Wednesday Journal Gift Guide 2017

Holiday

Gifts 2017

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WEST COOK YMCA

45th Annual

Christmas Tree & Wreath Sale

BUY A TREE CHANGE A LIFE

Joiner fee is waived with the purchase of a tree

November 24–December 24 When you buy your Christmas tree, garland, or wreath from the West Cook YMCA, you help us make sure that every family, child, or adult has access to our programming—even if they can’t afford it. We change lives every day, and you can help us make that happen.

TREE LOT HOURS Mon.–Fri.: 2–8 PM Sat. & Sun.: 10 AM–6 PM

WEST COOK YMCA 255 S. Marion St., Oak Park, IL 60302 | 708 383 5200 | westcookymca.org | facebook.com/westcooky | @WestCookYMCA

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Oak Park Jewelers 101 S. Marion Street | Oak Park, IL 60302 Phone: (708)383-9695 OakParkJewelers.com

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‘Tis the Season for Fur & Fine Outerwear!

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Holiday Gifts with Presence . . .

For him or her, yourself or a special someone, discover Chicagoland’s most extensive selection of gorgeous furs, sporty fine outerwear and awe inspiring accessories. Stocking Stuffers to Stylish Coats, find perfect gifts to make gift giver and receiver look AMAZING!

Perfect Plaid

Dominic Bellissimo Designed Natural Finn Raccoon Trimmed Plaid Wool Hooded Walking Coat, Textured Leather Tote & Gloves

The York Holiday Collection is ON SALE NOW!

Elmhurst City Centre 630-832-2200 Deer Park Town Center 847-550-2200 Connect: YorkFur.com/subscribe

Silver Belle

Hide & Sleek

Designers took a shine to Silver. Michael Kors Designed Swakara Lamb Walking Coat Infused with Silver Metallic Highlights. Swarovski® Crystal Embellished Evening Bag.

Toss on a leather jacket for instant style cred.

Menʼs Antique Finish Nappa Lamb Leather Car Coat with a Chenille Scarf.

Vested Interest

Little Neccessities

This inVESTment piece will become your wardrobe staple.

York Signature Style Sheared Beaver and Fox Vest with Shearling Lamb Earmuffs.

Furs

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Shearlings

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Cashmeres

The right accessory makes a BIG statement.

Loro Piana Lipstick Red Cape with dyed Fox Trim and the “Hugs & Kisses” Box Clutch.

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Leathers

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Handbags

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Accessories

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Staff

Contents

Editorial Design Manager Claire Innes Editorial Designers Jacquinete Baldwin, Javier Govea IT Manager/ Web Developer Mike Risher Staff Photographer Alexa Rogals Advertising Production Manager Philip Soell Advertising Design Manager Andrew Mead Advertising Designers Debbie Becker, Mark Moroney Display Advertising Sales Marc Stopeck, Joseph

Chomiczewski Inside Sales Manager Mary Ellen Nelligan Media Assistant Megan Dickle Circulation Manager Jill Wagner Distribution Coordinator Caleb Thusat

Business Manager Joyce Minich Publisher Dan Haley Associate Publisher Dawn Ferencak

Published by Wednesday Journal, Inc., ALEXA ROGALS/Staff Photographer

GIVE A HOOT: These owls and the mouse on the cover were shot at Careful Peach Boutique, 1024 North Blvd., Oak Park.

141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302 (708) 524-8300 | OakPark.com

For Best Selection, Call & Order Ahead!

Brass jewelry made from bomb cases is a turning point for peace in Cambodia.

A HANDMADE GIFT THAT DOES A WORLD OF GOOD

25% OFF ONE ITEM

We’ll be offering a Variety of Items for your Holiday Entertaining, including • All Butter Cookie Trays and 1 pound Boxes • Large Christmas Sugar Cookies • Stollen • 1 pound Rumball Trays, • Yule Logs • Christmas Tree Cakes • Fruit Cakes • plus our Everyday Fresh Baked Goods

We’ll be open on Sunday/Christmas Eve 5am - 3pm 121 N. Marion St. • Oak Park • 708-848-4572 Mon-Fri 10-7; Sat 10-6; Sun 12-5

Offer valid at Oak Park store until 12/15/17. Not valid withUse other offers discounts, purchase of gift cards, this logo for or reductions only, do not print magenta.

Do not Oriental reduce thisrugs, logo Traveler’s Finds or consumables.

One per store per the customer. more thancoupon 35%. Magenta indicates clear area, nothing should print in this space.

You may reduce the logo to 30% without the tag and strap lines.

Color of Wood Block Motif critical match to Pantone 1805.

Letters print Pantone Process Black.

904 South Oak Park Ave. | Oak Park, IL 60304 | 708/383-1712 We’ll be closed for Winter Vacation 12/25/17 - 1/8/18.

We will reopen on Tuesday, January 9 th.

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December 6 - 31 Stories with Santa Saturday, Dec. 9, 10 a. m. to 3 p.m., River Forest Public Library: This holiday program for children from birth to 8 years features stories, crafts and visits with Santa upstairs by the fireplace. Pictures with Santa will be posted to the RFPL website and caregivers may take their own keepsake photos too. Free, drop-in program. Questions: 708-366-5205. 735 Lathrop Ave, River Forest.

Dicken’s “A Christmas Carol” Saturday, Dec. 9, 7 to 9 p.m., Lewis Lounge, Lewis Hall, Dominican University: Illinois Storytelling presents a shared experience, and a

timely and timeless message about redemption through this classic holiday tale by Charles Dickens told by storyteller Greg Weiss. Storytelling open mic 7 to 8 p.m. A Christmas Carol, 8:15 to 9 p.m. Free. Questions: 708-4656305, margaretburk@hotmail.com. , 7900 W. Division, River Forest.

Christmas at Marshall Field’s Sunday, Dec.10, 2 to 3:30 p.m., River Forest Public

Library: For many Chicagoans, no Christmas season was complete without a visit to Marshall Field and Co. Reminisce about the store’s holiday traditions, including the Walnut Room Christmas tree, the window displays, the toy department and Christmas catalogs. Remember Uncle Mistletoe and Aunt Holly?

Brought to you in partnership with River Forest Township.

Questions: 708-366-5205. 735 Lathrop Ave, River Forest.

“Mrs. Coney: A Tale at Christmas” Sunday, Dec. 10, 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., Show Lounge, Hamburger Mary’s: Come for Play + A Pint, a casual original play

reading by Oak Park Festival Theatre. This month’s feature, by Belinda Bremner, is a humorous memory play. A writer recalls his boyhood when his family spent the hard-scrabble winter of 1934 in Kentucky. He looks for Christmas in the woods and finds a mysterious old woman. He responds to her bitterness with kindness and they exchange the real gifts of Christmas. $12 cover includes a complimentary drink ticket for OP Brewing Co. draft beer. Doors open 2 hours prior for early bird seating and dining. More: oakparkfestival.com, 708-445-4440.

155 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park.

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Give the gift of Oak Park this holiday season with locally made goods, artwork, and other one-of-a-kind gifts at the Oak Park Visitors Center.

Order Holiday Pies, Cookies & Peppermint Bark from Buzz Cafe this Holiday Season!

Call 660-0894 or stop in to place your order TODAY!

1010 Lake Street, Ground Floor Oak Park, IL 60301 708.848.1500 www.visitoakpark.com

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December 6, 2017

One Stop Shopping.

Our Price: $20.80 (Reg. $26.00)

Our Price: $27.99 (Reg. $35.00)

Our Price: $22.40 (Reg. $28.00)

Our Price: $23.95 (Reg. $29.95)

Our Price: $27.99 (Reg. $35.00)

Our Price: $22.40 (Reg. $28.00)

AUTOGRAPHED! Our Price: $15.99 (Reg. $19.99)

Our Price: $27.99 (Reg. $35.00)

Our Price: $31.99 (Reg. $39.99)

Our Price: $31.99 (Reg. $40.00)

Our Price: $11.16 (Reg. $13.95)

CHRIS WARE Exclusives!

We have autographed double-sided errata slips which Chris Ware printed exclusively for The Book Table to distribute with purchase of his new Monograph ($47.99 [reg. $60]), as well as a numbered, signed original animation drawing from the 1980s. Plus, our new branded tote bags designed just for us by Ware ($20). Can’t decide? He designed our gift cards too!

1045 Lake Street ■ Oak Park ■ 708.386.9800 www.booktable.net ■ Mon-Sat 9 - 9, Sun 11 - 6 Look for us on Facebook & Instagram!

Our Price: $23.19 (Reg. $28.99)

Our Price: $15.99 (Reg. $19.99)

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Merry Christmas!

ON SALE!

Brushless, Trackless, Scratchless

TOUCHLESS CARWASH 4 -$9 wash for $27 4 - $8 wash for $23 4 - $7 wash for $19 Heated Bays for Winter Washing

$4.75

sh for a TOUCHLESS car wa with air dryer when you buy a pack of 4.

Sale ends 1/3/18

Stay in the Car! Spotless Carwash • 7802 Madison St. & 7343 Roosevelt in Forest Park 708-771-2945 • We Accept All Major Credit Cards

You can purchase tokens from an attendant weekdays from Noon to 5pm or Sat. & Sun. 9am-4pm.

OR YOU CAN BUY THEM ONLINE AT:

spotlessautowash.com

Kwanzaa: A Celebration Tuesday, December 12, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., Meeting Room, Dole Library: This Kwanzaa Celebration of Family, Community and Culture features storytellers D. Kucha Brownlee & Baba Tony Brown introducing the symbols and principles of Kwanzaa to learn about Nguzo Saba - unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility and more.

There will also be African drumming, shekere playing and audience participation, including singing and playing instruments. All ages groups welcome. More: 708-3869032, multicultural@oppl.org. 255 Augusta, Oak Park.

Garden Club Holiday Meeting and Boutique

Gifts for every taste

Wednesday, Dec. 13, Noon, Cheney Mansion: The gathering starts with social time and a shopping boutique. At 1:00, Ken Bensen, a certified landscape architect, presents “Go Green with Planters.” Containers will be planted as demonstrations and raffled to raise funds for scholarships and civic beautification projects sponsored by the Garden Club of Oak Park and River Forest. Free; all welcome. More: gcoprf.org. 220 N. Euclid, Oak Park.

YMCA 45th Annual Christmas Tree Sale

133 N Oak Park Avenue, Oak Park Holiday Hours: M-F 11-6, Sat 10-5, Sun 12:30-5

Monday to Friday, 2 to 8 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., West Cook YMCA: Buy fresh trees, wreaths and evergreen garlands now through Christmas Eve. Purchases ensure every family, child or adult has access to West Cook YMCA programming - 100% of funds are used for scholarships. And, a portion of purchases are tax deductible. Bonus: buy a tree, join the Y with a $0 Joiner Fee! More: westcookymca.org.

225 S. Marion St., Oak Park.

Ballet Légere’s Nutcracker Saturday, Dec. 9, 2 and 7 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 10, 2 p.m., Lund Auditorium, Dominican University: Local students of Légere Dance center in River Forest join professional adult dancers from The Cincinnati Ballet for the 33rd annual production of this holiday ballet. $32, premium seating; $27 premium children/senior or general seating; $22 children/seniors general seating. $6, backstage tour following the Saturday, 2 p.m. performance. Tickets: balletlegere.org/tickets, 708-488-5000.

7900 W. Division St., River Forest.

Hephzibah Gift Donations Through Saturday, Dec. 16, Hephzibah Home: Help make the holidays merry for children. Donate a gift for any age child at Hephzibah Children’s Association. Wish List items include remote control toys, Transformer- and Frozenthemed items, LEGOs and craft kits. More: hepzibah- home.org, 708-649-7100. Drop off by Dec 16 at 946 North Blvd., Oak Park.

“A Dickens Carol” Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, 8 p.m., and Sundays, 3 p.m., through Dec 24, Madison Street Theatre: Oak Park Festival Theatre reimagines the story of Scrooge from Charles Dickens’ point of view and real-life events. Set in London in 1842, it’s a ghost story that promises to melt the heart of any Scrooge. Additional show at 3 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 23. Ages 10+. $30; $25, seniors; $15, students. Tickets: 708-445-4440, oakparkfestival.com.

1010 Madison Street, Oak Park.

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Growing Community.

Growing Comm Fine Art Glass Sculpture

Affordable Glass Gift Items and Jewelry All Hand Made Hot Blown Glass

Imported and Locally Made Items

Growing Community.

Growing Community.

Open Daily Through The Holidays Receptions every Friday night from 5pm - 8pm Featuring local artist Ben Tullman Friday, December 8 701 Lake Street (Euclid Commons at the corner of Lake and Euclid) (312) 755-0000 www.muranomidwest.com info@muranomidwest.com @muranomidwest everywhere

Your Door to the World!

• • • • •

Vacation Packages Domestic & International Vacations Cruises Destination Weddings Honeymoons STOCKING STUFFERS, FINE JOURNALS, PENS & MUCH MORE!

Find us on OakPark.com or at TanTrvl.com Follow us on: Facebook

Twitter

708.386.6363 email: lydia@tantrvl.com

STOCKING STUFFERS, FINE JOURNALS, PENS & MUCH MORE!

401 South Boulevard at Ridgeland, Oak Park

708-383-8710

Hours: Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri 9am-5:30pm Thurs 10:30am-7pm / Sat 9am-5pm

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GIVE THE GIFT OF MASSAGE

Forest Park

708.406.6474 7239 Madison St 1 1/2 blocks west of Harlem elementsmassage.com/forest-park 2017 Elements Therapeutic Massage, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Massage session includes time for consultation and dressing. Each Elements Massage® studio is independently owned and operated.

©

TIME T OTBI M OE OK YO UO RK TO BO

HoY lOiUdRay Poalritdya!y H Party!

PRIVATE DINING

CUCINA PARADISO CUCINA PARADISO $25 FREE

Gift Card $25 with FREEevery $100 Gift Cardpurchased with every in Gift Cards* $100 purchased

Celebrating 22 Years! in Gift Cards* Thank you for your support!

LUNCHEONS PRIVATE DINING COMPANY LUNCHEONS PARTIES COMPANY FULL SERVICE PARTIES CATERING FULL SERVICE CATERING

Holiday Parties are a piece of cake! Celebrate the season with Cucina Paradiso & Twomaytoz Event Catering. Let us put together the perfect party package for you. Call us at 708.848.3434 or visit www.CucinaOakPark.com *thru 12/31/17

THE HOLIDAYS ARE JUST AROUND THE CORNER...

Are you ready? better Get a Moov on!

BURGER MooVMENT CATERING A LA CARTE CATERING

Minimum 2lbs each. Each pound is approximately 3-4 sandwiches or 8-10 mini sliders.

ALL CATERING REQUIRES A MINIMUM OF 48 HOURS NOTICE Pulled Pork $15.95 per pound Sliced Brisket $17.95 per pound Slider Buns $6.95 12 pack Brioche Buns $9.95 10 pack Pretzel Buns $12.95 12 pack Whole Wheat Buns $6.95 6 pack Mini Burger Moovs $30.00 per dozen. Condiments on the side. Ketchup. mustard, pickles, 1 cheese.

Includes 1 pint of sauce on side. Sauce choices: Carolina Gold, BBQ. Spicy BBQ, Extra pints: $3.99 each.

CATERING SIDES

Elotes Mexican Street Corn $12.95 1 quart 7-10 servings | 2 quart $24.95 15-20 servings Creamy Mac & Cheese $21.95 1/3 pan 7-10 servings | 1/2 pan $27.95 15-20 servings Smokehouse BBQ Baked Beans $13.95 1 quart 7-10 servings | 2 quart $26.95 15-20 servings Signature Apple Coleslaw $9.951 quart 7-10 servings | $18.95 2 quart 15-20 servings Tater Tots $18.95 1/3 pan 7-10 servings $26.95 1/2 pan 15-20 servings Hillbilly Chili $12.95 1 quart 6-8 servings Southern Corn Chowder $12.95 1 quart 6-8 servings Honey Butter Corn Muffins $15.95 1 dozen (72 hours’ notice required) Pecan Bread Pudding $29.95 1/2 pan 12-16 servings (72 hours’ notice required) Giant Chocolate Chip Cookies $12.00 1 dozen (72 hours’ notice required)

DRINKS AND MoRE

Homemade Lemonade $12.95 gallon, 10 servings, cups included Homemade Sweet Tea/Iced Tea $12.95 gallon, 10 servings, cups included Canned Soda/Bottled Water $1.99 each (Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, Bottled Water) Disposable Plate and Cutlery Sets $1.00 each Disposable Chafing Set $12.00 each (includes 1 rack, 1 pan, 2 burners, serving utensil) PLACE ALL CATERING ORDERS ONLINE AT BURGERMOOVMENT.COM OR CALL OUR CATERING PHONE LINE 708.445.9451 DELIVERY MINIMUM: $300 FOOD/BEVERAGE. FEE WHEN AVAILABLE FOR DELIVERY: $25

THIS HOLIDAY MOOVMENT IS ALL WRAPPED UP!

BURGERMOOVMENT.COM •

@BURGERMOOVMENT • FACEBOOK.COM/BURGERMOOVMENT

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SWEET HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS!

“It’s A Wonderful Life” Cookie Walks Plus Saturday, Dec. 9, 9 to 1 p.m., Irving School: Come to the Homemade Craft Fair and Cookie Crumble.

More than thirty local crafters, including Irving students, sell homemade goods. At the Cookie Walk, fill up a box of homemade cookies for $10. Kid’s craft table for holiday card making and gift-wrapping station where kids can secretly wrap up their purchases. 1125 S. Cuyler, Oak Park.

Saturday, Dec. 9, 9 to 11 a.m., Pilgrim Community Nursery School: Join the Cookie Walk by purchasing a box for $13 and filling it with home-baked cookies. Homemade specialty treats also available. Holiday and jazz music by the OPRFHS Jazz Combo and prize raffle. Questions: office@ pilgrimschool.net, pilgrimschool.net. 460 Lake St., Oak Park.

Saturday, Dec. 9, 10 a.m., United Lutheran Church: At the Cookie Walk buyers choose homemade cookies for $13. Gluten-free cookies, dog cookies, jams/jellies, Fair Trade items and raffle tickets also available. Benefitting Housing Forward and New Moms. 409 Greenfield St., Oak Park.

Holiday One Hundred Opening Friday, Dec. 8, 7 to 9 p.m., continuing through Saturday, Dec. 23, Oak Park Art League: Featuring original artwork by OPAL artist members, priced from $50 to $300. Find homemade gifts and fine art while supporting local artist and the Oak Park Art League, which is raising funds to celebrate its Centennial Anniversary.

Info: 708-386-9853, oakparkartleague.org. 720 Chicago Ave.

Out of the Box Art Market Now through Dec. 24, Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., across from Scoville Park: Shop creations from 19 local artists, including jewelry, ceramics, photography, textiles, crafts and gourmet chocolate sauce. 146 N. Oak Park Avenue.

Saturday, Dec. 9, 10 a.m., Lake Theatre: Jimmy Stewart’s character may not ever get out of the small town he grew up in, but his angel, Clarence, will show him that life is worth living, no matter where that might be. Prior to the show, pick up free tickets from Community Bank of OPRF at 7751 Lake St., River Forest.

“Home Alone” Friday, Dec. 15, 6 to 8 p.m., Meeting Room, River Forest Public Library: Come and snack, prank and shout along with the characters at this interactive movie. Grades 5 to 12. Register: riverforestlibrary.org, 708-366-5205. 735 Lathrop Ave, River Forest.

“Miracle on 34th Street” Saturday, Dec. 16, 10 a.m., Lake Theatre: Is Macy’s department store Santa real? One young girl sets out to prove it in this Classic. Sponsored

by Downtown Oak Park. 1022 Lake St., Oak Park.

EsT D

MAKING LIFE SWEETER

2010

The holidays are quickly approaching...

“Holy Night/Holy Light”

Come in for your handcrafted artisan

Friday, Dec. 15, 7:30 p.m., Good Shepherd Lutheran Church: On the third Friday of each month, Good Shepherd treats jazz lovers to a themed concert. Preview music begins at 7:10 p.m. Live jazz music and readings start at 7:30pm.

Come reflect through spirited, soulful, jazz music and meditation. Free. 611 Randolph, Oak Park.

chocolate confections.

Let us make your next event a little sweeter!

We ship until December 14

708.203.9337

7769 Lake St., River Forest C O N T I N U E D

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Hours: M-F 11-5 • Saturday 10-5 • Sunday 11-5

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tions: goo.gl/2hbd1v. Questions: mikebass9@gmail.com.

905 S. Lombard Ave., Oak Park.

$5 Drop-in Holiday Beading Workshops

Holiday Brass and Choral Concert Thursday, Dec. 14, 8 p.m., Grace Lutheran Church: Be swept away by the Music of the Baroque and their wide-ranging ancient, Baroque and contemporary sacred music. $39 – 64. Baroque.org, 312-551-1414. 7300 Division St., River Forest.

Khanike Night Thursday, Dec. 14, 6 to 9 p.m., Buzz Café: It’s Mameloshn’s 20th year at the Buzz Café. There are two seatings for songs and latkes. First, 6:00 to 7:15 p.m., for children; second, 7:30 to 8:45 p.m., for teens and adults. Buzz provides latkes, salad and Mameloshn. Guest provide singing and freylach. $7.95 per person. Reserva-

Friday, Dec. 15, 2 to 6 p.m., and Saturday, ay, Dec. 16, 2 to 5 p.m., Bead in Hand: Make a button wreath ornament simple to make, these wreaths easily adorn a tree or window or can be used as a pendant.

Friday, Dec. 22, 2 to 6 p.m., and Saturday, Dec. 23, 2 to 5 p.m., Bead in Hand: Create angel earrings or ornaments; make ake a pair for a gift or for yourself.

Tuesday, Dec. 26 through Saturday, Jan. 66, 2 tto 6 p.m. daily, Bead in Hand: Drop in and make a beaded snowflake ornament or memory wire bracelet. Info: beadinhand.com. 145 Harrison St., Oak Park.

Holiday Movie, “Miracle on H 34th 3 Street,” at the Lake Theatre (10 a.m.)

Th Horse-drawn sleigh rides, Hors boarding boardi at 110 N. Marion.

(11 a.m. – 3 p.m.)

Hot Chocolate H t Ch l t att tthe Hospitality Tent (11 a.m. – 3 p.m.)

Roaming Holiday Carolers (noon to 2 p.m.)

Santa Claus appearing on Marion St. (noon to 2 p.m.)

Free. On Marion St. between Lake St. and North Blvd.

Caroling with Santa

Home for the Holidays Saturday, Dec. 16, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Downtown Oak Park:

Saturday, Dec. 16, 11 a.m., Scoville Square: Hear the Pro Musica Youth Chorus along with seeing

everyone’s jolly old man in the red suit. Hosted by Magic Tree Bookstore and Scoville Square. 141 N. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park.

Holidays a cappella Sunday, Dec. 17, 4 p.m. Pilgrim Congregational Church: Experience familiar holiday songs in fresh new ways as Chicago a cappella performs solemn and holy pieces to the merry and bright. Hear carols, Chanukah melodies, spirituals and the U.S. premier of a composition by an award-winning Polish composer. $43, all preferred seating; $35, general seating; $30, seniors; $15, students.

Tickets/more: chicagoacappella.org, 773-281-7820.

460 Lake St., Oak Park.

D A E R P S SPREAD

y a d i l o H y a d i l o H CHEER

CHEER

5 OFF

$

Code:ELWJ0118 Expires:1/31/18

ELMHURST

OAK PARK

206 N York St

327 South Blvd

630-516-9029

708-848-4840

*Cannot be combined with any other offer. Restrictions may apply. See store for details. Edible®, Edible Arrangements®, and the Fruit Basket Logo are registered Trademarks of Edible IP, LLC. © 2017 Edible IP, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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Careful Peach

Sapphire Cuff: Artfully faceted sapphire endcaps accented with mother of pearl.

Black Forest Soy Candle A blend of Douglas fir, ebony wood and a subtle hint of black currant. The scent of the holiday season!

Careful Peach, 1024 N. Blvd., Oak Park

River For Forest rest r Chocola Chocolates attes

River Forest Blend Co CCoff offee: A ffullll medium di specialty i l roast with notes of chocolate, almonds and honey.

River Forest Chocolates, 7769 Lake St., River Forest

Ten Thousand villages

YORK FURRIERS

Glove Me: Navy lamb leather and knit gloves with dyed rabbit pom-poms.

Show Some Love: Whimsical box clutches with a love motif.

York Furriers, 107 N. York Rd., Elmhurst

Not-just-for-fruit Basket: Five ways to fold this copper colored iron wire basket.

Brass Necklace & Earrings: Add a stylish touch to your holiday outfits!

Ten Thousand Villages, 121 N. Marion St., Oak Park

Olive & Well

A Dynamic Duo: Extra virgin olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar.

Olive & Well, 133 N. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park

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Murano Midwest Stunning Art Glass: “Alchemist’s DNA Sequence”

By Ben Tullman (top); “Double Flame” by Adriano Dall Valentina (right) “Venizia” by Afro Celotto (left) Murano Midwest, 701 Lake St., Oak Park

Camille et Famille

Striking and Soft: Ribbon necklace (assorted colors); Sherpa lined infinity scarf Camille et Famille, 7418 Madison St., Forest Park

Oak Park Jewelers

Edible Arrangements

Irresistible!: Order an Edible for any occasion.

Edible Arrangements, 327 South Blvd., Oak Park

Designed by SYLVIE: Semiprecious stud earrings with cushion shaped diamond halos.

Oak Park Jewelers, 101 S. Marion St., Oak Park

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Happy Holidays!

George’s

Restaurant & Pancake House

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Since 1987 we’ve been supplying the Oak Park area with fresh Christmas trees of the highest possible quality. In addition to trees, you will also find wreaths of all sizes, garland, tree stands, etc. Local delivery is available - we can even set it up for you. And to top it all off, we offer free hot chocolate, apple cider, cookies and candy canes!

email us at : info@sandhillchristmastrees.com

Coupons

Your Hosts: George & John 145 S. Oak Park Ave. Oak Park, IL 60302

Ph: 708.848.4949 Cell: 847.708.1727

$5 off

$3 off

on

on

weekdays

weekends

Give the gift of learning 10% OFF all December Registrations!

Languages Currently Offered Spanish Japanese Polish Italian

French Chinese German ESL And More!!!

Arabic Russian Hindi Ancient Greek

Instruments Currently Offered Piano Voice Guitar Violin Cello Harp Music Theory, Composition & Songwriting All Band and Orchestra Instruments And More!!!

Try out a class of your choice!

A trial lesson is just $28, a second trial is just $10, and the third is free!

Call us right now!

708 524 5252

From Baby through Elementary School

Specialty Classes

• Music and Movement, Preschool, Kinder, and Elementary School Programs in SPANISH! taught by founder and director, Maria Fermi & Team

Math, Science, Reading, Writing, Drawing, Audition Prep, Couples Classes, and Architecture,

Call us about our Placement Visits!

And More!!

If you are thinking about alternative schooling and don’t know where to start, call to schedule a free consultation!

The Language and Music School 150 N. Oak Park Avenue, Oak Park IL 60301 www.LMSCHOOL.com • (708) 524-5252

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December 6, 2017

ROYAL CHRISTIAN BOOKSTORES & CAFÉS PRESENTS

12 Days

0f

chrisTmas

evenT

Wednesday, December 6th through Sunday, December 17th, 17th, 2017 Save up to 30% OFF selected merchandise daily!

7610 W. Roosevelt Road, Forest Park, Illinois 60130 • (708) 697-5333 www.royalchristianbookstores.com

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Cookies for Santa, and everyone else

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5. Twin sisters Julia, left, and Clara Reishman, 5, of Oak Park, tell Santa Claus what they would like for Christmas this year. 6. Ada Wigfield, left, and Mia Christmon, both 12 and of Oak Park, taste different cookies they received. 7. A customer looks through different holiday decorations for sale at Two Story Farmhouse.

4 1. Zach Biggus, left, of Bensenville, and Andy Stees, of Chicago, play together at the Careful Peach Boutique last Saturday, Dec. 2, during the annual Winterfest and Cookie Walk in downtown Oak Park. 2. Participants walk down Marion Street with blue cookie tins. 3. Mike Delaney, left, of Elmhurst plays with Bob Vobornik, of Park Ridge, for customers and participants at Fleet Feet. 4. Gary Cleland, of Berwyn, plays the bass with members of Compass Rose Six at the Careful Peach Boutique. 7

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1024 NORTH BLVD.

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708.383.3066

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GIFTS

WINE

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Wishes Wishes BEST

BEST

This Holiday Season

This Holiday Season

EVERY MORNING SHE SNORES EVERY MORNING MYMYMORE HUMAN SHAVES OFF HUMAN SHAVES OFF THAN I DO, BUT I STILL FACEFUR, FUR,HE’S HE’S HISHISFACE LOVE MY HUMAN. FUNNYLIKE LIKETHAT. THAT. FUNNY — BANDIT

—TUCK adopted 11-26-09 —TUCK adopted 05-04-11 adopted 05-04-11

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Since 1990

THURSDAY NIGHT SHOPPING PARTY December 7th ONLY 6 pm-8 pm

So come in, bring a friend, have some wine and take advantage of these specials!

ALL APPAREL 20-50% OFF All PURSES 20% Off ALL JEWELRY (including Patricia Locke) Up to 30% Off SELECTED SCARVES 50% OFF COATS & JACKETS 30-40% OFF 7418 MADISON ST.

FOREST PARK

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708.771.1111

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Community Foundation

Community Giving Guide

d by the Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation

S

The Most Wonderful Guide of The Year!

eason of Giving is a campaign organized by Wednesday Journal and the Oak Park River Forest Community Foundation to encourage local charitable giving during the holiday season. It has long

been recognized that when we shop local, our money recirculates through the local economy reaping dividends for the entire community. The same is true for charitable giving. When you donate to local nonprofits, your money goes to work in your own

neighborhood. Your donations feed local families, offer safety and learning to local children, and enrich the beauty and art that surrounds us all. Over the coming weeks, we hope that you will take a moment to look over the listings in this Giving Guide. Find

e connect giving to impact!

Animal Care League

Animal Care League offers a safe haven for pets in need.

Founded in 1973, Animal Care League takes a proactive approach to animal care and adoption as well as preventative measures to help reduce the number of homeless animals in our communities. With over 1000 pets coming to our doors each year, Animal Care League counts on supporters to ensure that we can provide what is needed from routine vaccinations to life saving surgery.

Make a difference in the life of a homeless animal by visiting www.animalcareleague. org where you can sign up to volunteer, make a donation, view our adoptable pets, and learn about upcoming events.

Cantata Adult Life Services As a nonprofit since 1920, Cantata’s mission and vision is to help older adults age successfully, both on our campus and out in their communities. We help them live their best lives by offering a variety of services that meet each individual’s unique needs. This past year, we provided nearly 2,500 services to 1,200 seniors thanks to you and your generosity. Whether it’s the gift of your time or a donation, everything is greatly appreciated and contributes to the successful care and support for aging adults.

To donate and make a difference in the lives of seniors in your community, please visit www.cantatahomeservices.org/donate or email george.columbus@cantata.org

Celebrating Seniors Founded in 2010 before launching its inaugural Celebrating Seniors Week in May 2011, Celebrating Seniors is dedicated to honoring, recognizing and serving seniors in Oak Park, River Forest and Forest Park, Illinois. The organization concentrates on four main objectives:

• To facilitate cooperation between the business community, government agencies and non-profit organizations for the benefit of the senior population.

• To promote senior groups and organizations that serve persons 60 and older.

• To raise public awareness of issues affecting seniors.

• To generate funds to support at-risk and vulnerable elders.

To volunteer to support our Celebrating Seniors Week or to contribute financially to our community mission, visit us at www. celebratingseniors.net.

Cluster Tutoring Program The Cluster Tutoring Program is a communitybased organization that provides free, one-to-one tutoring for youth in grades K through 12 from the Austin neighborhood. Our mission is to help students realize their potential through learning in an environment that strengthens the students, the tutors, and the community. The program’s emphasis is on reading as a means to academic success and the development of mentoring relationships between caring adults and youth.

Tutors receive training and ongoing support.

Tutoring space is donated by First United Church of Oak Park and Pine Avenue Church. To volunteer or to donate, please contact Kara Kalnitz at 773-378-5530 and visit www.clustertutoring.org.

Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation OAK PARK-RIVER FOREST

Community Foundation We connect donors to impact. Your gift to the Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation can benefit one or many organizations locally, regionally or nationally. We accept all sizes of gifts -- gifts of cash, appreciated stock, real estate and through bequests. We work with you to match your philanthropic interests with needs. We manage scholarships for students and provide enrichment grants for young

people. We provide grants to local nonprofit organizations, present Impact Excellence seminars for them and manage many of their funds. We connect our community for collective impact.

For more about what we do, please visit us at: www.oprfcf.org, on Facebook and Twitter: @oprfcf.

708-848-1560 1049 Lake Street, Suite 204 Oak Park, IL 60301 Donate online at: https://goo.gl/MeQaon

The Collaboration for Early Childhood The Collaboration for Early Childhood is your resource for early childhood information in Oak Park and River Forest. We provide the connections vital to every child’s opportunity for success in learning and in life. We work with more than 60 organizations so that parents and their children receive critical information and support services, children are screened for developmental delays, teachers in child care centers, preschools and family child care homes provide high quality programs and our most vulnerable children and their families experience a strong web of support.

For more information, or to make a donation, please visit us at collab4kids. org or follow us on Facebook.

Concordia University Chicago Founded in 1864, Concordia University Chicago is a comprehensive liberal arts-based Christian university in the Lutheran tradition. Through its College of Arts and Sciences, College of Business, College of Education, and College of Graduate and Innovative Programs, Concordia-Chicago offers more than 100 areas of study in small classes taught by professors who are passionate about teaching and student success. Concordia-Chicago equips men and women to serve and lead with integrity, creativity, competence and compassion in

an organization that resonates with you.

Check out their website. Consider making a donation or volunteering. Spread the word.

Don’t just shop local—give Local.

a diverse, interconnected and increasingly urbanized church and world. More than 5,000 full-time undergraduate and graduate students are enrolled at Concordia-Chicago, located in River Forest.

Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory The Oak Park Conservatory is a gem in our community. The Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory (FOPCON) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that helps make the Conservatory a community destination. FOPCON has over 150 volunteers and 500 members. We offer guided tours, free children’s programming, and host Uncorked in the Summer. We are proud of our Discovery and Rubinstein Gardens and our partnership with the PDOP in supporting the Conservatory.

Please visit fopcon.org to join or donate. 615 Garfield, Oak Park, 60304. Contact Beth Cheng, Executive Director at 708-725-2460.

Oak Park Festival Theatre Since 1975 Oak Park Festival Theatre, the Midwest’s oldest professional outdoor classical theatre, has brought the magic of dramatic masterpieces to generations of our neighbors. Whether performing under the stars in beautiful Austin Gardens as we do each summer or at any of the many local venues where we partner with local philanthropic agencies (such as Housing Forward, Oak Park Housing Authority or Nineteenth Century Charitable Association), Festival Theatre breaths fresh air into timeless texts for Oak Park and beyond. With ticket prices kept friendly for every budget and free admission for all under 13, we rely on the generosity of our audiences to continue our dynamic community dialogue.

Donations can be made on-line at oakparkfestival.com or mailed to us: Oak Park Festival Theatre, P.O. Box 4114, Oak Park, IL 60303.

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PRESENTING SPONSORS:

HOSPITALITY SPONSORS:

HEADLINER SPONSOR:

SPOTLIGHT SPONSORS:

PREMIERE SPONSORS:

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At the Holidays and All Year Long • Hephzibah is Home with a Heart

In 1897, Hephzibah founder Mary Wessels declared her home a “nurturing haven for children in need” and year after year, local Oak Park and River Forest neighbors and merchants have embraced that mission, and responded with generosity, compassion and support -- goodwill that is evident during the holidays and year-round.

here is their first experience with the love, safety, security and comforts of a real home.”

We connect giving to impact!

“Now 120 years later, Hephzibah remains a nurturing haven, a home with a heart for 26 children who come to us to heal, to feel safe and to be loved,” explains Merry Beth Sheets, executive director. “For many, their life

Green Community Connections At Green Community Connections, we believe people are the answer to our serious environmental issues. We provide a deeper understanding of natural systems, build community, and inspire change. Through our largest program, the annual One Earth Film Festival, we raise awareness and inspire action. In 2017, 5,600 people attended our 10-day fest, viewing films, participating in discussion and engaging with community partners and advocacy groups to take immediate action on behalf of our planet.

Hephzibah

Hephzibah Children’s Association was founded in 1897. We serve more than 1,000 children and families each year through innovative, community-based programs.

Hephzibah provides a Group Home for children who have been taken from their families due to profound abuse or neglect.

Our skilled staff recruits and trains foster parents, and offers ongoing support to help all family members navigate challenges.

Our after-school Day Care operates on a sliding scale to serve working parents in Oak Park, with programs based at each elementary school.

To make a real difference in the lives of children and families, please donate today at hephzibahhome.org.

Throughout December, individual volunteers and community and corporate groups decorate the house, host parties, provide holiday meals, and purchase and wrap presents for the children. “Without a doubt, Christmas morning at Hephzibah is one of my happiest childhood memories. I will always remember that feeling and am thankful for that memory every holiday season,” a former resident recently shared.

Housing Forward The mission of Housing Forward is to transition people from housing crisis to housing stability. By emphasizing prevention, supportive services, employment readiness and supportive housing, we are able to offer a comprehensive, long-term solution that moves clients into housing quickly and keeps them there.

This housing-first approach to homelessness is more efficient, more fiscally responsible and less traumatic to clients who are typically facing extraordinary hardship. It is also beneficial to the communities being served who do not have to bear the costs of homelessness in the form of expanded social services, health care and public safety costs.

We offer an attractive return on your investment — measured in terms of human lives and futures.

To donate, please visit housingforward. org/give, or contact Janet Gow, Director of Development & Communications, at 708.338.1724 ext. 262.

L’Arche Chicago L’Arche Chicago is a community where people with and without intellectual disabilities share life together in homes, as family. In our group homes, we strive to merge the highest quality of care and genuine friendship.

We seek to create a world that welcomes difference and celebrates the unique gifts of all people, where each person has a genuine place of belonging.

Support L’Arche Chicago on #GivingTuesday and help us to create that kind of world. larchechicago.org/givingtuesday

Throughout the year, generous donors and volunteers meet every need including providing new clothes, shoes and backpacks; decorating each child’s room; fulfilling birthday wishes; helping with homework; and spending time playing and reading with each child.

“Hephzibah Home is a place for healing, hope and happiness,” Ms. Sheets says, “and grateful hearts as we celebrate this holiday season.”

New Moms New Moms offers services to support moms in the areas of homes, jobs, and family support. These tools empower moms to transform their lives and create strong families filled with stability, health and vision for a strong future. For more information or to donate, visit www.newmoms.org

Nineteenth Century Charitable Association The Nineteenth Century Charitable Association strengthens our community through learning, giving, and sharing our landmark building. We provide community outreach, scholarships, and public programming in five areas: music, art, literature, science, and social sciences. The NCCA is the owner of 178 Forest Avenue, commonly referred to as the Nineteenth Century Club. Our charitable and cultural activities are supported by our members, volunteers, donors, and by the events held at the Club. Programs are open to all and we welcome all ages to join.

If you would like information about volunteering, joining or donating, please call us at 708-386-2729 email to info@ nineteenthcentury.org.

OPRFHS Scholarship Foundation Since 1924, community members, alumni and friends of Oak Park and River Forest High School have honored loved ones, cherished teachers, academic achievement,

initiative and leadership through gifts to the OPRFHS Scholarship Foundation. These gifts have made possible the 60+ scholarships which the Foundation awards deserving seniors each year to help defray college tuition costs. With your support, we can help more of our graduating seniors receive critical financial assistance for college.

We hope you will join us and make a tax-deductible donation by visiting www. scholarships4oprfhs.org. Please consider making a gift in any amount to fund existing need-based scholarships or visit our website to learn about endowed and annual named scholarship opportunities.

Contact scholarshipsoprfhs@gmail.com for more information.

The Oak Park Education Foundation (OPEF) Strong schools are at the heart of a strong community.

Established in 1989, OPEF is a privately funded, nonprofit organization that brings artists, architects, scientists, and technology experts into K-8th grade classrooms at every District 97 school. Our professional partners share their passion for learning while conducting free, hands-on residencies with more than 4,200 students annually. OPEF also runs BASE Camp, exceptional summer enrichment.

Learn more, volunteer or donate at opef.org.

260 Madison St., Oak Park, IL 60302 Contact: Tracy Dell’Angela Barber, Executive Director tdellangelabarber@opef.org. 708-524-3023

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nated by the Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation Oak-Leyden Developmental Services

In 2017, Oak-Leyden Developmental Services helped nearly 600 children and adults with developmental disabilities reach their highest potential. Our multi-disciplinary Early Intervention Program provides therapies to help prepare young children for their years ahead, as well as education that supports the entire family.

Our enriching, adult day programs offer community activities, life skills coaching, and vocational training. In our 12 group homes, adults receive residential care, social and recreational opportunities, and access to healthcare providers.

Please volunteer, donate items on our wish list, make a contribution, or become an Oak-Leyden Enrichment Partner at oak-leyden.org or call 708-524-1050 x102.

Oak Park River Forest Food Pantry

$1 = 3 meals, is an equation only you can make possible. With your help, Oak Park River Forest Food Pantry has been reducing local hunger for nearly 40 years. Your support means we are able to meet the needs of nearly 16,000 families struggling with hunger each year. It means we can provide over 50 pounds of nutritious food plus access to vital programs and services to help people stretch limited food budgets in healthy ways. It means that even a little goes a long way: every $1 donated can feed a neighbor for an entire day.

To make a donation, visit oprffoodpantry.org or send checks payable to OPRF Food Pantry to Oak Park River Forest Food Pantry, 848 Lake Street, Oak Park, IL 60301.

We connect giving to impact!

Oak Park River Forest Infant Welfare Society/ IWS Children’s Clinic Heartfelt Healthcare is a home for the holidays.

Everyone wants to be home for the holidays.

Family, friends, food and laughter.

Comforting, familiar and happy. The warm, welcoming embrace of the Oak Park River Forest Infant Welfare Society’s Children’s Clinic is a home of a different kind. We care for children from families that could not find help anywhere else.

Children who are living in poverty and have faced difficult circumstances.

We provide medical, dental and behavioral services right here from our cozy building on Lake Street. We even help with nutrition, pet therapy, health education and literacy support. We call it Heartfelt Healthcare.

Please give generously this Holiday – from your home to theirs. Please call (708)406-8661 or visit www.oprfiws.org.

Opportunity Knocks Opportunity Knocks is dedicated to providing opportunities and resources for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities so they may pursue their educational, occupational and social interests. Our approach to programming is person-centered, peerled and community-based.

Due to challenges in relying on the State of Illinois as a funding partner, we rely on our community for that partnership and support. We are nearly entirely privately funded. That fact makes your support that much more important. To learn more about Opportunity Knocks or to make a donation in support of the Warrior Mission, please visit us online at opportunityknocksnow. org.

PACTT Learning Center At PACTT Learning Center, we believe that the road to a higher quality of life is paved with a quality of opportunity. Providing our participants with access to employment and recreation in the community is critical to ensuring the success of the people we serve. Through personcentered programs that emphasize access, choice and the dignity of risk, PACTT provides a safe environment for

participants to experience a personal freedom grounded in human rights.

PACTT programs include a therapeutic day school, residential services for children & adults, a transition program for older teens and vocational training/job placement for adults.

To learn more about PACTT or make a donation, go to www.pactt.org or call 773-338-9102 ext. 2424

Pillars Pillars is the largest nonprofit provider of mental health and social services in the western and southwestern suburbs. The agency serves 10,000 people each year through direct client services, including Mental Health, Addictions, Domestic & Sexual Violence, Child & Family Services, and Community Housing. Untreated mental illness and addiction can lead to hospitalization, encounters with law enforcement, violence, and even early death. Pillars’ programs empower people to break out of those cycles and lead healthy, productive, independent lives— which ultimately saves the community money. Stand together as Pillars, with us.

Donate online or pledge a monthly gift today at www.pillarscommunity.org/ donate.

Ping!

PING! provides the opportunity to experience the many benefits of a music education to students in need in our community.

Each year PING! loans musical instruments to students in need in Oak Park River Forest school districts 90, 97, and 200 so that they can participate in the band and orchestra programs at school. PING! also provides music enrichment through workshops for 4th and 5th graders; mentoring, scholarships for summer music camp, and field trips for middle schoolers; and private music lessons for high school students. PING! is a volunteer-run organization that depends on the community for donated instruments, volunteer help, and financial contributions to maintain our instrument inventory and programs.

For more information or to make a donation, go to pingoprf.org. If you have an instrument to donate, send us an email at pingoprf@gmail.com.

December 6, 2017

Pets Can Be the Best Medicine

Part of the Animal Care League’s mission is promoting the power the human/animal bond. While it is widely believed that people have a significant impact on the lives of animals, those who have adopted a shelter pet know that it is the animals who have an even larger impact on us.

Wanting to give their children the joy of having a dog in their lives, the Shoonveld family decided to adopt Rizzo, a Terrier mix puppy, from the ACL in October 2016.

Initially, the hope was that Rizzo would provide companionship for the couple’s four children, the oldest of whom has Down Syndrome, and the others autism accompanied by a list of different health issues. Far more than just a companion, Rizzo became a kind of treatment for the children. With an innate ability to bring calmness to the kids when they are struggling, Rizzo provides emotional support. Sometimes he will even just lay on top of them, the deep pressure of his body providing calm to their nervous systems.

The Shoonvelds report that while they have spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on therapies and medical treatments for their children over the last fourteen years, it is Rizzo who has been the best treatment for everyone. He has built up the kids’ confidence, socialization, and engagement in their environments. He has helped them develop individual senses of responsibility, fostered independence and given them abundant one-on-one time for love and affection.

For more information on adopting a shelter pet, please visit www.animalcareleague.org Also, be sure to visit Rizzo’s social media (created and run by the kids) YouTube Channel (Rizzo the Gizmo https://m.youtube.com/channel/ UChxxizzmCzEASTnSUG8OkxA ) & Facebook page (@RizzoTheGizmo ) or email george.columbus@cantata.org

This Community Giving Guide of local nonprofits will run weekly through December. If you would like information on how to list your organization, email Marc Stopeck at marc@oakpark.com.

Coordinated by the Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation

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nated by the Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation Pro Bono Network

Access to justice should not depend upon one’s income. There are simply not enough lawyers to help people in dire need of legal aid. These include safety from an abuser, adequate housing, and the ability to get a job. Pro Bono Network, a locally-grown and new kind of organization, has brought over 250 attorneys to pro bono work by making legal representation practical. As a result over 1500 clients have received legal aid services which often encompass basic human rights.

Learn more at pro-bono-network.org.

Donating will make a difference! Be a part of bridging the justice gap!

The Symphony of Oak Park & River Forest

We connect giving to impact!

Each year The Symphony of Oak Park & River

The River Forest Library Foundation “A library outranks any other one thing a community can do to benefit its people,” said Andrew Carnegie. That’s why he funded thousands of public libraries a century ago to help people help themselves through self-directed learning. Today, the River Forest Public Library (RFPL) carries on that core mission by providing not just books and periodicals but also a wide array of digital resources (onsite and remotely), interactive programs, and other transformative learning opportunities.

Honor a family member, a cherished teacher or mentor, a dear friend, or your own love of lifelong learning by giving to the RFPL Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, at 735 Lathrop Avenue, River Forest, IL 60305 or rfplfoundation.org/donate. Your gift will inspire others and transform the lives of so many in our community.

Sarah’s Inn

Since 1981, Sarah’s Inn has worked to improve the lives of those impacted by domestic violence and to break the cycle of violence for future generations. Our Intervention Program provides bi-lingual services for families affected by domestic violence in order to safely navigate crisis, effectively process trauma and ensure self-sufficiency.

Our Training and Education Program creates a network of skilled bystanders to appropriately intervene as first responders and community advocates. Our Together Strong Project was created to prevent relationship violence by teaching youth about the impact of their choices, giving them the tools to lead healthy lives, and empowering them to make a difference in their community.

To donate, visit donatenow.networkforgood. org/sarahsinn, or make a tax-deductible donation through postal mail by sending a check to: Sarah’s Inn, PO Box 1159, Oak Park, IL 60304

Forest receives support from loyal patrons and generous friends. Ticket sales provide less than half the funds needed for the Symphony’s performances. Your gift keeps this award-winning orchestra going strong, allowing us to keep our ticket prices low and provide free tickets to students through college to our concerts held at Dominican University.

This year we celebrate our 85th Anniversary and your help is needed to ensure our future.

We will reward donations of $100 (or more!) with a a free CD. Make your end-of-year tax-deductible donation at symphonyoprf.com, or: P.O. Box 3564, Oak Park, IL 60303-3564.

Thrive Counseling Center Thrive Counseling Center (formerly Family Services of Oak Park) has provided community mental health services for 119 years. Located in the heart of Oak Park, our mission is to build healthy minds, families and communities by empowering people to attain mental and emotional well-being. Hope, resilience and recovery form the heart of our programs and services. Last year we provided critical services to approximately 1,500 friends, neighbors and family members including…

• counseling for youth and adults • psychiatric care & medication management • 24/7 crisis intervention • in-home counseling for older adults • case management and supportive housing • psycho-social recovery day program • stress reduction courses To learn more or donate, please visit www. thrivecc.org. or call 708-383-7500, ext. 316

UCP Seguin of Greater Chicago UCP Seguin believes that all people, regardless of ability, deserve to achieve their potential, advance their independence and act as full members of the community. So we stop at nothing to provide life skills training, assistive technology, meaningful employment and a place to call home for people with disabilities, as well as specialized foster care for children. Our goal: life without limits for people with disabilities.

Make a difference in the lives of people with disabilities. Donate online at ucpseguin. org or send gifts to UCP Seguin, 332 Harrison Street, Oak Park IL 60304

West Cook YMCA A life best lived includes helping others experience a better life.

When you give to the West Cook YMCA, you give to our community.

100% of your tax-deductible donation goes directly to providing scholarships to children, adults, and seniors- your friends and neighbors- transforming their lives through access to health screenings, chronic disease prevention programs, after-school programs, swim lessons, life-skills training for residents, and Y memberships that can open the door to help each person become their best self. Make a difference right in your own community today with your support of the West Cook YMCA’s scholarship fund.

To donate, visit WestCookYMCA.org/donate or send your check to West Cook YMCA, 255 S. Marion St., Oak Park, IL 60302. (708383-5200)

West Suburban Special Recreation Association (WSSRA) West Suburban Special Recreation Association (WSSRA) provides recreational programming for individuals with disabilities who reside in Oak Park, River Forest and eight other surrounding communities.

Donations to WSSRA, help provide financial assistance to those participating in our yearround programs and summer day camp. To make a donation, please visit wssra.net.

Wonder Works Children’s Museum Creative and imaginative play are vital to a healthy child and Wonder Works Children’s Museum provides countless opportunities for both, giving children a safe space to explore.

Wonder Works is committed to providing an environment where early learning flourishes through thoughtfully designed “experience zones” and educational programming.

Rachel Rettberg CEO Wonder Works Children’s Museum 6445 W North Ave, Oak Park IL 60302 773.636.7971 rrettberg@wonder-works.org wonder-works.org www.facebook.com/ wonderworkschildrensmus YEMBA

YEMBA Founded in 2007, YEMBA is focused on educating and empowering youth thru life-skills mentoring. We provide free life-skill mentoring workshops to middle school

youth. These workshops are designed to educate and empower them mentally, physically and spiritually. We employ life-long learning and service experiences through group mentorship that will equip them with knowledge and tools for leadership development and ultimately, success in life.

Also, we provide training opportunities for high schoolers and adults to explore their philanthropic journey as mentors. We rely on the generosity and sponsorship of individuals like you to help continue this great mission!

To help make a difference in the lives of our youth, please visit us at http://www.yembainc.org or follow us on Facebook @yembaInc em

Youth Outreach Services (YOS) Youth Outreach Services (YOS) is a non-profit organization that helps at-risk youth in the Chicago area reach their potential. For almost 60 years, we’ve focused on caring for teens that face challenges at home, in school and in the community. YOS believes all youth are capable of excellence. Our job is to provide the support they need to meet challenges head on, discover their strengths and make healthy choices. We provide comprehensive services from our four service areas depending on each client’s needs: Counseling, Prevention, Child Welfare and Juvenile Justice with programs in schools, client’s homes and our offices.

To make a donation, volunteer, or get more information, go to yos.org or call 773-7777112, x 7270.”

To make a donation, volunteer, or get more information, go to yos.org or call 773-7777112x7270

This Community Giving Guide of local nonprofits will run weekly through December. If you would like information on how to list your organization, email Marc Stopeck at marc@oakpark.com.

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OAK PARK-RIVER FOREST

Community Foundation Your GivinG Can Have BiG impaCt Since 2002, the Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation has distributed over $26,000,000 to local, regional and national nonprofit organizations.

Here are ways for you to get involved and be part of this impact.

Create a fund: donor-advised - you recommend charitable beneficiaries locally or anywhere in the USA annually - you select charities that will receive annual contributions from your fund scholarship - you select a purpose and the Foundation connects with the recipients designated

add to an existinG fund: such as the Fund for Now, the Fund for Forever,

the Fund for.......visit www.oprfcf.org for the many funds that welcome your gift.

Donate to the Fund for Now

Connect with

Kristin Carlson Vogen or Rhea Yap

Donate to the Fund for Forever

708-848-1560 kcvogen@oprfcf.org | ryap@oprfcf.org 1049 Lake Street, Suite 204, Oak Park or visit us at: www oprfcf.org facebook.com/OPRFCF

The Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation has partially underwritten the Season of Giving in support of nonprofit organizations serving Oak Park and River Forest.

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