holiday to look at our Wish List or donate online.

People’s Resource Center 201 S. Naperville Road Wheaton, IL 60187 630-682-5402 peoplesrc.org

NONPROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PAID CAROL STREAM, IL PERMIT #6030

Share the Spirit Do you remember the excitement of the holidays? As kids, the waiting seemed unbearable. Our inspirational Share the Spirit event is a great way to bring back that joy!

Share the Spirit, People’s’ Resource Center’s (PRC) annual holiday program, offers an anonymous opportunity to donate new toys, books and games for local families in need.

PRC will accept new, unwrapped toys for lowincome families on Friday, December 6, 2019 at PRC Southeast, 104 Chestnut Avenue, Westmont between 9am – 4pm OR Monday, December 9, 2019 at the DuPage County Fairgrounds, 2015 Manchester Road, Wheaton, between 9am – 3pm.

We’re looking for volunteers to collect, sort and gift wrap toys, and assist neighbors during our Share the Spirit Program December 9, 10, 11 and 12th at the DuPage County Fairgrounds in Wheaton. If you’re interested in helping, call 630-682-5402, ext. 325.

Go to peoplerc.com/holiday to look at our Wish List or donate online.