Issuu

IT’S GIVING TUESDAY. DOUBLE YOUR DONATION. Details on page 12

RIVERSIDE-BROOKFIELD $1.00

Vol. 38, No. 47

Also serving North Riverside

November 22, 2023

Composting options come to Riverside PAGE 5

Special section Page B1

Re-enlistment bonus stolen PAGE 10

Chronic absenteeism concerns Brookfield, Riverside school officials

Coming full pirouette

Rates have risen since the pandemic By BOB SKOLNIK

Riverside teen dances Clara through the ages

Contributing Reporter

Nearly half the students at Lincoln Elementary School were chronically absent last year — 46.8% of Lincoln students were absent from school for 10% or more of attendance days, the school’s state report card shows. That is just the most glaring example of a surge in chronic absenteeism that has area school administrators concerned. Like many of the workers who got out of the habit of going to the office during the pandemic, students may be losing the habit of going to the classroom every day. Rates of chronic absenteeism, defined by the Illinois State Board of Education as missing 10% or more of

STORY BY ERIKA HOBBS, PAGE 6

KEITH GERLING

T R O P PASS

Your

t o NE W S & C O M

See ABSENTEEISM on page 3

MUNITY

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The Landmark, November 22, 2023

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The Landmark, November 22, 2023

ABSENTEEISM Pandemic effects from page 1 school days, have vastly increased statewide and in area schools compared to before the COVID pandemic and the remote learning of 2020 and 2021.

Across the districts About 19% of all Riverside Brookfield High School students were chronically absent for 10% or more of school days during the 2022-23 school year, according to the recently released Illinois School Report Card. The chronic absenteeism rate at RBHS and most other local schools is below the statewide average of 28.3%. The chronic absenteeism rate at RBHS was essentially unchanged last year from the 19.1% rate during the 2021-22 school year but is noticeably higher than in pre-pandemic years of 2018-19 (15.1%) and 2017-18 (11%). “Several factors have contributed to the rise, including the ability of students to take up to five mental health days that count against our attendance rate, and we continue to see a higher number of sick day calls out from parents and guardians following the COVID pandemic,” said RBHS assistant principal for student affairs Dave Mannon in an email. A new state law that went into effect in 2022 allows all students to take five “mental health days,” which must be treated as excused absences. All absences, excused or unexcused, count when determining the chronic absenteeism rate. Chronic absenteeism was higher last year at Lyons Township High School than it was at RBHS. At LTHS nearly a quarter of students were chronically absent last year. That was a bit of an improvement from the 2021-22 school year when 28.1% of LTHS students were chronically absent. In the pre-pandemic school year of 2018-19 14.4% of LTHS students were chronically absent compared with 10.6% in the 2017-18 school year. “The degradation of this is outrageous,” said LTHS school board president Dawn Aubert at a recent school board meeting.

But students are coming to school more often this year. The chronic absenteeism rate at LTHS was down to 16% in the first quarter of the current school year. Elementary and middle school students are also missing more school than they once did. In Brookfield, LaGrange Park School District 95 20.3% of students were chronically absent last year, up from just 10.7% in the pre-pandemic school year of 2018-19. In Riverside Elementary School District 96, 15.1% of students were chronically absent last year, up from 9% in the 2018-19 school year. Chronic absenteeism has also risen sharply at Komarek School, rising to 24.6% last year from 10.2% in 2018-19. At Congress Park Elementary School,

chronic absenteeism rose to 19% last year from 7.2% in the 2018-19 school year. It was zero in the 2017-18 school year. At most area schools, Hispanic students were more likely to be chronically absent than other students. At Lincoln school, where 69.4% of all students are Hispanic, 50% of Hispanic students were chronically absent, compared with 35.8% of white students last year. Komarek was an exception. At Komarek, Black students were the most likely to be chronically absent with 33.3% of Black students being chronically absent last year compared to 25.3% of Hispanic students and 20.3% of white students.

Changing culture Some school administrators say that the culture around school attendance has

changed. While students used to be expected to attend school unless they were noticeably sick, during the pandemic families were encouraged to keep kids home from school at even the slightest sign of illness. Remote learning may have also encouraged the perception that school attendance was not crucial. “Yes, it was COVID, yes it was illness, but it was something more,” said Martha Ryan-Toye, superintendent of Riverside Elementary School District 96 in explaining the rise to her school board. Ryan-Toye said District 96 principals made it a point this year at parents night to emphasize the importance of attendance. Ryan-Toye said that the extreme caution during the pandemic of not sending a kid to school just because she has a sniffle or a sneeze is no longer necessary or advisable. “A sniffle is okay,” RyanToye told her school board at a September meeting. “We were saying [during the pandemic] no, a sniffle is not even okay, a sneeze is not okay. You know what, a sniffle and a sneeze is okay. Not a fever, not vomiting. So, we’re trying to shift our own messaging a little bit and that’s tricky.” LTHS Superintendent Brian Waterman said that some students miss school on some days because they are involved in out-of-school activities such as club sports. “We really have students who are busy with out-ofFILE school activities,” Waterman said. But area school administrators are trying to emphasize the importance of being in school. You can’t learn if you’re not in class is the message. RBHS is using a multi-pronged collaborative approach to try to cut down on chronic absenteeism. “We utilize automated messages sent to students and their family contacts when an unverified absence is recorded,” Mannon said in an email. “Office letters are sent home for cumulative absences at or above five and ten. The Deans hold weekly student conferences to clear up unexcused absences, and they also attend weekly small team intervention meetings in the Student Services Office. In addition, we have partnered with our Regional Office Of Education West 40 and currently have two student advocates in the building who managed a caseload of sixty students.”

IN THIS ISSUE Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Crime . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Opinion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Obituaries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Editor Erika Hobbs Staff Reporters Amina Sergazina, Amaris Rodriguez Digital Manager Stacy Coleman Design/Production Manager Andrew Mead Editorial Design Manager Javier Govea Designer Susan McKelvey Sales and Marketing Representatives Lourdes Nicholls, Ben Stumpe Business & Development Manager Mary Ellen Nelligan Circulation Manager Jill Wagner EMAIL jill@oakpark.com Publisher Dan Haley Special Projects Manager Susan Walker

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chair Judy Greffin Treasurer Nile Wendorf Deb Abrahamson, Gary Collins, Steve Edwards, Darnell Shields, Sheila Solomon, Eric Weinheimer

HOW TO REACH US ADDRESS 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302 PHONE 708-442-6739 ■ FAX 708-467-9066 E-MAIL buphues@rblandmark.com ONLINE www.RBLandmark.com The Landmark is published digitally and in print by Growing Community Media NFP. The newspaper is available on newsstands for $1.00. A one-year subscription costs $41 within Cook County and $51 outside the county. Advertising rates may be obtained by calling our office. Periodical rate postage paid at Oak Park, IL (USPS 0019-585). Postmaster send address corrections to Landmark, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302. © 2023 Growing Community Media NFP.

The Landmark, November 22, 2023

BIG WEEK

Breakfast with Santa & Holiday Market Saturday, Dec. 2, 8:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Riverside Presbyterian Church Preschool

November 22-29

The Riverside Presbyterian Church Preschool invites you to their annual Breakfast with Santa and Holiday Market on Saturday, Dec. 2 from 8:30-11:30am. Guests will be treated to a pancake breakfast, photos with Santa, and a holiday market for kids to pick out gifts

Compiled by Grace Harty

for their friends and family. Adults are free, whereas children are $15 each. Rumor has it that children who attend will automatically be on Santa’s nice list! To register, visit tinyurl.com/ rpcpreschoolfundraiser. 116 Barrypoint Rd.

Annual Turkey Trot Hike

Brookfield Zoo’s Holiday Magic Saturday, Nov. 25 3 p.m. - 9 p.m., Brookfield Zoo

Friday, Nov. 24, 1:30 p.m., Trailside Museum of Natural History All the turkey, stuffing, and desserts got you feeling stuffed? Bring the family to River Forest’s annual Turkey Trot Hike. The Trailside Museum is a perfect place for a hike, considering the native animals, wildflower gardens, and other nature delights.The hike will occur at 1:30 p.m., so make sure your group arrives at the Trailside Museum of Natural History before start time. Your stomachs will thank you later. Call Trailside at (708) 366-6530. 738 Thatcher Ave.

CZS/BROOKFIELD ZOO

Thanksgiving just passed, and now it’s time for Christmas, Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, or other holidays your loved ones celebrate this time of year! To officially launch your friends and family’s celebration of the holidays, Brookfield Zoo invites you to their Holiday Magic event. Holiday Magic is Chicagoland’s longest-running lights festival that has over 2 million LED lights that turn the zoo into the brightest winter wonderland. Participants can wander around the park and enjoy the 41-foot-long tree that plays light sequences to different seasonal songs, 3D Gingerbread House, and 600-foot-long Tunnel of Lights. Not only will the paths be lit up, but so will some animal habitats, restaurants, and gift shops. Get festive at the zoo, all are welcome! Make online reservations, visit CZS.org/Events. 8400 W. 31st. St.

Landmark Editor Meet & Greet Tuesday, Nov. 28, 4-5:30pm, Linda Sokol Francis Brookfield Library (Brookfield Library Meeting Room 1) This is Erika Hobbs, editor of GCM, which publishes Austin Weekly News, Forest Park Review, the Landmark and Wednesday Journal. I’m eager to get to know our readers, so I am holding “office hours” in the communities we cover. Please join me to say hi, ask questions, offer story tips. I’m here for you. Please do come by -- I’m looking forward to these conversations. They’ll be the first of many. 3541 Park Ave.

ERIKA HOBBS

Senior Discount Haircuts

Spice Club: Gingerbread Spice

Cards & Coffee

Wednesday, Nov. 22, 10 a.m., North Riverside Parks & Recreation Thanksgiving is just around the corner — don’t you want to look spick-and-span for your friends and family? Well, seniors, you’re in luck! Luanna and the North Riverside Parks and Recreation are offering discounts to seniors who would like haircuts. Typically, at 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month discounts occur, but this week is special for the holiday. It is important to note that walk-ins are not accepted, instead, appointments are required by calling the Parks & Rec Department at (708) 442-5515. Call now! Haircuts are only $11 (tipping is optional). 2401 Des Plaines Ave.

Monday, Nov. 27, 10 a.m.-7 p.m., North Riverside Public Library Sugar, Spice, and everything you need provided by the Spice Club is nice! As a part of Make it Mondays, on the fourth Monday of every month, participants can pick up a free spice kit to prepare at home provided by the North Riverside Public Library. What better time to get into the Christmas spirit than right after Thanksgiving! It is only appropriate considering the holiday has passed. Sign up, bring your kit home, and prepare it with your family. Besides, who doesn’t love gingerbread? To RSVP, visit https://www.nrpl.info/ event/spice-club-gingerbread-spice/.

Tuesday, Nov. 28, 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Linda Sokol Francis Brookfield Library Seniors and adults: are you still trying to recover from talking with relatives on Thanksgiving? Take a short trip to the Brookfield Library to decompress by playing some cards and drinking a cup of joe. The library will be bringing people together to join others in card games, board games, and coffee. There’s no doubt that this event will be a relaxing time surrounded by neighbors of Brookfield and Riverside. 3541 Park Ave.

The Landmark, November 22, 2023

CAMPUS SPECIALS

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OFFER SPECIALS GOOD GOOD THROUGH T HOFFER ROUGH New composting service CAMPUSEND OF END OF GOOD 2023! SPECIALS2023! comes to Riverside THROUGH

The new service is expected to be offered all year at a lower cost By AMINA SERGAZINA Staff reporter

The Village of Riverside will be getting a new compost service provider to serve residences all year around. Trustees approved an exclusive agreement with a Chicago based company WasteNot Inc. of Chicago to handle residents’ composting needs. Riverside now has a contract with local disposal recycling service company Flood Brothers that was signed in 2015 for five years and renewed in 2020 for seven more years. Flood Brothers provides composting services through their yard waste collection program, which operates from April through November with a five-month gap. The village will keep the contract with Flood Brothers but residents now have an option to use WasteNot during these five months or year-round. WasteNot, however, provides a yearround service. The partnership would not cost the village money, and instead, WasteNot will provide a monthly discount to their services for the Riverside residents. WasteNot works on a subscription basis; the monthly cost for weekly pick up will be $27 instead of $40. There will also be an op-

OFFERCAMPUS END OF 500 50% OFF 50% OFF Moving GOOD Community Fee 50%Toward OFF SPECIALS 2023! Expenses50%

tion for bi-weekly service that will cost $18. This agreement does not require a minimal number of subscribers from Riverside. up $ Residents can cancel or pause their subto scription whenever they like. The subscriber will receive a five-gallon, Apartment Rental Rate sealed container for their waste and during the pickup date, a WasteNot worker will collect the container on an electric car. The CALL OUR MARKETING EXPERTS TODAY! container should prevent bad smell, bugs and animals. up WasteNot also provides people with data on their impact and with the finished compost to at the end. Offer based on room availability. Move-in subject to applicable statutes and regulations. Other terms, conditions and restrictions may apply. Trustee Aberdeen Marsh-Ozga said she ap8700 W. 31st Street | Brookfield, IL 60513 | www.cantata.org | info@cantata.org proved of the WasteNot company and first mentioned it in her Cross-Community Climate Collaborative C4 report. Offer based on room availability. Move-in subject to applicable statute “I am thrilled with [WasteNot] professionapply. upW. 31st Street | Brookfield, IL 60513 | 8700 alism, their references, the level of data that to they provide in terms of the greenhouse gas emissions,” Marsh-Ozga said. According to the U.S. Department of Agriup $ culture, food scraps and yard waste make up to 20 to 30% of waste. Offer based on room availability. Move-in subject to applicable statutes and regulations. Other terms, conditions and This contract is Riverside’s effort to create apply. a more sustainable living environment. 8700 W. 31st Street Apartment | BrookfieRental ld, IL 6Rate 0513 | www.cantata.org | info@cant Marsh-Ozga also added that the service could be useful even for people who do their CALL OUR MARKETING EXPERTS TODAY! own composting because it handles produce that residents can’t compost on their own like proteins. The contract with WasteNot was also apOffer based on room availability. Move-in subject to applicable statutes and regulations. Other terms, conditions and restrictions may proved by villageapply. president Douglas Pollock. Offer based on room availability. Move-in subject to applicable statutes and regulations. Other terms, conditions and restrictions may “This is an example a small 870of0 W . 31stgood Streedecit | Broapply. o8k7fi0e0ldW, .IL316st0S5tr1e3 a1.3org| w|wwi.cnafont@ g@cantata.org et || Bw row okw fie.lcda , In L t6a0t5 atac.a orngta|ta.o inrfo sion, you stack a bunch of small good decisions and you have success,” Pollock said.

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The Landmark, November 22, 2023

RIVERSIDE TOWNSHIP MENTAL HEALTH BOARD

Here to help for 50 years!

JOIN US IN CELEBRATING OUR 50TH ANNIVERSARY! The public is invited for cake and coffee, and to hear from supported agencies on how your tax dollars are making a difference in supporting community mental health services. SATURDAY, DEC. 2 DOORS OPEN AT 12:30 PM EVENT IS 1:00-3:00 PM RIVERSIDE TOWN HALL AUDITORIUM 27 RIVERSIDE DRIVE, RIVERSIDE

Olmsted Society

Latest News from the

Stewards of the land and Olmsted’s Plan

PROVIDED

Vera Brenneman performed ‘Little Clara’ in ‘The Nutcracker.’

Hard work, some play pay off for Riverside We Connect essential news. essential voices. ballerina in starring role

Thank you to all who made 2023 a fun and rewarding year! You are awesome!

2024 Membership Drive time is here. It’s easy to join or renew by going to our website. Find the Membership tab, click on Membership if you’re a first timer or Membership Renewal to continue for another year. You won’t want to miss out on all the wonderful activities we have planned for 2024. Happy Thanksgiving!

olmstedsociety.org |

RiversideFLOS |

riverside.FLOS

Riverside senior Vera Brenneman stars as Clara in an upcoming performance of ‘The Nutcracker’

WeConnect

essential news. essential voices.

By ERIKA HOBBS Editor

There are the little girls who prop a plastic tiara atop a messy bun and spin in stocking feet to sweep their skirts out, dreaming of becoming a princess one day. And there are the girls who do the work to become one. Sure, they dreamed of pearls

and pirouettes. But as they grew up, they missed proms and football games, foregoing pedicures for callouses, to be that princess. Under a spotlight. On a stage. That girl is Vera Brenneman, a Riverside-Brookfield High School senior who is starring as Clara — a ballerina’s dream role — in Salt Creek Ballet’s version of “The Nutcracker” this season.

The Landmark, November 22, 2023 In the Westmont dance school’s version of the Tchaikovsky ballet, Clara enters as a little girl who dreams of becoming a princess. Vera has performed both parts. “There’s something about the stage, how the orchestra, the music feels surrounding you,” the 17-year-old said. “Inside you, it feels powerful and you don’t realize the audience is in front because it’s dark. But you’re dancing and the spotlight is on you and it’s like you’re in the magical world by yourself, performing and having the best time.” Vera donned her first leotard at 3. Ballet, she said, is in her blood. Her mother, Julia Rhoads, a University of Chicago dance professor and founding artistic director of Lucky Plus Productions in Chicago, got her start as a company member of the San Francisco Ballet. Her grandmother, Kay Vee Rhoads, was a founding board member and former executive director of Salt Creek Ballet. But Vera didn’t rest on those family laurels. She studies the Vaganova Method, a strict, Russian-based theory based on precision and body awareness. “It’s technical — ballet looks so easy and it’s supposed to look like VERA BRENNEMAN it takes zero effort Dancer to do the most insane things. It’s very hard,” she said. “But I work really hard, and teachers see that, and they give me opportunities to try stuff.” Her teachers say vulnerability and curiosity make her shine. “Vera is a talented dancer who is also very versatile in different genres of dance,” said Erica De La O, Vera’s teacher and co-director of the production. “Her versatility has really made her an artist of her own,” she said. “One of her main talents is her curiosity to keep exploring movement, and that has guided her to keep developing her qualities as Clara. “She is also a senior and experienced in this role.” To say the least. This season marks the fourth time Vera has performed the “prin-

“But you’re dancing and the spotlight is on you and it’s like you’re in the magical world by yourself, performing and having the best time.”

PROVIDED

Vera’s ‘versatility had really made her an artist of her own,’ said Erica De La O, Vera’s dance instructor. cess” Clara role. In a way, she prepared her life for this. When she was little and dancing the young Clara part, she and her friends would peek into classes and watch older girls rehearse, because they, too, dreamed of being that princess on stage, she said. “I’d watch the older girls and think ‘wow, this is so amazing. I want that part.’” Vera has performed multiple roles, including solos in “Swan Lake.” And, as De La O described: “She has many other roles, Spanish, Arabian, a snowflake and a Waltz soloist.” “All have different qualities and I love that Vera understands how to elegantly transition from one role to another,” she said. It’s a transition she negotiates in her everyday life as a dancer and senior at Riverside- Brookfield High School. She practices at least four hours each week day, including during her honors dance class and Orchesis, the school’s contemporary competition club. After school, practices at the studio typically run more

than three hours, longer on Saturdays. When a performance is scheduled, Sundays, too, begin to fill up with rehearsals. For Vera, “The Nutcracker” practice began in September. Schoolwork and a teen-sized social life are packed in around those hours. When her schoolwork is complete, Vera can jet off with her friends to football games or hang out on Friday and Saturday nights. She missed her junior prom last year, but it wasn’t so bad, she said. “One of the stage managers bought me a corsage. It was so cute.” Still, she vowed, this year, it’s senior prom or bust. “I’m going to make sure I’m there,” she laughed. Dance is in Vera’s future, but so is architecture. A well-rounded liberal arts degree is important, she said, but there’s something special about the intersection of architecture and dance to this collegebound ballerina. It’s something about movement and

one’s body in space, Vera said. Like the way one feels when one enters an interesting room designed to direct a body to move, in contrast with “walking into a box,” she said. She doesn’t know exactly what a career in both dance and architecture would look like, but she has ideas. She hopes to major in dance and minor in architecture. Maybe she’ll join a company and choreograph. And when the pas de deux and the arabesques wear on her body, maybe she’ll get that master’s degree that will help her segue into designing spaces. For now, though, her space is under the spotlight on the stage. “It’s so beautiful,” she said. Salt Creek Ballet’s production of “The Nutcracker” opens at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 25 at Hinsdale Central Auditorium at 5500 Grant Street. It will be held at the same time Sunday, Nov. 26. For more information, additional performance times and to buy tickets, visit. www. saltcreekballet.org.

The Landmark, November 22, 2023

On Giving Tuesday, we will give you the news Car fire spurs fund for caretaker

Troubled nursing home cited again

Wednesday Journal

Forest Park Review

$66M in flood funding arrives

Beloved librarian dies

Austin Weekly News

The Landmark

These are stories we reported last week We ask you to support our nonprofit newsroom with your donation. Our $25,000 match will double your donation through November 28.

Right now we’re at 66% of that important goal - these are dollars

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Help us raise $50,000 by Giving Tuesday (November 28). Visit GrowingCommunityMedia.org/donate

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The Landmark, November 22, 2023

Ivins /Moravecek

Funeral Home & Cremation Services Family owned since 1885 David Moravecek - Owner Additional Suburban Chapel Locations Available Specializing in Pre Need & Veteran Care

80 E. Burlington St., Riverside (708) 447-2261 | www.ivinsfh.com

Golden Wok Restaurant

Weekend traffic snarls ahead for Brookfield Drivers may want to buckle up and plan an alternate routes By LANDMARK STAFF Brookfield public safety officials are warning that traffic is going to be nasty through the weekend. Since Nov. 17, the area has been hopping with activity at Riverside Brookfield High School and at Brookfield Zoo.

The high school held its magic show and Bulldogs basketball tournament. It is also hosting the Venermerkt Basketball Tournament through Nov. 5. The zoo is building its new Tropical Forests exhibit, a project that is expected to open in spring 2025. It includes a gorilla conservation center and habitats for gorillas, orangutans and monkeys, zoo officials said. Police said drivers should expect heavy traffic and delays, and warn to plan travel times and routes accordingly. They also ask those attending events to park responsibly by avoiding fire hydrants and entryways.

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The Landmark, November 22, 2023

By Linda Sokol Francis. E.A.

THE BENEFITS OF HAVING A TAX REFUND DIRECT DEPOSITED: PART II

axpayers should deposit refunds into U.S. bank accounts in their own name, their spouse’s name or both. They should avoid making a deposit into accounts owned by others. Some banks require both spouses’ names on the account to deposit a tax refund from a joint return. Taxpayers should check with their bank for direct deposit rules. Get a bank account: Taxpayers who don’t have a bank account can visit the FDIC website for information on banks that let them open an account online and how to choose the right account. Veterans can use the Veterans Benefits Banking Program for access to financial services at participating banks.

Tax payers should check with their mobile app provider or financial institution to confirm which numbers to use. Taxpayers must have their routing and account numbers for direct deposit available when they are ready to file. The IRS can’t accept this information after a return is filed. For more information, you can download Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax (for Individuals) from www.irs.gov.

Linda Sokol Francis, E.A.

3439 Grand Boulevard • Brookfield, Illinois 60513 • 708-485-9224 Brought to you as a public service since 1975

P O L I C E

More than $11K stolen from man in military A man who re-enlisted in the military and expected a bonus check of $11,629 discovered that someone else had deposited it, North Riverside police said. He reported that he contacted the military and received an image of the check with a forged signature. A year ago, he moved and also contacted his former landlord, who denied any involvement. He was given a report number by the police and advised to follow up with the financial services department in the military to get a new check and find out who stole his original one.

want to engage with the man because of his reported aggressive and abnormal behavior, so he just called the police. The man admitted to having a substance problem and was handcuffed for safety. The assistant manager of the store said he only wanted the coat back and the man was banned from the store. Police returned the coat and the suspect agreed to never return to the store. Police then transported the man to the Forest Park Blue Line station.

Drunk man lies about his wife threatening to kill him

Four people stole sports items from Foot Locker Nov. 16, North Riverside police said. Three men and one woman entered the store at about 6:33 p.m. One of the men, wearing red shoes, selected two tshirts off the sales floor and hid them under his black sweatshirt. He then exited the store after walking past the last point of purchase. The individuals were seen exiting the mall through entrance four about 10 minutes later. The stolen items included a white Nike t-shirt retailing for $30 and a Chicago Cubs t-shirt retailing for $38, totaling $68.00 worth of merchandise. Foot Locker has stated that they would sign complaints should the individual come back into the store.

A domestic dispute ended peacefully on Tuesday night, after North Riverside police intervened in the situation. According to police, a man reported that his wife tried to pull a knife on him after she came home upset from work. The man, who admitted to drinking, said he was worried about his wife’s well-being and wanted her to talk to him. The wife, who locked herself in her bedroom with the knife, said she just wanted some space and did not threaten her husband. She also said she was fed up with his drinking. After talking to the officer, the wife agreed to leave for the night and go to her friend’s house. The husband was advised to give her space and let the situation settle. No charges were filed and no injuries were reported.

Man walks out with a stolen coat from Burlington Coat Factory

Visit oprfiws.org/holiday-housewalk

R E P O R T S

Police responded to a retail theft at Burlington Coat Factory in Riverside, where they found a man wearing a stolen yellow coat at the parking lot. The man put on the coat and walked away. The store manager said he did not

Four people steal from Foot Locker

These items were obtained from the North Riverside Police Department reports dated Nov. 14 to Nov. 20 and represent a portion of the incidents to which police responded. Anyone named in these reports has only been charged with a crime and cases have not yet been adjudicated. We report the race of a suspect only when a serious crime has been committed, the suspect is still at large, and police have provided us with a detailed physical description of the suspect as they seek the public’s help in making an arrest.

Compiled by Amina Sergazina

The Landmark, November 22, 2023

State school board weighs increased YOUR BEST funding requests ahead of budget season LIFE Advocates continue the call to speed up contributions to new state funding formula By PETER HANCOCK Capitol News Illinois

SPRINGFIELD – Officials at the Illinois State Board of Education say they’re receiving more requests for increased funding for next year than the state could possibly afford, and they’re bracing for the possibility that budgets will start to tighten in the near future. “It does appear that revenue will be a little bit tighter in the next four to five years,” ISBE’s chief financial officer Matt Seaton told the board at its monthly meeting Thursday. “And with other state pressures, whether that be pension payments or what have you, it would be our anticipation that the budgets are going to start to restrict a little bit.” Seaton delivered a summary of the funding increase requests that ISBE received from districts and members of the public during a series of hearings on the agency’s budget last month. Those requested increases, he said, totaled just over $1.7 billion. The largest of those was for an increase in Evidence-Based Funding, or EBF dollars. That’s the formula that lawmakers approved in 2017 aimed at eventually bringing all districts up to an adequate level of funding. Under the law, the state is required to add at least $350 million in new funding each year to its preK-12 spending, with the bulk of that money earmarked for districts that are the least adequately funded. During the budget hearings, however, advocates pushed for an even bigger increase – roughly $550 million. Advocates made a similar request last year. But Tony Sanders, who took over as state superintendent of education in February, was reluctant at that time to request more than what is required under state law. He has indicated he’s unlikely to change that position. “I’m in it for the long run to make sure

CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS/PHOTO BY ANDREW ADAMS

Illinois Superintendent of Education Tony Sanders listens to public comments during the Illinois State Board of Education’s monthly meeting in Chicago on Nov. 16. that we’re able to sustain that funding year over year at the $350 million level,” Sanders, a former superintendent of School District U-46 in Elgin, told Capitol News Illinois during an interview in March. “So I was fully on board with $350 million. But even as a former school district leader, I was not supportive of the $550 million that was being requested.” Seaton said many of the funding requests ISBE received during the hearings were similar to previous years – an additional $75 million for early childhood education, for example, and $10 million more for career and technical education. But he said there were also some new categories of funding requests this year, including requests to replace a stream of temporary federal funding that is about to be discontinued. Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief, or ESSER funding, helped cover some extraordinary expenses schools incurred during the COVID-19 pandemic. So far, according to ISBE data, nearly $7.8 billion of ESSER funding has come to Illinois since March 2020, but nearly all of that went directly to school districts. Of that money, about $5.3 billion has been spent, with more than a third – $1.8 billion – going toward salaries, $1 billion going toward purchased services such as outside contracts, and $681 million for supplies and materials.

That funding stream will end in September 2024, which will leave many districts facing some tough budget choices heading into the 2024-2025 academic year. The budget discussion at the state board came one day after the Governor’s Office of Management and Budget issued its latest five-year revenue projections. That report included a $1.4 billion upward revision to the revenue estimate for the current fiscal year, bringing the total estimate for this year to just over $52 billion. But the report by GOMB also said that bump in revenue could be largely offset by $1 billion in additional spending needs this year. And the report suggests that revenue for the upcoming fiscal year, which begins July 1, could drop slightly, to $51.5 billion, and then experience modest growth in the years after that. GOMB noted that while most economists are no longer predicting an imminent recession, several “recession related characteristics” exist that could affect future economic performance, and thus future state revenues. Those include consumers dipping into savings and taking out more debt to maintain spending levels and the resumption of student loan repayment that could reduce consumer spending. Meanwhile, the Illinois Department of Employment Security reported Thursday that nonfarm payroll jobs in Illinois fell by 15,000 in October while the state’s unemployment rate rose two-tenths of a point, to 4.6 percent, well above the national rate of 3.9 percent. Thursday’s discussion at ISBE was only a preliminary step toward developing a budget proposal for the upcoming fiscal year. Seaton said agency staff will make a more formal proposal at the board’s December meeting. The board is expected to vote on a formal budget request in January. Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service covering state government. It is distributed to hundreds of newspapers, radio and TV stations statewide. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation, along with major contributions from the Illinois Broadcasters Foundation and Southern Illinois Editorial Association.

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The Landmark, November 22, 2023 Presented by

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Opinion THE LANDMARK VIEW

Missing class

hen the state school report cards drop each fall, especially now in this post-COVID era, we focus heavily on test scores in reading and math. Clearly there was a fall-off in those scores as the tumult of the pandemic and the ensuing, rapid, and basically unplanned shift to remote learning had real impact. This week though, the Landmark’s Bob Skolnik takes a hard look at another worrisome, and not unrelated, outcome from COVID on our local schools, and schools across the state. That is chronic absenteeism. Defined as missing 10% or more of school days in a year, students missing classes has just about doubled in our local elementary and high schools. At Riverside Brookfield High School, absenteeism has leveled off over the past two years. But it has leveled off at 19%, just shy of double the rate of 11% in the pre-pandemic 2017-2018 school year. As we hopscotch across neighborhoods covered by the Landmark, the numbers vary a bit but are, in every district, cause for concern. The school board president at Leyden Township High School recently called the levels of absenteeism “outrageous.” Educators point to a range of causes for increased absenteeism, all of them related to COVID. Some say the two years of largely remote learning broke the habit and expectation of some families and students that attending class most every day was central to learning. A 2022 change in state law to permit students to miss up to five school sessions a year as “mental health days,” reflects the stunning anxiety levels students and adults increasingly report. Martha Ryan-Toye, superintendent at Riverside’s District 96 elementary schools, says her district is working to overcome COVID definitions of what level of illness would keep a kid home from school. During COVID, schools urged parents to keep students home at any sign of a cold. “We were saying [during the pandemic] no, a sniffle is not even OK, a sneeze is not OK. You know what? A sniffle and a sneeze is OK,” said Ryan-Toye. That change in messaging is a hard one to navigate, she says. Shifting to a message that being in class just about every day is critical is what educators are working to communicate. Efforts to be more responsive to chronic absenteeism are underway. More calls to homes, more tracking by deans and other administrators to keep students from slipping away are taking hold. The comeback may be complicated as the wider culture shifts to more remote working. But that is not an outcome we believe most educators, parents — or students — would like to return to.

The Landmark, November 22, 2023

LETTERS

Let’s have that cancelled discussion I was sad to read about the cancellation of the discussion of the current Mideast crisis at Brookfield Public Library. I was also sad to read that the organizer of the proposed event could not find a speaker who is both “pro-Israel and pro-diplomatic solution.” Thousands of Chicago-area Jews have advocated for a peaceful, two-state solution for decades. There are two synagogues close by in the Oak Park-River Forest area that surely could have provided someone to speak at this event. It is horrible to think that people in our area could not come to a discussion without inciting violence. We have been able to discuss these issues since 1947. Why is it so much more dangerous today? If such an event is ever rescheduled, I suggest that all participants watch the PBS Frontline show called “Shattered Dreams” that aired recently. It shows the

efforts put forth by the Clinton administration toward the two-state solution. It states the facts about how this long summit at Camp David between PLO leader Arafat and Israeli PM Barak came so close to a peaceful settlement, only to fall apart at the last minute. The state of Israel is not going away. It was the symbol of the world’s apology for its indifference during the Holocaust. It was given to the Jewish people by the UN, as was a Palestinian state. But Israel was attacked by all of its Arab neighbors the day after independence. War crimes on both sides of the conflict must be stopped. A discussion about a two-state solution is the only way to have peace in the region. I hope this discussion takes place in our area soon.

Jan Goldberg Riverside

OBITUARIES

Timothy Anselmi, 65

Douglas Keller, 76

Tool & Die maker

Accountant

Timothy Albert Anselmi, 65, of Bald Knob, Arkansas, formerly of Lyons, died on Nov. 12, 2023. Born on Aug. 12, 1958 in Berwyn, he worked as a Tool & Die maker for a pharmaceutical manufacturing company. Tim was the son of the late Albert and the late Ruth (nee Brown) Anselmi; the brother of Brenda (Robert) Markgraf and Janet (the late James) Vacala; the uncle of Daniel (Christina) Markgraf, Jason (Alexsandra) Markgraf, Adam (Julie) Markgraf, Stephanie (Matthew) Johnson, and the late Nicholas Vacala; and the great-uncle of Olivia and Nicolette Johnson. Visitation will be held on Monday, Nov. 27 from 3 to 8 p.m. at Johnson-Nosek Funeral Home, 3847 Prairie Ave., Brookfield. Funeral services will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 28 at 10 a.m. in the chapel at JohnsonNosek Funeral Home, followed by interment at Mount Auburn Cemetery in Stickney. Memorials to Cornerstone Community Church, 9008 Fairview Ave., Brookfield, IL 60513 or Joshua Harris VFW Post #2868 8844 W. Ogden Ave., Brookfield, IL 60513 would be appreciated. Online condolences, photographs and memories may be shared with the family at www.JohnsonNosek.com.

Douglas R. Keller, 76, of Berwyn, died on Nov. 14, 2023. A U.S. Army Veteran, he was a lifelong learner. An accountant in the transportation field, he worked hard to support his family. Douglas was the father of Katie Keller and Allison Keller; the brother of the late Fred DOUGLAS KELLER (Patty) Keller; the uncle of Lea Kozar and the late David Kozar. Services and interment are private. Arrangements were handled by Hitzeman Funeral Home & Cremation Services 9445 W. 31st St., Brookfield, IL 60513. In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to WTTW, 5400 N. Saint Louis Ave., Chicago, IL 60625-4698 If you wish to send a sympathy card, please feel free to send it to Hitzeman Funeral Home, c/o Douglas Keller Family. See OBITUARIES on page 14

The Landmark, November 22, 2023

OBITUARIES continued from page 13

Brian Krol, 44

Voice engineer, Boy Scouts volunteer Brian Krol, 44, of Brookfield, formerly of Brighton Park in Chicago, died on Nov. 14, 2023. He was a senior voice engineer for Northwestern Medicine in their Telecommunications Department. He attended Five Holy Martyrs grammar school, class of 1993, and graduated from St. Rita High School, class of 1997. A dedicated volunteer for the Boy Scouts of America, St. Symphorosa Pack 4439, Troop 1439, he was a proud member of the BSA Order of the Arrow. Brian was the husband of Tracy Krol, nee Headley; the father of Kayla Krol and stepfather to Michael Moran-Headley; the son of Donald and Mary Krol, nee Paskvan; the brother of Julie Krol; the son-inlaw of Kathy and the late Walter Headley; and a dedicated friend to many. A memorial visitation will be held on Sunday, Nov. 19, 2023 from 1 until the service at 5 p.m. at Hitzeman Funeral Home

and Cremation Services, 9445 W. 31st St., Brookfield, IL 60513. Interment is private. Send sympathy cards to Hitzeman Funeral Home, c/o the Brian Krol family.

Kathryn Shrutek, 80 Insurance agent, avid reader and cook

Kathryn A. Shrutek (nee Vicha), 80, of North Riverside, died on Nov. 18, 2023. Born on Nov. 23, 1942 to the late Frank and the late Lillian Vicha of Berwyn, she was a former insurance agent, having just retired last year. An avid reader, she was one of the best patrons of the North Riverside Library. She loved nothing more than a good family party and loved to celebrate everything. She passed along her love of cooking to her grandsons and is best known for her Bohemian cooking. She was known as the “plant doctor” as she had a great talent for resurrecting indoor plants. She traveled extensively with

her sisters, family and friends and was always talking about her next trip. She appreciated spending time with her dear sisters and friends and enjoyed playing card games such as Crazy Rummy or Canasta, Scrabble, or just about any game. She loved cheering for her grandsons’ sporting events or just spending time with them. Kathryn was the soulmate and life partner of Robert L. Shrutek; the mother of Jeanne (David) Kelly, Kristina Shrutek, and the late Robert A. Shrutek; the grandmother of Brendan, Ryan (fiancée Ella Sperry) and Aidan Kelly; sister of Dorothy Hynous and the late Margaret (late Roy) Re; aunt of Jacqueline (Mark) Heyman, Timothy (Mariellen) Re, Matthew (Georgia) Re, Daniel (Kathleen) Re, Theresa (Sean) McLaughlin and the late Angela (Matthew) Schlueter. Visitation will be held at Conboy-Westchester Funeral Home, 10501 W. Cermak Road, Westchester (two blocks west of Mannheim Road) on Tuesday, Nov. 21 from 3 until 8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial

will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 22 at Mater Christi Church in North Riverside (all services will conclude after Mass). Interment is private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Kathryn’s memory to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital at (www.stjudes.org). Arrangements were handled by the Original Kuratko Family, Brian D. Kuratko-Funeral Director.

To run an obituary Please contact Erika Hobbs by e-mail: erika@growingcommunitymedia.org, before Monday at noon. Please include a photo if possible.

The Landmark, November 22, 2023

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The Landmark, November 22, 2023

Sports

Cicic, Bulldogs return to court with higher hopes Balanced team seeks another 20-win season By BILL STONE

coach Mike Reingruber said. “Our goal is to be playing our best basketball come state tournament time, and Riverside Brookfield High School senior we want to win conference, win a regioncenter and Division I prospect Stefan Cicic al, go as deep into the state tournament will play a bigger role, literally, this boys as we can.” basketball season. Last season was a successful one for “I grew like an inch, inch and a half,” the Bulldogs (26-6), who lost to Hinsdale Cicic said. “I was 6-10 1/2, 6-11 Central 52-39 in the Class 4A last year and now I’m 7-foot.” Lane Tech Regional final. Cicic and the Bulldogs have Their fourth straight combigger plans this season with plete season with 20-plus victhe returning Metro Suburtories also included another ban Conference Blue DiviMSC Blue title with a perfect sion’s Player of the Year set12-0 record. ting the tone. One initial goal is winning “[Our key is] the whole team the RBHS 20th annual Bill Vanjust building up chemistry, deMerkt Invitational for the how we work hard, also that first time since 2018. The chamSAM SHELVEN ability to work on the court, pionship round is Saturday. hustle, be active, just aggresRBHS then plays St. Ignatius siveness,” Cicic said. “If we at noon, Dec. 2, in the Chicago Elite Classic keep on doing that consistently in prac- at the University of Illinois Chicago Credit tice, that’s going to take our game to a Union 1 Arena. whole new level.” “The goal for this season Senior point guard Steven is to get farther than we did Brown, a part-time starter and last year, just keep pushing,” key sixth man, also returns, as Brown said, “the winner mendo senior guards Max Almeida tality. You have to have that and Joey Garvey, senior wings mentality that you’re going to Sam Shelven and Ivan Ramoswin and keep that in practice, Olivera and senior forward no matter what.” John Super. Cicic averaged team highs of Varsity newcomers are senior 17.0 points and 9.8 rebounds last guard Mehki Austin; junior season with 41 blocked shots guards Rylan Bruno, Vincent and 48 assists. STEVEN BROWN Dockendorf, Danny Loftus, Mo His continued progress will Turner and Noah Wzorek; jube even more important with nior forward Mantas Sleinys; junior wing the graduation of Arius Alijosius (Winona Brycen Grove; and sophomore guard Cam- State), who averaged 15.3 points with a sineron Mercer. gle-season, school-record 106 threes, and “I think overall this team is very inter- fellow All-MSC guard Will Gonzalez, who changeable. It’s deep. We’ve got a lot of transferred to Crane. guys who can really guard multiple posi“Stef had a great year. Obviously, a lot of tions, which is kind of a first for us,” RBHS what we do revolves around him. We’re goContributing Reporter

FILE

Riverside-Brookfield’s Stefan Cicic during RB’s Summer Shootout in June 17. ing to kind of go how he goes throughout the season,” Reingruber said. “The good thing is for a big man, you don’t often hear how they make other guys better. But with his unselfishness and passing ability, he really makes other guys better.” Cicic added to the Bulldogs’ inside-outside attack by being able to shoot from the perimeter and three-point range (4 of 9) and moving well with or without the ball. “I look to contribute even better with my playmaking ability, obviously my size. I’d also like to shoot a little bit more,” Cicic said, “also beat guys with my dribbling ability [and] create for myself and my teammates to get easy shots.” The 6-2 Brown (3.5 ppg, 57 assists last season), generally the shooting guard, has worked hard toward a breakthrough season. “I’ve had to take a role of being point guard, playing off the ball sometimes, maturing more because my role is different,” Brown said. “I have to step up and be a leader, take every play, lead by example.”

Other returnees like the 6-2 Shelven assume bigger roles after playing in games as a junior. “[Shelven has] been a glue guy for us, tremendous leader,” said Reingruber, who added that the energetic 6-2 Mercer has made nice progress since playing for last year’s sophomore team. The 6-6 Sleinys can play with, or sub for, Cicic. “I think this group will be balanced. I expect Stef to be our leading scorer, but that second guy could change every single game and we have seven, eight, nine guys who could be that guy,” Reingruber said. With only three other teams in this year’s one-division MSC (Elmwood Park, Ridgewood and Westmont), the Bulldogs have made their nonconference schedule that much tougher, adding Proviso East, Hillcrest, Crete-Monee and Thornton Fractional North. “We play some teams we lost to last year [St. Ignatius, Lyons Township]. We’re looking to get back at them,” Brown said.

S P O R T S

The Landmark, November 22, 2023

New faces, same aspirations for Lions Inexperienced roster hopes to rise to winning tradition By BILL STONE Contributing Reporter

After consecutive seasons with Class 4A regional titles led by veteran lineups, the Lyons Township High School boys basketball team is adjusting to being the underdog. Seniors Brady Chambers, Caleb Greer, Liam Taylor and Michael Reilly are the lone returnees who saw varsity action last season. “If everybody works really well together, then I think we’ll be very good and we’ll be a lot better than people think,” Taylor said. “Just playing as a team [is the key] because we’ve got a lot of guys all throughout the bench, even some guys on the practice squad, who can do a lot of good things for us.” The Lions are coming off a season in which they finished 26-6 (8-4 in West Suburban Conference Silver Division) and had an electrifying 49-46 home victory over Curie for the regional title before losing to Hinsdale Central 46-40 on the sold-out Red Devils’ home court in the sectional semifinals. The 2021-22 team also was 26-6 and reached the sectional final. Varsity newcomers this season are senior

BRADY CHAMBERS

CALEB GREER

guards Max Hoffmann, Cam Hyde, Jimmy Pajauskas and Will Sullivan; senior forwards Tyler Kuta and Quinn Mulcrone; junior forwards Gavin Carolan, Ian Polonowski, Marshaun Russell and Bobby Vespa; junior guards Jaden Gonzalez, Josh Gutierrez, Dylan Hall and Danny Janiszewski; and junior center Luca Bade. “We’re going to have as much success as the team will allow,” LTHS coach Tom Sloan said. “To people who aren’t with us every day, there are a lot of unknowns. Our kids, I’m sure, will probably use that as a rallying cry — that nobody knows who they are but hopefully they’ll know after we play them.” Although the standout group of Nik Polonowski (Penn), Jackson Niego (Illinois Wesleyan), Graham Smith (Yale football), Carter Reid, Connor Carroll and Matt DeSimone

graduated, their blueprint for team basketball hasn’t. The 6-foot-6 Chambers, a Michigan State baseball pitching recruit, averaged 5.5 points and 3.2 rebounds as last season’s first front-line player off LIAM TAYLOR the bench. “Even though we have a lot of new faces overall, our team bonding has still been going really well. I think that’s definitely going to help the team,” Chambers said. “I think everyone can score. Everyone can contribute. There’s going to be one game where someone scores a bunch and other games where someone [else does]. Everyone’s going to be scoring and contributing.” Greer, this year’s point guard, often was the third guard last season, averaging 2.6 points. On Thursday, he was cleared to return fulltime to practice from a broken right thumb that prematurely ended his football season. Taylor played in 14 games before being injured the second half of the season. Reilly played in nine games. “Watching Jackson Niego play a lot [last season], he taught me how to control the pace, slow down if I need to, and get every-

thing organized,” Greer said. “We have a strong bond, which allows us to play better as a team. We’re also really moving without the ball, so that opens up other things like dump-off passes for open threes.” Sloan said all four returnees will play prominent roles for “as many minutes as their bodies can handle.” Hoffmann, Pajauskas, Kuta, Mulcrone and Polonowski are encouraging in practice. “We have an unselfish group. They really enjoy being around each other,” Sloan said. “We try to emphasize that but really that’s as much on the kids and how they connect with each other [offseason]. I feel they’ve done a good job with that.” The Lions start with their annual home four-team Thanksgiving Tournament, which concludes Wednesday against LincolnWay East. They opened Monday by beating Fenger 73-28 behind Taylor (14 points), Greer and Hoffmann (9 points each), Pajauskas (7 points, 4 assists) and Chambers (6 rebounds). The Lions were third in the Silver last season behind champion Hinsdale Central, which beat LTHS in all three meetings last season, and Downers North, which finished fourth in 4A. Add Glenbard West and upstart York to the mix. “I think we can compete with everybody, but whoever wins the league this year is really going to earn it because it’s going to be a meat grinder,” Sloan said.

RBHS gymnast Hertogs covets that next level Last year’s sectional qualifier leads Bulldogs’ young, enthusiastic roster By BILL STONE Contributing Reporter

After qualifying for her first girls gymnastics sectional in February, Riverside Brookfield High School junior Tanya Hertogs is seeking new heights on the balance beam this season. “If I get to sectionals again, I’ll be happy. If I get to state, I’ll be the happiest gymnast alive,” Hertogs said.

“My dream is to make it up on that wall for state qualifiers in the [school] hallway.” The Bulldogs are hoping for similar breakthrough seasons with a relatively young but extremely enthusiastic group. Juniors Reese Phelan and Bella Cruz and sophomore Kayla Janusz also have varsity experience for the Bulldogs, who open their season with Hinsdale South’s Hornet Invitational Wednesday. “Our goal is to get as much as we can and as far as we can and see how the team works together,” RBHS coach Karyn Domzalski said. “The best thing is the team has brought in a very positive vibe. Everyone has a really good idea of where they want to go and what they want to do. They all kind of blend well with each other.”

Last year’s team was third at the Geneva Regional (128.85 points) after a season-high 133.05 to finish second at the Upstate Eight Conference Meet and second overall. At regionals, Hertogs scored a seasonhigh 8.05 on beam to be among the Bulldogs’ three individual qualifiers for the Hinsdale South Sectional. Junior Lia Christiansen, a state qualifier on vault, and senior Annabel Krueger did not return. Hertogs was 35th at sectionals (7.45). Domzalski said she believes Hertogs can also advance in other events. “It’s definitely motivated me. Unfortunately, I fell on beam [at sectionals] but I still got there and if anything it made me more excited for this season,” Hertogs said. “I’ve been training harder and harder every day. I’ve been holding extra condi-

tioning sessions. I’ve been training by myself at home. I’m hoping I can get [to state] this year.” Phelan competed at 2022 regionals and would have last season if not for being out of town. Freshman Paige Phelan, Reese’s sister, is among varsity newcomers, along with seniors Queniya Booker and Claudia Tello from the junior varsity and sophomore Natalia Maruska. Besides the challenges of many newcomers, Domzalski is overseeing all levels without an assistant coach. “We [generally] use a lot of all-arounders but this year it might be a slower start. We’re going to go slow and steady,” she said. “We’ve got a lot of new freshmen, some with and some without experience. It’ll be interesting to see how the year goes.”

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The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Animal Control Officer in the Health Department. This position will perform a variety of duties involved in enforcing Village ordinances governing the care and keeping of animals in the Village; and to impound, care for and assist with redemption of animals as appropriate. Applicants are encouraged to apply using the following link: https://secure.entertimeonline. com/ta/6141780.careers?ApplyToJob=604191951. For additional information on the position please visit the Village of Oak Park’s website https:// www.oak-park.us/your-government/ human-resources-department. This position is open until filled.

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Our Community Needs Community Journalism It’s not just about crime reports and board meetings. We also need inspiring, funny, heartwarming and, at times, heartbreaking stories about our friends, neighbors and children. Perhaps now, more than ever.

Let's build community!

Read and Support: Wednesday Journal • Forest Park Review Austin Weekly News Riverside-Brookfield Landmark

Partner with us. Donate at GrowingCommunityMedia.org Growing Community Media NFP is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization

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and fiberglass since 1977. Includes doors, woodwork, windows, staircases and new woodwork etc. All work done by hand. NO sanders. Your unfinished project my specialty! References available. Contact Terry Seamans at 630-379-7148 or terryseamans@yahoo.com

The Landmark, November 22, 2023 19

CLASSIFIED BY PHONE: (708) 613-3333 BY FAX: (708) 467-9066 BY E-MAIL: EMAIL@GROWINGCOMMUNITYMEDIA.ORG PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICES SUMMONS (CITACION JUDICIAL) NOTICE TO DEFENDANT: (AVISO AL DEMANDADO): SHEKI D. WELCH, an individual and DOES 1 to 25 YOU ARE BEING SUED BY PLAINTIFF: (LO ESTÁ DEMANDANDO EL DEMANDANTE): EB HALEM, LLC d/b/a DRIVE LA, a California Liability Corporation NOTICE! You have been sued. The court may decide against you without your being heard unless you respond within 30 days. Read the information below. You have 30 CALENDAR DAYS after this summons and legal papers are served on you to file a written response at this court and have a copy served on the plaintiff. A letter or phone call will not protect you. Your written response must be in proper legal form if you want the court to hear your case. There may be a court form that you can use for your response. You can find these court forms and more information at the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www.courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp), your county law library, or the courthouse nearest you. If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the court clerk for a fee waiver form. If you do not file your response on time, you may lose the case by default, and your wages, money, and property may be taken without further warning from the court. There are other legal requirements. You may want to call an attorney right away. If you do not know an attorney, you may want to call an attorney referral service. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be eligible for free legal services from a nonprofit legal services program. You can locate these nonprofit groups at the California Legal Services Web site (www. lawhelpcalifornia.org), the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www.courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp), or by contacting your local court or county bar association. NOTE: The court has a statutory lien for waived fees and costs on any settlement or arbitration award of $10,000 or more in a civil case. The court’s lien must be paid before the court will dismiss the case. ¡AVISO! Lo han demandado. Si no responde dentro de 30 días, la corte puede decidir en su contra sin escuchar su versión. Lea la información a continuación. Tiene 30 DÍAS DE CALENDARIO después de que le entreguen esta citación y papeles legales para presentar una respuesta por escrito en esta corte y hacer que se entregue una copia al demandante. Una carta o una llamada telefónica no lo protegen. Su respuesta por escrito tiene que estar en formato legal correcto si desea que procesen su caso en la corte. Es posible que haya un formulario que usted pueda usar para su respuesta. Puede encontrar estos formularios de la corte y más información en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California (www. sucorte.ca.gov), en la biblioteca de leyes de su condado o en la corte que le quede más cerca. Si no puede pagar la cuota de presentación, pida al secretario de la corte que le dé un formulario de exención de pago de cuotas. Si no presenta su respuesta a tiempo, puede perder el caso por incumplimiento y la corte le podrá quitar su sueldo, dinero y bienes sin

PUBLIC NOTICES más advertencia. Hay otros requisitos legales. Es recomendable que llame a un abogado inmediatamente. Si no conoce a un abogado, puede llamar a un servicio de remisión a abogados. Si no puede pagar a un abogado, es posible que cumpla con los requisitos para obtener servicios legales gratuitos de un programa de servicios legales sin fines de lucro. Puede encontrar estos grupos sin fines de lucro en el sitio web de California Legal Services, (www.lawhelpcalifornia. org), en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California, (www.sucorte. ca.gov) o poniéndose en contacto con la corte o el colegio de abogados locales. AVISO: Por ley, la corte tiene derecho a reclamar las cuotas y los costos exentos por imponer un gravamen sobre cualquier recuperación de $10,000 ó más de valor recibida mediante un acuerdo o una concesión de arbitraje en un caso de derecho civil. Tiene que pagar el gravamen de la corte antes de que la corte pueda desechar el caso. CASE NUMBER: (Número del Caso): 23VECV00177 The name ad address of the court is: (El nombre y direccion de la corte es): Superior Court of California County of Los Angeles, Northwest District Van Nuys Courthouse 6230 Sylmar Avenue, Van Nuys, CA 91401 The name, address and telephone number of plaintiff’s attorney or plaintiff without an attorney is: (El nombre, la direccion y el numero de telfono del abogado el demandante, o demandante que no tiene abogado, es): Keith M. Davidson, Esq. (SBN212216) Tel: (323)658-5444 KMD Law 2629 Townsgate Road, Suite 205 Westlake Village, CA 91361 Date (Fecha): 3/20/2023 Clerk (Secretario): David W. Slayton, Executive Officer/ Clerk of Court By Deputy (Adjunto): A. Salcdeo Published in Forest Park Review November 1, 8, 15, 22, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICES LEGAL NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICES NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

Notice is hereby given by the President and Board of Trustees of the Village of River Forest, Cook County, Illinois, that sealed bids will be accepted for:

2024 REBUILD Illinois Street Improvement Program

Lemoyne Street Water Main Loop Installation (Various Locations)

STATE OF ILLINOIS) COUNTY OF COOK )ss Circuit Court of Cook County, County Department, Domestic Relations Division. In re the marriage of MARIA CONCEPCION MUNOZ, Petitioner and AGUSTIN CHINO PEREZ, Respondent, Case No. 2023D003396. The requisite affidavit for publication having been filed, notice is hereby given to you, the above named Respondent, that a Petition has been filed in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, by the Petitioner, for Dissolution of Marriage and for other relief; and that said suit is now pending. Now, therefore, unless you, the said Respondent, file your response to said Petition or otherwise make your appearance therein, in the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, Room 802, Richard J. Daley Center, 50 West Washington Street, in the City of Chicago, Illinois, on or before December 18, 2023, default may be entered against you at any time after that day, and a judgment for Dissolution of Marriage entered in accordance with the prayer of said Petition. DOROTHY A. BROWN, Clerk.

Published in Wednesday Journal November 15, 22, 29, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given, pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,” as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: Y23011198 on November 16, 2023 Under the Assumed Business Name of FULWELL 18 CONSULTING with the business located at: PO BOX 265 BROOKFIELD, IL 60513. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: JOHN MILLER, 3415 ARDEN AVENUE BROOKFIELD, IL 60513, USA.

This project includes the replacement of curb and gutter, sidewalk and driveway aprons, hot-mix asphalt surface removal, frame/lid adjustment, resurfacing, and other associated work. The bidding documents are available for download starting Wednesday, November 22, 2023 at: www.vrf.us/bids Bids must be submitted by Thursday, December 14, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at: Village of River Forest 400 Park Avenue River Forest, IL 60305 The bid proposals will be publicly opened and read at that time. Proposals will be considered not only on the basis of cost, but also on past performance, experience and ability to perform the work. No bid shall be withdrawn after the opening of the Proposals without the consent of the President and Board of Trustees of the Village of River Forest for a period of thirty (30) days after the scheduled time of the bid opening. Bidders shall be prequalified by IDOT for: HMA Paving The Village of River Forest reserves the right in receiving these bids to waive technicalities and reject any or all bids. Published in Wednesday Journal November 22, 2023

This project consists of the following major work items: installation of 900 feet of 8” ductile iron water main, valves, combination sewer open cut repair, drainage structures, temporary pavement & sidewalk rehabilitation and related items in the Village of River Forest. The work will be installed with open cut methods and directional drilling as Alternate Bid #1. The bidding documents are available for download starting Wednesday, November 22, 2023 at: www.vrf.us/bids Bids must be submitted by Tuesday, December 12, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at: Village Hall, 2nd Floor Village of River Forest 400 Park Avenue River Forest, IL 60305 The bid proposals will be publicly opened and read at that time. Proposals will be considered not only on the basis of cost, but also on past performance, experience and ability to perform the work. No bid shall be withdrawn after the opening of the Proposals without the consent of the President and Board of Trustees of the Village of River Forest for a period of thirty (30) days after the scheduled time of the bid opening. The Village of River Forest reserves the right in receiving these bids to waive technicalities and reject any or all bids. Published in Wednesday Journal November 22, 2023

Published in RBLandmark November 22, 29, December 6, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICE OF COURT DATE FOR REQUEST FOR NAME CHANGE STATE OF ILLINOIS, CIRCUIT COURT COOK COUNTY Request of BILLY MICHAEL SMITH Case Number 2023 CONC001645 There will be a court date on my Request to change my name from: BILLLY MICHAEL SMITH to the new name of: CASEY WILLIAM STEWART III The court date will be held: On January 25, 2024 at 9:30 a.m. on Zoom. Zoom Meeting ID: 91404109299 Passcode: 407193 Published in Wednesday Journal November 15, 22, 29, 2023

Let the sun shine in...

Public Notice:

Your right to know...In print • Online Available to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year OakPark.com • RBLandmark.com • ForestParkReview.com • AustinWeeklyNews.com PublicNoticeIllinois.com

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT CHANCERY DIVISION JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Plaintiff, -v.UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF HENRYK KWEC, DECEASED, UNKNOWN CLAIMANTS AND LIENHOLDERS AGAINST THE ESTATE OF HENRYK KWEC, DECEASED, UNKNOWN CLAIMANTS AND LIENHOLDERS AGAINST THE UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF HENRYK KWEC, DECEASED, EWA GEBICKA, 640-44 LAKE STREET CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, DAMON RITENHOUSE, AS SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE OF HENRYK KWEC, DECEASED Defendants 22 CH 11586 644 LAKE ST., APT. 1C OAK PARK, IL 60301 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on September 20, 2023, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on December 21, 2023, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker, 1st Floor Suite 35R, Chicago, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: PARCEL 1: UNIT 1, ‘’C’’ IN THE 64044 LAKE STREET CONDOMINIUM AS DELINEATED ON A SURVEY OF THE FOLLOWING DESCRIBED REAL ESTATE: LOT 11 IN C B SCOVILLE’S SUBDIVISION OF LOT 22, IN J W SCOVILLE’S SUBDIVISION OF THE WEST ¬Ω OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 7, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 13 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN WHICH SURVEY IS ATTACHED AS EXHIBIT ‘’A’’ TO THE DECLARATION OF CONDOMINIUM RECORDED AS DOCUMENT 25033782 TOGETHER WITH ITS UNDIVIDED PERCENTAGE INTEREST IN THE COMMON ELEMENTS IN COOK COUNTY ILLINOIS. PARCEL 2: THE EXCLUSIVE USE OF PARKING SPACE NO. 5 A LIMITED COMMON ELEMENT AS DELINEATED ON THE SURVEY ATTACHED TO THE DECLARATION RECORDED AS DOCUMENT 25033782 IN COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS. Commonly known as 644 LAKE ST., APT. 1C, OAK PARK, IL 60301 Property Index No. 16-07-219-0281001 The real estate is improved with a single family residence. The judgment amount was $91,216.20. Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real

estate after confirmation of the sale. The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1). IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. For information, contact HEAVNER, BEYERS & MIHLAR, LLC Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 601 E. William St., DECATUR, IL, 62523 (217) 4221719. Please refer to file number 1660117. THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales. HEAVNER, BEYERS & MIHLAR, LLC 601 E. William St. DECATUR IL, 62523 217-422-1719 Fax #: 217-422-1754 E-Mail: CookPleadings@hsbattys. com Attorney File No. 1660117 Attorney Code. 40387 Case Number: 22 CH 11586 TJSC#: 43-3730 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Case # 22 CH 11586 I3232820

The Landmark, November 22, 2023

2 1 E . B U R L I N GTO N R OA D, R I V E R S I D E | 70 8 . 4 47.72 07

When it comes to selling and buying homes... experience, results and ties to the community make all the difference. Curious about the current real estate market and the impact on your home’s value? Thinking about selling, but need to find your next home first? Can’t find your dream home in this competitive market? Contact one of our local market experts for a free, confidential consultation.

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

A Special Advertising Section

2023

Season of

Giving Your Local Guide to a Better World presented by

OAK PARK-RIVER FOREST

Community Foundation

OAK PARK

AUSTIN

RIVER FOREST

FOREST PARK

RIVERSIDE

NORTH RIVERSIDE

BROOKFIELD

B2 November 22, 2023

Season of Giving presented by

Special Advertising Section

November 22, 2023 B3

Season of Giving presented by

Nonprofits and rapid response

n recent years as we begin work on our Season of Giving project it becomes clear that there are new or evolving storylines which demand our focus, as they have demanded the focus and the action of the nonprofits which are at the heart of this annual Growing Community Media project. In the recent past our coverage has focused on issues of racial equity as the nation had what was naively billed as a “racial reckoning” following the murder of George Floyd by police officers in Minneapolis. Yes, eyes were opened some as it relates to race and public safety, equity and inequity. After that many of our Season of Giving stories revolved around nonprofits working to pivot as COVID-19 had such massive impact on every life, every battle between safety and normalcy. This year we are still reporting on the work of nonprofits to find their way back from COVID. But the story of this moment, and it turns up in three of our stories in this special

section, is about the care for migrants arriving in waves on the West Side of Chicago and now into the near west suburbs. One story is about a nonprofit in Belmont Cragin which has spent more than a century welcoming and acclimating immigrant to our city. Two other stories reflect on the broader efforts by the West Cook YMCA and Housing Forward to grow their mission but also include the instant pivoting they are doing to help these new migrants from South America. The challenges shift. The impulse to help, to welcome, to solve remains constant among the nonprofits which this section celebrates. Thanks as always for the partnership of the Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation in this endeavor. And this year our thanks, too, for the sponsorship support of Byline Bank and the West Cook YMCA.

Dan Haley

Inside

Contributing Reporters Erez Ben-Akiva, Hector Cervantes, Lee Edwards, Jack Helbig, Tom Holmes

■

Nonprofit leaders Page B4 ■

Digital Manager Stacy Coleman

Onward Neighborhood House Page B7 ■

Arts groups Page B8 ■

YMCA Page B12 ■

Housing Forward Page B14 ■

Animal Care League Page B34

Design/Production Manager Andrew Mead Editorial Design Manager Javier Govea Designer Susan McKelvey Marketing Representatives Lourdes Nicholls, Ben Stumpe Business & Development Manager Mary Ellen Nelligan Circulation Manager Jill Wagner Editor Erika Hobbs Publisher Dan Haley Special Projects Manager Susan Walker HOW TO REACH US 141 S. Oak Park Ave. Oak Pak, IL 60302 Phone 708-524-8300 www.oakpark.com © 2023 Growing Community Media NFP.

Publisher Sponsored Content

Who helps the helpers?

ook for the helpers. That’s a line one often hears in times of emergency. It’s a reminder that in times of trouble, there are those who step in to help, in ways large and small. It’s also a reminder that the ones providing the most relief may not be doing it under a spotlight. They’re often working behind the scenes to make the world a better place. Some organizations in the Season of Giving guide may be familiar, but don’t let familiarity fool you. These are all new organizations — because the challenges they are trying to address in the community are constantly changing, and they have to evolve in kind in order to provide the help that is needed today. They need your support to continue to do this important work.

By TONY MARTINEZ, JR. President and CEO, Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation

The Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation is doing things differently, too. We are trying to be more effective and strategic in terms of how we grow and how we provide resources to organizations in the

West Cook region. One way is by relaunching Impact Excellence, our capacity building program for local nonprofits. The program offers guidance in mission development, human resources, infrastructure and other areas key to the growth and function of an organization.

We need to cultivate relationships with neighbors from different backgrounds and come together to help one another.

Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation • 708-848-1560 • oprfcf.org

The problems we face can be solved if we work together as a community. We need to cultivate relationships with neighbors from different backgrounds and come together to help one another. And we need to look for the helpers — and help them, too.

B4 November 22, 2023

Special Advertising Section

Season of Giving presented by

New nonprofit leaders face issues, opportunities Blending learning and making change is complicated By TOM HOLMES Contributing Reporter

We reached out to three nonprofit leaders in new roles to talk about how they made their entry into important nonprofits.

L’ARCHE

icki Watts is new to her position as the development director for a nonprofit called L’Arche. Its Forest Park headquarters is located at the corner of Madison and Marengo. She describes herself as “a 45-year-old who is an old school scrappy fundraiser.” When she stepped into that role a few months ago big things were happening. For example, L’Arche, Forest Park, was wrapping up a $2 million capital campaign to build a fourth house for its clients in Oak Park. L’Arche homes are “dedicated to the creation and growth of homes, programs and support networks where people who have intellectual disabilities and people without intellectual disabilities live muVICKI WATTS tual relationships and share the daily life, building community together.” With construction of the additional home well underway on East Avenue in Oak Park, Watts said, “It’s an incredibly exciting time. We’ll be in a position to welcome four new core members and our staff will grow, as will our financial needs. Then there are the everyday expenses of maintaining the other homes. One of the nonprofit’s homes in Forest Park had galvanized pipes that needed to be replaced, and the organization was able to complete the costly project thanks in part to funds raised at their annual dinner event. Regarding what lies ahead in terms of challenges, she said, “With three (soon to be four) homes and vehicles, there is always something that is reaching the end of its lifespan – and, just as it is for our personal homes, it’s

important to make sure the washer/dryer is working. My goal is to help grow our endowment fund so we have the needed resources for on-going maintenance needs. As a licensed service provider, the Forest Park branch of L’Arche receives funding from the State of Illinois through Medicaid, but the quality of services they provide costs more than that amount by over $300,000 a year. Watts’ challenge is to raise that money. Founded in 1964, L’Arche is a nonprofit organization now located in 38 countries which, according to one of its websites, For the 12 years before coming to L’Arche Watts worked in the area of corporate/foundation relations “learning the ropes of all areas of fundraising.” She said her work with people with disabilities has taught her to be patient, to not take things personally and to see things from different perspectives.” She said she came to L’Arche because of its holistic approach in which “core members,” persons with intellectual disabilities, live in the same home with their assistants who do not have intellectual disabilities. “My whole life has been shaped by the experience of volunteering and then working with people who have developmental disabilities. It’s an incredible opportunity for the community to take the time to learn about L’Arche, meet our core members, and see how their lives can be changed for the better.”

PROGRESS CENTER FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING Erin Hostetter started her job as program director at the Progress Center for Independent Living (PCIL) on July 17. Right from the beginning it has been a roller coaster ride. On a positive note, the center had momentum. “Many things set in place by my predecessor, Gary Arnold, are going well,” she said. “The thing I am most proud of is the deep level of genuine care and empathy all staff have for the community and for each other. It’s so easy to come into work.” Part of the work done by the center’s staff is advocacy. “One of the challenges I had to deal with right away,” she said, “is the Humanize Long Term Care bill we are advocat-

COURTESY OF HTTPS://WWW.LARCHECHICAGO.ORG

L’Arche ing for regarding nursing homes and their reputation for mistreating the patients in their care. “We’re fighting for the patients’ right to advocate for themselves without retaliation, which is unfortunately rampant in many nursing homes across the United States. We’re talking physical and mental trauma to these patients, just for trying to speak up for themselves. There are many other items on our agenda, but this is one example of the work we are doing.” The ups and downs on her roller coaster ride have been due to personal concerns as well as work related challenges. The week before starting,” she said, “I was in Texas finishing cancer treatments, packing up my apartment and driving a U-Haul for the first time. “Moving cross-country is terrifying, but I am so glad I did. A new city clear across the nation and starting fresh at the center is different from the last one I worked at and has been a wonderful experience. I genuinely enjoy the challenges, the faces, and the opportunities afforded to me.”

NINETEENTH CENTURY CHARITABLE ASSOCIATION Ray Ward became the executive director of the Nineteenth Century Charitable Association 11 months ago – Jan. 4 to be exact. On that first day he said he was “eager yet a bit nervous.” “You never fully know the environment,” he said, “until you’re actually in it. Being not only the first man but also the first person of color to hold this position (in the 132-year his-

tory of the association), I didn’t quite know how I would be received by the members or how the staff would interact.” He was relieved to discover that “while there will always be challenges, I am happy to say that 98% of everyone has been absolutely great to me.” He had to hit the ground running. “Our biggest challenge in 2023,” he said, “was the remodeling of our full-service kitchen.” In addition to managing that construction, he had to work with the association’s full-time staff including a chef, sales manager, and a part-time event manager to coordinate activities at the landmark facility on Forest Avenue in Oak Park. “Since the kitchen was down for 2 months,” he said, “that set us back but due to the diligence of our staff, we are looking better than ever.” RAY WARD “As a director,” he said, “there is an immediacy of needing to know how everything properly functions and who are my ‘go-to’ people. I tried to get acclimated as quickly as possible with the vital functions and the most effective ways to communicate and continue to move the association forward. Along with those challenges, Ward embraced an opportunity when the association started live Zooming and recording their popular programs which they put on their website. “We anticipate more opportunities than challenges going forward,” he said.

Special Advertising Section

November 22, 2023 B5

Season of Giving presented by Sponsored Content

Byline Bank fosters growth and unity in our communities

s a financial institution, Byline Bank is well-versed in the art of investing. But as a community bank, Byline understands that its role extends beyond just accepting investments; it also actively invests back into its community. In the last year, Byline Bank donated over $60,000 to local non-profit organizations in Oak Park and River Forest, gave over $30,000 in grants, and over $1.1 million in community development loans. In addition, Byline employees volunteered over 400 hours with Oak Park and River Forest organizations (and 1,200 in the greater Chicago region). “Our involvement in the community is organically driven,” said Susie Goldschmidt, Byline’s Oak Park and River Forest market president. “We’re here. We get to know local organizations who are on the ground and problem-solving, and we get to know local people who ask us to get engaged — we try to answer those calls.” In answering the call, Byline has helped advance a number of Oak Park and River Forest initiatives including those related to animal welfare; the

arts; diversity, equity and inclusion; education; financial literacy; food security; mental health; and family support. Some highlights include: The arts. Byline sponsors Music & Potlucks, the Oak Park Festival Theatre, the Oak Park Art League, the Symphony of Oak Park & River Forest, Heritage Chorale, the Michael Teolis Singers, and One Voice for Arts. These sponsorships enhance access to locally driven entertainment and provide the community with an opportunity to come together and unite behind its shared love of the arts. Diversity, equity and inclusion. Byline supports organizations such as the Oak Park Area Lesbian & Gay Association, Oak Leyden, Opportunity Knocks, Place to Belong, Thrive Counseling Center, AgeOptions and the West Suburban Special Recreation Association. These efforts

contribute to fostering a more inclusive and equitable community — a place where success is attainable for all. Food security. Byline Bank is deeply committed to Beyond Hunger, a charitable organization dedicated to combating hunger through various programs and services. Byline provides essential community development grants for operational needs and sponsors the nonprofit’s annual fall benefit concerts. Goldschmidt also sits on the Beyond Hunger board of directors. In addition, Byline is a sponsor of the Suburban Unity Alliance community fridge in Oak Park, which is located at the Euclid Avenue United Methodist Church. Byline’s community involvement is not limited to traditional philanthropy within nonprofits. “We of course give where there’s a pressing need,” Goldschmidt said, “but we find it’s meaningful to invest in the economic ecosystem and the community as a whole.” For example, during lunch meetings at its Oak Park and River Forest branches, Byline arranges

for catering from nearby eateries — a small yet meaningful way of supporting the local economy, says Goldschmidt. Consistent with its status as the top Small Business Administration lender in Illinois, Byline advocates for local businesses as a member of the Oak Park-River Forest Chamber of Commerce and a sponsor of Takeout 25. Goldschmidt also serves as president of Downtown Oak Park and as a member of the Village of Oak Park Business Association Council. In addition, Byline has a presence at most Oak Park and River Forest community events, including the Memorial Day and Juneteenth parades, Oaktoberfest and Thursday Night Out. “We want Oak Park and River Forest to thrive,” says Goldschmidt. “Well-functioning charities, well-supported businesses and a tight-knit community equates to more opportunities for our customers, their families and our employees who live and work here. We’re giving back and pitching in because it’s what neighbors do.” ©2023 Byline Bank. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

ABOVE: Susie Goldschmidt (left), Byline’s Oak Park River Forest market president, and Denise Warren, Byline’s Oak Park branch manager, delivered gifts for the Hispanic Business Network’s annual toy drive benefiting children in Chicago Public Schools. BELOW: Members of Byline’s Oak Park and River Forest branches — along with their families — marched in the River Forest Memorial Day Parade. ABOVE: Susie Goldschmidt joined Marianne Birko, executive director of the West Suburban Special Recreation Association and regional politicians at the WSSRA Derby Gala. From left to right: Angelo “Skip” Saviano, village president of Elmwood Park; Kim Goldschmidt, financial advisor at Equitable Advisors; Arlene Jezierny, mayor of Harwood Heights; Susie Goldschmidt; Vicki Scaman, village president of Oak Park; Cathy Adduci, village president of River Forest; Don Harmon, Illinois state senator; and Birko. ABOVE: Teri Miller (from left), director of development at Beyond Hunger; Byline’s Goldschmidt; and Lauren Brightmore, development and events coordinator at Beyond Hunger, staff a booth at Thursday Night Out in Downtown Oak Park.

Byline Bank • 708- 660-1000 • bylinebank.com

B6 November 22, 2023

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A fresh start for Mittens courtesy of Animal Care League first uncertain days at the clinic, it became clear that the shelter’s medical staff would be able to get him back to his old self, four paws and all.

nimal Care League helps local homeless animals find brighter futures, no matter their situation. Each year, more than 1,300 animals from local communities and beyond come through the doors of the Oak Park shelter, and many of them, like Mittens the cat, need urgent medical attention.

Animals like Mittens depend on Animal Care League to help them overcome their circumstances and live the lives they deserve. But ACL couldn’t do that alone. Being there for animals in need is a team effort — with foster families like the one which will soon be Mittens’ forever family, with local police, with volunteers, and of course with its generous supporters. Every animal deserves a second chance like the one Mittens got. As ACL expands its reach, support from the community will allow the organization to continue doing more for the animals who depend on it for shelter, care, and comfort.

In early September, Mittens was found by Oak Park Animal Control in a difficult position: multiple rubber bands had been stretched tightly around each of his front paws, digging in and cutting off his circulation. Although saving his paws was far from a sure thing when he first arrived at ACL’s clinic, Mittens was a trooper. He met his challenge with love and happiness, and soon enough, there was good news. After those

• COUNSELING • AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMMING • WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT • VIOLENCE PREVENTION • COMMUNITY OUTREACH

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ND A I F M HELP THE

Home for the Holidays

AZARIAH

LIL’ DEBBIE

Azariah’s favorite thing to do is stretch out in the sun and relax! She would love a quiet, sunny home where she can take lots of great naps.

Lil Debbie is a big fan of treats, which makes sense since she’s named after one! She loves zooming around the yard, or cuddling on the couch.

683 days in the shelter

231 days at the shelter

Donations work to help cats like Azariah and dogs like Lil’ Debbie get the second chances they deserve. VISIT US AT animalcareleague.org

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Welcoming immigrants for a century prepares nonprofit for new arrivals today

Onward Neighborhood House is celebrating 129 years of service to migrants By HECTOR CERVANTES

Contributing Writer

s the holidays are approaching and colder weather has arrived, Onward Neighborhood House is one of many Greater West Side nonprofits helping out with the influx of refugees Chicago is seeing. Onward Neighborhood House is a nonprofit organization located on Diversey Avenue in the Belmont Cragin neighborhood of Chicago. The mission of this organization is to open doors to improve lives and uplift communities through educational, economic and support services. Emilio Araujo is the head of development classes are offered. and communications at Onward NeighborOther resources the organization offers hood House and has been in his role for six are citizenship classes, a healthcare clinic months. Araujo is in charge of community called Community Health and a food pantry. fundraising, creating and maintaining ex“Over the years when immigrants have ternal partnerships and building relation- come, we find resources where they are ships with other organizations and people needed and we are able to grow. We do the across the city. basic steps of people who When asked how this need food and medical sermission is focusing on spevices and understanding cific efforts to help the curhow the laws and asylum rent migrant challenges process works,” Araujo in Chicago, Araujo looked said. to the history of Onward Araujo says there is a lot of activity going on Neighborhood House. since this organization is “In 1893 Onward Neighresponding directly to the borhood House was foundinflux of immigrants. ed as a community service EMILIO ARAUJO The organization is organization where we Onward Neighborhood House served immigrants and working on bringing refuhonored and supported gees basic household items new immigrants and found and hygiene products. As their new place in Chicathe holiday season is comgo,” Araujo said. ing up, Araujo urges the The nonprofit provides community to donate. its clients and refugees with many differ“We also know people have a wish list ent resources. In the education sector, early so providing something that they want. It childhood education opportunities are pro- might be their first winter here and giving vided as well as childcare and tutoring. them a jacket or new toy is a major step in For adults ESL, computer classes and GED recognizing humanity and dignity to wel-

“A major step in recognizing humanity and dignity to welcome them into the city.”

come them into the city. Those kinds of gifts for the holiday are things that we do,” Araujo said. Araujo says Onward Neighborhood House listens to people and recognizes the circumstances that the refugees are facing. “Texas is not listening to them as a person when they send them on the bus to Chicago. We have compassion for the refugees,” Araujo said. When asked how the community is reacting and responding to how Onward Neighborhood House is helping out the refugees, Araujo says there has been a lot of support in the community. “I think on the news we see a lot of people that are anti the new immigrants. Thankfully we have had a lot of great support. People who we have no previous connection to are making donations and people are researching and looking for a way to support people and we have been seeing wonderful support from our elected officials, community members and people across the city to make a positive impact. We have been really blessed,” says Araujo. A compelling story Araujo likes to share with how immigrants can make a difference in Chicago started 10 years ago. Araujo says the organization saw some-

one come to Chicago more than 10 years as an immigrant who attended Onward Neighborhood House’s free computer class. He enjoyed the computer class and while he was working at Pizza Hut, he would deliver the flyers to the organization’s computer class. “He later moved on to attending college and he is now completing a masters in cybersecurity from being a computer expert and he teaches a computer class now with our organization,” says Araujo. Araujo says the story makes clear that Chicago has welcomed immigrants for a long time and with this current influx of refugees Chicago is experiencing the organization is able to handle this influx. Araujo and the staff at Onward Neighborhood House are working on a new building for the organization since they are seeing more demand for their services. The Reva and David Logan Foundation granted Onward Neighborhood House a 21,000 square foot building on North Central Avenue in June 2022, just two blocks from its Belmont Cragin facilities. The new space is in line with the foundation’s campaign to increase access to essential goods and services in underserved communities. This space will not only allow the organization to expand its food pantry but will also provide additional space for the organization’s welcoming center for immigrants and refugees, their health care clinic, a multipurpose community center space and additional community programming. When Lyle Allen, a program officer at the Logan Foundation, came to one of the organization’s Thursday food distributions, he noticed the pantry’s size limits, but he also saw the potential that appropriate capacity could bring to our participants. “We currently have three buildings on the 5400 block of Diversey. We will expand in the Belmont Cragin community and we will start renovations in the community. It will be a community center for the Belmont Cragin community,” Araujo said. According to Araujo, Onward Neighborhood House is running out of space at its current location.

B8 November 22, 2023

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Arts groups slowly rebuild attendance in wake of pandemic Evolving strategies to bring fans back to live performances

Shakespeare shows have been performed every summer since. “We’ve been growing quite a lot, and this past summer, we had by far our biggest audiences,” Corley said. Oak Park Festival Theatre, meanwhile, has rebuilt attendance at performances, By EREZ BEN-AKIVA though they too have not seen pre-2020 numContributing Reporter bers, according to managing director Tom Arvetis. The organization endured not only or Beth Hoover, general manager of the Symphony of Oak Park and River the pandemic but a fire that destroyed the Forest, the beginning of COVID was theater’s office in November 2021. “We’re just not seeing audiences return terrifying. But the symphony, founded in 1931, at the level that they were at 2019,” Arvetis managed to stay afloat. A series of online said. “We’re still a far cry from that.” Nevertheless, this past summer’s outperformances produced in partnership with the Park District of Oak Park salvaged 2020. door production of “A Midsummer Night’s By 2021, the orchestra was again playing in- Dream” led to a “banner year” for the theater, said Arvetis. door concerts. Programming for “We got through World Oak Park Festival TheWar II, and we got through atre moreover has been this,” Hoover said. shaped by the changing Attendance at symphodesires of audiences, ny performances has not which generally now have returned to pre-pandemic less appetite for artistic levels though, according risk, Arvetis said. to Hoover. The theater has thus The Symphony of Oak honed in on outdoor sumPark and River Forest is RICHARD CORLEY mer performances as its not alone in that regard Forest Park Theatre flagship experience. among local music, theater “That’s the thing that we and arts groups. For some want to promote for our organizations in the area, audience and to enhance attendance at events or membership numbers have yet to reach lev- that experience as much as we possibly els seen before the pandemic. Other groups can,” Arvetis said. The Symphony of Oak Park and River however have seen growth since 2020. Forest Park Theatre, for its part, grew out Forest is also turning toward different of ideas born during the pandemic, said programming as it builds back attendance – like an upcoming holiday concert and in Richard Corley, producing artistic director. Corley said he perceived a need for people 2024, a William Grant Still symphony and to come together to see live theater and feel Lincoln Portrait by Aaron Copland – hopsafe doing so. The theater’s first major pro- ing to “get more people to start coming to duction was Shakespeare’s “As You Like concerts because you have to start appealing It,” performed outdoors for free during the to new people,” Hoover said. “You always want a packed house, but summer of 2021. It “really came from the idea of getting people back in front of per- I want it uncomfortably packed,” Hoover formed work,” Corley said. Free outdoor said with a laugh.

“The work is certainly challenging, and I think it all depends upon partnerships. And nobody can do this alone.”

FOREST PARK ARTS ALLIANCE

Stoop sessions in Forest Park. Two arts organizations, Forest Park Arts Alliance and Oak Park Art League, have emerged from the pandemic on strong footing. Forest Park Arts Alliance president Karen Rozmus said membership in the organization, incorporated in 2017, has grown from around 30 members to more than 100 in the last year and a half. “Every year we grow a little bit,” Rozmus said. Forest Park Arts Alliance organizes “Stoop Sessions,” concerts in which musicians perform on front porches and attendees enjoy the music from the lawn. And after COVID hit, the organization worked with the Forest Park Chamber of Commerce to display art in storefront windows. More recently, the group decorated Constitution Court in fiber art, as part of its “Fiber Flash” event. “We just want to do fun stuff,” Rozmus said. “We don’t need to make a lot of money.” The arts group also underwent a recent rebrand in an effort to be thought of as a viable professional organization, according to Rozmus. “I think we’re stronger than ever,” she said. For Oak Park Art League, weathering the pandemic meant getting past the hesitancy to congregate in physical spaces, something fundamental to the organization and which COVID understandably disrupted. Now, attendance numbers at events offered

by the organization have reached back to pre-COVID levels, according to executive director Brad Nugent. “Because everyone has come out on the other side, really wanting the physical contact with folks again, we are definitely experiencing a resurgence of in-person participation,” Nugent said. By the second half of 2022, there was a sense that Oak Park Art League found “solid ground again,” being financially solvent and able to maintain programming like classes and exhibitions, according to Nugent. Membership in the organization has dipped, though some of it can be attributed to standard attrition. “We’re just ebbing and flowing at just a little under pre-pandemic numbers, but we’re close to where we were,” Nugent said. While local arts organizations have experienced challenges in rebuilding attendance at events, performances and programs, that the groups persisted through the pandemic – or even were born out of it as in the case of Forest Park Theatre – surely is significant in itself. To Corley, for the arts to survive necessitates partnership with the community and a recognition of the importance of the arts. “I wouldn’t be doing this if I weren’t hopeful,” he said. “But it is certainly challenging, and I think it all depends upon partnerships. And nobody can do this alone.”

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November 22, 2023 B9

Sponsored Content

OPALGA+ supports next-gen leaders

“W

hat scares me most is media showing homophobic and transphobic things as normal and okay. Knowing that there are people here who want to help is amazing and validating.”

-- Annie Larson, Oak Park, OPALGA+ scholar, Fenwick 2023, attending Georgetown University

“There’s not much space here for people like me to exist. I accept being misgendered if it keeps me safe. I’ll have the ability to expand myself in college.”

-- Venus Obazuaye, Forest Park, OPALGA+ scholar, Illinois Math and Science Academy 2023, attending University of Illinois-Chicago

“I am concerned about the dangerous rhetoric that’s been flying as anti-LGBTQ+ laws are passed and perpetuated the unsafe environments that we already have to navigate. Receiving the scholarship lessened my work expectations allowing me to focus more on my studies.” -- Marty Cowherd, Chicago, two-time OPALGA+ scholar, attending University of Chicago, Class of 2026

OPALGA+ is committed to supporting local LGBTQIA+ youth and allies with financial

support for post-secondary education. Help us support the next generation of community leaders who are working to make our world a safer and fairer place for all. As we choose the next class of scholars, we look forward to connecting with current high school seniors with a passion for advocacy and a demonstrated commitment to ending social injustice to tell us their story. Since 2014, OPALGA+ has raised and distributed over $170,000 for deserving students. In 2024, we plan to award eight $5,000 scholarships. Your generosity makes these efforts possible. opalga. org/donate

OPALGA+ • opalga.org Sponsored Content

Kendall speaks and A House In Austin listens

n November 2022, Kendall and his father became part of A House In Austin’s Home Visiting program. He was referred to the organization by early intervention services. At the start of the home visit sessions, Kendall was a 3-yearold who could only utter a couple of words, often needing repetition for clarity. Their family seldom ventured outside and, as a result, Kendall had limited social interaction. During the most recent home visit, A House in Austin’s team encouraged Kendall’s father to engage in child-centered narrative play with him. They’d been providing guidance on this approach for several weeks, aiming to stimulate Kendall’s imagination and language development. During this playtime, Kendall began forming two- to three-word sentences, demonstrating a newfound ability for self-expression. It didn’t stop there. There was the moment when Kendall

astonished everyone by articulating an extraordinary six-word sentence! A House In Austin, an organization dedicated to supporting families, played a crucial role in this journey. Their commitment to providing resources and guidance for families facing similar challenges has been instrumental. The home visit leader and Kendall’s father couldn’t contain their celebration of this remarkable milestone. High-fives, smiles, and an outpouring of praise were showered upon both Kendall and his father. This reinforced the power of dedication and the incredible progress that can be achieved when working together to support families like Kendall’s. As the holiday season draws near, please consider helping A House In Austin support families like Kendall’s. You can contribute by texting “AHIA” to 44-321 or visit www. ahouseinaustin.org.

A House in Austin • 773-896-3582 • ahouseinaustin.org

PHOTO(S) COULD GO HERE Special Thanks to our Platinum and Gold Sponsors for a Successful Gala helping to raise over $43,000 for 2024 Scholarships! KendallThanks Alexander, Attorney and Counselor at Lawfor A Special To Our Platinum and Gold Sponsors Byline Bank a Successful 2023 Gala Raising by D.M. Scholarships! over $40,000 Done for 2024-’25 Jensen & Associates | Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC Kendall Alexander, Attorney at Law Rush Oak Park | Affirm Byline Hospital Bank & Associates Speaker ofD.M. theBurton Illinois House Chris Welch Jensen & Associates | Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC IllinoisRush Senate President Oak Park Hospital |Don AffirmHarmon Speaker of the Illinois House, Chris Welch and State Rep. Camille Lilly State Senator Don Harmon and Representative Lilly Wintrust Bank Wintrust Bank

Make a difference in young LGBTQ+ lives by donating to the OPALGA+ Scholarship at Make a difference in young LGBTQ+ lives byFund donating to the OPALGA+ Scholarship Fund at opalga.org/donate. opalga.org/donate. Are you a LGBTQ+ high school senior? Apply for a scholarship at Are you an LGBTQ+ high school senior? opalga.org/scholarship-application.

Apply for a scholarship at opalga.org/scholarship-application.

B10 November 22, 2023

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120 YEARS SERVING OUR COMMUNITY WEST COOK YMCA

YESTERDAY. TODAY. TOMORROW.

Since December 31, 1902, the West Cook YMCA has been providing programs and services to address the needs of our community from serving as a refuge for young men, to physical education and housing, to providing childcare and teaching swim lessons, to becoming a leader in chronic disease prevention and addressing the Achievement Gap in our students. When you give to the West Cook YMCA, you impact our community today and tomorrow. 100% of your tax-deductible donation goes directly to providing scholarships to children, adults, and seniors- your friends and neighborstransforming their lives through access to health screenings, chronic disease prevention programs, after-school programs, swim lessons, homeless prevention for residents, and Y memberships that can open the door to help each person become their best self.

PREVENT DROWNING

SUPPORT OUR STUDENTS

PREVENT CHRONIC DISEASES

GIVE TODAY IN HONOR OF 120 YEARS ONLINE: westcookymca.org/give MAIL: 255 S. Marion St., Oak Park, IL 60302

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November 22, 2023 B11

Season of Giving presented by

HOUSING PROVIDING A HOME SINCE THE 1950s

WELCOMED. SAFE. TOGETHER.

The West Cook joins the Village of Oak Park and other community organizations to provide temporary housing to migrant families.

PROVIDE HOUSING

Give today and support the Y in providing temporary housing for 60 children, adults, and seniors. 100% of your tax-deductible donation goes directly to providing housing, swim lessons, enrichment for youth, and connecting families to community resources for legal aid, medical and dental examinations, mental health services, vaccinations, and permanent housing. As a community coming together, we can ensure all families are WELCOMED, SAFE, and a have a place to stay TOGETHER.

GIVE TODAY TO PROVIDE HOUSING ONLINE: westcookymca.org/give and choose “housing” under campaign

SUPPORT ALL FAMILIES

B12 November 22, 2023

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Why a newly reimagined YMCA?

an analog phone system to finally a digiJimenez refocuses West Cook from tal phone system. All of those upgrades were creating a dignified living experiYMCA beyond fitness into allenceabout for our residents.” Another area that Jimenez has spearequity strategy headed is health equity, bringing the YMCA’s myriad health programs to people who had trouble in the past getting full health care. Contributing Reporter The specific areas the YMCA has been focusver the past 10 years, the West Cook ing on are diabetes, weight, hypertension, YMCA has been transformed from cancer, and mental health. “We are approaching the health focus of a local fitness facility with a pool, treadmills, sports classes and a the YMCA with the idea that we’re not lookSingle Room Occupancy component ing for impacting a volume number of peointo a facility focused on health equity, ple,” said Jimenez, “but more the depth of social justice, and youth/education care, the impact per person. So I think in our culthat also has an onsite SRO and all of the ture, right, the idea of volume drives a lot of fitness-related activities and equipment it people’s interest.” Jimenez. He would rather make a difference in the lives of had before. a smaller group of individuals Those changes have been drivthan have a less profound effect en by Phillip Jimenez, CEO of on large numbers of people. the local YMCA. When Jimenez “We are really focused on findtook over the leadership of the ing the best way to impact them,” YMCA in May 2014, he had a viadding that he wants the YMCA sion for the future of the Y, and to follow an “evidence-based, noduring his tenure he has shown nonsense approach to really adthe drive and focus to see the vidressing” health issues. sion realized. That transformaThe newest health initiative tion was spurred in part by the PHILLIP JIMENEZ at the YMCA is the “Healthy proliferation of more modern Weight and Your Child Proand for profit fitness facilities and by the necessity of adapting programs gram.” This program is being relaunched this year in collaboration with Lurie Chiland purposes during and after COVID. From the start, Jimenez said he planned dren’s Hospital of Chicago and the Illinois to focus on four main areas: Improving the Health Public Institute. Jimenez grew up in Forest Park not far Marion Street facility, the care of SRO residents, serving the broader community, and from West Cook YMCA, the son of a single creative new ways of dealing with the is- mom who had immigrated from Mexico in sues all nonprofits face (fundraising, build- the 1960s. Jimenez went to overnight camp ing maintenance, membership recruitment, at Camp Douglass/YMCA when he was a kid. The fact that his roots run deep in the leadership development). Ten years on, Jimenez has made progress communities West Cook YMCA serves may in all of these areas, despite the inevitable explain why his vision for West Cook inpandemic interruptions, and continues to cludes not only Oak Park but also those vilmake improvements. Let’s begin with the lages west of the facility (River Forest, MaySRO units, spartan 10 by 10 rooms that the 50 wood, Melrose Park). residents call home. “Thanks to a grant from And also, why he insists on a community Loyola Medicine and also from the Village of integrated health approach. “Your quality of Oak Park, we are upgrading the facilities,” life and quality of health is dramatically imsaid Jimenez. “We upgraded the actual room pacted by the zip code that you live in,” said itself. We did new flooring, new painting, any Jimenez. “So our general approach is to emkind of wall or patch repairing, and all new phasize on those communities that are most features like lights and beds, shades. We went at risk for having gaps or, you know, in some

By JACK HELBIG

FILE

cases, complete blind spots regarding health. And we wanted to make sure to, as best as we could, eliminate barriers to access.” There are cracks that the current normal nine-to-five system doesn’t accommodate someone who has non-traditional working hours, or doesn’t live near a health care facility, or has a transportation barrier, or has childcare issues. “So what the Y is trying to figure out is how we can meet the person where they’re at,” said Jimenez. “Do you prefer a 6 p.m. session? Do you prefer virtual versus inperson? Great. You need it to be close to where you reside? Great. Those kinds of things are the things that we sort of identify what might be the barriers to a person being successful or able to focus on their health risk. And we’re not saints and we’re not perfect, but we’re trying to reduce some of those barriers.” Another initiative for the YMCA is their school partnership with Districts 89 (Maywood-Melrose Park-Broadview) and 90 (River Forest). The program works year-round, with programs that run in the summertime and after-school during the school year. “If a child is participating in the YMCA program and getting enrichment and enhancements through the Y, that over time, we’re able to show that a Y kid has got a richer support system and perhaps there might be outcomes that you can draw from or infer from.” “We also do third-party social-emotional evaluations to make sure we understand what needs students may have,” said Jimenez. “As we start to see the data come in, we can switch up the curriculum and that allows us to really focus in on what that child needs. So, an outcome that is most recent is this past summer, for the second year in a row, our participants at District 90, who normally you might see a traditional

learning slide of one to two months in the summer of a particular child. With this program, we were able to measure an increase of three months in math and literacy for our kids who participated in the Power Scholar Academy.” This partnership program has recently been extended from just first through fourth grade to a full K to 8 program. The most recent initiative for the YMCA is providing temporary housing for asylum seekers. On Nov. 1 Oak Park’s village government reached out to the Y for housing options and the Y responded. “Our staff and vendor partners really came through,” Jimenez says. “In four days, we remodeled roughly 50 rooms. And people were working nine days and we had vendors respond and work over the weekend in large shifts of four to five installers for flooring.” The asylum seekers arrived at the YMCA on Nov. 9 – 58 individuals, men, women, and children. “They really tested our limits because we’ve never housed women and children,” said Jimenez. “Beyond Hunger has been providing us with food. We’ve bought [digital] translators for them [most of the asylum seekers were from Venezuela and spoke only Spanish] so that they can go out into the community and start exploring the Oak Park community, learning through the translator device that we purchased for them how to engage and do their own shopping. and we really want them to integrate as fully and as quickly as possible. We’re working for the village on educational opportunities for the children, and of course, immigration status and steps and social services that they may need.” The West Cook YMCA of 2023 is truly much more than a local fitness facility with an SRO. It has become, under current leadership, a place for health equity, social justice, and youth/education care.

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Laquanda, pregnant and unhoused, embraced by Housing Forward

aquanda was four months pregnant with her first child when she and her boyfriend broke up. At the time, she was living with the boyfriend’s mother and was asked to leave. She was unemployed and did not have family or friends to turn to for help. She began wandering the streets late last winter. Eventually, she began sleeping at the Maywood Police Department. Research estimates one-in-five women who are experiencing homelessness are pregnant at any given time, almost twice the rate of the general population. Laquanda was connected to Housing Forward’s family support specialists, who focus on the unique needs of families with minor children. They immediately began working with Laquanda, focusing first on

housing. The specialist connected Laquanda to an apartment in Oak Park and financial support for rent assistance and a security deposit through the Village of Oak Park’s flexible housing pool of families and other sources. She was also linked to a parenting program that will provide skill-building and support services throughout her daughter’s first three years. Housing Forward’s community health nurse began providing Laquanda with informational and physical support during pregnancy, birth, and the immediate postpartum period. Laquanda welcomed her baby daughter into her new home on Oct. 15 and is looking forward to spending her first holiday season as a new mother.

“T

The Collaboration strengthens families like Colleen’s

and their communities, too. his group gave me a supportive Achievements from Parent community Leadership Training alumni during an especially have included advocating for challenging time. I needed and getting an IEP for a child, encouragement and securing a new job with a stable accountability and to know income, getting the whole family I wasn’t alone,” says Colleen, the extra support they need in the Oak Park mother of 5therapy, buying a house, and and 3-year old boys. paying off all credit cards. These achievements are game changers Raising a family is a journey, Colleen snuggling with her two boys for families. and finding space to think beyond the day-to-day isn’t always easy. That’s At the Collaboration for Early Childhood, we where Parent Leadership Training comes in. This know that parents and caregivers are a child’s is a free training for parents and caregivers of first and most important teacher. By empowering young children to organize, prioritize, and create families to advocate for their children and find an action plan to identify and then accomplish fellowship with others with shared experiences, their goals. we create communities where all children can thrive. These can be life goals or goals for the community as a whole. Through this training, To learn more about how the Collaboration participants make a plan and discover a sense of for Early Childhood strengthens families, visit: direction all while cheering on others to become www.collab4kids.org. stronger advocates for themselves, their families,

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On #GivingTuesday and throughout the holiday season, invest in your community by helping neighbors in housing crisis.

Collaboration for Early Childhood • 708-613-6122 • collab4kids.org

Donate at housingforward.org/give Join our community of giving on Tuesday, November 28 through the end of the year.

“The peace we have inside us is now contagious.” —Maurice, Interim Housing Program Participant

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B14 November 22, 2023

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Housing Forward’s bold future after 30 years of service West suburban non-profit Housing Forward continues its legacy of serving the unhoused

By LEE EDWARDS

Contributing Reporter

f 25 years of experience as the executive director of Housing Forward has taught Lynda Schueler anything it is that ending homelessness will cause your organization to evolve and requires widespread community-wide buy-in. Since its inception in 1992, Housing Forward, which was formerly known as Tri-Village PADS, has provided temporary housing and related resources to hundreds of people residing in Oak Park, River Forest and Proviso Township, with the assistance of hundreds of volunteers over the years. Housing Forward has grown immensely since its early days. Schueler said this year’s budget of $14.3 million is the organization’s largest. She said 60 percent of their budget or $8 million is used on their rehousing initiatives. Currently, 600 people volunteer with Housing Forward to support their interim housing and emergency shelter initiatives by providing on-site support and meal prep. However, it was in 2009 that Housing Forward’s leadership decided to take the organization down the path it is currently on. Schueler said in that year a “pivotal” conversation was had among the organization’s board of directors during a strategic planning session that shifted the organization’s directive to focus more on finding interim and permanent solutions to homelessness rather than simply providing a place to sleep in a warm church hall. To accomplish their goal, Housing Forward has taken a multifaceted approach. For starters, Housing Forward has been using a “scatter site” housing model for more than 20 years where the organization partners with multiple private landlords to lease apartment units on behalf of clients. The organization agrees to pay the lease on a yearby-year basis, schedules home visits for their clients with their case workers, and more. “I would say 92% of the people that we serve through that program are at least one year with us and generally renewed with us on an annual basis so they’re stable,” Schueler said. “We have clients that have been with us since 2006.” Schueler said Housing Forward currently has access to 300 units of various types

FILE

Lynda Schueler, executive director of Housing Forward gives remarks at their new emergency shelter’s soft opening at St. Catherine-St. Lucy Church on Jan. 4, 2023. of housing through its scatter site housing initiative with more coming over the next three years. “We are looking to expand on our scatter site model,” she said. “We have a pretty audacious goal. We want to expand that model by 250 units. We are underway in developing partnerships. We have 82 new units of housing that we will be bringing online next year.” In addition to the scatter site housing options, Housing Forward broke ground last April on its own permanent housing facility, a 16-unit apartment project in Broadview along the Roosevelt Road corridor. The handsome project is projected to be completed in the first half of 2024. Schueler said she had several conversations with Broadview mayor Katrina Thompson about partnership opportunities prior to the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 before they finally came to an agreement on the apartment construction project. “Mayor Katrina Thompson was nothing less than welcoming to us. She understands the value of the work we are doing. She understands affordable housing and that it is not always about building luxury apartment units,” said Schueler. “She really understands the need to get people into stable

housing. She was very welcoming and that’s why we are developing in Broadview. She didn’t make it hard for us. Oftentimes there are communities that make it hard.” Thompson said in a separate interview that Broadview has a “healthy” relationship with Housing Forward. “It’s healthy because we are talking

about humanity and they are out there doing the work that caters to the human spirit, that gives people hope that they can live somewhere safe,” said Thompson. Although Housing Forward has made an incalculable impact in the lives of many unhoused individuals and those who are at risk of being unhoused in the western suburbs, Schueler said a dearth of local affordable housing and systemic issues like racism and classism help exacerbate the issues unhoused individuals and people atrisk of being unhoused face. “One of the major causes of homelessness beyond not having enough affordable housing is fractured and broken systems that exist between the public health system and the criminal justice system. Those are systems that have structures that don’t always interface with organizations like Housing Forward,” said Schueler. “I would also say that the overlay of inequities in our system harkens back to days of redlining, segregating people into certain communities, and not having access to resources to help communities thrive,” said Schueler. Individuals interested in volunteering with Housing Forward should visit their website, complete a volunteer application, and wait for contact with the organization’s volunteer manager.

Agency jumps in for migrants In examples of being nimble, Housing Forward has also responded to two developing housing needs in the communities. The organization recently relaunched a 15-bed emergency overnight shelter. This time it is housed every night in the former rectory at St. Catherine-St. Lucy Church, Austin and Washington boulevards in Oak Park. And Housing Forward has leapt into providing a range of services to recent South American migrants now receiving temporary housing in Oak Park under the auspices of the village of Oak Park and with the assistance of many volunteers. The individuals and families are sheltered at both the West Cook YMCA and at the Carleton Hotel.

FILE

Former rectory at St. Catherine-St. Lucy Church

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Crystal broke cycle of abuse with Sarah’s Inn

control. They worked together to create a physical and emotional safety plan. Her advocate was also able to provide her with guidance and resources on how to advocate for herself at work, as the harassment was interfering with her ability to work.

rystal began working with a Sarah’s Inn advocate after experiencing physical, emotional, and verbal abuse from her boyfriend for over 6 years. When she fled the relationship and tried to seek safety in a family member’s home, he continued to call and text her. When she would not respond to his messages, he began sharing private information with their friends and family. He would “love bomb” her by sending her gifts to the family member’s home and would enlist friends to do “wellness checks” on her. With her Sarah’s Inn advocate, they began to talk through the cycle of violence. She learned how perpetrators of violence use power and

Crystal is now beginning to heal after years of abuse. She has found support from her family and employer, which has allowed her to begin the next chapter of her life free from violence. Sarah’s Inn has provided this help since 1980 and works with people in Chicago and the western suburbs.

Sarah’s Inn • 708-386-3305 • sarahsinn.org Sponsored Content

‘I get more than I give’ How L’Arche becomes extended family

hen Rose Mattax was a child, she treasured the idea of a neighborhood being a close-knit community where people looked out for each other, spent time together, and supported each other. In her adulthood, she longed for that connection with her neighbors. Everything changed when L’Arche Chicago bought the house across the street. Shortly after L’Arche moved in, Rose received a knock on her door. Jean, a core member resident, and an assistant brought over home-baked cookies, marking the start of many new friendships. Over the past eight years, these connections have grown into cherished traditions and lasting memories. L’Arche provides integrated homes for adults with intellectual disabilities. Every Wednesday, Rose sits across from Noah, another core member, at the L’Arche Chicago dining table, ready for their weekly game of Uno.

This gathering is a highlight for everyone, with new players often joining in. On less frequent occasions, Jean will get a hankering for a nonalcoholic beer, and Rose gladly accompanies her to O’Sullivan’s in Forest Park. Jean’s wit and humor never fail to charm the server, making these outings truly special. Rose’s home has transformed into what the community fondly calls the “L’Arche Annex.” For many of the young assistants, moving into Rose’s upstairs apartment is a significant step as they prepare for the next chapter in their lives. This maintains the sense of community – friendship, support and mutual growth. “I couldn’t have imagined the joy that L’Arche as a neighbor would bring into our lives. I treasure every moment of these invaluable friendships. Life is better with L’Arche as a neighbor.” For that reason, Rose is known to always extend invitations for others to join the L’Arche community.

L’arche Chicago • 708-660-1600 • larchechicago.org

LIFE IS BETTER TOGETHER

At L’Arche Chicago, supporting adults with disabilities includes valuing the strong, meaningful bonds that form when you build friendships within the community. You are invited to be a part of our community and see the difference that is made when we all experience life together.

Learn more and join us by making a gift today. larchechicago.org | 708-660-1600 | hello@larchechicago.org

B16 November 22, 2023

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ive a gift that will change a life.

From now through December 31st, when you make a contribution online, your gift will be matched by generous donors through our annual Hephzibah Holiday Challenge. Double your gift today!

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November 22, 2023 B17

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Gabriel, a foster child, finds stability at Hephzibah

Gabriel knew he needed help. He also knew who would help him — Hephzibah. Hephzibah staff helped Gabriel find an alternative graduation program to help him get his diploma. Knowing the program suited him better, he was able to graduate and now looks forward to his future. Gabriel also made the choice to remain in Hephzibah’s care until he’s ready to become fully independent, much like a parent does for their child.

AD IN VA EQ CL N CO UI US CIN M TA IV G M B E UN LE IT IE S

or 19-year-old Gabriel, a Hephzibah foster child, life was a roller coaster growing up in the child welfare system. Gabriel would encounter frequent twists and turns along his path, and this included many foster homes along the way. Life is not easy for foster kids, and instability can wreak havoc in their life. One thing was always consistent in Gabriel’s life, and that was Hephzibah Children’s Association.

Hephzibah works hard to teach children that they have the potential to do great things, and be great people, no matter what twists and turns their path takes them on. We know that with the right amount of nurturing care, every child has the opportunity to flourish and thrive.

for Joshua, who struggled with his emotions. ife is hard for foster children. With no One way found to keep Joshua calm was time consistent parent or home, they move with a Junior Counselor (JC) named Max. frequently. They switch schools, they say goodbye to friends — they even say goodbye The JC program allows older campers more to siblings. It’s painful to responsibility, and helping imagine, but its reality for younger campers is part foster children. of their role. Joshua and Max bonded right away. Hephzibah Children’s Max readily gave up his Association works counselor privilege of hard to comfort and staying up later, to help nurture children, finding Joshua settle to sleep when creative ways, like Camp he struggled with bedtime. HepSIBah, to support With Max’s help, Joshua was them. This camp reunites able to sleep, stay calmer, siblings separated in Campers and Junior Counselor at Camp HepSIBah and focus more on enjoying foster care for four days time with his brother. of fun and adventure each summer. Camp HepSIBah also allows children the freedom to be Joshua and his brother enjoyed time together at themselves with other foster kids and helps them camp making life-long memories. Max learned strengthen broken family bonds. that a true leader puts the needs of others first — none of which would have happened without Six-year-old Joshua, a Hephzibah foster child, Hephzibah. couldn’t wait to reunite with his older brother at camp last summer. However, camp was tough

NG I C VE N A SI LE ES V AD CLU TAB NITI IN QUI MU E OM C

Gabriel faced many challenges in foster care -mostly at school. Frequent changes to his home life resulted in frequent school disruptions, and traditional school became nearly impossible for him. He suffered emotionally, and therefore his grades suffered. Eventually failing out of school in his senior year,

Hepzibah’s Camp HepSIBah brings foster kids back together

Hephzibah Children’s Association • 708-649-7100 • hephzibahhome.org

ADVANCING INCLUSIVE EQUITABLE COMMUNITIES

I was living in Wisconsin and wanted to move into Chicagoland area. I went out to visit apartments through the OPRHC GUIDE service, with Gretchen, to find a new Home. I wanted to move here for a new job and to be close to my girlfriend. I needed to be close to the CTA Greenline for his new employment. While we were out,in I fell in love with aand greatwanted apartmenttoin move an owner occupied 2-Flat in the area. Austin Community. I was living Wisconsin into Chicagoland It was an affordable, spacious, two-bedroom apartment with a yard and a parking spot available. I went out to visit apartments through the OPRHC GUIDE service, with Gretchen, I moved in on 11/3/2023 and love with the Chicago neighborhood just east of the Village of Oak Park! The team at OPRHC providedto great service, knows theacommunities well, and howclose to work landlord! to find a new Home. I wanted move here for new job and to be towith mythe girlfriend. -Karl

I needed to be close to the CTA Greenline for his new employment.

Tis the season! Help us continue to help others! oprhc.org/donate • info@oprhc.org

While we were out, I fell in love with a great apartment in an owner occupied 2ͲFlat in the Austin Community. It was an affordable, spacious, twoͲbedroom apartment with a yard and a parking spot available.

I moved in on 11/3/2023 and love with the Chicago neighborhood just east of the Village of Oak Park!

B18 November 22, 2023

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At the Conservatory, travel the world right here in Oak Park

id you know you can travel the world right here in Oak Park? For over 90 years, the Oak Park Conservatory has invited guests to explore the lush showrooms and gardens of our diverse Conservatory collection. From Madagascar to Turkey and South Africa to Japan, visitors can discover plants representing six continents. Since 1986, The Friends of the Conservatory has offered docent-guided tours of the Oak Park Conservatory. The tours are tailored to each grade level and focused on science and horticulture, climate, and geography. Natural Wonders Await Over the years thousands of students have learned about the difference in rainfall between tropical, Mediterranean, and desert regions. They have learned about plant defense mechanisms, water retention, and how plants are a food source

for a wide array of creatures. Maybe most importantly, they are inspired to explore places beyond where they live and to understand how they can be stewards of the earth. Nature Education for All Last fall, we were delighted to welcome 5th graders from a school in Cicero for a tour. We asked the students when they arrived if they had ever been to the Conservatory -- not a single hand was raised! This was the first school to use the newly launched Tour Grant program. We invite you to help expand our efforts to reach residents from surrounding communities with new opportunities and programs. Please help sustain The Friends and the historic Conservatory by supporting us today. For more information about tours, volunteer opportunities, supporting us financially, or becoming a member, please visit fopcon.org.

Bobby benefits from ACT Hub’s lasting impact

eet Bobby, a recent high school graduate and participant in the Austin Community Hub’s youth programming. It’s run by Dollie Sherman, engagement specialist at Austin Coming Together (ACT). When Bobby was in middle school, he was held back a year. His Chicago school wanted to hold him an additional year as they felt he could not succeed in his current grade level. When Dollie Sherman caught wind of the situation she knew she had to take action on Bobby’s behalf. She met with his principal to articulate just how detrimental the decision would be for a young African American man. She argued that not only would it set him back academically, but it would adversely impact his future beyond high school. As a result of

Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory • 708-725-2460 • fopcon.org

Sherman’s persistent contact with school officials, Bobby was able to re-test and was ultimately placed back in his original grade level. Bobby became a regular participant in Dollie Sherman’s youth programming, including restorative justice activities and peace circles. These experiences had a positive impact on him and his ability to form bonds with others. Bobby felt his involvement with peace circles not only gave him the opportunity to meet other youth, but also connect with them on a deeper level. Following his graduation, Bobby continues to work to support himself with the hope of starting college soon. He is grateful for ACT and believes their support instilled in him many essential life lessons. He hopes Mrs. Sherman will continue to reach youth across the West Side.

Austin Coming Together • 773-417-8601 • austincomingtogether.org Sponsored Content

This holiday Emily will have a turkey thanks to Beyond Hunger

t Beyond Hunger the mission revolves around more than just providing healthy and nutritious groceries. It is about creating a relationship with clients that reminds them that our community will always be there for them. As the cost of groceries continues to rise and federal benefits remain difficult to navigate, Beyond Hunger is a steadfast pillar of warmth and familiarity for those that come to the nonprofit. One of the most impactful ways Beyond Hunger completes this mission is with holiday foods including turkeys. A lot of turkeys are delivered to clients during the holiday season. Clients like Emily are particularly grateful. “I actually cannot remember the last time I was able to have turkey for the holidays. I am excited

to receive one in November. I do not know where else I would be able to get one,” she said. Beyond Hunger’s work is only possible with community support. With the generosity of a connected community, the organization can continue to forge the path toward a hungerfree future. Emily’s story is a testament that your contribution, no matter how big or small, can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need. Together, this community can create a future where every family enjoys a nourishing meal during the holidays. Keep the community connected and Beyond Hunger’s pantry shelves stocked. Donate today and learn more at www. gobeyondhunger.org

Beyond Hunger • 708-386-1324 • gobeyondhunger.org

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November 22, 2023 B19

B20 November 22, 2023

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Your ART-venture starts at Maywood Fine Arts

aywood Fine Arts is the first stop for hundreds of students each year on an artistic journey which can last them a lifetime. Children who pass through its doors discover a safe space where they can explore their creativity and build their self-confidence. No matter the class -- whether it’s dance, tumbling, visual arts, music, drama or karate -MFA provides its students with an affordable ticket to anywhere and everywhere. Chloe is a dance student who is thrilled to be adding both tumbling and visual arts class stamps to her MFA Passport. Being able to fully explore her creative world is only possible thanks to MFA’s affordable tuition and scholarships! Nathaniel was just named the Assistant Musical Conductor of the National Tour for “MJ, The

Musical.” He began his MFA art-venture at the age of six but has never forgotten his musical roots and loves coming home so he can jam with his MFA music mentor, Mr. Carter. Nia recently completed an internship at Pennington Biomedical Research Center. Nia began her journey of excellence at MFA where she began dancing and tumbling at age 4 and served as a GOTS Youth Leader all the way through high school. Who knows how far she can fly thanks to her years at MFA. MFA students are going places. Help them stamp their passports with new classes, special performances, recitals, and all kinds of “Artventures” through your generous giving. Every child deserves a ticket to the ARTS!

Maywood Fine Arts • 708-865-0301 • maywoodfinearts.org Sponsored Content

Multiple instruments, multiple bands for Hailie thanks to PING!

Psychiatry Appointments Available Call today to schedule! (708) 383-7500 Our team offers an integrated and holistic approach to psychiatry and medication management. We accept Medicaid, Medicare, and most insurance plans.

THE GIFT OF HOPE We envision a world where mental health is valued, proactively nurtured, and in reach of everyone. All are welcome at Thrive. Our services are accessible to everyone regardless of ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, legal status, beliefs, or ability.

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esilience. Confidence. Passion. All characteristics that Hailie and her grandmother, Hildegard, use to describe the impact PING! has had on Hailie, making her “who she is today,” according to Hildegarde. Hailie began playing flute, a band instrument, in 4th grade at Lincoln Elementary in River Forest. But, unlike other young musicians, she soon began learning violin too, part of the orchestra. Both instruments were supplied to her by PING! (Providing Instruments for the Next Generation). Hailie later undertook cello, and plays piccolo when needed, like for this season’s OPRFHS Marching Huskies, where she also serves as flute section leader. “Hailie backs down from no challenge,” says Hildegarde. Her “intellect blossomed and matured through the music program.” Hailie participated in PING’s Mentor Program as a Roosevelt middle

schooler and takes weekly private lessons, funded by PING!, as an OPRF student. Hildegarde says instrumental music and PING! programming has increased Hailie’s self-confidence. “When she was younger, she didn’t have this type of confidence,” says Hildegarde. She sees Hailie’s confidence carry over socially and academically, too. Hailie has participated in musical opportunities from solo recitals through her cello teacher to improvising on flute in Jazz at OPRF, to traveling to Memphis and New Orleans on the OPRF performing arts trip, spring 2023, to embarking with the Marching Huskies for the Thanksgiving Parde at Disney World this month, to enrolling in both curricular band and orchestra at school even though she was first told it could not be done. “If you have a passion to do something, you will achieve it,” says Hailie.

PING! • 708-524-3001 • pingoprf.org

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COMMUNITIES ADVANCING INCLUSIVE G 22, 2023 B21 November ADVANCIN EQUITABLE INCLUSIVE COMMUNITIES EQUITABLEING

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C IES ANIT DVUN E COMAM ADVANINCCINLUGSIVLE INCLUSEIQVUEITABNITIES MU EQUITABCOLM COMMUNITE IES . area

Charlie’s perseverance makes him an OK Warrior

First to the day program and finally back to his place on the line in the Knockout Kitchen!

pportunity Knocks believes that individuals who face the challenge of living with intellectual and developmental differences are Warriors. OK also believes in interdependence. Warriors build communities and communities build Warriors.

Look no further than Charlie O to see those beliefs in action. One of OK’s Original Warriors, Charlie has been a part of every OK event and program since we opened the doors in 2010. He is a beloved and valued member of the OK family. Charlie lost his mom this year. The loss was devastating. He suffered through the grief and withdrew from his OK connections during that time. With time, and some encouragement from his OK Family, he began a slow return.

He has been a huge part of the rebuild of the Knockout Enterprise team that has reactivated the production line, restored pickle production to pre-COVID numbers, launched a new series of pop-ups and farmed the best season yet on the Knockout Farm! He is part of the amazing group that have been hired & re-hired to total 13 current Warriors at Work. The work continues as OK reenvisions the strategy of the Knockout Kitchen. At Opportunity Knocks, we envision an inclusive community where all individuals experience access, presence and support. Your support will help us continue to build that community. Please consider a contribution.

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o o tm d ju at a ow t ded t apar rhoo a gre o m h b I nee t o and h i h o , g l r w i l d e e e e n v b o sw twoͲ icago ll in l nitie ious, , I fe he Ch mmu t c t o u a h c o p t s i e w e, th were love dabl ows e we and affor e, kn c 3 i n ͲKarl 2 v Whil a r 0 s t se 3/2 a / It w a e 1 r 1 g n on ided ved i prov C H I mo R at OP eam The t dan

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Opportunity Knocks • 708-771-6159 • opportunityknocksnow.org

IT’S ALL IN THE NAME When life is work, Life is Work is here. Stemming from the opportunities presented to us on the West Side, particularly in the Austin neighborhood, LIW has been serving the needs of our neighbors since 2017. As time has evolved, our services have expanded in an effort to meet community needs. However, there is more to be done. Since our inception, our definition of "community" has grown, starting with Black and Brown trans individuals, and expanding to work with our neighbors of all backgrounds. Life is Work is hope.

B22 November 22, 2023

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The Joyf Joyful Giving 2023 Catalo atalog g A House In Austin A House In Austin stands as a dual nurturing hub on Chicago’s west side, empowering parents and children simultaneously, igniting transformation within the community. Children gather here to explore art, music, play, and learning, laying the foundation for their future. Simultaneously, parents find a supportive space for connection, and personal and parental development. Through our home visiting program, essentials like diapers, clothing, transportation, and emergency aid, ensure families’ basic needs are met. With partnerships with Early Intervention and Children’s Research Triangle, therapy and mental health support are accessible, completing the circle of care. AHIA radiates warmth, enveloping families in an environment where they can truly thrive, side by side. For more information call/ text 773.896.3582 or to support our mission please visit www.ahouseinaustin. org

Animal Care League Animal Care League offers a safe haven for pets in need. Rooted in the community since 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 1,300 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 animalcareleague.org where you can sign up to volunteer, make a donation, view our adoptable pets, and learn about upcoming events.

Everything you need for a better world: • More Art • More Compassion

• More Education • More Equity

• More Food • More Health

• More Housing • More Peace

Browse, read, share with your children. Give Locally – Give Joyfully!

Arts Alliance Forest Park Creativity is for everyone and Arts Alliance Forest Park (formerly Forest Park Arts Alliance) is The Catalyst for Creativity. Programs include the well-attended and known Stoop Sessions, Teller’s Night, Garage Galleries, Makers’ Market and Fiber Flash. Members enjoy a variety of benefits including discounts to events, advanced notice to opportunities to showcase your talent, all while collaborating with other local organizations and businesses including Forest Park Theatre, the Park District and Historical Society. You were born creative. Join the only Forest Park arts organization that assembles like-minded art enthusiasts for the love, fun and beauty of art.

Beyond Hunger For 45 years Beyond Hunger has been harnessing the power of communities to create a hunger-free future. Through our food pantry, home delivery program, nutrition education classes, and social services, we provide hunger relief that truly goes beyond basic nourishment. We provide our clients with the tools they need to ensure that no one is left behind in the battle against hunger. We know that this work would not be possible without our community. Whether you volunteer, advocate for those in need, or donate, you are essential in moving our mission forward. With your support, we believe hunger is solvable. Learn more about how you can get involved in the fight to end hunger by visiting gobeyondhunger. org or donating using this QR Code.

Austin Coming Together Austin Coming Together (ACT)’s mission is to increase the collective impact of our 50+ member organizations on improving education and economic development outcomes for Chicago’s Austin community. Since 2010, we’ve been connecting residents to services, attracting investments for the community, and building capacity for policy change. When the pandemic made long-standing inequities even worse, we started addressing growing needs through efforts like the Austin Eats Initiative, a 20+ group focused on strengthening the community’s food access infrastructure. Learn how Austin is leading efforts to move forward together, and how you can support, at AustinComingTogether.org/AustinCares

BUILD Since 1969, we have embedded mentors in schools and across neighborhoods to connect with youth who need support. Wrapping young people in the opportunities and care they deserve, we help them build hope, resilience, and a path to a promising future. We engage youth at every stage, with specialized teams dedicated to street violence interventions, gang detachments, creative after-school programming, academic school, college support, mental health care, community violence crisis response, and enrichment activities ranging from art and music to sports, podcasting, engineering, and gardening. Potential doesn’t discriminate, neither should opportunity. Join us in BUILDing a better future: www. buildchicago.org

The Collaboration for Early Childhood Early care and education is the workforce behind the workforce. It makes everything else possible, and it allows children to reach their full potential from day one. We are a community-driven organization that cultivates the development of the whole child, birth to age five, by engaging families, local organizations, early childhood educators, caregivers, and health providers to create equitable, nurturing, and interconnected systems of support. Donate today to ensure that our community continues to be a place where families and their babies have the care, relationships, and resources needed to thrive! The biggest change starts with the smallest people. Invest in early childhood. Learn more and donate at www.collab4kids.org.

Concordia University Chicago Founded in 1864, Concordia University Chicago has equipped students to serve and lead with integrity and compassion. Concordia-Chicago is a Christ-centered Lutheran university where truth, freedom, and vocation form students for lives of influence and service for the common good. Historically a college for teachers, it now offers more than 100 areas of study through traditional, blended or online classes. Students can earn a bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degrees through one of four colleges: the College of Business, the College of Education, the College of Health, Science & Technology, and the College of Theology, Arts & Humanities. To learn more, please visit CUChicago.edu or CUChicago.edu/GiveNow to support our students.

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November 22, 2023 B23

Season of Giving presented by Sponsored Content

At Concordia nursing is truly a work of heart

and hospital-based clinical oncordia University rotations. Chicago began an undergraduate This rigorous program will Bachelor of Science in Nursing prepare students to serve on (BSN) this fall, with all four the front lines of health care years taught exclusively on and take on the daily challenges the Concordia-Chicago of a rewarding career caring campus. The third floor of for others. Through robust the Christopher Center was theoretical and experiential fully renovated into the new learning, students will meet 4,500-square-foot simulation Concordia University Chicago’s new nursing the eligibility requirements program and simulation lab. lab, built specifically for the necessary to gain licensure as a program. It is a bright and registered nurse generalist. airy modern space dedicated to providing “I am incredibly excited to begin offering real-world nursing and medical-based learning this program to students who are called to opportunities that mirror those seen in the the profession of nursing. These future BSNs hospital setting. It features a skills attainment will be catalysts of change in today’s health lab, multispecialty intensive care spaces, a health care environment,” says CUC nursing director assessment-learning center and a simulated Kristen Bayer, MSN, APN, FNP-C. home environment. Each space is complete Prospective students interested in learning with state-of-the-art, lifelike patient simulators, more about the program, touring the new realistic practice models and hospital-grade simulation center and meeting the program equipment, to close the gap between coursework director should visit CUChicago.edu/nursing.

Concordia University Chicago • 708-771-8300 • cuchicago.edu Sponsored Content

One book at a time, one reader at a time, Our Future Reads empowers people

ur Future Reads has flourished thanks to the support from people in Chicago’s western suburbs. These are people who embody the local spirit of unity and support. Our Future Reads champions literature as a means to empower curious minds, tackling literacy accessibility challenges and touching lives profoundly. Linda, confined to a medical respite center, found solace and escape in the pages of an Agatha Christie novel provided by Our Future Reads. “It was as if I traveled to a different world, one where my physical constraints didn’t define me,” she says. Similarly, Daryll, a shelter frequenter, found spiritual support in the books he received. “These books have been my anchor, guiding me through tough times,” he says. Our Future Reads has positively impacted over 3,000 individuals and families, with more than 9,000 books donated to those in need. This is a testament to the community’s commitment to ensuring access to literature for all, regardless of their background or circumstances.

The stories of Linda and Daryll are just two examples of the organization’s significant impact. They highlight the power of books to provide comfort, escape, and spiritual support, fulfilling the mission of Our Future Reads. As we continue to support this vital cause, let us fuel the flames of curiosity and ensure everyone has the right to access the vast world contained within books. The future of Our Future Reads, backed by the unwavering support of Chicago’s Western Suburban community, looks bright and promising.

Our Future Reads • 773-969-9676 • ourfuturereads.com

A Merry and Blessed Christmas! God’s greatest gift to us is the gift of Himself, in His Son, Jesus Christ. A tiny baby nestled in the manger, with His arms reaching out to embrace the world – through Him, we find comfort in His promise of salvation. In all things, we are reminded that Jesus came to us as a gift and we are privileged to share that gift with others. Join us for

Service of Lessons and Carols

Concordia-Chicago’s Christmas tradition, featuring scripture readings, choral music and congregational singing in celebration of our Lord, Jesus Christ.

Saturday, Dec. 2nd at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3rd at 4 p.m. Pre-service music begins 20 minutes prior to the start times listed above.

Located in the Chapel of Our Lord Parking and Admission are free; seating is first-come, first-served.

7400 Augusta St. River Forest, IL 60305 (708) 771-8300 CUChicago.edu

B24 November 22, 2023

Season of Giving presented by Sponsored Content

In time of loss, BUILD gathered in ‘Zara’ and ‘Dee’

“Z

ara” was in elementary school when she lost her father to gun violence. She had lost her mother earlier. Her loving grandmother “Dee” took her in, but they both struggled with their grief and trauma. She was failing at school when her teachers reached out to BUILD. A BUILD therapist came to Zara’s school, and they started working together there. And soon, with focused care she began to stabilize and reconnect. Dee saw this effect firsthand and was soon in therapy at BUILD herself. More services were added. A case worker helped Dee secure things like new furniture, winter coats and clothes. They also helped her reapply to public assistance programs that had previously rejected her. Dee and Zara are on their way to a more hopeful future.

Potential doesn’t discriminate — opportunity does. Every young person has the right to discover, explore, and fulfill that potential. So, BUILD wraps young people in choice and opportunity. Opportunities to try things out, find out what they like, and who they are. Meet new people, gain hope and inspiration. BUILD helps them figure out what kind of life they want to build, then helps them make that plan: setting goals for school, health, training and work. We support them with scholarships and emergency funds when we can, look out for their families when they go away to college. And just as important, we help them have fun, and start loving themselves. After all, we don’t only want them to have a diploma, or a job. We want them to have a whole positive future.

BUILD • 773-227-2880 • buildchicago.org

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November 22, 2023 B25

Season of Giving presented by

The Day Nursery The Oak Park & River Forest Day Nursery, located at 1139 Randolph Street in Oak Park, educates young children ages 2 ½ to age 6, and offers working families a safe and nurturing environment which fosters an academic, social emotional, and physical development. The Day Nursery children who transitioned to kindergarten this fall, 100% met the benchmarks for social-emotional and 91% met the benchmarks for mathematics and literacy. Please consider a tax-deductible gift to help us meet a $50,000 challenge grant that will provide equitable access to education for all children. Visit www.daynursery.org to donate today. Thank you.

Deborah’s Place Deborah’s Place has opened doors of opportunity for women experiencing homelessness in Chicago since 1985. Supportive housing offers women the key to healing and moving on from the experience of homelessness. With more than 200 units of housing and over 600 women served yearly, Deborah’s Place is the largest provider of permanent supportive housing in Chicago exclusively for unaccompanied women. With homelessness at crisis levels across our community, Deborah’s Place is there to address the unique and underserved needs of women experiencing homelessness. Donor support makes it possible for women to maintain their housing and achieve their goals. To learn more, volunteer, or donate, visit deborahsplace.org, email info@ deborahsplace.org or call 773.722.5080

Ernest Hemingway Foundation of Oak Park The Ernest Hemingway Foundation of Oak Park is a non-profit 501(c)(3) literary arts and educational foundation dedicated to thoughtful reading and writing. The foundation offers a wide variety of programming, all open to the public, to nurture and encourage creative expression for students and for people of all ages. Through tours and exhibits at Ernest Hemingway’s birthplace museum, the foundation fosters an understanding of his life and work, his Oak Park origins and his impact on world literature.

Your gift supports creative outlets for people of all ages through professional teacher development, local author and performing artist programs, inter-generational engagement, a writer-in-residence program, as well as student writing workshops, mentorships, and scholarships. For more information about us or to donate online go to hemingwaybirthplace.com or mail us at: Ernest Hemingway Foundation of Oak Park, P.O. Box 2222, Oak Park, IL 60303-2222.

Forest Park Theatre Forest Park Theatre (FPT) delivers language-centered, meta-theatrical, multi-disciplinary, lingual, and cultural performances that create 21st century classics that speak to theatre’s unique power. FPT believes theatre should be accessible to everyone. It should feature diverse casts. Theatre should tell stories that cannot be told any other way, and those stories should be about today’s world. FPT brings theatre arts to Forest Park and neighboring communities through productions, readings and educational programs. FPT is a non-profit through affiliation with Arts Alliance Forest Park, and a member of the Forest Park Chamber of Commerce. For sponsorship and volunteer opportunities, email forestparktheatre1@ gmail.com

Frank Lloyd Wright Trust The Trust is proud to steward Wright’s Home and Studio, an Oak Park treasure and longtime source of community pride and inspiration. We are continually grateful for the ongoing support of our neighbors. It is only through the generosity of donors, members and volunteers who care that we can preserve Wright’s original sites for future generations, sharing his design legacy with visitors from around the world. The Trust will celebrate its 50 th anniversary in 2024 and looks forward to engaging, educating, and inspiring for years to come. Learn more or donate at flwright.org. 951 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302

Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory Built in 1929, the Oak Park Conservatory is a Historic Property of the Park District of Oak Park. Free to the public with 50,000 visitors annually, the Conservatory is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Conservatory offers three indoor showrooms featuring more than 3,000 plants and two outdoor gardens including a play area for toddlers. The Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory offers a wide range of programs focused on enriching the visitor experience at the Conservatory. From volunteering to educational and recreational opportunities, tours and classes, there is something for everyone to enjoy year-round. To learn more or to join, visit fopcon.org.

Growing Community Media

Growing Community Media connects residents through reader-supported journalism--our stories are based in facts, rooted deeply in our neighborhoods and reflective of voices not always heard. Through the Austin Weekly News, Wednesday Journal of Oak Park and River Forest, Forest Park Review, and Riverside-Brookfield Landmark, GCM provides a vital civic service worthy of public support. Our journalists tell compelling stories that strengthen the fabric of our democracy by holding local governments and institutions to account. GCM’s non-profit news sources grow political engagement, create shared culture, and connect community members to businesses and local events. It’s about more than news. Donate for news that matters to you at growingcommunitymedia. org/donate

Hephzibah Children’s Association Founded in 1897, Hephzibah Children’s Association is Oak Park’s oldest social service agency. Serving children and families for over 125 years, Hephzibah’s mission of helping children thrive and families flourish is muti-faceted. We offer a residential treatment program for severely

abused, neglected, and traumatized children and those in need of behavioral intervention ages 3-11. In addition, Hepzibah offers foster care services, comprehensive services for children and families in crisis, positive parenting services and an abuse & neglect prevention program. Hephzibah also provides affordable after-school care and summer camp for Oak Park families of all income levels. To make a donation, visit: hephzibahhome.org/donate-now/

Housing Forward

homelessness.

Housing Forward is passionately focused on one vision – ending

Housing Forward is a recognized leader in suburban Cook County offering a coordinated response for people experiencing a housing crisis to quickly resolve their situation. We believe in bold, comprehensive approaches to prevent homelessness whenever possible, respond to people in housing crises, and create stability through permanent housing for the most vulnerable members of our community. Each year we assist more than 2,000 individuals and families with comprehensive, wrap-around support from the onset of a financial or housing crisis to its resolution. To learn more, donate, or to get involved, visit housingforward.org, email development@ housingforward.org, or call 708.338.1724

The Joyf Joyful Giving 2023 Catalo atalog g

B26 November 22, 2023

Special Advertising Section

Season of Giving presented by Sponsored Content

Invest in equity and Oak Park’s future at the library

hen you make a tax-deductible donation to the Oak Park Public Library, you’re investing in your community. You’re helping us put “the icing on the cake,” with innovative new programs and unique library initiatives available to everyone. What does this “icing” look like? For one, it’s being able to borrow a sewing machine, or a telescope, or a tennis racket from your library, thanks to our newly launched Library of Things collection. It’s the delight on Oak Parkers’ faces when they see our Book Bike out and about at schools, parks, community events, food pantry sites and more, reaching residents of all ages who may not have been able to access our services and collections otherwise. It’s even the kids we’ve seen ignore the bounce house at their block party, in favor of

spending more time with the Book Bike! Both the in-demand Library of Things collection and our wildly popular Book Bike were made possible by donations. And next year, we will be rolling out a new electric Book Bike, also funded by generous donations, that will expand our outreach even further and help us bring the joy of reading to more families and foster even more community engagement. Your donations empower us to build new connections, increase access to our services and resources, and strengthen relationships within our community. By giving to the library, you are helping us create a more connected, informed and engaged community. Together, we can make a lasting impact. Learn more at oppl.org/give.

Oak Park Public Library • 708-383-8200 • oppl.org

nning Award-wi ! Orchestra inary Extraord Music! our Here in y unity! own comm Celebrating our 92nd Season!

All concerts held on Sunday afternoons at 4 pm For more information, or to order tickets go to SymphonyOPRF. SymphonyOPRF.org org

708 218 2648 • thesymphonyoprf@gmail.com

Sponsored Content

Dominique finds strength, stability at New Moms

ominique knows how important it is to have a community of support when life is overwhelming. Before she found New Moms, she and her son had slept in cars and foreclosed apartments just to find safety and comfort for a night. For the last two years in New Moms’ housing program, Dominique has worked closely with New Moms coaches. “What really impacted me in this program is Ms. Carolyn and Ms. Teneca. They treated me with respect and nurtured me. … When I thought I had no one in my corner, I always had them. I’m forever grateful for them.” These supportive relationships with her coaches provided mental and emotional slack so she could focus on achieving her goals. Dominique took steps to secure stable housing with Carolyn,

New Moms housing locator. Dominique recently signed a lease to a townhome in the neighborhood where she grew up, just 30 minutes away from her grandmother! Dominique accomplished her next major goal of finding employment. She now works at Potbelly Sandwiches, where she got a raise and was promoted to floor manager. Dominique acknowledges that New Moms supported her mentally, physically, and emotionally, providing a sense of security during her journey to build a thriving future. Dominique is excited about having a stable home and enjoying simple pleasures with her son, like hosting sleepovers, playdates, and cooking. Reflecting on her growth during her time at New Moms, Dominique shares, “I’m stronger than ever and will never let fear control me again. Thank you, New Moms!”

New Moms • 773-252-3253 • newmoms.org

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November 22, 2023 B27

Season of Giving presented by

KIDS TOO

Learning Edge Tutoring

KIDS TOO is a non profit that equips parents with methods to protect K-12 youth from overlooked dangers in schools. The organization addresses tough challenges like predatory adults, child on child abuse and online safety with a goal to provide all kids with a trauma-free school experience. KIDS TOO delivers on the mission by supporting policy and educating parents with its marquee program, the PAXA Pointers Curriculum. We invite you to bring KIDS TOO one step closer to our child protection goals by donating online at www.kidstoo.org/ donate.

For over 30 years, Learning Edge Tutoring (formerly Cluster Tutoring Program) has been a part of the Oak Park and Austin communities. Our mission is to strive for more equity in education by providing Chicago area students who live in underserved communities free one-to-one tutoring and academic enrichment opportunities enhanced by caring, mentoring relationships. We help our students improve their foundational reading and math skills, provide homework help, and foster enduring relationships. Your support provides 30 weeks of school year tutoring to students in Kindergarten through 12th grades. To donate or volunteer, please visit our website https://learningedgetutoring.org/.

L’arche Chicago Life is better together… Quality care for adults with intellectual & developmental disabilities extends beyond the basics of supporting someone with their basic living and medical needs. It’s about creating opportunities to say, “I’m living my best life” and mean it! L’Arche Chicago is committed to the highest quality of care for our core members (adults with disabilities), and our intentional community makes it possible for us to experience life to the fullest, together. Mutual relationships transform lives at all three of our homes, located in Forest Park and the Austin neighborhood of Chicago. Our fourth home, located in Oak Park, will open in the summer of 2024 when we will welcome four new core members. You make our community stronger – Join us by making a gift today! www. larchechicago.org | 708-660-1600 hello@larchechicago.org

Life is Work Elevate your impact Life is Work Resources Center, a dynamic black trans-led social services and advocacy organization. We are dedicated to empowering transgender, non-binary people through direct support, relentless activism, and unyielding advocacy. Our mission is rooted in equality, inclusion, and empowerment. With a deep commitment to the trans community, we offer vital resources, mentorship, and a strong voice for change. Together, we amplify the voices that need to be heard, ensuring that no one is left behind. Join us on our mission to create a world where everyone can thrive, regardless of their gender identity or racial background. Life is Work – together, we rise. Learn more at lifeiswork.org.

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Maywood Fine Arts Equity in the arts is the driving force behind Maywood Fine Arts’ programs and people. Access to affordable, high-quality instruction in dance, music, visual arts, drama, tumbling, karate and fitness cannot be taken for granted among families MFA serves from nearby, under-resourced communities such as Maywood, Bellwood, and Chicago’s Austin neighborhood. MFA, whose facilities anchor downtown Maywood, serves over 950 students each week between the ages of 4 and 18 with the majority being young people of color. Families count on MFA’s safe, nurturing out-of-school time environment where children learn artistic and social skills and expand their world view. To donate, visit maywoodfinearts.org or send checks payable to Maywood Fine Arts, 25 N 5th Ave, Maywood, IL 60153.

Maywood Youth Mentoring Program Organized in 1993 as a 501c3, the Maywood Youth Mentoring Program has served hundreds of middle to high-school youth providing a variety of programs, workshops, field trips, and experiences designed to increase academic potential and instill cultural pride. Since 2008, the program has hosted free monthly youth breakfasts with topics ranging from anger management and conflict resolution, etiquette, police/community interactions, sexual health, drug and alcohol avoidance, and academic excellence. Youths practice critical thinking skills to encourage positive life choices. Volunteer mentors interact with youths, providing positive role models for college and career choices. Funds are needed to continuously provide free services and incentives for participation.

New Moms For 40 years, New Moms has invested in the beauty and power of being a mother. For moms 24 years or younger, it starts by building confidence in what’s possible. Our comprehensive approach provides housing, paid job training, college success, and family support for those impacted by systemic and structural barriers. Designed to cultivate each person’s inherent abilities, we combine behavioral research, proven methodology, and real-world experience to give young families a path to lasting success and generational change. Join us in this essential work! Visit newmoms.org/season

The Nineteenth Century Charitable Association The Nineteenth Century Charitable Association strengthens our community through learning, giving, and sharing our landmark building through space grants to local non-profits, who account for 80% of its usage. We provide community outreach, scholarships, and public programming in five areas: music, art, literature, science, and social sciences. The Nineteenth Century 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 building. Programs are open to all and we welcome all ages to join. Our Monday programs are now being live-streamed as well as available a week later on our website for all to enjoy. If you would like information about volunteering, joining or donating, please call us at 708-386-2729 email to info@ nineteenthcentury.org. You can also make donations at nineteenthcentury.org.

To volunteer, or to donate, visit us at maywoodyouthmentoring.org, or contact Barbara Cole, founder/CEO, at barbaracole@maywoodyouthmentoring. org or 708-344-3577.

Learn more. Give more. You can also visit OakPark.com and go to our Season of Giving page.

B28 November 22, 2023

Special Advertising Section

Season of Giving presented by Sponsored Content

Maya’s journey from homelessness to Deborah’s Place brought peace

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aya* lived under a viaduct and used a donated tent for shelter. At night, she struggled to stay awake to protect her body and belongings. Maya sometimes stayed at an overnight shelter when she could get there before the shelter was full and the doors closed. It was an extremely stressful and traumatic time in her life. When an outreach worker approached her about moving from the tent into an apartment, Maya said, “Yes!” She was connected to Deborah’s Place and through its Rapid Rehousing program, her case manager helped Maya identify an apartment and complete all the paperwork for her lease and a subsidy. Now, in

her own apartment with a warm bed, stove and bathroom, Maya feels ready to move toward her goals of finding a job and improving her health. For 38 years, Deborah’s Place has provided homes to thousands of women on the West Side. Last year they served more than 600 women. “There’s so much peace here. … I have more sense of peace. I am much calmer and in my own space. My mental health is in a stable place; even my spirit is settled. What I mean by settled is, I don’t have to worry about where I will sleep tonight or if I can get back into the shelter. Hey, it’s just peace,” says Maya. *This resident’s name has been changed to protect her privacy

Deborah’s Place • 773-722-5080 • deborahsplace.org

OAK PA R K FE S T IV A L T HE A T R E IN V IT E S YO U T O

Your support makes it all possible. support makes it all possible. Your support makes it all possible.

more and contribute to ourbymission by LearnLearn more and contribute to our mission more and contribute to our mission by donating or volunteering at deborahsplace.org donating or volunteering at deborahsplace.org ng or volunteering at deborahsplace.org

A T T HE 19TH CE NTU R Y CLU B

SA TURD A Y, F EBRUA RY 17, 202 4 Tickets go on sale December 15, 2023 Visit oakparkfestival.com for more information

November 22, 2023 B29

Season of Giving presented by

Oak Park Art League

Oak Park Public Library Investing in equity and Oak Park’s future Through the years, generous Oak Parkers have given to the Oak Park Public Library. These tax-deductible donations help library staff members pursue “the icing on

Oak Park and River Forest High School Alumni Association Since 2003, the OPRFHS Alumni Association has helped current OPRFHS students experience once in a lifetime lu mn ti cultural and academic i A ss o cia enrichment programs through its annual Bobbie L. Raymond Student Enrichment Grants. These grants allow students to explore and expand their interests and knowledge while preparing them for future education and career opportunities. In 2023, we provided $26,600 on behalf of 18 students for a variety of domestic and study abroad programs. Ri

ver Forest

h School

You may donate at: oprhc.org/donate. To learn more, please call 708-848-7150, or email: info@oprhc.org.

Visit oprfcf.org to learn more about our services for donors, scholars, nonprofits, and the community at large.

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Oak Park Regional Housing Center has celebrated 51 years with the mission to achieve vibrant communities while promoting intentional and stable residential integration throughout Oak Park and the surrounding communities. OPRHC is the only nonprofit agency in Oak Park promoting intentional integrative housing stability options. Consider giving a tax-deductible year end donation so that we may reach our goal to raise $25,000 by December 31, 2023! These funds will help us continue to help integrate and invigorate the Greater Westside communities for up to 100 individuals in the first quarter of 2023!

The mission of the Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation is to unite community members and mobilize resources to advance a racially just society and equitable outcomes for residents of Oak Park, River Forest and surrounding communities. We envision a racially just and equitable society as the full inclusion of all people into a society in which everyone can participate, thrive and prosper. In an equitable society, everyone, regardless of circumstance of birth or upbringing, is treated justly and fairly by its institutions and systems.

For more information about membership, exhibitions, classes, workshops, outreach, or to donate to these efforts, please contact Brad Nugent, Executive Director, at 708-386-9853 or email inquiries to oakparkartleague@gmail.com.

Oak Park Regional Housing Center

Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation

The Oak Park Art League (OPAL) is one of the longest running non-profit arts organizations in Illinois. Since 1921, OPAL has brought arts education, appreciation, exhibitions, and artistic inquiry to the surrounding community. OPAL is committed to meaningful outreach to Oak Park and the surrounding communities through partnerships, on-site arts programming, and collaborations. The Oak Park Art League is located at 720 Chicago Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302 and online at oakparkartleague.org.

To learn more about us and to donate, please visit oakparkfestival.com.

To learn more about giving to the library, visit oppl.org/donate or contact the library’s Accounting and Finance Manager Linda Barnett at lindab@oppl.org.

To learn more or to donate to the scholarship fund, visit opalga.org/donate.

Best known for our outdoor productions of Shakespeare performed each summer under a canopy of stars in the idyllic Austin Gardens, Oak Park Festival Theatre has been bringing live professional theatre to the western suburbs since 1975. Arts and culture are an essential feature of a thriving community and OPFT has been bringing the community together for nearly fifty years by performing timeless plays in distinctive spaces and creating empowering educational programming in order to foster dialogue, strengthen relationships, and explore the depth of human experience.

the cake” — innovative new programs and unique library initiatives made available to everyone.

The OPALGA+ Student Scholarship Fund provides financial support for the post-high school education of local students who have demonstrated service and advocacy to the LGBTQIA+ community. Young LGBTQIA+ people face unique challenges in high school and college; students with LGBTQIA+ parents have distinct experiences shaped by their families. The scholarship program depends on the year-round generosity of OPALGA+ members and community support. Since 2014, OPALGA+ has awarded over $170,000 in scholarships and plans to award eight $5,000 awards in 2024.

Oak Park Festival Theatre

Park

Oak Park Area Lesbian & Gay Association Plus (OPALGA+)

Oak

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OPRFHS Scholarship Foundation Nurturing Knowledge: A Philanthropic Endeavor by the OPRFHS Scholarship Foundation Unlock futures with a legacy of generosity! In 2023, 101 OPRFHS seniors soared with $275,650 in scholarships. Since 1924, the Foundation has championed dreams, awarding countless scholarships to deserving graduates. Your support empowers academic achievement, leadership, sportsmanship, artistic accomplishment, community service, and more. Join us in shaping destinies—give to the Oak Park and River Forest High School Scholarship Foundation. Every contribution fuels potential and bridges dreams with reality. Visit scholarships4oprfhs.org to make a lasting impact on deserving students. Let’s cultivate legacies of education and opportunity together.

Oak Park River Forest History Museum The Historical Society of Oak Park and River Forest is the community’s storyteller, making history relevant in tangible ways that positively impact today’s residents including walking tours, school field trips, traveling exhibits, and house research. We operate Oak Park River Forest Museum in an 1898 Oak Park Landmark at Lake and Lombard next to Stevenson Park. We invested $1 million in private funds to create a welcoming space in a former firehouse. Exhibits include our new “Ever-Changing, Yet the Same: OPRF High School at 150” and “Open House: The Legacy of Fair Housing.” We are not supported by tax dollars and a gift of any amount funds our 2024 activities, research center, and knowledgeable staff. Learn more and donate at oprfmuseum.org or 708-848-6755.

Make a difference in the life of an OPRFHS student with a donation to the OPRFHS Alumni Association. DONATE at www.oprfhs.com/about/alumni/ support

Learn more. Give more.

You can also visit OakPark.com and go to our Season of Giving page.

B30 November 22, 2023

Special Advertising Section

Season of Giving presented by

OPRF Infant Welfare Society and IWS Children’s Clinic Join us in nurturing the complete well-being of children and advancing health equity! At the OPRF Infant Welfare Society and IWS Children’s Clinic, we are committed to serving publicly insured/ uninsured children and addressing their holistic health needs. Our services encompass sick and well-child visits, dental care, behavioral health support, and various wrap-around programs. Annually, we extend our care to more than 3,400 children from various areas, including Oak Park, Chicago, Berwyn, Cicero, and beyond. You can make a meaningful difference today by supporting the comprehensive health requirements of children in our community. A donation of $25 enables a mental health screening, $50 covers the cost of two vaccines, and $100 provides a preventive dental cleaning. Your contribution helps us ensure that every child receives the care they deserve. Act now and be a part of this vital mission! Learn more and donate today at www.childrenscliniciws.org

One Earth Collective One Earth curates vibrant environmental programming that inspires action, facilitates learning, promotes justice, and fosters equity and inclusion to create resilient communities and a healthier planet. We focus our work in 3 areas - One Earth Film Festival, One Earth Youth Voices, and One Earth Local. One Earth Film Fest’s 13th season will take place March 7-10, 2024. We’re excited to welcome Chicagoland audiences back live, in addition to our virtual screenings. Join us for captivating films, engaging discussion, impactful action opportunities and community-building. Memberships start at $35.

Opportunity Knocks Opportunity Knocks was founded in 2009 by families and embraced by a community that recognized significant opportunities to develop more substantial and responsive programs, support and partnerships where people with different abilities would be more present with interdependent connections. We strive to be co-creators of programs, enterprise, and partnerships that contribute to developing a community where people with different abilities are able to live, work, learn, grow and pursue a life of their design. As a 95% privately funded organization, we depend on the community’s generosity to advance our mission. Your support is appreciated. Visit opportunityknocksnow.org to learn more.

Our Future Reads: Empowering Through Literature Dedicated to fostering curiosity, Our Future Reads provides access to literature for all across Chicagoland. Founded on the belief that everyone deserves knowledge, the organization has donated over 9,000 books to those in need. Supported by our community, Our Future Reads combats literacy challenges, serving over 3,000 individuals. Join the mission, empower minds, and ensure a brighter future where books ignite sparks of inspiration. Donate, volunteer, or partner today. Contact: Info@OurFutureReads.com or (773) 969-9676. Your support can shape a future filled with informed, curious readers!

PING!

River Forest Public Library

(Providing Instruments for the Next Generation) PING!, a 25-year-old, community nonprofit organization, provides band and orchestra instruments along with mentoring, workshops, and access to lessons, music camps, and trips to students in need in grades 4 through 12, bringing true equity to instrumental music in Oak Park and River Forest public schools. In our community’s high-quality school music programs, PING! students can be on par with peers, regardless of their financial situations, and feel like they belong. PING! is serving 150 young musicians this school year, at least 75% people of color, bringing diversity to instrumental music while providing access to all. Help support young musicians. Donate: pingoprf.org/ donate. Instrument donations: info@pingoprf. org.

Progress Center for Independent Living Founded in 1988, Progress Center for Independent Living is a cross-disability organization governed and staffed by a majority of people with disabilities. Progress Center serves people with all types of disabilities in Suburban Cook County. We assist individuals in pursuit of their self-determined goals. Progress Center recognizes the innate rights, needs and diversity of the disabled, works toward their integration into community life, and serves as an agent of social change. Progress Center is dedicated to building a society in which people with disabilities exercise the same freedoms, rights, and civil liberties as everyone else.

In person and online, River Forest Public Library serves everyone from toddlers to seniors by connecting them with information, entertainment, and each other in a welcoming space. RFPL Foundation works to ensure the vitality of the Library through advocacy, fundraising, and grants. Foundation grants have enabled the Library to repurpose mechanical room space to build a new multi-purpose meeting room and ADA compliant restroom, refresh the Children’s and Teen spaces, maintain the Memorial Garden for gatherings, offer community events like the Dooley Band concert and Summer Reading Kickoff, and more. Please donate at rfplfoundation.org and help your Library continue to serve and connect our community for generations to come.

Sarah’s Inn Sarah’s Inn is a community-based organization whose mission is to improve the lives of those affected by domestic violence and to break the cycle of violence for future generations. We offer services in three areas of program focus: Intervention services for families affected by domestic violence that includes Advocacy and Counseling; Prevention education for youth to give them the tools to develop healthy relationships; and Training and Education for professionals and community-based organizations to create a network of skilled ambassadors. Intervention services are confidential, bilingual (English/Spanish), and offered free of charge to survivors and their children. Make a donation at sarahsinn.org/donate

Donate today and learn more at: progresscil.org/

Learn more and donate at oneearthfilmfest.org/give.

Learn more. Give more. You can also visit OakPark.com and go to our Season of Giving page.

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Season of Giving presented by Sponsored Content

Sharing Stories in OPRF Museum… and in the Streets

ak Park and River Forest are filled with fascinating stories about the people who walked the streets before us. Oak Park River Forest Museum brings this history to life through exhibits and programs at the corner of Lake Street and Lombard Avenue in a 125-year-old Oak Park Landmark that started its life in 1898 as a firehouse. We are proud to be the repository of so much community history and take seriously our mission as historians and storytellers. That’s why in partnership with the high school community, this fall we created a new featured exhibit, “Ever Changing, Yet the Same: OPRF High School at 150,” which puts the spotlight on Oak Park and River Forest High School in its Sesquicentennial year. This story is told in

colorful artifacts, evocative photos, profiles of alumni, and a timeline that traces the birth and expansion of a central community institution. While we invite residents, students and tourists to visit OPRF Museum and our exhibits and research center, we also bring stories out to neighborhoods in both villages. Our guided walking tours bring history to life on sidewalks and streets. And our free Black History Bike Tour of Oak Park celebrates the unique contributions of African American residents over more than 100 years. “There is a powerful connection with the past when you stand right where history happened,” said OPRF Museum Executive Director Frank Lipo. “Our job is to make history come alive for our community.” Check out oprfmuseum.org to learn more.

Oak Park River Forest Museum • 708-848-6755 • oprfmuseum.org

Sponsored Content

Way Back Inn: Jillian’s Story

y story begins at the local gas station. The attendant knew me to be homeless and harmless; she didn’t mind that I meandered around the store with my drink, thawing my bones. She merely smiled when I purchased a bottle of Listerine and a pack of cigarettes. “The poor man’s “Rumplemintz” is what I’d jokingly call it. She looked out at me, pensive and remote, then down at me - never down on me, though. I looked up at her and our tear-filled eyes met. I asked if she would call someone for me. An ambulance came shortly thereafter. Toward the end of my stay in the Emergency Room, the staff asked if I wanted to go home. What home? I said if I did leave, I’d just end up back there. I pointed out that was the same response I’d had the last time they asked me, just a few days ago. I was stuck.

My counselor gave me a packet of recovery homes to contact. Way Back Inn answered my desperate call– they said, “recovery first, we’ll figure out the fees later.” It was immediately apparent that Way Back Inn was unique. They provided me with the structure and support I needed to grow and succeed. With the help of peer support, therapy, and the months I spent in this residential program, I was transformed into something I never dreamt I could be: a genuinely happy, stable, sober person.

Way Back Inn • 708-345-8422 • waybackinn.org

New Exhibit Tells Story of OPRF High School at 150 Open Wednesday-Saturday afternoons and by appointment for group tours

Join us for a FREE Open House on Saturday, November 25, from 1-5 p.m.

The Class of 1884

ver Forest H

The new exhibit, “Ever Changing, Yet the Same: OPRF High School at 150,” is featured until the end of 2025! Learn more about the impact the high school has had on this community--and the wider world.

Questions? 708-848-6755 or oprfmuseum.org • 129 Lake St., Oak Park, IL 60302

Oak lu

Join us at Oak Park River Forest Museum as we tell some of the many stories of OPRF High School in dramatic fashion with artifacts, spirit wear, photos, and the biographies of notable alumni--some you know and some who you SHOULD know more about!

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The Class of 2022

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B32 November 22, 2023

Special Advertising Section

Season of Giving presented by

The Symphony of Oak Park & River Forest

Way Back Inn

The award-winning Symphony of Oak Park & River Forest and its esteemed conductor Jay Friedman, continues to bring extraordinary and accessible concerts to our community. Ticket sales provide less than half the funds needed for the Symphony’s performances. Your gift keeps the orchestra going strong and allows us to maintain affordable ticket prices, including free admission for all students through college. Please help us continue and strengthen our 91-year tradition of bringing beautiful and inspiring music to Oak Park, River Forest, Forest Park and neighboring communities. Make your end-of-year tax-deductible donation at SymphonyOPRF.org, or: P.O. Box 3564, Oak Park, IL 60303-3564.

Thrive Counseling Center Thrive Counseling Center has provided mental health services to Oak Park and surrounding communities for over 120 years. We build healthy minds, families, and communities by empowering people to attain mental and emotional well-being, regardless of their ability to pay. We envision a world where mental health is valued, proactively nurtured, and in reach of everyone. • Individual therapy • Group therapy • Psychiatry and medication management

Since 1974, Way Back Inn has successfully provided long-term residential and outpatient treatment for substance and gambling use disorders. Our mission is to rebuild lives damaged by addiction in a personalized healing environment. This holiday season, we ask that you gift responsibly with the youth in your family. Children who have early exposure to gambling experiences, including lottery tickets, are more likely to develop a gambling problem later in life. For more information or to make a donation to our program, go to: www. waybackinn.org or call us at 708-345-8422 ext. 22.

West Cook YMCA When you give to the West Cook YMCA, you impact our community today and tomorrow. 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, homeless prevention for residents, and Y memberships that can open the door to help each person become their best self. To donate, visit westcookymca. org/120years or send your check to West Cook YMCA, 255 S. Marion St., Oak Park, IL 60302. (708-383-5200)

• 24/7 Crisis intervention • Case management • Suicide awareness and prevention training • Thrive Talks community education programs Open Monday-Thursday 9am-8pm, Friday 9am-5pm, and Saturday from 9am-2pm. To learn more or donate, please visit thrivecc. org or call 708-383-7500.

West Suburban Special Recreation Association West Suburban Special Recreation Association (WSSRA) provides recreational programming for individuals with disabilities who reside in Oak Park, River Forest and nine other surrounding communities. Donations to WSSRA help provide financial assistance to those participating in our year-round programs and summer day camp. To make a donation please visit wssra.net.

Wonder Works

Youth Crossroads Youth Crossroads supports youth and their families, guiding them through life’s challenges, and inspiring them to discover new opportunities for personal development, healthy relationships, and positive community involvement. We are the only organization in our community offering counseling services and youth development programs free of charge and in English and Spanish. We offer in-school counseling, community counseling, crisis intervention, youth leadership training, after-school enrichment, workforce development, and violence prevention programs.

For 20 years, children have learned through PLAY in the enriching environment of Wonder Works Children’s Museum on North Avenue. Each of our 8 permanent exhibits is designed to facilitate playful learning in the areas of science, math, pre-literacy, and the arts for children from birth to 8. Your donations support sensory friendly play sessions, discounted admission for families in financial need, special events, and exhibit improvements. Please join us in our mission to fuel curiosity and creativity through fun and playful learning in safe spaces.

Your donation makes it possible for youth to get the guidance, support, and inspiration they need to achieve success at school, at home, and in life. Visit youthcrossroads.org for details.

Visit wonder-works.org/give/ to support the power of play with a donation.

The Joyf Joyful Giving 2023 Catalo atalog g

Learn more. Give more. You can also visit OakPark.com and go to our Season of Giving page.

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November 22, 2023 B33

Season of Giving presented by Sponsored Content

One Earth Collective inspires action to preserve our planet

ur planet is warming at an unprecedented rate. This summer, the entire Midwest, including the Chicago area, has encountered numerous days with Air Quality Index values ranging up to 300+ due to uncontrolled forest fires in Canada, exacerbated by climate change. And other regions have fared far worse. Over the past 12 years, One Earth Collective (OEC) has reached diverse communities with impactful programs centered around environmental sustainability and justice, including the One Earth Film Festival (OEFF), the Midwest’s premier environmental film festival. One Earth also leads youth and hyperlocal community resiliency programs and its

unique arts-for-social change festival model has provided much-needed knowledge and inspiration to audiences locally, nationally, and globally to combat the paralysis felt when confronting climate change. Through film, facilitated discussion and select opportunities for inclusive action, we are activating audiences and instilling hope for collective action to preserve our one and only planet. A 2023 audience member shared, “Our experience with the One Earth Film Festival was exciting and profound. It awakened our conscience about caring for our planet and the importance of connecting with our essence (nature) to build a better world.”

One Earth Collective • 708-824-6201 • oneearthcollective.org Sponsored Content

Historic Nineteenth Century hosts contemporary dance series

he Nineteenth Century Charitable Association is proud to host many talented people with its weekly Monday Enrichment Series. The programs take place Monday at 1:15 p.m. in the club’s lovely and historic building at 178 Forest Ave, in Oak Park. The Nineteenth Century is dedicated to learning, giving and sharing its landmark building with other nonprofits, plus a host of incredible artists and speakers. This year, we want to highlight this exciting dance program from Governor State University. The Governor State University Dance Company explores and expresses themes related to social justice. With original choreography by GSU faculty, students, and alumni, Rise Up! features provocative performances that defy classification and explore topics such as environmental destruction, breaking generational curses, abuse of power, and mental health.

The programs are free to the public and can be zoomed if you can’t make be here in person visit our website for more info. No registration is necessary. Donations are welcome!

The Nineteenth Century Club • 708.386.2729 • nineteenthcentury.org

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B34 November 22, 2023

Season of Giving presented by

Special Advertising Section

Animal Care League celebrates 50 years with expanded facility Ambitious expansion and renovation nearly complete By EREZ BEN-AKIVA Contributing Reporter

It’s sometimes overwhelming, discouraging even, for Kira Robson, executive director of the Animal Care League, to think about just how many animals are in need. So she focuses on a case by case basis, those differences made for individual animals. The impact certainly adds up. An Oak Park fixture for half a century, the Animal Care League is soon set to significantly expand the capacity of its shelter and animal welfare services. Put simply, the organization wants to help more animals. By early 2024, the organization hopes to have completed the expansion and renovation of a 19,000 square foot “pet resource campus,” according to Robson. The ambitious project on Garfield Street in Oak Park will create a facility that will allow the non-profit shelter to exponentially increase its impact. “We will have lots more space for animals,” Robson

PROVIDED

said. “We will basically have a completely separate adoption center from all of our intake and rescue areas. We will have expanded our spay, neuter and medical clinic to be able to do more life-saving procedures in house.” Earlier in 2023, a new adoption area opened, serving as the first completed phase of the construction project. It aims to destigmatize the feeling of walking into an animal shelter. “That adoption center space is intendMITTENS ed to be very warm and welcoming and stress-free for both animals and visitors and just sort of give us all of the right setup to help people fall in love with pets,” Robson said. The facility changes all come in the midst of a considerable milestone for the Animal Care League. Founded in 1973, the organization celebrated 50 years in Oak Park this past October. “We are at this incredible turning point for growth, and so we’re really setting the stage for the next 50 years of history to be pretty amazing,” Robson said. Animal Care League is classified as a no-kill shelter, meaning at least 90% of the animals in its care are PROVIDED

adopted. Robson said the shelter in fact runs at a 95% to 98% placement rate. Of particular note for the organization are cases of animals that require patient, difficult care due to medical or behavioral challenges where animals are eventually placed in homes. “There have been animals who have really special needs or really just are going to take extra patience, and being able to find in the world people who are willing to save them and give them that second chance or go through what needs to be gone through to make sure that they get a second chance is something I think sticks with me,” Robson said. The shelter’s impact, most prominently, is felt locally. Animal Care League partners with nine local municipalities – including Oak Park, River Forest and Forest Park – to take in strays. Yet the shelter’s sphere of service also spans throughout the United States. The organization has partners in southern states and beyond, like Texas and Puerto Rico, to assist whenever possible with animals at risk of being euthanized in those areas. “I always try to say Animal Care League is a very locally, community-rooted organization,” Robson said. “But our impact spans kind of nationwide, which is, I think, really cool.” Above all though, the shelter is an institution of Oak Park. And it is relying on Oak Park. The organization couldn’t do what it does without community support, like volunteering and contributing to their capital campaign, according to Robson. “We are rooted in Oak Park,” she said. “We’re not leaving Oak Park, but we also need Oak Park to help us make the next 50 years of history.”

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Season of Giving presented by

November 22, 2023 B35

Sponsored Content

Children’s Clinic helps kids, families with early behavioral health screens

he IWS Children’s Clinic’s Behavioral Health and Social Services Program plays a crucial role in expanding access to behavioral healthcare for low-income children. What sets our care apart is the complete integration of medical, dental and behavioral health services. Our need for private funding arises from the financial realities of operating a healthcare facility for economically disadvantaged children. There is always a gap between the cost of providing medical and dental services to our patients and what we receive from the State of Illinois for these services, resulting in an annual budget deficit exceeding $1 million that we must bridge each year. It’s alarming that 53% of children in Illinois, aged 3-17, are reported to be dealing with

emotional, behavioral, or developmental conditions. These underserved children can greatly benefit from the support of our behavioral health professionals. Early screening and intervention for developmental delays and social-emotional issues have a proven track record of significantly improving long-term outcomes for both children and their families. We conduct these screenings when patients visit both our dental and medical professionals. Your support can make a meaningful impact in the lives of those in need. Your donation today can help provide essential services and instill hope in those who depend on us. Join us in making a positive difference -every contribution matters.

Infant Welfare Society • 708-848-0528 • childrenscliniciws.org Sponsored Content

OPRF Scholarship Foundation empowers the future

n the vibrant tapestry of Oak Park and River Forest, the impact of the Scholarship Foundation is a tale of empowerment and transformation. In 2023, 101 graduating seniors experienced the tangible effect of $275,650 in scholarships — a testament to the foundation’s commitment to unlocking the doors of education. Founded in 1924, the foundation transcends being merely a financial support system. It acts as a catalyst for profound change. Scholarships go beyond being granted. They are intentional investments in each student’s promise, recognizing excellence and accomplishments. The community witnesses the ripple effect of this investment as scholars, armed with knowledge and skills, become agents of positive change. Beyond academic achievements, they embody the values instilled by the foundation,

contributing to the community’s fabric and beyond through leadership roles, artistic endeavors, and impactful service projects. Parents, teachers, and residents take pride in the collective investment, seeing the results in a community enriched by the achievements of its scholars. The impact extends beyond graduation, with alumni returning to contribute to the foundation, perpetuating a cycle of giving and receiving. Every contribution, every dollar, is a bridge connecting dreams to reality. The foundation’s website, scholarships4oprfhs.org, serves as a portal for those eager to make a lasting impact on deserving students, ensuring the legacy of education and opportunity continues to flourish in Oak Park and River Forest. Visit scholarships4oprfhs.org to make a lasting impact on deserving students.

OPRF High School Scholarship Foundation • scholarships4oprfhs.org

Since 1924, the Oak park and River Forest High School Scholarship Foundation has awarded college scholarships to hundreds of OPRFHS graduating seniors. Scholarships recognize students who have demonstrated excellence and initiative in academics, leadership, sports, community service, the arts, and more. Learn how you can contribute to our scholarship funds at: scholarship4oprfhs.org.

B36 November 22, 2023

Season of Giving presented by

Special Advertising Section

Sponsored Content

A Stack of Newspapers

n a cold February day, Shelley opened the front door to her Oak Park apartment where she was greeted by a stack of sixteen newspapers and bags of unopened mail. It was the day after Valentine’s Day and the collection of backdated issues of Wednesday Journal felt more like love letters than local news. Shelley snuggled up in the quiet comfort of her own home and read them in chronological order from oldest to most recent. She was using them as a tool to track time she had lost. In November of the previous year, a heartrelated crisis landed Shelley in the emergency room and a series of subsequent surgeries and unexpected downturns kept in her in the hospital for four months straight. Most of the time she was fighting for her life remains a blur to Shelley. Though she fought her way back to good health with the care of an outstanding medical team and support staff, she struggled to make sense of all that had happened to her. “Coming home and reading those issues of

Wednesday Journal grounded me. They helped me to re-connect to my community, focus on something other than myself and make some sense of the time I couldn’t account for while I was in and out of consciousness,” said Shelley. “I love Wednesday Journal. I read it cover-to-cover every week, but reading those issues felt like going back in time. They made me feel normal after four months when nothing was normal.” Subscribers like Shelley and GCM donors appreciate the attention Growing Community Media publications give issues they care about and understand local newsrooms should not be taken for granted. We are grateful Shelley shared her story with us and we are proud she is part of our GCM community. Her perspective celebrates the unique way local news sources keep residents meaningfully connected to the people, events and institutions inside their newsworthy communities. At GCM it’s about more than news.

Growing Community Media • 708-524-8300 • growingcommunitymedia.org

Learn more. Give more. Get all the live links! Visit the Joyful Giving Catalog online at:

Joyful Giving Your Local Guide to a Better World presented by

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Wonderful holiday season Season of Giving presented by

November 22, 2023 B37

Wishing you a

Don Harmon

Camille Lilly

Senate President

Assistant Majority Leader

6941 W. North Avenue Oak Park, IL 60302 708-848-2002 harmon@senatedem.illlinois.gov

6937 W. North Ave. Oak Park, IL 60302 (773) 473-7300 staterepcamilleylilly@gmail.com

B38 November 22, 2023

Special Advertising Section

Season of Giving presented by

2023

Index of Organizations and Sponsors

Season of

Giving Your Local Guide to a Better World

Get all the live links! Visit the Joyful Giving Catalog online at: A House in Austin ........................................ B9, B22 Animal Care League..................................... B6, B22 Arts Alliance Forest Park.................................... B22 Austin Coming Together .................. B18, B19, B22 Beyond Hunger ........................................... B18, B22 BUILD .......................................................... B24, B22 Byline Bank ................................................... B5, B40 Collaboration for Early Childhood……..B13, B22 Concordia University ................................. B23, B22 Day Nursery ......................................................... B25 Deborah’s Place ........................................... B28, B25 Don Harmon, Illinois Senate President............ B37 Ernest Hemingway Foundation......................... B25 Forest Park Theatre.............................................. B25 Frank Lloyd Wright Trust................................... B25 Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory .... B18, B25 Growing Community Media............ B36, B39, B25 Hephzibah Children’s Association ........................... .............................................................. B16, B17, B25 Housing Forward........................................ B13, B25

Infant Welfare Society ................................ B35, B30 Kids Too ................................................................ B27 L’Arche Chicago .......................................... B15, B27 Learning Edge Tutoring ...................................... B27 Life is Work Resource Center .................... B21,B24 Maywood Fine Arts.................................... B20, B27 Maywood Youth Mentoring Program .............. B27 New Moms .................................................. B26, B27 Nineteenth Century Charitable Association ....................................................................... B33, B27 OPALGA+ ..................................................... B9, B27 Oak Park Art League........................................... B29 Oak Park Festival Theatre.......................... B28, B29 Oak Park Public Library ............................ B26, B29 Oak Park Regional Housing Center ......................... .............................................................. B17, B21, B29 Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation........................B2, B3, B29 Oak Park River Forest High School Alumni Association ............................................ B29

Oak Park River Forest High School Scholarship Foundation............................. B29, B35 Oak Park River Forest Museum ............... B29, B31 One Earth Collective.................................. B33, B30 Opportunity Knocks .................................. B21, B30 Our Future Reads ....................................... B23, B30 PING! ........................................................... B20, B30 The Progress Center ............................................ B30 River Forest Public Library Foundation ........... B30 Sarah’s Inn.................................................... B15, B30 Symphony of Oak Park & River Forest .... B26, B32 Thrive Counseling Center ......................... B20, B32 Way Back Inn .............................................. B31, B32 West Cook YMCA ............................. B10, B11, B32 West Suburban Special Recreation Association ....................................... B32 Wonder Works ..................................................... B32 Youth Crossroads.......................................... B6, B32

Special Advertising Section

November 22, 2023 B39

Season of Giving presented by

Double your Donation to your hometown news this week!

on’t forget that Giving NewsDay is Tuesday the 28th. And thanks to a generous match from our dedicated Board of Directors, your donation will be doubled until we reach our NewsDay goal of $50,000. We know you value independent local journalism, and we need your support to continue bringing you the stories and features you depend on week after week. We believe journalism should serve the public interest. And we need support from folks like you to uphold that mission. You can help us build a more robust newsroom by making a donation this week - and double your impact! Help us reach our Giving NewsDay goal by Tuesday the 28th give today! Warmly, Erika Hobbs, Editor

P.S. Please help us spread the word! Let friends and colleagues who value independent local journalism know about our match.

Support and donate here:

Democracy Needs News. News Needs YOU. Donate to Growing Community Media.

B40 November 22, 2023

Season of Giving presented by

Special Advertising Section

Committed to Oak Park and River Forest. Left to right: Denise Warren, Oak Park Branch Manager; Susie Goldschmidt, Oak Park River Forest Market President; Michael Starrick, River Forest Branch Manager

Whether you’re seeing a movie at the Lake Theatre or strolling through Austin Gardens, we think you should be able to get all of your banking done in your neighborhood… with people who love the area as much as you do. Byline is privileged to be a part of the Oak Park and River Forest community, and we are proud to have contributed more than $60,000 in sponsorships and support in 2023 to local nonprofits like Beyond Hunger, the Oak Park Cycle Club, and the Women’s Global Education Project.

To learn more about our commitment to Oak Park and River Forest, visit bylinebank.com/oprf