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What's INSIDE

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Presenters Anderson Animal Shelter Cal’s Angels CASA Kane County Casey’s Safe Haven Changing Children’s World Foundation Embrace a Family Fox Valley Food for Health Greater St. Charles Education Foundation Horse Power Theraputic Riding Kiwanis Lazarus House Literacy Volunteers of the Fox Valley Mid-Valley Special Education Cooperative Not All Wounds Bleed Project Mobility The Exchange Club Tricity Family Services Tri City Health Partnership

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Attend a unique awareness event on Giving Tuesday that highlight some great local agencies – it’s like speed dating for charity!

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Giving Back

KAN E COUNTY

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Come Celebrate Non For Profit Month with US! In celebration of Non-Profit Awareness Month in November, “Giving Back” is a free family friendly event, designed to be fast-paced and concise, allowing multiple organizations to provide an overview of their organization and how they contribute in Giving Back to our community.

NOVEMBER 27, 2018

ARCADA THEATRE | 105 E. Main Street | St. Charles EMCEE | Ron Onesti of Arcada Theatre DOORS OPEN | 5:30 P.M. EVENT | 6:30 P.M. | Concessions available

Lazarus House a welcome

respite, and resource.

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Mobility gives 14 Project people the freedom of discovering their capabilities.

Children’s Worlds 16 Changing making a difference in so many ways

TriCity Family Services reaches out to a community in need.

sure how to begin 18 Not helping out? Try climbing

St. Charles Park District offers something for everyone, all year through.

the little things that 20 It’s make Random Acts Matter

is giving local 10 Do-over-me folks the boost they need to succeed.

the Giving Tree.

so beneficial. of participating 22 Directory non-profits you can meet on Giving Tuesday!

Community Church 12 Christ a partner to non-profits across the area.

PRESENTED BY

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GIVING BACK NOVEMBER 2018

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St. Charles Chamber hotost non-profit awareness event

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By Susan O’Neill o help celebrate non-profit awareness month, the St. Charles Chamber of Commerce will be hosting a non-profit awareness event on Giving Tuesday, November 27, at 6:30 pm at the Arcada Theater, 105 E Main St, St. Charles.

The evening will offer “Giving Back”, a presentation style event, designed to be fast-paced and concise allowing a wide array of companies to present their platform.

Eighteen organizations have signed up to speak during the evening, each offering a four minute, 15 slide presentation.

Organizations that will be presenting include St. Charles Chamber of Commerce members: Anderson Animal Shelter, Casey’s Safe Haven, Tri City Health Partnership, Tri City Family Services, Literacy Volunteers of Fox Valley, Cal’s Angels, CASA Kane County, Changing Children’s World Foundation, Embrace a Family, Horse Power Therapeutic Riding, Fox Valley Food for Health, Greater St. Charles Education Foundation, Mid-Valley Special Education Cooperative, Not All Wounds Bleed, Project Mobility, Lazarus House, Exchange Club, and Kiwanis Club.

“This event gives the Chamber a chance to spotlight the many charitable organizations we have in the area and to celebrate Non-Profit Awareness Month in November,” said James J. Di Ciaula - President & CEO of the St. Charles Chamber of Commerce.

This free event is open to the entire community, and refreshments will be available via the theater’s concession stands. The night will be emceed by Ron Onesti, CEO and President of Arcada Theater, a committed supporter of local community initiatives.

“We hope to get the entire community involved,” said Di Ciaula. “This event will allow them to learn about organizations connected to their community and learn how we can all give back.”

Each organization will have a captive audience to recruit new volunteers, secure donors or just to tell their story so the community is aware of what they offer.

The night also offers the non-profits a chance to network with each other, sharing resources and ideas.

“We know that it’s hard for an organization, especially a non-profit, to get their message out to the community without spending a lot of money,” said Di Ciaula.

“That’s why we wanted to offer this free opportunity for them to get in front of a large theater audience to share their mission.”

No reservations are necessary to attend this free event.

Questions? Contact the Chamber of Commerce office at 630-584-8384.

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e s u o H s u r a z La

d e e n o h w e s o h t r o f n e v a h a of shelter and assistance

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hat do you think of when you hear “homeless person?” One definition is: an individual without permanent housing who may live on the streets; stay in a shelter, abandoned building or vehicle. But, the reality is…it could be any one of us, our neighbors, our friends, or the clerk at your favorite grocery store. Homelessness has no face, no gender, no age.

Homelessness is a season, not an identity.

Every individual and family wants to keep a roof over their head, food on their tables and a job that pays enough to afford their bills. Unfortunately this is not always possible for a variety of reasons and circumstances. That is why Lazarus House, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, strives to provide services to these men, women, and children who are in need.

Lazarus House offers emergency shelter, transitional living and homeless prevention programs to individuals from St. Charles, Batavia, Geneva and western rural Kane County. Its mission is to offer guests connected to these communities, who are homeless or in need, hope for the future by providing hospitality, food, safe shelter, and education – tools for life.

It is a great privilege to assist someone in their most frightening time and to witness the amazing transformation from despair to hope. If you know someone who needs shelter, encourage them to call Lazarus House at 630-587-2144. If you are in a position to help, please consider a monetary donation and/or urgent needs items such as napkins, paper towels, bottled water or others posted on the website: www.lazarushouse.net/urgentneeds.

For those wishing to volunteer, please come to an orientation for a chance to hear about all aspects of lending a hand at Lazarus House. Without the generous support the community, Lazarus House would not be able to continue to provide help to those in need.

Everyone is welcome to come share in a wonderful meal and fellowship at their “potluck style” Thanksgiving and Christmas buffets. More information about events and volunteering or donating a food item/supply is available at lazarushouse.net.

Community Thanksgiving Feast ~ 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM on Thanksgiving Day, November 22th at the Salvation Army Tri-City Corps at 1710 South 7th Ave, St. Charles Community Christmas Brunch ~ 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM on Christmas Day at the St. Charles Free Methodist Church at 214 Walnut St., St. Charles Lazarus House cordially invites all to a very special fundraising dinner “Unmasking the Face of Homelessness” on Saturday, January 26, 2019 at the Q Center. Mingle with your friends, bid on silent auction or purchase a mystery bottle of wine. Enjoy a plated dinner, a presentation, a live auction, and then dancing and more camaraderie. For more information contact Darlene at darlener@lazarushouse.net.

Sponsored by: Mason, Faith, Brammeier & Hoscheit

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NOVEMBER

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Providing Quality Dental Care Since 1969

2035 Foxfield Rd., Suite 103, St. Charles

630-584-5444 ~ www.dmkdds.com KCC Giving Back 101818.indd 5

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Family Services celebrated

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riCity Family Services, a private, not-for-profit, human service agency serving the community members of Central Kane County, is dedicated to strengthening people through the provision of quality, affordable counseling, youth crisis intervention, prevention, and early intervention services that promote sound mental health and effective family functioning … for all ages and all income levels.

The late State Senator John Grotberg founded the agency in 1967 as a grassroots, street-level, youth outreach organization with a budget of $15,000 and two youth workers. Through the years, in response to community need, TriCity Family Services has grown to provide a wide array of mental health programs. The agency ministers to individuals residing in Aurora, Batavia, Geneva, St. Charles, Kaneville, Blackberry, Virgil and Campton townships. In addition to two counseling offices in Geneva and St. Charles, TriCity Family Services offers a large portion of services off-site in community settings (e.g. schools, churches, workplaces, clients’ homes). In 2017, the agency delivered 52,465 hours of service to

4,015 clients, and also celebrated the 50th anniversary since its humble founding.

Besides specializing in family-centered counseling for children and adolescents, TriCity Family Services has an evidencebased and extremely effective Family-Based Treatment for Eating Disorders program embedded in the counseling program, as well as Emotional Wellness programs that provide educational and supportive workshops and support groups. Moreover, the organization identifies resources for clients, engages in client advocacy, assists clients in meeting expenses for basic necessities and provides a multitude of other support services.

Integral to its mission is the commitment to making programs and services affordable to area residents in need, particularly individuals who are uninsured, underinsured, or cannot otherwise afford mental health services. By operating under a sliding fee scale, and offering scholarships for group programs, the agency ensures that no one is denied services based on inability to pay.

In times of crisis, grief or trauma, TriCity Family Services is the answer for all families in need.

A show of hands … raising bid paddles at the February 2018 Mardi Gras Gala

Throughout the calendar year, TriCity Family Services hosts special fundraising events that help raise awareness and funding for mental health, and, at the same time, foster community relationships. Upcoming events that are open to the public include: 10th Annual Snowflake Shuffle 5K on Saturday, December 1 at Gunnar Anderson Forest Preserve Trivia Night on Saturday, January 5, 2019 at Batavia Moose Lodge TriCity Family Services’ Annual Gala on Saturday, March 9, 2019 at Pheasant Run Resort.

For more information about these events, contact Michelle Rollins, Communications Manager, at mrollins@ tricityfamilyservices.org or visit the agency’s website at www.tricityfamilyservices.org.

Sponsored by: McNally's Heating and Cooling

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NOVEMBER

2018

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FURNACE TUNE-UP SPECIAL 630.363.9067 mcnallyhvac.com

35 Off Any Service Repair $

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630.363.9067 Call for details. Must present coupon at time of scheduling appointment. May not be combined with any other offer or price match.

79 Off Furnace Tune-Up Special $

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630.363.9067 Call for details. Must present coupon at time of scheduling appointment. May not be combined with any other offer or price match.

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Enhancingucational and cultural life recreational, ed

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he St. Charles Park Foundation’s most recent project, a Dog Memorial in Delnor Woods Park, is a way for pet lovers to honor their furry friends who have brought them so much joy.

Anyone who has ever experienced the loss of a pet knows the pervasive sense of grief that never fully goes away. While treasured pets may leave a hole in our hearts, they no longer have to leave a hole in our lives.

“Timeless Tags” is a larger-than-life-size steel sculpture festooned with welded steel loops of various sizes and depths where pet tags can be attached. Bring a tag memorializing a beloved pet to place on the sculpture, for free, and help this unique work of public art grow into a destination for healing and celebrating the role pets play in our lives.

As a local, independent, not-for-profit 501(c)3 organization, the Park Foundation is comprised of dedicated volunteers helping to protect and

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y it n u m m o c s e l r a h C . t of the S preserve your community parks and natural areas for future generations.

Annually, the Foundation seeks donations to support the District’s Financial Aid Program and offers a Memorial Program for the purchase of trees and benches to be placed in various park sites as a beautiful way to honor a loved one, mark an anniversary or special occasion and/or recognize an event or significant achievement.

The Foundation actively pursues sponsorship for the annual magnificent and free Sculpture in the Park exhibit and supports the activities, education and animal care at the Hickory Knolls Discovery Center and the historic Primrose Farm.

The St. Charles Park Foundation has been created and designed to receive funds, real and personal property for charitable, scientific or educational purposes for the betterment of the Greater St. Charles area.

Donations can easily be made via Paypal using a credit card on the Foundation’s website: stcparkfoundation.org. Recently, the Foundation has partnered with CARS, careasy.com, to accept donations of vehicles in any condition. For more details, email parkfoundation@stcparks.org.

It is the intent of the Foundation to aid and encourage the St. Charles Park District, a special purpose governmental unit, in the acquisition, conservation, preservation, development of lands and operation of recreational programs and activities within the Counties of Kane and DuPage.

St. Charles Park Foundation 213 Walnut Street, St. Charles, IL 60174 stcparkfoundation.org Follow on Instagram or Like on Facebook @stcparkfoundation

Sponsored by: St. Charles Park Foundation HOME & LIFESTYLE NOVEMBER 2018

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A local, independent, not-for-proďŹ t 501(c)3 organization Contributions to the Foundation are the perfect way for you, your family and your friends to support the Greater St. Charles’ heritage for generations to come.

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It is the intent of the Foundation to aid and encourage the St. Charles Park District, a special purpose governmental unit, in the acquisition, conservation, preservation, development of lands and operation of recreational programs and activities within the Counties of Kane and DuPage.

For more details: stcparkfoundation.org KCC Giving Back 101818.indd 9

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Career coach

finds success helping people

begin again F

ounded by Cynthia Kay Wade, do-over.me is Kane County’s premiere nonprofit career coaching center. Prior to founding do-over.me, Wade worked for 11 years as a third-party corporate recruiter in the high-power business world of Chicago; when the recession hit, Wade lost her job. Inspired by seeing so many talented, middle-aged professionals suddenly left jobless, Cynthia began do-over.me in March 2014 as a way to help the masses whose lives had turned upside down start anew.

Ernie M., says: “In addition to very insightful understanding and thought-provoking questions that really helped me clarify how I wanted to redefine myself and what I wanted to do and say about my future… that the prices were so reasonable was a great benefit. I would highly recommend do-over.me to support anyone making a professional transition.

They are well-versed in the options available and fully capable of providing a wide variety of kinds of support.”

Some 95 percent of the individuals who come to doover.me get chances to start again. People who have lost their jobs find their way back to the workforce.

Services at do-over.me are offered on a sliding-scale, meaning anyone, whether they have an annual income of $20,000 or $500,000, can come into do-over.me and receive the same services. Services include résumé creation and revision, LinkedIn profile creation and revision, interview prep, and career coaching. In addition to this, individuals that are members of do-over.me are privy to such exciting workshops as exclusive networking series, special speakers, book clubs, and more.

Kimberly M., says: “... I can honestly say the experience was life changing. I don’t think I’d be going so far out of my comfort zone—starting a new career, moving to a new state and taking a chance on my relationship—if it weren’t for the confidence I gained in these workshops!”

In 2018, do-over.me moved offices and redesigned their website and introduced the hashtag, #mydoovermestory. Active and past members have shared their inspiring stories of starting again on the website. Individuals like Ernie M., and Kimberly G., have found a likeminded community where they were able to rediscover their special gifts and talents.

Because they have been so successful with the individuals they have worked with, do-over.me is now offering Outplacement Services to companies in Kane County that want to provide support for their valued employees as they reorganize and downsize.

For more information about do-over.me and the services that they provide, please visit our website at www.do-over.me or call Cynthia at 1-800-308-0826.

Sponsored by: LENITY FINANCIAL, INC.

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At Lenity, we meet people in transition every day. Importantly, we meet people where they are, whether it be a need for a few hours of financial guidance, or long-term financial planning & investment management.

As individuals and as a company we have a strong belief in community and that being a part of our community also means giving back.

Lenity Financial, Inc. & do-over.me (a local Non-Profit supporting people with job and career transitions) have in common assisting people in transition with kindness and compassion.

We are grateful for the opportunity to support organizations like do-over.me.

Financial Planning • Investment Management Fee-Only Advisors • Fiduciary • CFP®, CIMA®

25 N. River Lane, Suite 1157 Geneva, IL. 60134 630.948.3330 info@lenityfinancial.com www.lenityfinancial.com

MARK AND LISA BOVA Co-Founders of Lenity Financial, Inc. KCC Giving Back 101818.indd 11

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h c r u h C y t i n u m m o Christ C s own congregation A

serves more than it

t Christ Community Church, serving is a core value. The members of its congregation serve both inside and outside the church. Beyond its walls, members serve alongside area-wide partners who minister to the poor, unwed mothers, inmates, and the elderly - people with distressing needs, and have been blessed to work with many incredible nonprofits in the Fox Valley that help us put into practice this key value of serving beyond our walls. Here are a few:

Civil/Legal Matters

Administer Justice provides a wide range of services to meet both the immediate and future needs of low-income individuals facing civil matters.

Elderly and Special Needs

Rosewood Care Center - The Rehabilitation Program at Rosewood is designed for individuals whose health has been impacted by illness, injury, or a recent operation.

Marklund is a nonprofit organization that serves infants, children, teens and adults with serious and profound developmental disabilities and special healthcare needs.

Homeless/Crisis Shelters

Internationals / Refugees

Lazarus House is a community home providing shelter, food, encouragement, information, and case management to men, women, and children.

Pregnancy Centers

World Relief - Providing resettlement assistance for refugees from around the globe, World Relief works with local churches to help immigrants adjust to American life and culture.

Hesed House is the second largest shelter in the State of Illinois, offering programs to help people out of homelessness.

Master’s Touch - As part of Wayside Cross Ministry, Master’s Touch is a comprehensive 6-month residential, life transformation ministry for troubled men whose lives are out of control as a result of drugs, alcohol or some other destructive behavior pattern.

Mission Possible - This faith-based non-profit serves the broken, marginalized, and under-served by providing free health care services, addiction services, community-based enrichment-type classes, and other outreach and fellowship activities.

Pregnancy centers provide free and confidential support for women who may be experiencing an unplanned pregnancy. Included are pregnancy tests, accurate information on pregnancy-related issues, assistance in finding affordable medical care, adoption, maternity home and prenatal childbirth class referrals, as well as ongoing mentoring and friendly support. We partner specifically with Corbella Clinic (South Elgin & St. Charles areas), TLC Pregnancy Services (Elgin), and Pregnancy Information Center (Aurora)

Youth

Kids Hope USA mentors spend just one hour per week, reading, talking, playing and listening to a child at school.

Lifespring Ministry is a long term transitional living program for women and women with children, who have lost their housing due to addiction, abuse or financial reasons.

Fox Valley Christian Action - serves under-resourced families living in our local public and subsidized housing communities. Everything that FVCA does takes place through two initiatives: Riverwoods Camps and Riverworks Life Skills Outreach.

Sponsored by: CHRIST COMMUNITY CHURCH

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Project Mobilityedom

gives fre of cycling

to those in need

BY AIMEE BARROWS

S

omething as simple as riding a bike can change lives, especially for disabled individuals and those with traumatic injuries. And that’s exactly what Hal Honeyman, co-owner of The Bike Rack in St. Charles, hopes to do with Project Mobility, the nonprofit organization he founded 12 years ago.

“When they get on a bike, they smile from ear to ear. They realize they don’t have to let their injury define them,” he says. “I feel like the bike is a catalyst for them to go on to greater things.”

Project Mobility provides adaptive bikes to children and adults who are unable to ride a regular bike. Honeyman, his staff and volunteers, travel around the country to meet with different populations to fit them with bikes, as well as raise money to give bikes to those in need.

Project Mobility holds two big events each year to raise money to purchase the adaptive bikes, which can cost thousands of dollars, to give to families. Hops for Hope 5K, which is held in May, is a fun run that features samples of beer from various local breweries along the route. After the race, the nonprofit awards a bike to a deserving individual.

“For a lot of people, getting a bike means freedom. It’s empowering and it’s a rite of passage for children,” Honeyman explains. “Cycling can improve strength, balance, flexibility and can give confidence. It’s a powerful tool that does amazing things, and no matter the age or disability, it has the same effect.”

Project Mobility’s signature event, which is held at the end of summer, is Everybody Rides, a bike ride of varying routes that raises money to donate bikes to families of disabled children. Like Hops for Hope, bikes are awarded at the post-ride celebration.

For Honeyman, whose family has owned the Bike Rack for 43 years, Project Mobility and its mission are personal. His son Jacob, now 25, was born with cerebral palsy and was unable to go on bike rides with his family. Honeyman was determined to include his son in the family outings, so he researched adaptive bikes and found one that was suitable for Jacob.

Honeyman’s goals for Project Mobility are to continue raising money to be able to get more people on bikes and continue the Project Mobility Veterans Mobility Initiative, which would bring six adaptive cycling events to VA hospitals across the country. The nonprofit groups also works with traumatic brain injury support groups, paraplegic camps and populations with any type of disability.

In 2006, a veterans group approached Honeyman about bringing adaptive bikes to a group of injured servicemen and women. And thus, Project Mobility was born. The organization worked with many veterans group over the next few years, providing adaptive bikes that helped the injured vets once again become independently mobile.

“We’re increasing our fundraising efforts. A lot of these families don’t have the means to afford the bikes and they need help,” Honeyman explains. “We want everyone to experience the freedom of mobility.”

For more information, visit www.projectmobility.org.

Sponsored by: BIKE RACK, INC.

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A Really Great Bike Shop Locally Grown, Nationally Recognized!

Huge Selection of Trek Bikes, Road, Gravel, Hybrid & Mountain World’s best selection of recumbent and adaptive bikes. Now featuring Electra bikes for the casual rider.

Sign up now for Computrainer Classes.

Ride indoors with coached classes for 15.00 each or ride Erg Video or Perf Pro profile for $10.00 not coached.

Complete schedule and online sign up at THEBIKERACK.COM Classes start November 1st • Open House Saturday October 20th Free classes, Refreshments, Snacks,

Trek electric assist ebikes in stock!

Super fun and easy to ride.

Test ride one and get a free Bike Rack water bottle. www.thebikerack.com | 630.584.6588 2930 Campton Hills Road, St. Charles Mon-Fri 10 -7, Sat 9 - 5, Sun 11 - 3 KCC Giving Back 101818.indd 15

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Foundatiosntrhoneglerpfsamilies build

T

he Changing Children’s Worlds Foundation (CCWF) works with community institutions - schools, mental health & social service agencies, child advocacy centers, community organizations, professionals and paraprofessionals, to help families thrive in Kane, DuPage, Cook and DeKalb counties. “ICDP: The Best Start for Families-A Health Equity Approach” strengthens 2-Generation (Parent/Child) development in a spectrum of relational parenting.

“The Best Start” is facilitated in learning parent group environments to address parenting issues over 10-16 weekly sessions, with a complementary Children’s Program. This brings out the best in parents, raising hopes and expectations for themselves as parents, as well as for their children.

The curriculum covers the spectrum of supporting parent and child (family) development, addressing parents’ conceptions of their role and of their children; social/emotional support of parents; and positive modeling by parents of children (attitudes, communication, interaction, relationships).

This supports parents and children in cognitive

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n io t a c u d e t n e r a p h g u o r th

development and strengthens self-regulation, strategic problem-solving, and regulation (positive discipline). Further, strengthening protective factors can reduce the likelihood or impact of violence on children.

Please join us on Friday, November 30th, 2018 (FONA, Geneva) for A Community Investment Educational Program: “The Best Start for Families: A Health Equity Approach”. CCWF, in partnership with the Chicago Children’s Advocacy Center, the Illinois Childhood Trauma Coalition, and the Kane County Health Department, will offer this conference to raise awareness about the intergenerational effects of trauma on children, parents/caregivers, and family relationships. (see ad) “The Best Start” is based on the International Child Development Program (ICDP), recognized by W.H.O. and UNICEF. International pre-/post-evaluation results demonstrate that parents increase self-efficacy and relationship skills, and reduce psychological aggression and physical assault in the home.

Background: Approximately sixty percent of US children are exposed annually to violence including child abuse and neglect, making them more likely to suffer from depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic disorders; fail or have difficulty in school; abuse drugs and alcohol; become delinquent and engage in criminal behavior (DOJ 2009). There is substantial evidence that parent training programs focused on influencing children’s behavior through positive reinforcement are effective at influencing the childrearing practices of families. These programs can prevent physical abuse and neglect and promote the health and well-being of the child (CDC 2016).

CCWF Mision: The Changing Children’s Worlds Foundation (CCWF) mission is for every child and adolescent to be supported in positive development by caregivers and professionals within loving, nonviolent families and peaceful communities. Through parent groups and educational workshops we strive to promote a sense of community and foster empathy.

Sponsored by: American Legion Post 342 and VFW Post 5036 GIVING BACK NOVEMBER 2018

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The Changing Children’s Worlds Foundation

SAVE THE DATE: Friday, November 30th, 2018 A Community Investment Educational Program: "The Best Start for Families: A Health Equity Approach”

The Changing Children’s Worlds Foundation (CCWF), in partnership with the Chicago Children’s Advocacy Center and the Kane County Health Department, will offer an educational conference to raise awareness and further motivate and educate professionals about the intergenerational effects of trauma on children, parents/ caregivers, and family relationships. The Best Start for Families focuses on strengthening the parent-child relationship which is critical for educational success.

Through educational sessions, an interdisciplinary panel, and a poster session, professionals will learn about preventative measures against child abuse and neglect, as well as, the positive benefits of empathy, community, and empowerment for parents/caregivers and children who have experienced or are experiencing trauma today.

Timeline: 10:30 AM - 12 PM: Registration, Poster Session & Brunch (space is limited) 12 PM - 4 PM: Program Location: FONA International, 1900 Averill Rd, Geneva, IL, 60134 Focus:

Building Health Equity for all children and families by understanding and addressing the effects of trauma to support their educational success

Host:

Kevin Burns, Geneva Mayor

Speakers: Colleen Cicchetti, M.Ed., Ph.D., Executive Director Center for Childhood Resilience, Ann & Robert H. Lurie’s Hospital Char Rivette, MSW, LCSW, Executive Director Chicago Children’s Advocacy Center Jan Waters, MS, LCPC, Senior Director of Clinical Services Chicago Children’s Advocacy Center Kimberly Svevo-Cianci, Ph.D., Executive Director Changing Children’s Worlds Foundation Audience: Leaders and professionals working with children, families, and schools

REGISTER FREE AT: https://bit.ly/2Ms6Krp or contact us for further info

Changing Children’s Worlds Foundation: 411 Stevens Street, Geneva, IL 60134 | Tel: 630-909-9411 registration@changingchildrensworlds.org | www.changingchildrensworlds.org

AD sponsored by: American Legion Post 342 and VFW Post 5036 AMVETS Post 503: 630-377-9845 Meets 1st Monday 6pm pizza/ 7pm meeting American Legion Post 342: 630-377-9845 2nd Monday 6pm dinner/ 7pm meeting VFW Post 5036: 630-377-9845 Meets 3rd Monday 6pm dinner/ 7pm meeting St. Charles Veterans Center: 311 N. 2nd Street Unit 109 - St. Charles, IL 60174

Join us on Saturdays at 7am & Wednesdays at 9am for coffee, donuts & fellowship!

1. Do you have your DD214?

2. Have you shared it with a family member?

3. Do you know your Service Officer?

Kane Co. Veterans Assistance: Jacob Zimmerman 630-232-3550 4. Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255 Press 1 to talk to someone immediately or for a confidential chat: www.VeteransCrisisLine.net/chat

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r e f f i d a e k a You can m abound s ie it n u t r o p p o r Voluntee

F

or anyone looking for a volunteer opportunity in Kane County, there’s only one place you need to look. Volunteer Fox Valley, a virtual volunteer resource center, has hundreds of opportunities at more than 150 nonprofits for folks of all ages.

The website, which is a collaboration between the Fox Valley United Way and Aurora University, launched in 2014 and has been steadily growing over the past four years. The website is free for both nonprofit agencies and for those who are looking to volunteer. All potential volunteers have to do is create an account, and they can filter the opportunities to find what best suits their schedule and interests.

“So many people have big hearts, and want to give back and make a difference,” says Barb Calvert, director of programs at Aurora University’s Wackerlin Center for Faith and Action.

“One person can definitely make a difference. I’ve worked with many young people who’ve discovered their passion through volunteering. It truly can be life-changing.”

Volunteer Fox Valley fills a need in the community because there are many people who’d like to volunteer, but might not know where to start, says Deborah Rudel, director of operations at Fox Valley United Way. The United Way works with many local nonprofit agencies to post their volunteer needs on the website.

“The United Way has strong relationships with many nonprofits in the community and can reach out to many agencies,” she says. “I like that Volunteer Fox Valley meets the needs of vast populations. There are seniors who are looking online for opportunities, millennials, families and students who need volunteer hours for school. There is something for everyone.”

Some of the opportunities available include helping an organization at a special event or with a special project, to serving food at a homeless shelter to organizing food at a food pantry, and many more.

“If you have an interest in animals, you can filter your interests and you’ll be connected to those organizations that deal with animals,” Rudel explains. “The site connects you directly to the organization and then the organization responds to you about the opportunities.”

For more information, visit Volunteer Fox Valley at www.volunteerfoxvalley.org.

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erence

In the Fox Valley

By Aimee Barrows

The Giving Tree

Directory of local charities serving the Greater St. Charles community Anderson Animal Shelter

If you’re looking to support a cause close to your heart but don’t know where to turn to connect with a local nonprofit organization, the newlycreated online platform, The Giving Tree, is an excellent place to start.

1000 S. LaFox St., South Elgin 847-697-2880 andersonanimalshelter.org

The Giving Tree, which was created by Geneva native Kiel Tredrea, brings local nonprofit organizations and charities together in one platform where donors can easily find an organization that supports causes they support. Tredrea, who has a background in web design and marketing, launched The Giving Tree in April 2018. The platform currently has 30 local nonprofits on the site. Donors can find many causes, including animal welfare, community organizations, arts and culture nonprofits and several others.

Anderson Animal Shelter has been saving lives and serving the Fox Valley region for more than 50 years. The shelter practices positive reinforcement training and operates a “no-kill” philosophy. Anderson receives no federal and state funding.

We rely on and appreciate the generosity of our adopters, staff, volunteers, foster caregivers, community members and businesses to support our life-saving mission.

What sets The Giving Tree apart from similar online nonprofits is that it is free for the organizations to join and create a profile, and they keep 100 percent of the donations. Tredrea and his staff will also work with the nonprofits to help them market their organization and cause.

Cal’s All-Star Angel Foundation

“We want to be the number one tool for philanthropy,” explains Tredrea.

“We want organizations to easily find new supporters and where donors can find new organizations to support. People have it in their hearts to give. If we can put new organizations in front of them, we can help everybody.”

In just a few months, The Giving Tree has raised thousands of dollars for area nonprofits. Tredrea explains that all of the organizations are verified and all are tax-exempt. He says that’s important because he wants both nonprofits and donors to be able to trust that the money is going directly to the organization.

2422 W. Main St., Unit 3B, St. Charles 847-960-5317 calsangels.org Founded in April 2007 in honor of Cal Sutter, a South Elgin Little League All-Star, who was diagnosed with Acute Myelogenous Leukemia and ultimately lost his fight with cancer. The 501(c) (3) pediatric cancer foundation has a mission of granting wishes, gaining awareness and funding research to help children fighting cancer.

“The goal is to get as many local nonprofits to join,” he says. “I’m pretty proud that my team has raised a lot of money to help the community.”

For more information or to donate, visit www.thegivingtree.com.

CASA Kane County 100 S. Third St., Suite 460, Geneva 630-232-4484 casakanecounty.org CASA Kane County is a nonprofit volunteer organization that has been advocating for the best interests of abused and neglected children within the Juvenile Court system since 1988.

CASA Kane County recruits, trains, and supervises community volunteers who serve as Court Appointed Special Advocates and Guardians ad Litem (CASA/GAL) for children who are in court due to abuse, neglect or private guardianship.

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r e t t a M s t c A Random

making a difference at the local level

I

By Aimee Barrows

t’s been said that a million small acts can change the world, and if that’s the case, the St. Charles-based nonprofit Random Acts Matter is well on its way to changing the lives of many local residents. The group is guided by the principle that little things matter, and when people are going through hard times, volunteers provide care and compassion through small acts of kindness.

Jim Di Ciaula founded Random Acts Matter in February 2017 after feeling inspired by the Howard Zinn quote, “Small acts, when multiplied by millions of people, can transform the world.” After spending many years working in nonprofits, he wanted to use his expertise to create a nonprofit organization that people can turn to for the little things they may need along the way.

“If someone lost a parent, or is just going through a difficult time, we can provide care and compassion,” he explains. “There are so many ways you can do that. It’s the little things that help people through day to day life. We want to inspire and mobilize our community to provide care and compassion through random acts.”

Random Acts Matter, which is funded solely by donations from community members and local businesses and run by volunteers, has provided 130 random acts that have helped more than 500 people in the 18 months since it was founded. All recipients must live in the 60174 or 60175 zip codes, or live in school district 303, and be nominated by a school, church, community member or local organization. Eventually, Di Ciaula hopes to expand the coverage area to include more Fox Valley cities, or even open up the nonprofit’s model for other communities to adopt.

“We’re unique because many nonprofits are cause-related and very specific,” he explains. “We’re mission-focused and we’re not about a specific cause. We’re fulfilling different purposes, and there’s room for all of us. And we’re different because we’re so focused on the local community.”

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Casey’s Safe Haven

PO Box 103, Elburn www.caseyssafehaven.org Casey’s Safe Haven Horse Rescue and Sanctuary is a holistic equine rescue. They welcome any equine – horses, ponies, donkeys, and mules – regardless of existing physical limitations and health, from animal control facilities, pony ride facilities, those retired from lesson programs, police force, and the race track, as well as healthy animals donated by loving owners who can no longer provide care.

Changing Children’s World Foundation 411 Stevens St., Geneva 630-909-9411 changingchildrensworlds.org Some of the random acts that the organization’s team of volunteers have provided include donating funds for medical bills, delivering food for those in crisis situations, donating a bike to a student in need, providing housecleaning, date nights and meals for parents of a seriously ill child and many more. On average, each random act costs between $250 and $300, with the group providing about one random act of kindness every week.

“We believe when you’re more outwardly focused on others, it creates stronger individuals. When you see things that other are going through, it drives gratefulness,” Di Ciaula says. “It just creates a kinder, friendlier community and we want to instill that in the community that we love.”

Sharon Le Gare, volunteer coordinator of Random Acts Matter, says that being a part of the organization has opened her eyes to how many people in the community are struggling. She explains that she’s motivated by letting people know that they’re loved and cared for.

“We know we touch hearts and these small acts can be very impactful. It’s our community coming together and caring for each other,” she says.

In addition to providing care and compassion to the community, Random Acts Matter also awarded scholarships to a graduating senior from St. Charles North High School and to a student from St. Charles East High School. The organization is also kicking off a new program for schools that aims to encourage students to be involved in the random acts of kindness initiative. The organization will provide after-school programming and events, as well as a mini-curriculum for parents to help foster important discussions.

“There are a lot of tense conversations within families and friends, and we want to further reinforce the benefits of care and compassion,” Di Ciaula says. “One never knows the journey that others are on. We should look for more opportunities to provide care and compassion to others.”

For more information about Random Acts Matter, visit www.randomactsmatter.com.

The Changing Children’s Worlds Foundation mission is for every child and adolescent to be supported in positive development by caregivers and professionals within loving, non-violent families and peaceful communities. Through parent groups and educational workshops we strive to promote a sense of community and foster empathy.

Embrace a Family embraceafamily.com

Embrace a Family provides single moms with tangible assistance in areas of need. Volunteers assist through food planning and recipes, creative lunchbox ideas, coupon clipping, home and yard assistance and professional guidance such as career mentoring, debt counseling or budgeting help.

The Exchange Club of the Tri-Cities tcexchangeclub.com

For more than 30 years, men and women of the Tri-Cities area—St. Charles, Geneva and Batavia—have teamed up to serve their communities by embracing the Tri-Cities Exchange Club's main missions: prevention of child abuse, promotion of patriotism and recognition of student achievements. The Tri-Cities Exchange Club Foundation has donated money to numerous charitable organizations and causes through the years and has, on average, donated $20,000 per year to organizations.

Fox Valley Food for Health

630-709-2097 www.Foxvalleyfoodforhealth.org Fox Valley Food for Health provides meals, cooked and prepared by teens and adult volunteers, to individuals and their families in our community who are diagnosed or going through treatment for cancer or other health crisis. Meals are primarily organic and provide critical nutrients to support recovery. Our Healthy Meals Program is free for 8-12 weeks and are prepared, cooked and packaged and delivered by volunteers, each week.

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Greater St. Charles Education Foundation P.O. Box 1366, St. Charles stced.org/foundation

The Greater St. Charles Education Foundation supports District 303 in reaching its goal of excellence in education through community awareness, involvement and philanthropy. The Foundation secures contributions from residents, local businesses and corporations through a variety of fundraising activities and annually distributes these funds through program grants to administrators and faculty of Distract 303, educational honorariums and college scholarships.

Horse Power Therapeutic Riding 46W276 Rt. 38, Maple Park 815-508-0804 www.HorsePowerTR.com

HorsePower harnesses the healing power of the horse as while providing creative, inspiring and challenging therapeutic horseback riding lessons to children and adults with disabilities. Communication, connection, and teamwork between the student and their horse offers opportunities for physical, emotional, cognitive, sensory and social growth for groups and individuals served through the program at Fox Chase Farm.

Kiwanis

kiwanisofstcharles.org

serving the local community through various service and fundraising projects. Our club has been in service to our community for more than 50 years. We are part of Kiwanis International, an organization serving children for over 100 years.

Lazarus House

214 Walnut St., St. Charles 630-587-2144 lazarushouse.net Lazarus House helps people in need find the shelter, food and other support services they need to get back on their feet who are connected to Batavia, Geneva, St. Charles and western rural Kane County. Lazarus House offers services and referrals to help those in need in our community, to prevent homelessness, and to support the wellbeing of individuals and their families; and help homeless persons return to independent living with the skills and habits needed for long-term success.

Literacy Volunteers of the Fox Valley 1 S. 6th Ave., St. Charles 630-584-2811 lvfv.org

Literacy Volunteers Fox Valley provides free one-to-one literacy tutoring to adults in St. Charles, Geneva, Batavia, Elburn, Campton Township, LaFox, Lily Lake, Wasco and Wayne. Lessons help people learn to read, write, understand and speak English better.

Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time. The Kiwanis Club of St. Charles is dedicated to

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Mid-Valley Special Education Cooperative 1304 Ronzheimer Avenue St. Charles 331 228-4873

The Mid-Valley Special Education Cooperative provides comprehensive and highly specialized programs for exceptional children, the staff who serve them, and the families who love them in the Batavia, Kaneland, Central, St. Charles and Geneva Community School Districts.

With the support of our families and the dedication of our staff, Mid-Valley strives to empower students to become independent, contributing members of their communities and foster and inspire life-long learning.

Not All Wounds Bleed 616 E. Main St., St. Charles 708-738-1557 notallwoundsbleed.com

Not All Wounds Bleed is a non-profit agency providing a centralized database of resources for PTSD patients, their families and friends, and raises awareness about what PTSD is and is not, including the stigma of PTSD being solely military related.

Project Mobility

2930 Campton Hills Road, St. Charles 630-762-9807 projectmobility.org

people with disabilities. Professional staff works with families, rehabilitative professionals and organizations to promote better health, independence and most of all the freedom of mobility for people with physical disabilities.

Tricity Family Services 1120 Randall Ct., Geneva 630-232-1070 tricityfamilyservices.org

Tricity Family Services has been Kane County’s leading provider of counseling and other mental health services to clients of all ages and all income levels since 1967. The team of professional therapists provides communities with counseling, family-based treatment for eating disorders, emotional wellness workshops and support groups and employee assistance programs.

TriCity Health Partnership 318 Walnut St., St. Charles 630-377-9277 tchpfreeclinic.org

Since 2001, Tri City Health Partnership has provided quality medical care to residents of central Kane County. This nonprofit organization is completely funded by grants and donations from the local community, such as private citizens, townships, trusts and foundations, service clubs, churches, charity groups, and fundraisers. In addition, local specialists volunteer to provide services to our patients free of charge in their private offices on a referral basis.

Project Mobility is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that offers recreational events using specialized bicycles for

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State Street Jewelers is honored to

“GIVE BACK�

to those organizations who help make our community a great place to work and live.

We commend the hard work and amount of precious time it takes those who make

230 West State Street | Geneva, Illinois | 630.232.2085 www.statestreetjewelers.com | M-F 10-6; TH 10-8; Sat. 10-5; Sun. 11-4

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