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• Features On Amazing Local Non-Profits And Volunteers • Directory Of Organizations Doing Good Work In Our Community 12/5/24 1:35 PM

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the Community Foundation for Mchenry Coun

Providing connections to the community

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By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske he Community Foundation for McHenry County is dedicated to meeting the diverse needs of the county by fostering collaborations among donors, investors, philanthropic initiatives and agencies striving to address community needs.

In 2024 The Community Foundation allocated more than $900,000 in grants to nonprofit organizations in McHenry County. These grants support critical areas in the community, including workforce development, housing, mental health, food insecurity and youth development.

This year The Community Foundation launched a Crisis Fund, enabling the collection and distribution of funds following an emergency. When a fire ravaged an apartment building in the community earlier this year, The Community Foundation was able to provide some immediate funding to support the agencies assisting the victims, explained The Community Foundation Executive Director Amy Hernon.

22nd Judicial Circuit Check

2024 Philanthropists of the Year - Amy Hernon with Philanthropists Tom von Geldern and Cindy Skurkrud

The funding for grants is possible through the meaningful connections The Community Foundation creates with its donors.

“Our role is to be that partner in the community,” Hernon said.

Award Breakfast

In addition to annual donations, The Community Foundation invites individuals and families to create an endowed fund. In an endowed fund, The Community Foundation manages the administrative responsibility while the individuals or families can direct donations from the interest the fund earns each year.

Hernon said she recently spoke on the phone with a donor has retired to Florida but wants to continue to support McHenry County and she was able to help direct funding to best support the resident’s interests.

“We are addressing the community needs that are present today and having the resources for the future,” Hernon said.

Home of the Sparrow 2024 Grant

The Community Foundation also makes a priority to help emerging nonprofits. In 2025 it will launch a program that includes an educational component for leaders of emerging nonprofits while also providing a grant to support the organization’s work in McHenry County.

“We see many nonprofits struggling and many didn’t have a good foundation to start,” Hernon said. “We want to lift each other up and provide a leadership service that will add value to our county.”

CONTACT INFORMATION The Community Foundation For Mchenry County 33 E Woodstock St, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 (815) 338-4483 https://thecfmc.org/

Award Breakfast

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Pablo & Nancy Rivera

The salvation army

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By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske

any recognize The Salvation Army for its volunteers ringing bells and collecting donations in bright red kettles during the holiday season. While it grows in visibility at this time of the year, the Salvation Army, which is a nonprofit organization and a church, serves the residents of McHenry County throughout the year.

hosts programs for seniors, children and veterans.

There are summer camps for children, programs to support residents of all ages and opportunities for social gatherings and building community.

The Salvation Army is also a church, with a weekly worship services in English and Spanish, as it provides spiritual support and pastoral care. In addition to overseeing the operations at the McHenry post, Captain Pablo Rivera and Captain Nancy The mission of the Salvation Army is based in the Rivera serve as the pastors of the Salvation Army Christian church, and with its staff, volunteers, donors church where every week worshipers gather for the and partners, works to answer the call for help in the congregation. They have been with the location since community, in several different ways.

2021.

The Salvation Army Crystal Lake Community Center Whether its for a weekly worship or helping someone serves as the outpost for McHenry County. It aims in need, the Salvation Army welcomes all. to help the most vulnerable in the community, with The Salvation Army volunteers are often some of programs to combat homelessness, hunger and the the first to mobilize in an emergency, providing need to care for children and older adults. firefighters and police with canteen services to help In its location, clients can meet with case managers during the long hours as they provide emergency to find assistance housing. The Crystal Lake location services to a fire, or other disaster. also hosts a weekly food pantry. Throughout the year

In addition to financial support from donors, the Salvation Army operates Thrift Stores where it can accept donations of goods. It also receives income support from its Thrift Stores, where people can donate items to the store and help shoppers find household goods and clothing at a discounted price.

“We couldn’t do this without everyone’s support,” Lt. Nancy Rivera said.

CONTACT INFORMATION The Salvation Army 290 W. Crystal Lake Ave. | Crystal Lake, IL 60014 (815) 455-2769 https://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/mchenry/

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R E T A E R G F O Y A W D E Y T I T N N U U O C Y R N E H C M

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By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske

tatically, 1 out of every 4 McHenry County residents utilizes a program supported by the United Way of Greater McHenry County. The mission is to mobilize the caring power of community to action so all can thrive. The United Way of Greater McHenry County helps strengthen local resilience by advancing health, youth opportunities and financial security.

Needs in our community have been rising due to many factors. Many neighbors have found that they suddenly need help dealing with challenges as varied as affordable childcare to day programming for seniors. The impact of the United Way of Greater McHenry County is far-reaching, and many times, provides critical assistance that positively changes the course of lives for generations.

“With 30 community partners agencies and provide grants for 50 programs. We are helping people in all stages and ages, from senior adults to newborns and everyone in between,” said Jamie Maravich, executive director for the United Way of Greater McHenry County Each partner agency and program is vetted, to ensure they meet the necessary criteria. The United Way of Greater McHenry’s leadership, along with a panel of volunteer community members, review grant requests and distribute funds to ensure that donations are directed to where they will make the most difference.

These are critical services that include helping those in crisis in need of protection from domestic abuse, helping to catch predators and provide counseling to victims, as well as providing a safe place to stay to combat homelessness. There is also support given to organizations that assist people with daily needs. This includes providing free and reduced cost

access to nutritious food, physical healthcare, mental healthcare, childcare, financial literacy, advocacy in courts, early childhood education and services for older adults.

Sometimes the key to getting help is knowing where to find it. The United Way of Greater McHenry County has a 2-1-1 helpline that residents can call to be referred to programs and services they need. There is no charge for the service and calls are completely confidential. The call center is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

In 2024 the United Way of Greater McHenry County became a partner with the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, a program that provides free books to children from birth through age 5. Donors to the United Way of Greater McHenry County make it so that every child in that age group in McHenry County is eligible to be enrolled in the program to receive a free book in the mail each month. The first book is, “The Little Engine that Could,” explained Maravich.

“This program advances a child’s literacy and promotes a love of reading,” Maravich said, adding that when a family enrolls a child as infant they can receive close to 60 books by the time they are 5. The

final books feature the topic of starting kindergarten.

Funding for the programs the United Way of Greater McHenry County supports, such as the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, is made possible by generous donations from the community. There are individual donations, corporate donations and some local businesses enable their employees to conveniently give directly through their paychecks.

“All amounts make a difference. Some people may not realize this, but a few dollars a paycheck can drastically help to improve many lives,” Maravich said. “Each donation is combined with the donations of others and it all goes a long way. We are stronger united.”

CONTACT INFORMATION United Way of Greater McHenry County 4508 Prime Parkway McHenry, IL 60050 (815) 363-1377 https://uwmchenry.org/

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NIC LI C ip h s r e n t r Pa H LT A E H Y IL M The FA

Health services t u o h it w e s o h t r fo insurance F

By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske

or the last 28 years the staff and volunteers with Family Health Partnership Clinic has provided care for McHenry County residents without health insurance. The clinic provides health care for patients ages 18 and older, from well-being checks to seeing patients with medical needs.

Seeking medical care without insurance can be a large financial burden, which often leads many without insurance to skip regular health checks, to avoid medical visits even when facing health concerns. While there’s Medicaid for those living below the poverty level and Medicare for adults age 65 and older, there are far too many adults with employment who are unable to access health insurance.

“Close to 90 percent of our patients are employed but can not afford or do not qualify for health insurance,” explained Executive Director Suzanne Hoban, who has been at the helm of the clinic since its inception.

It was Hoban, along with other community members who saw the growing need for health

services to assist those in the county without health insurance, Medicaid or Medicare. The initial years were a struggle and there were some failures, but Hoban and her team didn’t give up and through grants they had the financial support to continue to pursue the clinic, which is comprised of paid staff and volunteers.

health needs that can lead to medical debt.

All the physicians, as well as specialists including doctors of orthopedics, endocrinology, volunteer their time to see patients at the clinic. The office utilizes paid nursing staff, nurse practitioners and a part-time dentist as well.

“Adding the mental health component has allowed us to focus on the needs and serve patients in the community. Mental health is just as important as physical health,” Hoban said.us to focus on the needs and serve patients in the community. Mental health is just as important as physical health,” Hoban said.

“The support from the community and people have allowed us to continue to serve the community and to meet the community needs,” Hoban said.

The Family Health Partnership Clinic is a free and charitable clinic, where patients are asked to pay for services on a sliding scale. Often patients without health insurance choose to forgo healthcare until a medical issue becomes so severe it requires emergency services or hospitalization. The aim of the clinic is to provide ongoing healthcare and health management to keep patients from severe

“It is more cost efficient to provide primary care,” Hoban said.

The clinic has integrated mental health care services for patients through support from the Mental Health Board of McHenry County.

CONTACT INFORMATION The Family Health Partnership Clinic Located in: Northwest Professional Center 401 Congress Pkwy, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 (779) 220-9300 https://hpclinic.org/

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A Caring Part of the Community 10763 Dundee Road, Huntley, Illinois 60142 Phone: 847-515-8772 www.defiorefuneral.com SM-GIVING_BACK

SM-CL2203936

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Proudly partnering with McHenry County Non-Profits to Make a Difference Big Brothers Big Sisters of McHenry County 815-385-3855 630 N. IL Route 31, Crystal Lake, IL 60012 bbbsmchenry.org

Crystal Lake Food Pantry 815-455-0961 42 East St., Crystal Lake, IL 60014 clfoodpantry.org

Encore Music Academy 815-356-7464 87 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake, IL 60014 encoremusicacademy.org

Big Brothers Big Sisters of McHenry County matches an adult, Big, with a child, Little, in the community for mentoring. It offers different programs including Community Based Mentoring, afterschool programs and even Lunch Time Mentors that meet with their Little one day a week at the child’s elementary school.

The Big provides encouragement and mentorship to the Little, helping the child to strive for goals and achieve their full potential. Both the adult and child benefit from the positive connection

In the spring of 1982 members of eight local churches came together to answer a need in the community and establish a food pantry. Today there are more than 20 sponsoring churches as well as several food partners and community gardens that continue to support the mission. Through local community food drives and the generous support of individuals, business and organizations the Crystal Lake Food Pantry provides an important need for residents.

Encore Music Academy provides opportunities for people of all ages and ability to make music whether through choir, orchestra, ensembles or music therapy.

It offers lessons, classes and camps for all ages starting with programs for early childhood through adult music classes. Through need-based financial assistance it welcomes all with an interest to participate and share a passion for music. Hosts Voices in Harmony Summer Festival Chorus.

Crystal Lake Strikers 54 Lou St., Crystal Lake, IL 60014 clstrikers.com

Friendship House Early Childhood Center 815-459-6552 100 S. Main St., Crystal Lake, IL 60014 friendshiphousecl.com

The BREAK Crystal Lake Teen Center 779-220-4080 6292 Northwest Highway, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 clbreak.com Since its founding, the BREAK has provided a safe space for teens and young adults to gather, to build friendships and explore interests with programs in art, technology and beyond. It has helped young adults build positive connections. Whether it’s a place to drop in and do homework or to attend a program and learn the BREAK continues to serve the young people in the community.

CASA of McHenry County (Court Appointed Special Advocates) 382 W. Virginia St., Crystal Lake, IL 60014 casamchenrycounty.org When a child enters the court system as a victim of abuse or neglect a Court Appointed Special Advocate, CASA, is a trained volunteer who advocates for the best interest of a child in the courtroom and communicates the child’s needs to the judge. The CASA volunteer often becomes the constant adult in a child’s life during their time in foster care. Studies have shown children connected to a CASA volunteer spend less time in foster care and are less likely to re-enter foster care in the future.

Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Northern Illinois 800-815-2227 13707 W. Jackson St., Suite B, Woodstock, IL 60098 illinoiscccs.org Understanding financial hardship can cause stress and struggles, the Consumer Credit Counseling Service focuses on financial counseling tackling issues such as debt management, housing issues and student loans.

The services are confidential and no one is denied services due to an inability to pay.

Providing an outlet for drummers beyond their school days while supporting future generations of musicians is at the heart of the mission for the Crystal Lake Strikers. Formed in 2008, the Strikers offers several ensembles for musicians from elementary school and beyond. It was recognized for its development of the Kingpins Drumline, a cooperative effort between the Strikers and the Northern Illinois Recreation Association. Through its history has performed for concerts and parades, even marching in Chicago’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. ‘

Crystal Lake Lions Club crystallakelions.org Established in 1931, the Crystal Lake Lions Club is a service organization to local and international communities. The Lions Club members host projects and events to benefit the community and members partner with other organizations to volunteer support.

The Crystal Lake Lions Club members represent members of the business community as well as residents.

Downtown Crystal Lake/Main Street 815-479-0835 Raue House, 25 W. Crystal Lake Ave., Crystal Lake, IL 60014 downtowncl.org A leader in the Illinois Main Street Network, the Downtown Crystal Lake/MainStreet was created as a not-for-profit to revitalize and promote a vibrant and inclusive community. The mission is to preserve the charm and character of the historic downtown while promoting economic growth, environmental sustainability and diversity.

For more than 50 years the Friendship House has served as a not-for-profit child care center serving McHenry County. Based on the philosophy that children learn through play it provides a safe, nurturing environment for children from the ages of 6 weeks through 12 years. Professionals trained in early childhood practices provide care for the children and promote an environment of acceptance and achievement in each child.

Gigi’s Playhouse 815-385-7538 5404 W. Elm St. Suite A McHenry, IL 60050 gigisplayhouse.org/mchenry Gigi’s Playhouse provides free educational, therapeutic-based and career programs for individuals with Down syndrome, their families and the community. There are more than 55 locations throughout the country of this national non-profit, which has provided connections to families wellbeyond their time in the playhouse.

Girls on the Run Northwest Illinois 815-893-0259 111 Erick St., Suite 115, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 gotrnwil.org Girls on the Run integrates running with a curriculum that inspires girls to be joyful, healthy and confident.

It provides interactive lessons designed to enhance its participants’ social, emotional and physical skills to successfully navigate life experiences. As a national program, Girls on the Run has served more than 2 million participants across the country. It’s programs are designed for participants in 3rd through 8th grades and each session concludes with a celebratory 5k event.

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Helping Paws Animal Shelter 815-33-4400 2500 Harding Lane, Woodstock, IL 60098 helpingpaws.net

Kiwanis Crystal Lake Crystal Lake Kiwanis Foundation P.O. Box 1082 Crystal Lake, IL 60039 kiwaniscrystallake.com

Senior Services Associates 815-344-3555 3519 N. Richmond Road, McHenry, IL 60051 seniorservicesassoc.org

For more than 50 years the volunteers at Helping Paws Animal Shelters have been helping connect people and pets, creating beautiful connections. The no-kill animal shelter cares for more than 800 animals each year.

The small staff and dedicated volunteers at Helping Paws treat each animal that arrives at the shelter with respect, kindness and compassion. The human helpers are focused on second chances, to help each animal find its forever home. Established in 1969, the agency’s legal name is Fox Valley Helping Paws Animal Welfare Association.

The service club focuses on several fundraising projects throughout the year to support other community organizations. Club members meet every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month at noon, visit the Facebook page or email for location updates.

Dedicated in the care and support of the aging population and individuals with disabilities Senior Services Associates can assist whether it’s helping to keep loved ones in their homes as they age to finding services like transportation. It’s staff and network of volunteers provide support, answer questions, provide friendly visits and much more throughout the county.

Home of the Sparrow 815-271-5444 1991 Duncan Place, Woodstock, IL 60098 hosparrow.org Home of the Sparrow’s mission is assisting women and children facing homelessness. It operates a transitional shelter, affordable housing units throughout Northern Illinois, a few subsidized apartments. It also provides services through programs including the Rapid Re-Housing Programing for those experiencing homelessness as they seek permanent housing and an outreach and prevention program with case managers.

In addition to financial support from the community it operates seven Thrift Stores and Donation Centers to provide a source of revenue for programs and services.

With support from more than 700n volunteers each year the agency continues its mission that began in 1987.

Lakeside Legacy Foundation 815-455-8000 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 thedole.org The Lakeside Legacy Foundation was established to preserve and protect The Dole Mansion, a historic property. The Dole Mansion is a Victorian-Era Romantic Italianate manor built in 1865 for Charles Sidney Dole, an influential grain baron and ice harvester, who also purchased 1,000 acres of land, which was called Lakeland Farms. Today the Dole is a home to community events including local festivals, a music concerts and a summer Farmer’s Market

Leadership Greater McHenry County 815-337-8750 Located in American Community Bank, 1290 Lake Ave., Woodstock, IL 60098 leadershipgmc.org Established in 2005, Leadership Greater McHenry County was designed to foster and develop community leaders. Each year it brings together participants from throughout the community for a 10-month program developing their skills and abilities as a leader while providing a deep education on the agencies and programs within the county. It has become a leadership resource for the entire county.

NAMI McHenry County 815-526-8243 620 Dakota St., Crystal Lake, IL 60012 namimch.org The National Alliance on Mental Illness McHenry partners with community-based systems of care to provide non-clinical mental health referral and linkage support. It offers support services, educational programs including workshops and training as well as advocacy for those with mental illness and their families. It offers these services at no cost.

Pioneer Center for Human Services 815-344-1230 4031 W. Dayton Street, McHenry, IL 60050 Pioneercenter.org Pioneer Center for Human Services is dedicated to helping individuals with developmental disabilities, mental health challenges, and homelessness in McHenry County. For over 65 years, they have empowered clients to live dignified, independent and inclusive lives.

Rotary Club of Crystal Lake Dawnbreakers cldawnbreakers.org and Facebook With a focus on service the Rotary Club of Crystal Lake Dawnbreakers are known for their early morning meetings and their commitment to making the community a better place. Working on service projects and fundraising is enhanced by the friendships that form. Members meet Wednesdays at 6:30 a.m. at Country Inn and Suites, 600 Tracy Trail, Crystal Lake except on the first week of the month when the group hosts a service meeting at the Crystal Lake Food Pantry on the first Thursday of the month.

Senior Care Volunteer Network 815-455-3120 42 East St., Suite C, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 scvnmchenrycounty.org Senior residents throughout McHenry County can utilize the Senior Care Volunteer Network’s volunteers to gain access to community resources to maintain their dignity and quality of life. And at no cost. The mission is to help aging adults remain independent and active in their own residences. The Senior Care Volunteer Network services includes lending medical equipment, assistance with transportation, grocery shopping and errands and even minor home repair.

The Family Health Partnership Clinic 779-220-9300 401 Congress Pkwy., Crystal Lake, IL 60014 Hpclinic.org The Family Health Partnership clinic provides highquality healthcare to uninsured adults in McHenry County. They operate on a sliding fee scale, ensuring that no one is turned away due to inability to pay.

The Land Conservancy of McHenry County 815-337-9502 4622 Dean St., Woodstock, IL 60098 conservemc.org The mission of The Land Conservancy of McHenry County is preserving natural, scenic and agricultural land for the benefit of the whole community in partnership with residents. Since 1991 the conservancy has helped protect more than 3,000 acres of prairies, wetlands and woodlands in McHenry County.

Turning Point Domestic Violence Services 815-338-8081 11019 US Route 14, Woodstock, IL 60098 turnpt.org What began as a small group of women seeking to help a friend in a physically abusive relationship has evolved into an organization that provides a comprehensive array of services for families and individuals facing domestic violence. Turning Point provides individual and group counseling, intervention programs, legal advocacy and services for children. It also maintains a secure, emergency shelter.

Veterans Path to Hope 815-321-4673 805 McHenry Ave Suite D, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 Veteranspathtohope.org VPH partners with local organizations to create a safety net for veterans in need. The staff and volunteers, many of whom are veterans themselves, understand the unique challenges faced by those who have served. The certified peer support specialists provide individual and group support, access to food pantry, assistance with VA claims and referrals to housing, employment and counseling services.

Veterans Assistance Commission 667 Ware Road, Woodstock, IL 60098 The Veterans Assistance Commission of McHenry County (VAC) helps veterans and their families with financial assistance, VA claims, wellness programs, transportation, caregiver relief, and referrals.

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ADVOCATING FOR THE VOICE OF CHIldREN IN FOSTER CARE

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By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske

upporting CASA of McHenry County is about giving a child a sense of normalcy during a time in their life that is anything but normal.

The Court Appointed Special Advocates for children is a volunteer that speaks on the best interest of a child that is a part of the child welfare system through no fault of their own. Most cases involve a child, who may have experienced abuse or neglect, and is temporarily placed in foster care.

And at a time when a child’s world has been turned upside down, a CASA volunteer provides a calm and consistent presence, advocating for the child while working with other agencies to help find the best resolution.

In the fiscal year 2020-21, CASA of McHenry County served 167 children, explained Executive Director Becky Morris. In 2023-24, the agency served 350 children, demonstrating a large growth and need in the community for more volunteers.

“There’s always room for more volunteers,” Morris said, adding that for the first time the agency has a waiting list of children in need of an advocate.

Data has shown that when a CASA was present, a child’s stay in the custody of the Department of Children and Family Services was reduced by an average of six months. Additionally, Morris said studies have shown that children who had an advocate were more likely to graduate high school and less likely to become incarcerated, homeless or a teen parent.

The advocate’s role is to speak on behalf of the child,

providing a voice for them through the proceedings while also being a connection to the child through the duration of a case. While a DCFS caseworker monitors a case, they are tracking the entire family where as a CASA is assigned a single case, attending to that case for an average of 24 months.

A CASA visits with the assigned child or sibling group twice a month, building a relationship with the child(ren) and understanding the history of the situation.

“By having one volunteer to a case, the child gets the full attention,” Morris said. “The CASA can report back with unbiased views. We try to give the child a voice in the situation.”

The CASA becomes a constant presence, at a time when the child’s life may seem ever changing with new schools, foster homes and therapists.

Each CASA is interviewed, vetted and reviewed. Once accepted into the program, the cohort of individuals begin a multi-week training. When assigned a child, the CASA continues to receive ongoing support and supervision from the organization’s team of professionals.

“It is incredible the training, support and guidance we can provide,” Morris said.

For those interested in becoming CASA volunteers new classes will begin in January, Morris added.

In addition to funding for CASA of McHenry County supporting the professional staff, who train and assist the CASA volunteers, the organization has established additional funds to directly support the children in the program, There is a fund that provides support to help

a child have money for an extracurricular activity, such as a school sport or class. There’s also funding that can help to pay for a work uniform, driver’s education fees.

During the holiday season the organization provides children with holiday gifts. While it’s fun and easy to wrap presents for toddlers, Morris said it’s just as important to provide gifts to the tweens and teens, who want gift cards to be able to buy their own shoes or clothes or maybe a luxury like a lip gloss or new baseball mitt.

Morris said the community’s support, whether shopping for a child’s wish list or helping contribute to gift cards for the older children, can make a huge difference during the holiday season.

CASA of McHenry works in tandem with other local agencies helping families and children, including Big Brothers Big Sisters of McHenry County and Kids In Need of McHenry County.

CONTACT INFORMATION CASA of McHenry County 382 W. Virginia St., Crystal Lake, IL 60014 779-994-4398 casamchenrycounty.org

Sponsored by: COUNTRYSIDE FLOWER SHOP & NURSERY

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For all your fundraising needs

5301 E. Terra Cotta Ave. (Rt. 176), Crystal Lake, IL 815.459.8130

42W075 IL-38, Elburn, IL 630.365.5665

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The Dole staff supporting Crystal Lake Police Dept at “National Night Out”.

Farmers Market+ At The Dole Sponsored the event by providing the face painter and balloon artist and donated all tips to McHenry County Police Charities.

THE DOLE

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By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske

rom weekly farmer markets to art shows, The Dole in Crystal Lake serves as a place for the community to gather. It’s existence was almost demolished until in 2002 a grassroots effort from residents united to save the historic buildings and land from redevelopment.

Gloria Birchfield is the ultimate community volunteer. She gives back wherever she is needed!

has a significant mortgage. To provide income to support the care, upkeep and needed restorations, the Lakeside Legacy Foundation Board turned to hosting events on the property.

“We have to create sustainable funding rather than rely on donations to continue to save The Dole. This was one of the lessons learned during Covid,” Jay LeCoque said.

Jay LeCoque said his parents were a part of that grassroots effort alongside community leaders and residents. Today, as board president for the Lakeside Legacy Foundation, he continues their mission to preserve and protect the property that is known simply as The Dole.

In 2021 it launched The Dole Farmers Market + and it quickly grew to become a community feature on Sundays with local farmers, small businesses. It offers live entertainment and food trucks. Husband and wife duo, Jay and Sharon LeCoque, took the lead as the co-founder for Farmers Market + At The Dole.

“There was a grass roots rally to save The Dole, which was successful, but saving the historic property was only the first step,” LeCoque explains. “Our mission to preserve and protect the property is an ongoing challenge.

Jay LeCoque said he and Sharon had the idea for a farmers market for some time. In 2020 when Covid required shutdowns, the organization had to cancel its large summer festival and fundraiser. The board had to get creative to find income and the duo began taking steps to launch a farmers market.

The Lakeside Legacy Foundation was established to preserve and protect The Dole Mansion, a historic property. The Dole Mansion is a Victorian-Era Romantic Italianate manor built in 1865 for Charles Sidney Dole, an influential grain baron and ice harvester, who also purchased 1,000 acres of land, which was called Lakeland Farm. Today the Dole is a home to community events including local festivals, music concerts and a year-round award-winning Farmer’s Market.

In 1922 the Dole Mansion and property became The Crystal Lake Country Club. The addition on the original mansion was completed in 1925 and included 44 guest suites for members to stay overnight, the weekend or longer. Today, those suites are studio offices that are available to rent.

Preserving the mansion and properties is not an easy task and for a non profit, Lakeside Legacy Foundation

The Farmers Market has earned multiple awards and it has become a popular event for residents, visitors and families.

“It’s really family-orientated,” Jay LeCoque said. “We have complimentary face painting, ballon creations and characters ready for a photo op.”

There is an indoor market on select Sundays November through April, featuring local farmers and small businesses.

In the summer months there is Music Under the Trees, inviting guests to enjoy live musical performances on the beautiful grounds.

One of the largest events on the property is the annual Lakeside Festival, which takes place over the Fourth of July holiday. This serves as a community festival and the organization’s largest fundraiser.

From January through October there are 4th Fridays Art Event at The Dole featuring artists from across the country in a monthly juried art show. With paid admission the evening event features art, light appetizers and live music as well. The event is managed and produced by Nancy Merkling of Nancy Merkling Productions. Merkling also hosts photography classes on site.

The Lakeside Legacy Foundation partners with nonprofits to host events, providing use of the facility at a discounted rate, to support the organizations while also providing an income to the foundation to help pay for the continued upkeep on the property. Jay LeCoque said work to restore the mansion’s second floor will be completed in 2025, adding it is the most significant restoration to the mansion in more than 50 years.

One of the features on the property is Lou’s Lounge, a speakeasy style event venue. It’s a gem of a location to host live musical performances as well as private events.

Earlier this year the Crystal Lake City Council approved a measure to recognize The Dole as a community and art center. With the new title, the board is looking at ways to provide more class programing such as a culinary class for children, explained Sharon LeCoque.

“We will continue to create fresh ideas for the community we love,” Sharon LeCoque said.

CONTACT INFORMATION Lakeside Legacy Foundation DBA: The Dole 815-455-8000 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 thedole.org

Sponsored by: THE DOLE 12 | GIVING BACK | Winter 2024/2025

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NEW YEARS EVE

AT THE DOLE ‘A Magical Evening’ Roam Between 4 Parties Under 1 Roof!

4 Different Vibes! - Different Food at each! - Live Music!

MODERN DAY ROMEOS in the Ballroom to ring in 2025!

Caricatures - Photo Booth - Valet Parking Massive Balloon Drop - Confetti Poppers - Champagne Toast & More!!

Sharing Proceeds with

Crystal Lake Food Pantry

Plus The Dole is also a Food Collection Site!

For More Info & Tickets

or visit: www.TheDole.org/events Special Thank You to Our Sponsors: BCU, Lake Roots, NW Herald, Wild Asparagus Catering, NMP 4th Fridays Clicks Web Design, Burke Beverage, Top Tier Valet, Inside Scoop, Smash’d Burger, Entertainment Media

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E P O H O T H T A P S N VETERA

T

By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske

hey’ve served our country. They fought in wars.

They slept in foreign lands, military bases and on naval ships. They were the ones to answer the country’s call. But who answers their calls when they need help with housing, healthcare, employment, transportation, food and supporting their families?

Veterans Path to Hope is an organization dedicated to veterans and their families, connecting them with resources and peer assistance from fellow veterans.

“We really want people to know we’re here,” explained Laura Franz, executive director for Veterans to Hope. The greatest hurdle for Franz and her team based in Crystal Lake is getting the word out veterans so that and their families know there are resources available and people who can help. A large percentage of her team, from her small staff to the volunteers, are veterans themselves. This past year the organization added a former Marine as a Community Case Manager.

“His goal is to help veterans who may be experiencing struggles with housing, removing barriers and providing support,” Franz explained. She added, “He’s been very busy.”

With rising costs for housing and groceries, there is an increased rise in the number of those the organization is serving from McHenry and Lake

counties. Franz said at the Crystal Lake office the onsite food pantry has been serving between five and 10 veteran families daily.

“There’s been a big uptick,” she said, adding the organization can use additional community support to help keep food, hygiene products and even pet food on the shelves to help families.

The organization extends help to Veterans and their families, such as the free counseling services for veteran families including children of veterans, provided by a naval veteran.

“People can access services that are so important,” Franz said.

There are special programs throughout the year.

During the holidays, volunteers set up and decorate Christmas trees and invite veterans to stop in to select a tree to take home for the holidays.

In October the organization was awarded the Staff Sergeant. Gordon Parker Fox Suicide Prevention Grant, which will further enable the staff and volunteers to reach out to veterans that are experiencing mental health struggles and help connect them to resources. Franz said studies have shown that veteran suicide rate is lower for those who have connected with VA health resources.

While there are those who advocate for themselves, Franz said her team understands that isn’t true for all. If someone has a relative who is a veteran and experiencing needs, her team can go to them

for assistance, whether its housing insecurity or transportation needs.

“We know not all veterans have access to transportation so our staff is out in the community.

We can meet people where they’re at,” she said.

Throughout the year there are classes and social events for veterans and their families, building camaraderie and connections. Franz said the video gaming has taken off with game nights at least once a month, drawing around 45-55 participants each month. The event draws veterans with their children, grandchildren, partners and friends. With the ability to take the equipment anywhere, events have taken place at VFW Halls, church social halls and the junior colleges in Lake and McHenry counties. Franz said the staff’s wish is for a trailer to create a mobile gaming unit to reach more locations. She said they even set up gaming counsels under the tent at the annual Johnny Appleseed Festival in downtown Crystal Lake.

CONTACT INFORMATION Veterans Path to Hope 805 S. McHenry Ave., Ste. D Crystal Lake, IL 60014 https://veteranspathtohope.org

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2012-2024 AWARD WINNING BANQUETS & CATERING T H I R T E E N

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