One, Vol. 7 Iss.1

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2017 |

CONFLUENCE

one voice for the rockford area business community

DECEMBER 2017

Confluence

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID ROCKFORD, IL PERMIT NO. 63

and connectivity

Celebrating Partnerships Companies organizations individuals

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CONFLUENCE

Sponsor’s Welcome

Mercyhealth IS HONORED TO BE THE PRESENTING SPONSOR FOR

2017 CONFLUENCE AWARDS

It is an honor and a privilege to sponsor the Rockford Chamber Confluence Awards in its first year.

The Confluence Awards celebrate instrumental partnerships within the community that improve our quality of life and help our region become more successful—something we feel very strongly about.

When local business and community leaders join together to design and nurture visionary projects, we all benefit tremendously.

This year’s nominees are a shining example of how local leaders are working tirelessly to make Rockford a better place to live and work. It’s a robust mix of business, public/private and non-profit partnerships that makes Mercyhealth proud to be a part of this great community. It’s a group that embodies the powerful sentiment shared by Helen Keller, “Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much.”

At Mercyhealth, our mission has long included a call to effect positive community change outside the four walls of our organization. The group of honorees spotlighted in the following pages are doing just that—by leaps and bounds. On behalf of all Mercyhealth partners, thank you. We congratulate you on your vision and drive and look forward to supporting you well into the future. Together, we are truly doing some remarkable things to move our community forward.

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CONFLUENCE | 2017

president’s letter

one

one voice for the rockford area business community

staff Bo Boger, Illinois Small Business Development Center Director Sue Boyer, Member Relations

We’re in this together

Einar K. Forsman, President & CEO Heidi Garner, Chief Operating Officer Doug Hessong, Director of Publications & Technology Lynette Jacques, Vice President, Member Investment

These are exciting times to be in the Rockford area! Through the collaboration of disparate groups, companies and organizations a Brave New World emerges.

We thought it was about time to acknowledge the combined efforts of “profits” and “nonprofits” both, that contain individuals who have stepped back and then stepped up to help our region be a better place to live and work.

From introducing young minds to the expanding and compelling joys of music to providing a means of independence through work; from being pioneers in

Caitlin Pusateri, Vice President, Leadership Development Doug Rand, Accounting Manager/ Controller Joan Sundvall, Membership Contact Coordinator

Visit us online rockfordchamber.com

the future basic needs of our community to literally using scaffolding to create a winter wonderland for all to enjoy: we celebrate the confluence of our community partnerships.

In this edition of One, you’ll be introduced to 21 confluences of determination, talent and compassion. These collaborations represent business and charity — not just of financial means, but charity of spirit.

Read, be inspired and connect!

We proudly present 2017 Confluence Honors.

Einar Forsman, President/CEO Rockford Chamber of Commerce EForsman@rockfordchamber.com

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The Rockford Chamber of Commerce ­publishes One once a year.

For information about advertising contact Customer Service at 815-987-8100.

Rockford Chamber of Commerce, 308 W. State St., Ste. 190 Rockford, Illinois 61101 Periodicals postage paid at Rockford, Ill. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: One, 308 W. State St., Ste. 190 Rockford, IL 61101

ROCKFORD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Confluence: A convergence of forces, people or things

PARTNERSHIPS ARE TRICKY THINGS. Each side brings to the table their talents, ideas, foibles and idiosyncrasies. But both parties also bring their drive and ambition: To create, to improve; to impact their industry, their service sector, their fellow man.

The Rockford Chamber is pleased to present twenty-one partnerships … cooperations … collaborations. Read of their struggles and triumphs and especially pay attention to the methods they used to create a new element in the Rockford area’s periodic table: Confluence.

Thank you

to our Confluence selection committee who

dedicated time and effort to make the difficult choices.

The Selection Committee

LaVonne Brown Kris L. Kieper Savant Capital Machajewski YWCA Northwestern Management Illinois

Timothy Honquest Honquest Family Funeral Home with Crematory

Karl Swanson Rockford Bank & Trust Co.

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hree years ago, the question was asked over tea at Rosecrance Health Network: How can we incorporate more service work into the substance abuse treatment program for the adolescents at the Griffin Williamson campus?

The result was RENEWING LIVES! Providing Purpose, a partnership with Anderson Japanese Gardens.

The two non-profit organizations have a natural connection. Both have stunning Japanese gardens built by award-winning Japanese garden designer Hoichi Kirisu that they use in their activities embracing the healing power of nature and the mind-body-spirit connection.

Rosecrance’s six-acre Serenity Garden established in 2004 is used in group counseling and guided meditation sessions to help the adolescents relax and reflect on their recovery. The 12.5-acre Anderson Japanese Gardens established in the 1970s showcase tranquil elements of Japanese culture and a harmonious connection to nature.

But it takes a village to maintain the meticulously cultivated gardens enjoyed by more than 50,000 per year. This number does not include participants at popular local events, such as Tuesday Evening in the Gardens.

RENEWING LIVES! Providing Purpose was proposed as a reward and a service project for the adolescents moving through the Rosecrance treatment program.

The two-hour sessions include a short tour through Anderson 6 » December 2017 »

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Renewing lives | Providing purpose

Gardens and a cultural discussion.

A horticultural task follows -- rain or shine. Whether it’s weeding plant beds and spreading mulch in spring; cleaning water features and plant debris in summer, or raking in fall, the purpose is to reconnect to the outside world, and build confidence and a sense of purpose and hopefulness.

“The physical work, while not always enjoyed by some adolescents, becomes a source of pride,” said Monica Reu, addiction counselor at Rosecrance.

The session wrap-up includes a meditation session at Canyon Falls in an area not open to the public, and a talk about Japanese architecture and living life connected to nature at the Guest House. The adolescents consider the life lessons of the Japanese tea ceremony, which embraces the grounding idea of pouring all of one’s attention into the moment and focusing on the present by

This program is connecting adolescent substance abuse patients to gardens, nature, and work while building coping, calm and strength.

connecting to the environment through the senses.

“As they discover their connection to nature, they learn another coping mechanism and a source of calm and strength for times when life is difficult or forks in the road require a decision,” said Katie Weston, programs and events manager at Anderson Japanese Gardens.

By Barbara Connors

Partners Anderson Japanese Gardens Rosecrance Health Network

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large portion of U.S. water infrastructure is approaching or has already reached the end of its useful life,” said Kyle Saunders, water superintendent for the City of Rockford. Rockford is no exception, with parts of the city’s water system nearing more than a century old. To that end, the city realized it was time for increased investment in its aging water system; yet, performing updates while providing 18 million gallons of clean water daily to customers was a monumental task.

To help move the plan forward, one year ago the City of Rockford Water Division joined forces with Fehr Graham, a Rockford engineering and environmental firm, to seek additional engineering services as a part of an accelerated capital renewal/replacement program.

The additional support from Fehr Graham would allow the water division to increase the scale of its construction efforts and meet program goals, supported through equity financing.

For years, Fehr Graham and the City of Rockford Water Division has had a proven public-private partnership; working together to repair water infrastructure in all corners of the city. Now, the focus is on developing a forward-thinking and fiscally responsible water infrastructure investment program for the future.

Fehr Graham and the city are tasked with finding an effective way for the water division to improve infrastructure using cost-saving

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Water services for a better community

The partners initiated a water distribution network makeover via an engineering assembly line.

radium removal and improve overall production efficiency. measures, such as data-driven decisions to prioritize projects and creative designs to minimize the impact on residents.

“The water division’s move towards making decisions for system improvements based on modeled data, as opposed to simply looking at age or number of repairs, is fiscally responsible,” said Mick Gronewold, professional engineer and an owner of Fehr Graham.

With customers seeing increases in their monthly water bills, transparency also is critical. The “What’s on Tap” series on the City of Rockford’s Water Division website offers regular updates, such as the recent $3.4 million in improvements to the city’s Stanley Street Pumping Station, where a treatment plant addition will aid in

“Each entity focuses on what it does best and communicates successes and challenges along the way,” Saunders said. “Without Fehr Graham and the water division working together, the city would be unable to keep up with the engineering design demand the water infrastructure investment program timeline requires.”

By Barbara Connors

Partners The City of Rockford Water Division Fehr Graham Engineering & Environmental

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he Rockford area supports a network of more than 150 human service non-profit agencies. Navigating the tens of thousands of clients each year through the maze of the social service system takes more than 400 case managers. It’s a monumental task.

Case management collaboration

“Case managers support families on their road to becoming productive community members,” said Mary Ellen Commare, executive director of Youth Services Network. “Their work is as varied as the individuals and families with whom they interact.”

Two years ago, a group of agencies, including the Northern Illinois Center for Nonprofit Excellence, Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois, Rockford Housing Authority, the Literacy Council, Rock Valley College, Northern Illinois Workforce Alliance and YSN, developed the Rockford Area Case Management Initiative.

The goal: To create a community of case managers using the same language, empowerment philosophy and person-centered, best practices that create positive individual and community outcomes and ensure participants do not fall through the cracks of the service delivery system.

“The RACM agencies were willing partners, focused on shared goals, practicing their core competencies, and removing ego and ownership to best serve their constituents,” said Courtney Geiger, director of mission services at Goodwill.

RACM held meetings with dozens of human service leaders and conducted an online survey of human service organizations on the current state of case management. A grant 8 » December 2017 »

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the community’s capacity to sustain the initiative going forward.

by the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois funded four focus groups of 40 case managers and supervisors, facilitated by Rockford University professors to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities.

“RACM did a great job in analyzing the current state of Rockford’s social service network by working directly with service recipients, and speaking with a massive amount of community agencies and stakeholders to develop strategy for a different way to work together to increase efficiency for all providers and the clients they serve,” said Sergio Velarde of Rockford Housing Authority.

Armed with knowledge, RACM brought in national trainer, Dr. Beverly Ford, in June to train more than 120 case managers and supervisors from more than 30 organizations. An additional 12 nonprofit professionals spent another day with Dr. Ford in “train the trainer” sessions to build

The belief is that this systematic change will transform the community, and as Velarde said, “begin to move the needle on the issues that plague us, including poverty, unemployment and a lack of education.”

By Barbara Connors

participating partners Northern Illinois Center for Nonprofit Excellence Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois Rockford Housing Authority The Literacy Council Youth Services Network Workforce Development – Rock Valley College The Workforce Connection Transform Rockford

Rockford University United Way of Rock River Valley Community Foundation of Northern Illinois Frances House – DD Homes Network Easter Seals – Rockford – Teen Family Support Bridgeway Actual! Authentic Solutions Shelter Care Ministries RAMP

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n Aug. 17, 12 students with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities started their first day of the one-year internship program, Project SEARCH.

GERALD HUMOR SPECIALIST, JOKES R US, LTD. Project SEARCH at Mercyhealth

The project’s genesis began three years ago when the Intersect for Abilities Collaborative sought opportunities for at-risk students to pursue employment once graduating from high school. The group of local non-profits benchmarked successful programs nationwide and discovered Project SEARCH. The philosophy was that people with disabilities had a right to work and to choose their own path, but that right to work had to be earned.

She said, “the 12 young adults who are stepping out of their comfort zone to learn new skills, meet new people and begin the next chapter of their lives” are the program’s true heroes.

Partners included Mercyhealth, Belvidere School District 100 and the State of Illinois Vocational Rehabilitation Services.

“Each partner put forth their resources in a selfless manner with the students’ best interests in mind and decided RAMP should pursue Project SEARCH, as it already had an employment program that it could tie into,” said Julie Bosma, executive director of RAMP. “We began by visiting other Project SEARCH sites and talking to school districts and potential host businesses.”

The internships developed feature a hands-on approach similar to a medical rotation. Each intern participates in three, 10-week worksite rotations at Mercyhealth Hospital – Rockton Avenue. Two onsite skills trainers and a special education teacher assist the interns as they develop real-world work skills in departments such as pharmacy, sterilization, central distribution,

CONFLUENCE

human resources, maintenance, food services and operating.

The interns also spend classroom time each day focused on “soft skills,” such as critical thinking, applying technology, working responsibly, planning and managing a career, and self-advocacy. The goal for them is permanent, rewarding jobs in their home communities.

The 12 students chosen for the first class come from five high schools, Belvidere, Hononegah, Harlem, Rochelle and Forreston. Most have an Individual Education Plan and are in their last year of high school eligibility. But the most important selection criterion, according to Bosma, is their desire to achieve competitive employment.

“The presence of a Project SEARCH High School Transition Program can bring about long-term changes in our business culture, with far-reaching, positive effects on attitudes about hiring people with disabilities, and the range of jobs in which they can be successful. Our entire community wins. We could not be prouder of these students.”

By Barbara Connors

Partners RAMP Mercyhealth Belvidere School District #100 Illinois Department of Vocational Rehabilitation

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ictures may be worth a thousand words, but photos showing Lincoln Middle School students receiving certificates of achievement from their UTC mentors can be summed up in one — commitment.

UTC aerospace engineering program

Ongoing commitment at all levels has made this partnership an enduring success. Now in its eighth year, the program pairs UTC Aerospace Systems engineers with 8th grade students who struggle with math. It’s an all-in experience at every level.

UTC engineers make up the time they volunteer to tutor at Lincoln.

Administrators fully support the program by identifying teachers to participate and creating a welcoming school environment – including convenient parking.

Teachers select students who can benefit most and communicate often with the tutors about those kids’ specific needs. Students relish the one-on-one attention and guidance from professionals who represent a path to a successful career.

The goal for everyone involved is to improve achievement and help more young people prepare for the future.

The face of commitment from UTC is Chris Underwood, an engineer who has mentored students almost from the beginning of the partnership in 2010 and who now coordinates the volunteers.

Lincoln Principal Jim Parker credits Underwood with keeping the program vibrant.

“Through Chris’s leadership, this program has flourished and 10 » December 2017 »

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Chris Underwood of UTAS connects engineers to Lincoln Middle School students for match tutoring.

continues to grow,” Parker said.

Beyond mentoring and tutoring individual students, professionals from UTC have been invited to classrooms to tell their personal stories. Students may be encouraged when they learn that people can excel at education and careers in spite of childhood challenges or life circumstances.

The volunteers also support such school initiatives as food drives to help people in need.

Some volunteers attend students’ sporting events or teacherorganized activities.

During the 2016-17 school year, Underwood coordinated the efforts of about 20 volunteers who mentored 35 students at Lincoln.

Principal Parker said the program boosts achievement and, beyond that, builds students’ confidence and social skills. The program also highlights the fact that an aptitude for math can be the gateway to a high-paying, satisfying career in any number of fields.

“One of the main things employers look for in employees is the ability to problem solve,” Parker said.

“Improving students’ achievement in math helps in making them better problem solvers, which is a skill they can use for the rest of their lives.”

By Judy Emerson

partners UTC Aerospace Systems Rockford Public Schools: Lincoln Middle School

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ockford is on its way to becoming America’s First City of Granular Sludge.

It’s a good thing.

CONFLUENCE

Aqua-Rock business development project

The recent creative endeavor between Aqua-Aerobic Systems, Inc. and the Rock River Water Reclamation District propels Rockford to the top of the list for innovation in the treatment of wastewater. This public/private partnership goes back more than 20 years, and it paved the way for this new, mutually beneficial project.

Aqua is completing construction of a treatment plant located on RRWRD property that will be the first such facility in the United States using Nereda technology.

There are 40 AquaNereda treatment plants in Europe.

This process makes wastewater treatment less complex and expensive while consuming less energy and space. The technology is complicated, but, in essence, it uses certain granules introduced into wastewater to create a type of sludge that settles faster in treatment tanks and speeds up the purification process. Nereda technology eliminates the need for several treatment steps and requires less physical plant to do the job.

Some of the wastewater flowing to the RRWRD property for treatment will be diverted to the AquaNereda plant onsite, allowing Aqua to do wastewater research and compile data at a hometown facility. The new plant will serve as a laboratory for Aqua to test, refine and improve

This partnership goes back more than 20 years and involved the research and development of a modern, innovative water treatment facility.

the technology. The data will be shared with RRWRD. This information-sharing agreement benefits the district, which , as a public utility, focuses primarily on maintenance of its sewer and treating wastewater in the most effective and efficient manner. This partnership allows RRWRD access data on cutting edge technology and use the information for decision making that impacts the future.

In addition, the new plant will attract visitors from around the country who want to see the technology in action without having to travel overseas.

This partnership further enhances RRWRD’s national reputation as a progressive, forward-thinking district. The district is ahead of the wastewater treatment curve for its rate structure, billing procedures,

maintenance program and energy conservation. The AquaNereda plant reinforces the district’s national role as an industry leader.

Meanwhile, this collaboration between Aqua and RRWRD benefits the community through additional jobs at Aqua and its regional suppliers. This public/ private partnership is a stellar example of creative collaboration that highlights Rockford’s long tradition of innovation and entrepreneurship used for the benefit of the community at large.

By Judy Emerson

Partners Aqua-Aerobic Systems, Inc. Rock River Water Reclamation District

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ere’s a hat trick for the record books. Five years ago, the Autism Program of Easterseals and the Rockford IceHogs created a winning partnership that has: 1) advanced community awareness and understanding of autism, 2) provided financial support for services; and 3) improved the lives of children who live with the condition or other circumstances that make them feel out of the mainstream.

Autism Awareness Night

That’s a lot of celebrate!

The collaboration between organizations began with an annual Autism Awareness Night at an IceHogs game and now has grown to include several other initiatives.

Since its inception in the 2012-13 hockey season, Autism Awareness Night has raised more than $80,000, a sum that has been critical to the survival of the Autism Program, which was under duress because of the state budget crisis.

The nominator said: “The Autism Program of Easterseals would have closed its doors three years ago without the support of the IceHogs.”

The annual event is usually a sell-out.

Everyone gets in on the fun, including IceHog staff, players and coaches and their families and friends, along with the families and friends of children, adolescents and adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

The event has become an all-out community recognition of ASD and highlights local services.

Players wear autism-themed jerseys and fans participate in a silent auction and other fund-raising activities. Each year, volunteers 12 » December 2017 »

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from the Autism Program, in league with IceHogs staff, players and their families, plan something new to engage fans and advance awareness.

Beyond the arena, the two organizations have teamed up on initiatives that impact the greater community, while keeping the focus on autism awareness. Volunteers from the Autism Program organized a cleanup day around the BMO Harris Bank Center. Individuals with ASD pitched in, helping in a civic project while improving their social skills.

As a thank you, the IceHogs gave all volunteers a ticket to a home game.

The partners also worked together to create an anti-bullying campaign that has been presented in area schools.

Besides helping improve the social environment for children with ASD, the program focuses on acceptance and kindness for everyone.

IceHogs players have formed deep relationships with individuals living

with ASD and their families. Such personal connections highlight the meaning of the recognized symbol for autism – the puzzle piece.

This partnership shows what happens when two organizations come together in a perfect fit to support a great cause.

By Judy Emerson

Partners Easterseals The Autism Program of Illinois Rockford IceHogs

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IU Engineering @ RVC is creating opportunities that will benefit the community far into the future.

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NIU Engineering @ RVC

For years, area companies needing bachelor’s-prepared engineers have struggled to meet workforce needs.

Area students wanting engineering training were compelled to travel elsewhere for four-year degrees, even if they had completed the two-year course of study at Rock Valley College. Too often, they didn’t come back to work in the region after finishing their studies.

Meanwhile, just down the road, Northern Illinois University had a respected engineering program.

When NIU Engineering @ RVC launched in the fall of 2016, it was an “Aha! Moment” whose time had come.

The program combines the existing two-year engineering curriculum at RVC with the 3rd and 4th year engineering courses taught by NIU professors on the RVC campus. After earning their RVC associate’s degrees, students earn bachelor’s degrees in mechanical engineering or applied manufacturing technology from the NIU College of Engineering & Engineering Technology. The total cost is less than $40,000, far less than most other programs.

Paid internships with area companies are providing realworld experience for students and introducing the companies to the next generation of engineering talent.

The think tank for creating the program included toplevel administrators from both

educational institutions, leaders of business and industry and the RVC Foundation. A shared vision for developing a “home grown” engineering workforce and strong commitment from all partners allowed the initiative to move ahead swiftly.

Industry and community support has been remarkable, extending the partnership to the entire region. In just over a year, the Engineering our Future campaign raised $7.5 million. The Woodward Charitable Foundation kicked off the fundraising campaign with a $2 million contribution. A $1 million gift from the Clark Legacy Foundation helped bring the campaign to a close and has been recognized with the naming of the CLARCOR Center for Innovation in the Woodward Technology Center at RVC.

Area students are accepting the challenge. In fall 2016, 14 students enrolled for 3rd year courses through NIU at RVC. In 2017, 45 students registered for the upper level courses. Enrollment in RVC’s entry level engineering courses tripled this fall from 2016 numbers.

A nominator spoke to the impact the program will have in supporting the local economy: “With present and future shortages of engineering and manufacturing talent, this program will be a major pipeline to meeting these workforce demands.”

By Judy Emerson

Partners Northern Illinois University Rock Valley College

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troll on State didn’t land one day as a fully formed BIG IDEA.

Stroll On State

It started as a kernel of inspiration through conversations among people who are interested in Rockford’s downtown about how to bring people together for shared experiences that boost civic pride and represent who we are as a community.

Together, the Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau and Rockford Sharefest made the commitment to turn downtown into an attractive and welcoming holiday destination. The decision to decorate was followed quickly by a discovery that the city had not a single shiny strand of garland or string of lights for public display beyond what was used for a tree in the lobby of City Hall.

The partners were undaunted.

“We pushed a little further than garlands and lights and decided the city needs to have an official tree, and there should be a tree lighting,” recalls John Groh, RACVB’s president/CEO. “If we light a tree, we should sing some songs. We thought there should be activities for children. We talked about people coming to the tree from all directions, strolling to the tree, and Stroll on State was born.”

Since its launch in 2013, when Stroll attracted 30,000 people, the event has transformed downtown during the holidays. The 2017 Stroll drew more than 75,000 people to kick off the holiday season and see the decorations – which become more numerous and elaborate by the year.

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700 Sharefest volunteers donate time and talent to make Stroll On State happen.

wagon rides, live entertainment, fireworks, food vendors, visits with Santa and more.

The event’s success depends on the leadership of Rockford Sharefest to coordinate volunteers who spend months planning the event while also envisioning and creating new decorations every year and staging them downtown. On Stroll day, Sharefest mobilizes hundreds of volunteers to make the magic happen. Their leadership inspires dozens of other organizations, sponsors and business partners to participate.

This event has been a boon to downtown restaurants and retailers, who spend weeks preparing for the one-day business bonanza. It’s no

coincidence that Stroll occurs on Small Business Saturday. Beyond that, surveys show, overwhelmingly, that Stroll positively impacts public perceptions of downtown.

It also attracts visitors from outside Rockford and kicks off the community’s Merry & Bright schedule of holiday events.

By creating family traditions that will endure into the future, Stroll on State is cultivating a new generation of patrons and fans of Rockford’s downtown.

By Judy Emerson

Partners Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau Rockford Sharefest

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he city of Rockford’s Head Start program can boast of a quality music experience for the approximately 700 children it serves each year.

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Head Start prelude: early childhood music

In a partnership with The Music Academy in Rockford, nearly 600 3-5-year-olds in Head Start preschool are exposed to music of all kinds, experiment with different instruments, and even learn musical terms like “forte” and “rest.” They also move with the music, whether it be floating, twirling, clapping, stomping or swaying.

The class is a favorite part of school for the children, their Head Start teacher and the Academy teacher who visits each classroom once a month.

“Our hope is they will carry over what they’re learning about music,” said Lisa Warren, child development manager for Rockford’s Head Start. Perhaps more important, added Warren, “is that we know that music impacts the same part of their brains as math and literacy. Some of the same skills they use in music contribute to language and math development.

“We believe the program at the Music Academy is part of the reason approximately 90 percent of our children meet academic standards by the time they leave Head Start,” Warren said. “And our children do very well in music and the arts assessments.”

The Music Academy, now in its 32nd year in Rockford, was happy to become part of the Head Start

program 11 years ago, said Marti Frantz, executive director of the Academy. “It fit right in with our mission of making music as affordable and accessible as possible to as many people as possible.”

Time is a limiting factor in the program, said Frantz. The Academy teacher visits each of Head Start’s 19 classrooms, but only for a half-hour each month. That is why it’s important that the regular Head Start teacher stays, so the instruction and exercises can be carried through to other parts of the Head Start curriculum.

Teachers say the music classes are great outlets for emotions and anxiety. Many of the songs the children sing are intentionally soothing. Others are active to enable children to release energy.

The Academy also regularly visits

Head Start’s program where about 100 younger children and their parents take part in socialization and other activities. The instructor introduces all of them to music and movement activities that can be repeated at home.

The Music Academy also provides Head Start with $2,500 in administrative inkind each year, which helps meet the non-federal share Head Start must provide to continue the program.

By Geri Nikolai

Partners City of Rockford Head Start The Music Academy

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e all know that you’re never too old to learn.

Wesley Willows Corp. and the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford know that it’s also true that you’re never too old to teach.

Intergenerational learning: residents and students

Each year, about 60 residents at Wesley Willows Senior Living Communities voluntarily serve as mentors to an equal number of students from the College of Medicine. Their task is to help the young future doctors develop the communication skills that will help them better care for geriatric patients.

The program recently has expanded to include about 35 nursing students from Rockford University.

The partnership, more than 10 years old, has helped hundreds of physicians in what is commonly known as “bedside manner.” Their task is to get to know their mentor, who is a person living with one or more health conditions that needs medical care.

“The mentors are able to dispel some of the myths about aging,” said Deb Adkins, chief operating officer at Wesley Willows. “Often we hear comments from the students such as, ‘wow, these residents are traveling, exercising, volunteering… they are doing things that continue to bring value to their lives and the lives of others.

“They see that our very independent seniors, some of them with complicated medical conditions, still have active, impactful lives.”

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on its campus, the students see the individual aspects of seniors’ lives and health care needs.

The key to the program is the relationships developed between mentor and student, said Adkins.

“The students are able to hone their people skills and the residents appreciate being the teacher, sharing their lives and their insights.”

Dr. Linda Chang, associate professor and course director at the College of Medicine, has expanded the program because she believes it makes a lasting difference to the students.

“It’s really about how you communicate. Our Millennials, especially, are sometimes not comfortable talking to people.

Here, they learn to do so in a nonthreatening environment.”

The students and mentors meet three times during a year, discussing

the mentor’s life, health issues, and preventive measures they can take such as how to avoid falling.

The students write medical notes after each visit and are graded on their reports. Their notes include a comprehensive life and health history, assessment of potential inappropriate drug therapy, and an assessment and plan for the mentor’s health condition.

“It’s one of the favorite parts of our activities for medical students,” said Chang. “They gain a lot of wisdom about life and medical care for the geriatric population. They are inspired by learning about the beautiful lives some of the residents have had and still have.”

By Geri Nikolai

Partners The University of Illinois College of Medicine Wesley Willows Rockford University

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hen young people learn a trade and help others in the process, we all are winners.

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Building hope: Habitat for Humanity partnership

Case in point: An agreement in which Guilford High School students are learning to build houses. The houses are for Habitat for Humanity, which provides them to families who need a little help to secure a home of their own.

This is the second year Guilford is building a Habitat house in the Sandy Hollow Golf Course neighborhood, said Mark Anderson, their construction and fabrications teacher. Twenty students – 19 boys and a girl – are building the home, doing everything but the plumbing, heating and ventilation, and roofing.

“They think it’s awesome, they can’t get enough of it,” Anderson said.

“For some, it’s a lot of the reason they come to school. To leave this building and go out and build something with their hands, there’s a lot of satisfaction in that.”

Because Habitat families must invest 300 hours of “sweat equity” in the homes themselves, the students get to know the families who will live in the houses.

“Last year, one of the best things was working with the family,” said Anderson. “One of the family members had struggled and he told them, your life is not so bad, look at what I have been through.” Others gratefully related what a new home and new neighborhood would mean to their family.

The partnership began three years when an Alignment Rockford team which included Anderson

ago. It quickly went from being the smallest “academy” at Guilford to being the second largest, with more than 350 students in 17 classes. and Keri Nelson of Habitat were brainstorming. A question of whether students could help build houses quickly led to the idea of the students building a house.

The program now has grown to where a house is built each year by advanced students, while beginning students back at the school are building wall panels for next year’s home.

Alignment Rockford, which strives to align resources that can collaborate to advance the social and economic well-being of the city, is thrilled with how the program has taken off and the positive effect it is having.

The Habitat projects are one reason Guilford’s Architecture and Construction pathway has taken off since it was started four years

The homes enable families to become stronger, which builds healthier neighborhoods and community. Children who move from unsuitable housing into good, safe homes raise their academic achievement an average of two grade levels, research shows.

Habitat appreciates the help. This year it is able to help eight families acquire homes, but 91 applied for the program.

By Geri Nikolai

Partners Alignment Rockford Rockford Area Habitat for Humanity Rockford Public Schools

one » December 2017 » 17

CONFLUENCE | 2017

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lbert Jordan has long believed that a park – specifically, Levings Lake Park in southwest Rockford – could help bring about a healthy neighborhood and racial harmony.

This summer, hundreds of people from throughout the city bought into his hope and, through 12,000 hours of sweat and good will by volunteers, set the stage for Levings Lake to be one of the top destination parks of the city.

The partnership between Rockford Sharefest and its army of volunteers and the Rockford Park District, with help from the Southwest Ideas for Today and Tomorrow (SWIFTT), neighbors like Jordan, the County Board and City Council, West Rock Wake Park and the Perks Family Foundation, resulted in nine days of improvements at the park this summer. Nearly 1,500 volunteers filled 3,000 shifts to enhance the park and even improve the water quality of the lake. The impressive list of accomplishments includes: 254 dead ash trees removed; 6 new picnic tables built with some of the ash wood; 25 benches, 198 picnic tables, 8 bleachers, 7 shelters, 2 dumpster fences, trash cans and sheds fixed and painted; 20 Biohaven floating wetlandislands assembled; 4 new roofs on shelters and the boathouse; a new playground (in cooperation with Healing Communities, Park District police and other law enforcement), transforming a tennis court into a Futsal game area; and more.

Sharefest’s goal has always been to find a way to release the full potential of the community, and the 18 » December 2017 »

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Levings Park: gorgeous revitalization

Levings Lake project demonstrated that beautifully, said Creig Day, Rockford Sharefest president.

before,” he said, “for the community and so many organizations to come together and do so much work.

“Levings Lake had the broadest breath of volunteers, people from all walks of life, all sorts of different organizations, different parts of the community, different ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds,” said Day. “It really was who we are as a community of the whole, and that was a big deal.”

“I look forward to going out there on a Sunday evening in summer and seeing people from all over the city, eating ice cream and enjoying that beautiful lake.”

By Geri Nikolai

Partners

The success of the project proved what Sharefest believes, said Day. “We have what it takes to solve our problems. All we have to do is give people an opportunity to help and roll up our sleeves.”

Elbert Jordan

Jordan, who lives near the park and has worked with the Park District for years to improve it, was impressed.

City of Rockford – Alderman Venita Hervey

“It was something I have never seen

The Perks Family Foundation Rockford Park District Rockford Sharefest SWIFTT West Rock Wake Park

Winnebago County – Board Member Dorothy Redd

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retzel City Kitchens will soon open its doors to students, entrepreneurs and small businesses who share an interest in food-related small businesses.

CONFLUENCE

Pretzel City Kitchens

The shared-use, commercial kitchen, in Freeport’s Wagner House at 1 W. Spring St., will open in early January. Among the first users will be culinary occupations students from six high schools in Winnebago and Stephenson counties.

Others expected to rent use of the kitchens include entrepreneurs who want to experiment with recipes and products, food truck operators, caterers, organizations or individuals offering cooking classes, individuals baking or cooking products for sale at farmers markets or other outlets, or other groups that need a commercial kitchen to bake or cook. The kitchens will be open to anyone in the region, not just Stephenson County.

“There has been a lot of interest in something like this from entrepreneurs with food-related ideas,” said Margaret Larson, director of University of Illinois Extension and president of the Kitchens’ board. “Many of them are held back because of the high cost of commercial kitchens and meeting health department regulations.

“This provides a commercial cooking facility and insures that more food preparers will meet health department regulations,” Larson said.

Pretzel City Kitchens is the result of a number or organizations and individuals who have been talking and working for the project for more than 10 years. A market study was done in 2009 and a board formed in

January 2017, which has worked at break-neck speed to turn this “pipe dream” into reality.

Among those that helped create the kitchens was the United States Department of Agriculture with a 2015 grant for $100,000 for kitchen appliances and equipment.

Pretzel City Kitchens is designed for use by small and larger operators. For example, included in the equipment are four homesized mixers, but also a 30-quart industrial mixer. Other equipment includes a 10-burner commercial range and oven, double-convection oven, fryers, griddles, and induction heating elements. Renters may use utensils provided by the kitchens or bring their own. There will be secure storage space for renters who use the space regularly. Depending on their projects, more than one renter could be working in the kitchens at

the same time, Larson said.

Interest already has been shown by several caterers, farmers market vendors and a local social service agency that is considering setting up a restaurant. Several chefs and business owners have also expressed an interest in holding cooking classes in the kitchens.

By Geri Nikolai

Partners University of Illinois-Extension Office CareerTEC Highland Community College M45 Christina’s Bakery Freeport Public Library City of Freeport 218 Property Management

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n its long history, SwedishAmerican, a Division of UW Health, has sought partnerships with organizations in addressing medical conditions plaguing the community. There’s been a need, with Winnebago County consistently ranking poorly in state and national surveys in obesity levels, smoking habits and chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and cancer.

Woodward Health Center

As one avenue for outreach, SwedishAmerican developed the employer-based clinic model, which helps organizations manage the health and wellness of their employees, and ultimately reduce their health plan expenditures. A lot of attention was given to preventive care, health coaching and care coordination.

“In this day and age, companies need to think differently about ways to continue to provide high-quality, top-tier healthcare that sets them apart in the employment market,” said Don Daniels, executive vice president and COO at SwedishAmerican.

In July 2016, SwedishAmerican partnered with Woodward, Inc.; opening Woodward Health Center inside of its Immediate Care Clinic on Rockford’s east side. The clinic offers company employees and dependents personalized, direct primary care and disease management services. “Woodward was cutting out the ‘middle man’ — the insurance companies — which is why the partnership has been very cost effective for its members long term,” Daniels said.

Health education and preventive 20 » December 2017 »

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services and obstetrics care, with a focus on disease prevention.

care are provided through BetterLife Wellness, a community health center located within the I.D. Pennock YMCA of Rock River Valley in downtown Rockford. It represents another SwedishAmerican partnership.

This year, SwedishAmerican used a similar model, but focused on some of the community’s most vulnerable populations, with the opening of Aunt Martha’s Health & Wellness.

The federally qualified health center at SwedishAmerican Hospital seeks to be a medical home for the many uninsured members of the community who rely on expensive emergency department visits for their healthcare needs. It provides routine, primary care, mental health

“Since opening in January 2017, our care model has resulted in decreased costs and improved health outcomes,” Daniels said.

“We’ve also seen a reduction in emergency department utilization and hospital admissions.

“It’s about looking for chronic disease, diagnosing it before it is an urgent problem, preventing illness when possible and being able to take the time to coach a patient through their health and wellness journey.”

By Barbara Connors

Partners SwedishAmerican, A Division of UW Health Woodward

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innebago County Sheriff Gary Caruana and Rockford Police Chief Dan O’Shea first met when they were attending FBI training. Not long after, O’Shea moved to Rockford to become the top officer of the Rockford Police Department. Since then, the two have developed a professional and personal relationship that is paying big dividends.

CONFLUENCE

Public safety collaboration

“We hit it off immediately,” said O’Shea. “We started talking about the right way to do things. We’re both on the same page to do the right things for the community.”

This has led to a more regional approach to law enforcement and public safety. This new sense of cooperation and collaboration benefits both departments and enhances public safety. The sheriff and chief speak nearly every day and have developed both a personal and operational relationship that is beneficial to both departments.

“We’re bridging some gaps and knocking down some walls,” said Caruana. “We’ve taken it to the next level. We’re working to keep the community and our officers safe.

It’s a whole new game out there and people realize that. I’m happy with the relationships we’ve developed.

We’re law enforcement and we’re business partners.”

This partnership is being felt throughout the community.

Residents are noticing that the sheriff and chief, along with their teams, are working together, bring new confidence that both departments’ approach to public safety will achieve significant results.

O’Shea. “That’s how you succeed in this business.”

A recent PSA campaign featuring the chief and the sheriff further illustrates the strong relationship the two leaders have developed.

Their departments are sharing intelligence and resources. For example, the Rockford Police Department Domestic Violence Unit is now housed in the Winnebago County Justice Center, making it easier to share information and helping both departments utilize staff and resources more effectively.

O’Shea and Caruana have brought other groups together, including tactical and drug units, and they hold monthly meetings with law officials from Winnebago, Boone, Ogle, and McHenry counties.

“We’re good leaders who are supported by great people,” said

Mostly importantly, the results are positive. Crime is down. The story is in the numbers. There is a 7 percent reduction in violent crime and a 12 percent decrease in property crime from January – August 2017 compared to the same period in 2016.

“While much work still must be done, because of this positive relationship, I’m confident we will become the safe community I know we can be and residents deserve,” said Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara.

By Paul Anthony Arco

Partners Rockford Police Department – Chief Dan O’Shea Winnebago County Sheriff’s Department – Sheriff Gary Caruana

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n 1964, the Rockford Rescue Mission opened its doors with a sign that read, “All are welcome here. The alcoholic, the addict, the sojourner, the pilgrim, the poor. There is hope for all who enter here.”

Mission partners

Today, the Rockford Rescue Mission continues to spread that hope by providing a variety of services that include 438 meals a day, life recovery programs, crisis services and residence programs that sleep up to 150 nightly, 365 days a year.

But they can’t do it alone. For nearly 50 years, First Free Rockford has been a strategic partner with the Rockford Rescue Mission.

Over the decades, First Free Rockford has financially supported programming and donated significant volunteer hours by providing weekday worship events.

The church has had members serve on the Rockford Rescue Mission’s board since the 1970s and offers a full Sunday morning worship service for the residents of the Rescue Mission and others from surrounding neighborhoods.

“The ability of the Rescue Mission and Pitney Place to support those in our community who are most vulnerable is amplified by its partnership with First Free Rockford,” said Luke Uran, lead pastor at First Free Rockford.

“However, it’s not just the residents at the Mission who are benefitting — First Free Rockford’s team of volunteers are able to give of their time and talents, fulfilling their desire to support those in their community who need it most.”

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In addition to regular, ongoing volunteer efforts from congregation members and significant monthly financial contributions, First Free Rockford has supported a number of initiatives for the mission. The church provided financial support and experienced labor for reviving the mission’s kitchen area, where hot meals are offered free of charge every day of the year for any hungry man, woman or child in the community.

Most recently, the church began offering Sunday morning satellite worship services at the Mission, a combined vision between First Free Rockford and the Rockford Rescue Mission to bring a worship service to downtown Rockford that benefit the residents of the Mission as well as the surrounding area.

“I prayed for many years that we would someday be able to offer our residents worship services onsite,” said Sherry Pitney, executive director of the Rockford Rescue Mission. “When First Free Rockford brought their Sunday morning satellite services to our facility, it brought a renewed sense of hope to the Mission. Having the ability to spiritually feed our residents is incredibly meaningful.”

By Paul Anthony Arco

Partners First Free Rockford Rockford Rescue Mission

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he Winnebago County Housing Authority (WCHA), Rockford Housing Authority (RHA), Rockford Police Department, City of Rockford and Comcast have teamed up in an attempt to make a couple of Rockford’s neighborhoods safer.

CONFLUENCE

Rock Houses

The Officer Residency Program houses a Rockford police officer and their family in a high crime area.

The home is located within close proximity of schools, businesses, churches, and a mix of homeowners and renters. Officer Patrice Turner lives in one of the Resident Officer Community Keeper (ROCK) houses on Rockford’s northwest side.

Officer Eric Thurmond lives in the other home on the southeast side.

“The goal of placing an officer in these areas is to establish better communication between the police department and community residents,” said Alan Zais, executive director of the Winnebago County Housing Authority. “The resident officer regularly provides school presentations to educate and familiarize children to be comfortable with the police. They meet with churches and their congregations, and they’re trained to work with residents on various projects.”

Rockford Police Chief Dan O’Shea brought the program to Rockford from Elgin, which started a similar program in 1991. The program is credited with reducing crime in Elgin.

“Initially, you have to get buy in from the officers,” said O’Shea.

“There’s no structured schedule or routine policing behind it. The key to the program is working with the

community. There’s no way 300 cops in Rockford will solve all of our problems. We can’t succeed on our own. The only way to do it is to build strong relationships, by living among the people and getting to know the neighbors.”

The program is in place for three years and may be extended if needed. RHA and WCHA each provided free housing for the program – RHA offered a home from its public housing program, and WCHA purchased a home through its nonprofit component. The police department provides the program and the officer.

The officers are highly visible in their respective neighborhoods between their squad car and signage on their home, including their cell phone number. They even ride bikes through the neighborhoods. Working 40 hours a

week, the officers pay no rent, but are responsible for utilities and the upkeep of their yard.

O’Shea hopes to open seven more ROCK homes in the near future.

“We’re going to see big results down the road,” he said. “We’re bonding and building relationships, especially with the young people.

We’re developing trust among the citizens.”

By Paul Anthony Arco

Partners Rockford Housing Authority Winnebago County Housing Authority Rockford Police Department Comcast

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arlier this year, Saint Anthony College of Nursing (SACN) became the first nursing school in the nation to have its campus exist on a community college campus, when it relocated to the Rock Valley College’s (RVC) newly built Health Sciences Center.

Health Sciences building

For nearly four decades, SACN had been located on the hospital’s main campus along East State Street.

“This collaboration will benefit both Rock Valley and the College of Nursing tremendously,” said Sandie Soldwisch, president of the Saint Anthony College of Nursing. “For starters, it helps with recruitment. With the College of Nursing now being located on a college campus instead of a hospital setting, the students have more of a campus life that allows them to access a typical campus library, attend theater performances, athletic events and much more.”

It will also improve accessibility — RVC students are welcome to use the OSF library and interact with the librarians for nursing resources, and are able to join a nursing residency program at OSF, which was a benefit only afforded to students in the bachelor’s degree program.

While the SACN location is new, collaboration between these two colleges has a long history. RVC and SACN both offer programs which prepare graduates to become registered nurses.

Students may complete the associate degree nursing program at RVC and then transition to 24 » December 2017 »

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Opening up a new business is a scary proposition for yourself. Partnering with XWY company provided an opportunity to offer free WiFi along with that cup of Joe.

SACN which offers a program designed specifically for the working associate degree RN to earn a bachelor’s degree.

“As our region’s hospitals all strive for Magnet status, Rock Valley College and the Saint Anthony College of Nursing want to make the path to a bachelor’s degree in nursing as seamless as possible,” said Dr. Doug Jensen, President of Rock Valley College. “This unique partnership will make it easy for RVC students to obtain advanced degrees in nursing without leaving the comforts and familiar surroundings of our campus. It also encourages collaboration between the RVC and OSF programs, and positions us as trailblazers in the state of Illinois.”

More good things are on the way.

Discussions are starting related

to joint projects, student activities and faculty or student research between the two schools. “This is the roadmap to better outcomes for individuals and the communities within the Rockford region,” said Soldwisch. “Together, we are maximizing student learning opportunities and providing the avenue to meet the health care needs of Rockford region residents for the foreseeable future.”

By Paul Anthony Arco

Partners Saint Anthony College of Nursing Rock Valley College

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ne in five children do not have someone to care for him or her after school, an important time to help increase children’s success in school, according to Afterschool Alliance, a nonprofit public awareness and advocacy organization working to make sure that all children and youth have access to quality afterschool programs.

CONFLUENCE

After school alliance

Since 1985, the YMCA of Rock River Valley and the Rockford Public Schools have partnered together to offer families an option before and after school. The District opens its doors to the YMCA Kids’ Time program to offer a safe space for children between the critical hours of 3 to 5:30 p.m.

The partnership started with one school, Brookview, and has grown over the years to serve 13 schools in the district impacting nearly 600 children who are enrolled. The school district even opened a new site this year at Welsh when it was discovered that a program on the west side of Rockford was closing, leaving families and children with no other options. The Y and the school learned of the need and quickly took action to serve those children and families.

Recently, the Northern Illinois Food Bank joined the Y and the school district in the fight against hunger.

The food bank now provides every child in the program with a cold dinner and snack each school day. Nearly one in six children in America lives in households that struggle to put food on the table, according to Share Our Strength.

The partnership employs Healthy Eating and Physical Activity (HEPA) standards that help build a healthier future for our children by encouraging healthy eating habits, limiting screen time and providing physical activity to keep every child healthy.

“The partnership of Rockford Public Schools 205, the YMCA of Rock River Valley and Northern Illinois Food Bank has provided a safe space, impactful curriculum to stimulate the students’ minds and bodies and nutrition to ensure they don’t go home hungry,” said Brent Pentenburg, Interim CEO, YMCA of Rock River Valley. “We believe this partnership is giving children the foundation they need to further their education, make smart decisions and become successful adults.”

“We are so appreciative of the YMCA and the Food Bank for their efforts to assist in our students’ education,” said Earl Dotson Jr., Chief of Communications for RPS 205. “We’re fortunate to work with organizations that provide that support in such a positive, loving way. The YMCA and Food Bank are genuine examples, and the impact on our kids is tremendous.”

By Paul Anthony Arco

Partners Northern Illinois Food Bank Rockford Public Schools YMCA of Rock River Valley

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very year, Mark Peterson, general manager of CherryVale Mall, looks forward to the Spring Auto Show, held in mid-February.

Mall car show helping NFPs

The six-day car show highlights the 10 different Rockford New Car Dealers Association’s latest cars, SUVs and trucks throughout the mall. “It’s a great partnership and a chance to showcase great cars and great stores here at the mall,” said Peterson. “It’s a win-win for everyone involved.”

One of the best parts of the show is a chance for one nonprofit organization to drive home with a $10,000 donation. During the week of the show, customers have the opportunity to submit entries for their favorite local charity to receive the donation.

CherryVale Mall provides and coordinates the display space for more than 120 vehicles and the New Car Dealers Association provides the vehicles. “It’s been a tremendous partnership for the past 22 years,” said Peterson, who estimates that 100,000 shoppers visit the mall during the week.

The nominations are collected and the winning charity is selected by an independent panel of judges, who consider how the money will be used, how many people will benefit, and the overall needs of the funds. The winner is announced and a check for $10,000 is presented by the Rockford Area New Car Dealers Association and CherryVale Mall to the winning non-profit organization.

These awards have been integral to local nonprofit agencies, 26 » December 2017 »

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especially in light of the loss of state funding. To date, more than $200,000 has been awarded. Past winners include RAMP, MELD and Carpenters Place.

Rock House Kids, an outreach organization that cares for at-risk children in Rockford’s inner city, received the 2017 Rockford New Car Dealers Association charity donation. Rock House Kids was founded in 1999 and serves children ages 6-18 hot meals and provides after-school programs and tutoring.

“This donation is extremely important to us,” said Rock House outgoing CEO Dola Gregory. “We are using these funds to help keep the lights on and the heat and air conditioning running. We are able

to continue providing the many activities and programs for the inner city kids that we serve.”

“We’re part of the community and want to support the people who support our auto dealers,” said Mark Fuehrer, administrator of the New Car Dealers Association.

“Knowing that we help keep some of these organizations going is pretty rewarding.”

By Paul Anthony Arco

Partners CherryVale Mall Rockford New Car Dealers Association

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CONFLUENCE

event

2017 confluence partnerships honors Reveal Reception Presenting Sponsor: Mercyhealth • Rockford Art Museum • December 7, 2017 One Magazine and Rockford Chamber of Commerce

Art Museum located in the Museum Park on the Rock

were proud to introduce the 2017 Confluence Honors

River. Chamber President/CEO Einar Forsman, Javon

award recipients at a special reception, sponsored

Bea, President/CEO of Mercyhealth, and Richard

by Mercyhealth. More than 350 guests enjoyed

Zumwalt, Principal of Z-Resource recognized each of

appetizers and drinks in the gallerys of the Rockford

the Confluence Honorees.

Javon Bea, President/CEO of Mercyhealth greets the audience at the Confluence Honors event.

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CONFLUENCE | 2017

Upper left: City of Rockford and Fehr Graham Engineering & Environmental. Upper right: UTC Aerospace’s Chris Underwood and Jim Parker, Principal of Lincoln Middle School. Lower left: Sheriff Caruana and Anna Derocher share a laugh. Lower right: Some of the Project SEARCH partners.

Above: Stroll On State. Javon Bea and Jennifer Hall of Mercyhealth.

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CONFLUENCE | 2017

Clockwise: ROCK Houses. Mary Beth Clausen and Linda Gerber. Ann Dempsey and Julie Thomas. Several hundred came out to celebrate with the honorees.

Clockwise: Project SEARCH. Mall Car Show Helping Not For Profits. Levings Park - Gorgeous Revitalization.

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2017 |

CONFLUENCE

Clockwise from top left: After School Alliance. Habitat for Humanity. Earl Dotson and LoRayne Logan. Kris Machajewski, Karen Brown, and Dennis Machajewski.

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CONFLUENCE | 2017

Clockwise: NIU Engineering @ RVC. Mike Broski and Bridget French. Head Start Prelude – Early Childhood Music. Aqua Rock business development project. Nick Povalitis, Tanna Vettore, and John Groh of the RACVB. Mission Partners: Rockford Rescue Mission and First Free.

32 » December 2017 »

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2017 |

CONFLUENCE

Clockwise: Autism Awareness Night. Rick Zumwalt congratulates Chris Underwood of UTC Aerospace Systems. Enjoying the motorcycle art mixed in with the reception. Intergenerational Learning – Wesley Willows, UIC College of Medicine, Rockford University.

Above: ROCK Houses police residence program. Project SEARCH Partners from MercyHealth.

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CONFLUENCE | 2017

Left: Caseworker Collaboration.

Right: Chris Underwood and Cheryl Castiglione Beneditz.

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2017 |

Great collaboration on public safety by Rockford Police Chief Dan O’Shea and Winnebago County Sheriff Gary Caruana.

CONFLUENCE

Woodward Health Center collaboration.

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CONFLUENCE | 2017

Pretzel City Kitchens.

36 Âť December 2017 Âť

Saint Anthony College of Nursing and RVC celebrate for the Health Sciences Center partnership.

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2017 |

CONFLUENCE

The Writers Paul Anthony Arco is the community relations coordinator at OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, and a contributor to the Chamber newspaper, The VOICE. His work has appeared in the Chicago Tribune, Rockford Register Star, and Northwest Quarterly Magazine, among many other publications.

Barbara Connors

is a 25-plus-year communicator and journalist, and editor for the Rockford Chamber’s Voice newspaper. Formerly, she managed publications for the Rockford Register Star. She earned a BSN degree and works parttime as a registered nurse in behavioral health at SwedishAmerican Center for Mental Health.

Judy Emerson

is a communications consultant who wrote for the Rockford Register Star for 22 years and, most recently, served as director of communications for Rosecrance Health Network.

Geri Nikolai spent 40 years in newspaper journalism in Wausau, Wis., and Rockford, holding a number of editorial positions and covering nearly every “beat” at one time or another. She is now a freelance writer.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE Partnerships V2 Marketing offers its congratulations to the successful partnerships that benefit our community!

Proud partners with the Rockford Chamber on the Confluence Honors Project

Companies organizations individuals one » December 2017 » 37

Congratulations!

The Rockford Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors would like to extend their congratulations to the 2017 Confluence Award recipients!

Your Rockford Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors

Andrew Benson Benson Stone Company, Inc.

Jan Bowman TLC Construction

LaVonne Brown Savant Capital Management

Paula Carynski OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center

Samuel J. Castree Staff Management, Inc.

Joe Castrogiovanni Giovanni’s, Inc.

Dr. Rena Cotsones Northern Illinois University

Jean Crosby Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Crosby Starck Real Estate

Don Daniels SwedishAmerican, A Division of UW Health

Rebecca Epperson Chartwell Agency

Ira Grimmett UTC Aerospace Systems

Tim Honquest Honquest Family Funeral Home with Crematory

Jeff Hultman Illinois Bank & Trust

Michael F. Iasparro Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP

Kris L. Kieper Machajewski YWCA Northwestern Illinois

Patrick Morrow Alpine Bank

Amy Ott Boylan Catholic High School

Mike Paterson Mid-West Family Broadcasting

Mark Peterson CBL Associates Properties. Inc.

Michele Petrie Wintrust Commercial Banking & Mortgage

Dan Ross Gallagher Williams-Manny

John Schuster Rosecrance Health Network

Patrick Shaw RSM US LLP

Karl Swanson Rockford Bank & Trust Co.

Patti Thayer Thayer Lighting, Inc.

Jon Thompson Butitta Brothers Automotive

Laura Pigatti Williamson

Richard Zumwalt Z Resource

Visit us online rockfordchamber.com Einar K. Forsman Rockford Chamber of Commerce

John Groh Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

Nathan Bryant Rockford Area Economic Development

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