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BETTER MEDICINE STARTS WITH BETTER LISTENING.
from DC_MidWeek_050323
by Shaw Media
“Hopefully, if it works as intended, the benefit is to make moms and preschoolers something that they can do with their kid in the library because I feel like most of the stuff is designed for the kid to play by themself or with other kids,” Christensen said. “As a mom, usually you just see the moms on their phone or talking to other moms. This is something if there aren’t any other kids here, something you can engage them with, something you can do with them.”
The troop has been working on its service project off and on since August 2022. Originally, the group pitched the library the idea of a space for toys and games which evolved into a bookshelf build. The girls held a toy drive to collect items for the space, made signs and worked with mentors Jason Moore and Matt Mangino to build the bookshelf, Christensen said.
Lily Mangino, 11, of Sycamore said she took away a lot from the experience of working with the librarians to make the project possible.
“When we were discussing about the shelf, there was a lot of back and forth on deciding what we had to do,” Mangino said. “We also had the option to paint it or just put a clear coat.”
The troop intends to return to the library next month to assess if anything is missing or lost from the Guardian and Me Area and if it makes sense to continue using the shelf for toys and games as opposed to books.
Christensen said she likes how involved the group has been with their service project.
“I think we’re all really excited,” Christensen said. “Hopefully, they’ll certify it and it’ll be a Bronze Award.”
Sometimes, life’s circumstances can feel overwhelming. The Living Room, located within Northwestern Medicine Ben Gordon Center, is a comfortable, calm, nonclinical space where DeKalb County residents age 18 and older can get help to resolve or better manage crises. No appointment is necessary.
You’ll be welcomed by a recovery support specialist who will listen to your concerns, and help you find options. If you need additional support, we can connect you with community resources for services such as housing, health care or food, or make appropriate referrals to other agencies to get the help you need.
You are not alone. There is a place for you in the Living Room. For more information including hours, visit nm.org/dekalblivingroom or call 815.756.4875. TTY for the hearing impaired, 815.748.9459.
