Special Advertising Section
November 9, 2016
winter 2016
Education Enrichment guide
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November 9, 2016
Special Advertising Section
Hello! ¡ Hola! 您好！
Notefrom fromIntercultural InterculturalMontessori MontessoriLanguage LanguageSchool School AANote
• Pioneers in Language Immersion Montessori Education • Ages 3-12 • Spanish/English, Japanese/English and Chinese Mandarin/English
LEArn MorE! nEW! After School Language Classes Oak Park Campus 708-848-6626 Chicago Campus 312-265-1514 info@interculturalmontessori.org InterculturalMontessori.org
FHS_2015_JournalAd_Oct_R4.pdf
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or almost 30 years, Oak Park residents or almost years, Oak Park residents have been 30 driving, biking, and walking have been driving, biking, on andS.walking by Intercultural Montessori by Intercultural Montessori onfaces S. Ridgeland Avenue with smiles on their Ridgeland Avenue smiles on their as they watch thewith children at play. Butfaces asthey theymight watch at play. But they notthe bechildren aware that Intercultural is might not be aware Intercultural is the the originator of our that unique dual-language/ originator our unique dual-language/ Montessoriofapproach to education, providing Montessori approach education, providing Spanish/English andto Chinese Mandarin/ Spanish/English Chinese Mandarin/ English programsand for children aged 3 to 6. English programs that for children 3 tobut 6. It’s an approach has beenaged imitated It’s approach that has imitated notan reproduced, and it hasbeen gotten us a lotbut of not reproduced, and it has gotten us a lot of positive attention with Montessori schools, positive attention with Montessori schools, teachers, and associations. That’s because teachers, associations. because it works, and I’m so happy toThat’s be a part of itcreating works, and I’m sobi-literate happy tocitizens be a part of bi-lingual, of the creating bi-lingual, world right here in bi-literate Oak Park. citizens of the world right here in Oak Park. As my third year at Intercultural begins, I As mylike third year how at Intercultural would to state proud I am begins, of the I would like to state how proud I am of work work that the teachers perform on athe daily that the teachers perform on a daily basis. basis. That is where the magic happens, That happens, and is I’vewhere foundthe thatmagic it is true that theand I’ve found that are it isthe true that are the teachers soul of the the teachers school. As soul of the school. As an Intercultural parent, an Intercultural parent, I appreciated how I hard appreciated how work, hard but the now teachers the teachers as anwork, but now as an administrator I understand administrator I understand and recognize and recognize many subtle skills the the many subtlethe skills the job requires. job requires. For example: knowing For example: knowing how to observehow to observe constructively, andhow, when, constructively, and when, andhow, how and how much to intervene, is the key secret much to intervene, is the key secret to to
a successful Montessori teacher. It’s a
atalent successful Montessori a talent our teachers haveteacher. acquiredIt’s through our have acquired through theirteachers Montessori training and years of their Montessori and years teaching teaching at training Intercultural. I wouldoflike to atthank Intercultural. I would to work, thankand our our teachers for theirlike hard teachers for their hard and congratulate congratulate them on work, the continued growth them the continued growth of our dualof ourondual-language program. language program. As we grow, we continue to improve As school we grow, we continue to Oak improve our infrastructure at the Parkour school infrastructure at the Oak Park campus, campus, including the installation of a new including the installation of a new statestate-of-the-art security system. This week, of-the-art security system. This week, the the students harvested their first vegetables students harvested their fi rst vegetables from from our new organic garden! And more our new organic garden! moreschool upgrades upgrades are coming as And this new year are coming as this new school year begins. begins. It is extremely fulfilling to see Intercultural’s It is extremely continued growth.fulfi Tolling me to it see means that Oak Intercultural’s continued growth. To medualit Park recognizes the value of the unique means that Oak Park recognizes the value of language education we are providing. From the unique dual-language education we are all of us on the Intercultural team, it is our providing. From you, all ofand us the on the Intercultural pleasure to serve children of this team, it is our pleasure to serve you, and the vibrant community. children of this vibrant community. Thank you! ¡Gracias! 謝謝你！
Thank you! ¡Gracias! 謝謝你！
Roderick Shaw, Oak Park Campus Manager Intercultural Montessori Language Roderick Shaw, Oak Park CampusSchool Manager 708-848-6626 Intercultural Montessori Language School 708-848-6626 rshaw@interculturalmontessori.org
rshaw@interculturalmontessori.org
Get the
Fenwick Friar Experience!
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Open House Dates
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Y
Saturday, January 14, 2017 at 8 a.m.
Sunday, December 4th
Students MUST take the Entrance Exam at Fenwick in order to be considered for admission.
Program begins at 7 p.m.
CM
MY
CY
Entrance Exam
Thursday, November 10th
Program begins at 1 p.m.
at Fenwick High School
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Fenwick graduates include a Skylab astronaut, Heisman Trophy winner, general counsel to two U.S. presidents, a former governor of Illinois, a Pulitzer Prize winner, numerous CEOs of Fortune 500 companies, professional athletes, and many recognized leaders in education, medicine and law.
FENWICK HIGH SCHOOL
505 Washington Blvd | Oak Park, IL 60302 fenwickfriars.com
A Dominican College Preparatory High School Established in 1929
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Special Advertising Section
November 9, 2016
Grace Lutheran School invites parents to an Early Childhood Open House on Tuesday, Nov. 29, 6–7 p.m.
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race Lutheran School, at the corner of Division and Bonnie Brae in River Forest, offers classes for children age 3, 4 and 5, as well as for elementary-age students in grades 1–8. Parents beginning the process of choosing a preschool are invited to talk with teachers and tour classrooms at an Early Childhood Open House on Tuesday evening, Nov. 29, from 6 to 7 p.m. Grace’s morning preschool class welcomes three-year-olds to participate in free play, small-group projects and whole-group activities. Children build, touch, count, learn letters, sing and talk with one another and their teachers. They also work on practical skills for independence, such as getting dressed for outside play and cleaning up. Classes meet from 8:15 to 11:30 a.m. and children attend two, three or five days each week. Junior and senior kindergarten classes, for four- and five-year-olds, also meet from 8:15 to 11:30 a.m., with an afternoon option that extends the school day until 3 p.m. Afterschool care is available for students age 4 and older until 6 p.m. Early Childhood classrooms at Grace are large and bright. Junior and senior kindergartners
learn by doing, practicing social skills and problem-solving in their play, as well as learning letters and numbers. Language arts instruction in senior kindergarten includes individualized practice in pre-reading and reading. Grace School’s gym and playground provide plenty of room for active play. Elementary and middle-school students at Grace are taught by experienced classroom teachers, with support from resource teachers certified in special education and reading. Students in grades 1–8 participate in music, art and German classes. Grace School graduates go on to succeed at competitive area high schools, public and private. All students at appropriate grade levels are eligible to participate in after-school sports, including cross country and track, volleyball and basketball. Grace teams regularly compete at state and national tournaments sponsored by the Lutheran Sports Association. For more information about Grace School, please call the school office at 708366-6900 or visit the website at www. GraceRiverForest.org.
Grace
Lutheran School
Early Child h Open Hous ood e
Tuesday, N ov. 29, 6–7 p.m. Call 708-36 6-6900 for more info rmation
. . . where children grow in faith, academics and character. Early Childhood classrooms for children age 3 to 5 ▪︎ Develop social and academic skills in free play and structured activities ▪︎ Half-day and full-day options for 4- and 5-year-olds ▪︎ Learn about God’s love
Elementary grades 1–8 ▪︎ Experienced teachers ▪︎ Nurturing family environment ▪︎ Support for individual learning styles ▪︎ Music, art and sports teams ▪︎ Before and after-school care available Bill Koehne, principal 7300 Division St. ▪︎ River Forest, IL 60305 708-366-6900 ▪︎ www.GraceRiverForest.org
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November 9, 2016
Special Advertising Section
A Community A Caring Caring Community The opportunity FF The opportunity to learn in an
Ascension School offers a faith-based Ascension School offers a faith-based education for children ages three through education for children ages three through eighth grade. To learn about excellent eighth grade. To learn about our our excellent preschool elementary school, or for preschool and and elementary school, or for registration materials, please visit our website registration materials, please visit our website at: at: www.ascensionoakpark.com/school www.ascensionoakpark.com/school
Join usus forforour Join our Open House: Open House: Sunday Sunday January 29th January 29th am— 1010 am— 12:30pm 12:30pm
601 Buren Van Buren St. Oak Illinois T: 708.386.7282 601 Van St. Oak Park,Park, Illinois T: 708.386.7282
PRE-K – 12TH GRADE
1ST-12TH GRADE
We We Make Math Make Math Make Sense Make Sense
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WE ARE EXPERIENCED WE ARE EXPERIENCED MATH SPECIALISTS TRIAL SESSION MATH SPECIALISTS FREEFREE CONSULTATION
Call today to schedule An in-depth look at how the aMathnasium free session Method works andyour how we can meet your for child.
WE TEACH ALL LEVELS WE TEACH ALL LEVELS OF MATH ABILITY OF MATH ABILITY PROVEN RESULTS PROVEN RESULTS
family’s needs.
www.mathnasium.com/ Mathnasium of Oak Park/River Forest mathnasium.com/your web web address oakparkriverforest mathnasium.com/your address Your Location Your Location 212 S. Marion St., 123 Any 123 Street Rd. Any Street Rd. 708.613.4007 800-123-4567 800-123-4567 Oak Park, IL90000 60302 Any Town, STTown, Any ST 90000 mathnasium.com/your web address mathnasium.com/your web address oakparkriverforest@mathnasium.com
to learn in an environment that environment that promotesthe the promotes principlesofofLove, Love, principles Kindnessand and Kindness Respect. Respect.
Tabletsavailable available classrooms to supplement ••Tablets in in classrooms to supplement traditionaleducational educational materials traditional materials Anti-bullyinginitiative initiative and a “buddy” ••Anti-bullying and a “buddy” mentoringprogram program connect upper mentoring to to connect upper andand lowergrade gradestudents students lower service-oriented student council ••AAservice-oriented student council Weknow knowthat thatparents parents have many wonderful We have many wonderful options thethe right school for for their optionswhen whenchoosing choosing right school their children. choose Ascension School, children.When Whenyou you choose Ascension School, be areare providing your children beconfident confidentthat thatyou you providing your children with academic experience, youyou are are withmore morethan thananan academic experience, giving of of a caring community andand givingthem themthe thegift gift a caring community the learn in in anan environment thatthat theopportunity opportunitytoto learn environment promotes of of Love, Kindness andand promotesthe theprinciples principles Love, Kindness Respect. Respect.
Mathnasium of Oak Park/ River Forest Celebrates its Three Year Anniversary
SAT, ACT & ISEE TEST PREP HOMEWORK HELP SUMMER PROGRAMS
SUMMER SAT, ACT & ISEE HOMEWORK ENRICHMENT TH PRE-K GRADE SAT, ACT & ISEE TEST PREPPROGRAMS HOMEWORK HELP SUMMER PROGRAMS TEST– 12 PREP HELP
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ounded in 1912, Ascension School has been providing Catholic School education ounded inexcellent, 1912, Ascension has for been families in excellent, our community foreducation over a century. providing Catholic for With thousands manyforofover whom have families in of ouralumni, community a century. With thousands alumni, many of whom have chosen Ascensionoffor their children’s education, chosen Ascension their children’s education, we continue to be afor vibrant school, proud of our we continue to betoa serve vibranteach school, our history, and ready newproud childofwho history, joins us. and ready to serve each new child who joins us. Ascension School offers a faith-based education School offers a faith-based education for Ascension children from three years old through the for children three years old through the eighth grade.from Our rigorous curriculum prepares eighth grade. rigorous curriculum prepares students for theOur next level of education. We students for the next level of education. We continue to provide a strong fine arts curriculum continue to provide a strong fine arts curriculum taught by highly qualified full-time teachers. taught by highly qualified full-time teachers. Ascension students consistently score above Ascension students consistently score above national tests at at all allgrade grade nationalnorms normson onstandardized standardized tests levels. In 2007, Ascension received the U.S. levels. In 2007, Ascension received the U.S. Department Award. DepartmentofofEducation Education Blue Blue Ribbon Ribbon Award. InInaddition school additiontotoan anexcellent excellent elementary elementary school education, education,Ascension Ascension provides: provides: • •An year-olds, Anexcellent excellentPreschool Preschool for 3 and 44 year-olds, with student-teacher withcertified certifiedteachers teachers and and a student-teacher ratio ratioless lessthan than10 10 to to 11 Anoutstanding, outstanding,affordable affordable Extended Extended Day • •An Day Programopen openfrom from 7AM 7AM to 6PM on Program on school school days. days. Twofull-day full-dayKindergarten Kindergarten classrooms classrooms • •Two varietyofofExtracurricular Extracurricular Programs Programs including • •AAvariety including band,orchestra, orchestra, and and drama drama club band, club Competitiveathletic athletic leagues leagues for • •Competitive for grades grades 5-8 5-8inin soccer, cross country, basketball and volleyball soccer, cross country, basketball and volleyball
O
perating on the core principle that every child can become great at math, Mathnasium is a rapidly growing educational franchise across the U.S. and abroad. In 2013, Jana Frank opened up the local Mathnasium center at 212 S. Marion St. in Oak Park and is now celebrating three years of helping kids get ahead in math. “This is a tremendous milestone for both Mathnasium and the community,” Frank says, “Since we opened, there’s been no greater privilege than watching our students grow and improve. Mathnasium students have quickly learned that math can be fun and interesting as well as useful, both in terms of success in school and the valuable life skills it provides.” In 2013 alone, Mathnasium centers around the world taught more than 1.5 million student sessions. This underscores the critical role after-school math education has come to play for students and parents alike and the value of the Mathnasium Method™, which combines mental, verbal, visual, tactile, and written techniques and focuses on helping kids truly understand math. “It’s our core belief,” Frank asserts, “that most any child can succeed at math. We’re
looking forward to many more years of bringing the Mathnasium Method™ to the Oak Park community. We are excited about helping every child reach their potential in math by teaching in a way that makes sense to them.” Children come to Mathnasium either to address difficulties they are having with math or to participate in advanced study so they can remain challenged and further excel in their classes. Both groups of students understand the importance of math education for success in college and beyond. Mathnasium, the nation’s leading mathonly learning center franchise, specializes in teaching kids math in a way that makes sense to them. Students go to Mathnasium year-round to catch up, keep up, and get ahead in math. The proprietary Mathnasium Method™ is the result of 40+ years of hands-on instruction and research. Since 2003, Mathnasium has grown to over 600 locations, with a new center opening each week. For more information, or schedule a free trial session for your child, call 708613-4007 or visit www.mathnasium.com/ oakparkriverforest.
Special Advertising Section
November 9, 2016
Chesterton Academy of The Holy Family • Integrated Classical Curriculum High School Steeped in the Catholic Faith • Daily Mass • Academically Rigorous • Building a Culture of Life • Socratic Method and Lecture Format • Affordable Tuition ($6,900)
Sports and Extracurricular Activities erton Academy of •The Holy Family • Applications now being accepted Chesterton Academy of The Holy Family
Chesterton Academy ofourThe Please visit us during OpenHoly Houses:Family November 14 • 9am-10:30am | January 16 • 9am-10:30am
339 4th Street | Downers Grove | Check us out at cathf.com
Visit our website for more information on the admission process and upcoming events
339 4th Street | Downers Grove | Check us out at cathf.com treet | Downers Grove | Check us out at cathf.com 339 4th Street | Downers Grove us out cathf.com | (630) 442-1424 339 4th Street | Downers Grove| Check | Check usatout at cathf.com
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November 9, 2016
Our mission is to nurture students’ innate curiosity and love of learning through democratic practice, emergent curriculum, and hands-on projects, helping students become lifelong problem-solvers and engaged citizens. • Small class sizes • Exceptional teaching • Critical thinking skills • Social equity
• Before- and after-school options • Art, music, library, and PE • Wide range of field trips • Leadership opportunities
RSVP tcs@TheChildrensSchool.info to attend one of our ‘16-’17 Open House events:
1/13, 2/3, 3/3, 4/7, 5/5 from 9-11am or by appointment
Special Advertising Section
Since 1994
20% OFF WITH THIS AD! EXPIRES DECEMBER 23RD, 2016 LESSONS MAKE A GREAT HOLIDAY GIFT! THINK AHEAD! Languages Currently Offered Try out a class of your choice! Spanish French Arabic Japanese Polish Italian
Russian Hindi
Instruments Currently Offered Piano Violin
Progressive education in action
Chinese German ESL And More!!!
Voice Guitar Cello Harp All Band Instruments All Orchestra Instruments And More!!!
A trial lesson is just $28, a second trial is just $10, and the third is free!
Call us right now!
Ages 6 Months- 5 Years:
Tutoring in
• Parent and Tot & Preschool and Kindergarten Programs in SPANISH! ONGOING ENROLLMENT, taught by founder and director, Maria Fermi
Math, Science, Reading, Drawing, Music Theory, Composition, Audition Prep, And More!!
Call us about our Placement Visits!
The Language and Music School
K-8 enrollment | TheChildrensSchool.info tcs@TheChildrensSchool.info | 708.484.8033 1428 Wesley Ave., Berwyn, IL
150 N. Oak Park Avenue, Oak Park IL 60301 www.LMSCHOOL.com • (708) 524-5252
Pilgrim Community Nursery Pilgrim Community Nursery School: 50 Years50 of high quality preschool School: Years of high quality programming preschool programming
P P
ilgrim Community Nursery School has been providing highilgrim Community Nursery School quality and celebrated preschool has been providing high-quality and programming to children Oak Park and celebrated preschoolin programming surrounding communities for over 50 to children in Oak Park and surrounding years. communities for over 50 years.
Pilgrim is a NAEYC accredited, play based preschool in Oak Park serving children ages 2-5. We have been serving the Oak Park and surrounding communities for over 50 years! We would love to show you all the fun and enriching experiences kids have at Pilgrim, take you on a tour through our classrooms, and talk about our exciting programming options for the 2017-2018 school year. To schedule a visit or learn more, please visit our website at www.pilgrimschool.net or call us at 708-848-5869.
SAVE THE DATE: Wednesday, January 25, 2017 Parent Enrollment Night 6:30 p.m. 460 West Lake Street | Oak Park
It’s an exciting time to be at Pilgrim, asoptions the school is 2017/2018 offering a variety for the schoolof year. programming options for the Pilgrim offers classes for two-2017/2018 through school year. Pilgrim offers classes for five-year-old children, led by experienced twothrough five-year-old children, led and nurturing teachers. These classes byprovide experienced and nurturing teachers. children a variety of age-appropriate These classesthrough providefree children a variety With a variety of programming options experiences play, group time, With a variety of programming options for of age-appropriate experiences through for twothrough five-year-olds, Pilgrim gross motor activities, snack time, and two- through five-year-olds, Pilgrim provides free play,activities. group time, grossseeking motor a longer provides a play-based educational guided Families a play-based educational environment that activities, snack time, and guided environment facilitates the physical, school day also can enroll in the Early Start, facilitates thethat physical, cognitive, social and activities. Families a Enrichment longer cognitive, social and emotional growth Lunch Bunch, and seeking Afternoon emotional growth of each child. Pilgrim’s school day also can enroll in the ofphilosophy each child. Pilgrim’s is part programs. Pilgrim will be hosting Early our Parent is that play isphilosophy an important Start, LunchNight Bunch, and Afternoon that play is an important part of the Enrollment on Wednesday, January of the early childhood learning experience Enrichment will be early childhood learning 25, 2017 atprograms. 6:30 p.m.Pilgrim for the 2017/2018 – and that children learn experience by doing and– hosting our Parent Enrollment Night on and that children learn by doing and school year. experimenting. Wednesday, January 25, 2017 at 6:30 experimenting. For more information or to schedule a tour, Pilgrim is proud to be accredited by the p.m. for the 2017/2018 school year. visit www.pilgrimschool.net, email office@ Pilgrim proud to be by the NationalisAssociation foraccredited the Education For more information or (708) to schedule a pilgrimschool.net, or call 848-5869. National for theand Education of YoungAssociation Children (NAEYC) to be a of tour, visit www.pilgrimschool.net, email Young Childrenof(NAEYC) toofbeQuality a past past recipient the Gold and Circle office@pilgrimschool.net, or call (708) recipient of the Gold Circle of Quality designation – the highest possible rating – 848-5869. designation – theIllinois, highestthe possible from ExceleRate state’s rating quality – rating from ExceleRate Illinois, the providers. state’s system for early learning quality rating system for early learning It’s an exciting time to be at Pilgrim, as the providers. school is offering a variety of programming
Special Advertising Section
November 9, 2016
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The Neighborhood Giving Project
Community Giving Guide
The Most Wonderful Guide of The Year!
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eason of Giving is a campaign organized by Wednesday Journal and the Oak Park River Forest Community Foundation to encourage local charitable giving during the holiday season. It has long been recognized that when we shop local, our money recirculates through
Animal Care League No matter how long it takes, the Animal Care League keeps an adoptable animal until we find that right loving home. We take proactive approaches to animal care and adoption as well as preventative measures to help reduce the number of homeless animals in our communities. The Animal Care League provides medical treatment for over 1,000 animals each year ranging from routine vaccinations to emergency, life-saving surgery. Make a meaningful difference in the life of a homeless animal. Visit www. animalcareleague.org, where you can sign up to be a volunteer or donate. You can also donate your gently used items to the 2nd Chance shop, and attend one of many fun special events.
The Collaboration for Early Childhood The Collaboration for Early Childhood is your resource for early childhood information in Oak Park and River Forest. We provide the connections vital to every child’s opportunity for success in learning and in life. We work with more than 60 organizations so that parents and their children receive critical information and support services, children are screened for developmental delays, teachers in child care centers, preschools and family child care homes provide high quality programs and our most vulnerable children and their families experience a strong web of support. For more information, or to make a donation, please visit us at www.collab4kids. org or follow us on Facebook.
Concordia University Chicago Founded in 1864, Concordia University Chicago is a comprehensive liberal arts-based Christian university in the Lutheran tradition. Through its College of Arts
the local economy reaping dividends for the entire community. The same is true for charitable giving. When you donate to local nonprofits, your money goes to work in your own neighborhood. Your donations feed local families, offer safety and learning to local children, and enrich the beauty and art that and Sciences, College of Business, College of Education, and College of Graduate and Innovative Programs, Concordia-Chicago offers more than 100 areas of study in small classes taught by professors who are passionate about teaching and student success. Concordia-Chicago equips men and women to serve and lead with integrity, creativity, competence and compassion in a diverse, interconnected and increasingly urbanized church and world. More than 5,000 full-time undergraduate and graduate students are enrolled at Concordia-Chicago, located in River Forest.
Forest Park Historical Society
The Historical Society of Forest Park is dedicated to the preservation, collection and celebration of Forest Park History. We study the past so we can understand the present so we can shape the future. The Historical Society in Forest Park is an important part of the social infrastructure of our community. We partner with many groups to enhance the quality of life in our village. 1000 Elgin, Forest Park IL 60130 To make a donation, volunteer or to get more information, go to www. forestparkhistory.weebly.com.
Frank Lloyd Wright Trust Inspiring tomorrow’s architects today. Our D97 program has introduced thousands of students to Wright’s design legacy. Our community’s vitality is enhanced by the mission of the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust. Through its stewardship of the Home and Studio, the Trust continues to preserve an Oak Park treasure as a source of community pride and inspiration. To learn more or donate, go to flwright.org 931 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302
surrounds us all. Over the coming weeks, we hope that you will take a moment to look over the listings in this Giving Guide. Find an organization that resonates with you. Check out their website. Consider making a donation or volunteering. Spread the word. Don’t just shop local—give Local.
Hephzibah
Hephzibah Children’s Association was founded in 1897. We serve more than 1,000 children and families each year through innovative, community-based programs. Hephzibah provides a Group Home for children who have been taken from their families due to profound abuse or neglect. Our skilled staff recruits and trains foster parents, and offers ongoing support to help all family members navigate challenges. Our after-school Day Care operates on a sliding scale to serve working parents in Oak Park, with programs based at each elementary school. To make a real difference in the lives of children and families, please donate today at www.hephzibahhome.org.
Housing Forward The mission of Housing Forward is to transition people from housing crisis to housing stability. By emphasizing prevention, supportive services, employment readiness and supportive housing, we are able to offer a comprehensive, long-term solution that moves clients into housing quickly and keeps them there. This housing-first approach to homelessness is more efficient, more fiscally responsible and less traumatic to clients who are typically facing extraordinary hardship. It is also beneficial to the communities being served who do not have to bear the costs of homelessness in the form of expanded social services, health care and public safety costs. We offer an attractive return on your investment — measured in terms of human lives and futures. To donate, please visit www.housingforward. org/give, or contact Janet Gow, Director of Development & Communications, at 708.338.1724 ext. 262.
Many parents are eager to teach their children about the importance and the rewards of helping others. The Neighborhood Giving Project is a 501c3 non-profit organization providing community service opportunities for busy families in the Oak Park-River Forest area. Our mission is to inspire our children to be better citizens of the world by providing hands-on, hands-together community service opportunities; to enrich their learning with civic responsibility, social justice, and charitable action. Partnering with local organizations, NGP develops service projects that are developmentally appropriate for children, and also genuinely fun. Topics include hunger and homelessness, education and literacy, family health, animal care, and more. To learn more about getting involved or to make a donation, go to www. neighborhoodgivingproject.org
Nineteenth Century Charitable Association The Nineteenth Century Club was established in 1891 and the spirit of the founders continues today in the work of the Nineteenth Century Charitable Association through community outreach grants, scholarships, and public programming in five areas: music, art, literature, science, and social sciences. The NCCA is the owner of 178 Forest Avenue, commonly referred to as the Nineteenth Century Club. Our charitable and cultural activities are supported by our members, volunteers, donors, and by the events held at the Club. Programs are open to all and we welcome men and women of all ages to join. If you would like information about volunteering, joining or donating, please call us at 708-386-2729 email to info@ nineteenthcentury.org.
Oak-Leyden Developmental Services In 2014, Oak-Leyden Developmental Services helped nearly 600 children and adults with developmental disabilities reach their highest potential. Our multi-disciplinary Early Intervention Program provides therapies to help prepare young children for their years ahead, as well as education that supports the entire family. Our enriching, adult day programs offer community activities, life skills coaching, and vocational training. In our 12 group homes, adults receive residential care, social and recreational opportunities, and access to healthcare providers. Please volunteer, donate items on our wish list, make a contribution, or become an Oak-Leyden Enrichment Partner at www. oak-leyden.org or call 708-524-1050 x102. Thank you!
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November 9, 2016
Special Advertising Section
Oak Park Art League Founded in 1921, the Oak Park Art League (OPAL) is one of Oak Park’s first cultural institutions and fulfills its mission through its offering of high quality art education to people of all ages and skill levels, programs and guest lectures, artist demonstrations and critiques, plus monthly exhibitions in OPAL’s historic Carriage House art gallery. On Giving Tuesday, leave your legacy of support by sponsoring a Century Club limited edition brick in OPAL’s garden courtyard. Purchase a personalized brick for yourself, a business, or honor a loved one and help pave the path to OPAL’s centennial anniversary in 2021. 720 Chicago Avenue 708-386-9853 oakparkartleague@gmail.com www.oakparkartleague.org
The Oak Park Education Foundation (OPEF) Strong schools are at the heart of a strong community. Established in 1989, OPEF is a privately funded, nonprofit organization that brings artists, architects, scientists, and technology experts into K-8th grade classrooms at every District 97 school. Our professional partners share their passion for learning while conducting free, hands-on residencies with more than 4,200 students annually. OPEF also runs BASE Camp, exceptional summer and day-off enrichment. Learn more, volunteer or donate at opef.org. 260 Madison St., Oak Park, IL 60302 Contact: Deb Abrahamson, Exec. Dir., dabrahamson@opef.org. 708 524 3023
Oak Park Public Library Support literacy, learning, and community connection When you give locally, you can choose to share a gift that nurtures ideas and spreads knowledge in and around Oak Park. You can support the freedom to read, to learn, and to grow. Loyalty to your local public library helps a 113-yearold institution, dedicated to literacy and community connection, continue to be free and accessible to all. To learn more about how you can make a difference and keep Oak Park’s center of information, local history, and civic engagement strong, contact Executive Director David J. Seleb (d.seleb@ oppl.org, 708.697.6911) or Deputy Director Jim Madigan (jmadigan@oppl. org,708.697.6909).
Oak Park Regional Housing Center The Housing Center promotes and sustains the racial integration of Oak Park. We help over 3,500 households and 250 landlords annually. The Housing Center provides the foundation for equity and inclusion in Oak Park. Your gift helps keep Oak Park’s promise of diversity that we all cherish. To donate visit: oprhc.org/donate or make checks payable to OPRHC, 1041 South Boulevard, Oak Park, IL 60302
Oak Park River Forest Food Pantry $1 = 3 meals, is an equation only you can make possible. With your help, Oak Park River Forest Food Pantry has been reducing local hunger for nearly 40 years. Your support means we are able to meet the needs of nearly 16,000 families struggling with hunger each year. It means we can provide over 50 pounds of nutritious food plus access to vital programs and services to help people stretch limited food budgets in healthy ways. It means that even a little goes a long way: every $1 donated can feed a neighbor for an entire day. To make a donation, visit www. oprffoodpantry.org or send checks payable to OPRF Food Pantry to Oak Park River Forest Food Pantry, 848 Lake Street, Oak Park, IL 60301.
PACCT PACTT Learning Center is committed to empowering people challenged by autism with choice in regard to where they live, learn and work. PACTT’s mission is to assist individuals with autism in becoming as independent as possible with the ability to integrate effectively into their homes and community. At the core of this mission is to see each individual as a unique gift and then provide the person-centered supports that foster learning and growth. PACTT programs include a therapeutic day school, residential services for children, transition program for older teens, vocational training/job placement and residential services for adults. To learn more about PACTT or make a donation, go to www.pactt.org or call 773-338-9102 ext. 2424
Pillars Pillars is the largest nonprofit provider of mental health and social services in the western and southwestern suburbs. The agency serves 10,000 people each year through direct client services, including Mental Health, Addictions, Domestic & Sexual Violence, Child & Family Services, and Community Housing. Untreated mental illness and addiction can lead to hospitalization, encounters with law enforcement, violence, and even early death. Pillars’ programs empower people to break out of those cycles and lead healthy, productive, independent lives—which ultimately saves the community money. Stand together as Pillars, with us. Donate online or pledge a monthly gift today at www.pillarscommunity.org/ donate.
Ping! PING! (Providing Instruments for the Next Generation) is an all-volunteer organization that loans musical instruments to students in need in grades 4-12 in Oak Park-River Forest school districts 90, 97, and 200 so that they can participate in their school band or orchestra. PING! also provides music enrichment for its students through workshops, mentoring, summer music camp scholarships, private lessons, and field trips. PING! serves between 125 and 150 students each year who would not otherwise have the opportunity to participate in the music programs at school. PING! depends on the community for donated instruments and financial contributions to maintain our instrument inventory and program funding. For more information or to make a donation, go to www.pingoprf.org. If you have an instrument to donate, send us an email at pingoprf@gmail.com.
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Sallie Smylie
and her family began volunteering for Housing Forward about 15 years ago making and serving dinners to guests in various PADS shelters. At the time, it was her only insight into the services of what was then known as West Suburban PADS. Today, Sallie is the President of the Board of Directors and is more involved in the services the agency provides in its mission to end homelessness. As a board member, Sallie finds it rewarding to work alongside other passionate and compassionate board members and staff to realize tangible results of Housing Forward’s comprehensive services available to those who are chronically homeless or at risk of homelessness, and those who have homes but require supportive services to keep them. “Lynda Schueler is the key influence,” says Sallie. “It is a privilege to work with someone so knowledgeable and dedicated to serving those in the community facing a housing crisis.” Sallie believes in Housing Forward’s philosophy of “housing first” in that the most effective way to address the conditions and causes of homelessness first requires not just shelter but a home. Sallie considers support of Housing Forward a good investment as it is a recognized leader in addressing homelessness and it maximizes and effectively leverages every dollar donated. When she is not volunteering or heading the Housing Forward board, Sallie enjoys reading, singing and knitting for her precious little granddaughter.
Pleasant Home Pleasant Home Foundation, a non-profit organization, restores and preserves our National Historic Landmark house museum while offering a wide variety of educational opportunities, cultural programming and free community events. Financial support is crucial to sustain Pleasant Home as an important resource for tourism and as a center for the community. Pleasant Home 217 Home Avenue, Oak Park, IL 60302 pleasanthome.org hruehlemay@pleasanthome.org 708-383-2654
This Community Giving Guide of local nonprofits will run weekly through December. If you would like information on how to list your organization, email Marc Stopeck at marc@oakpark.com.
Sallie Smylie
Special Advertising Section
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Transforming lives
Each year, neighbors choosing to give locally are supporting the power to transform lives. Take, for example, the recent $500 gift from the Schwab Charitable Fund that was earmarked for adult literacy in memory of a loyal Oak Park Public Library patron. Twentysix new Main Library titles in the Rapid Reads Series now offer contemporary, entertaining plots and come with tutor tools for testing comprehension and discussion. Adult Education Librarian Rashmi Swain was thrilled to be able to fulfill an Oak Park literacy volunteer’s request with the donated funds. “The new titles are perfect for instilling foundational reading skills, and for fostering a continued love of reading,” Swain said.
November 9, 2016
Community Giving Guide The River Forest Library Foundation Since 1905, the River Forest Public Library (RFPL) has been transforming lives and nurturing a love of reading and learning in children, teens, and adults. Today, as a 21st century library, the RFPL not only provides the latest books and periodicals, but also digital content, remote online access, onsite computer technology, and interactive educational programs By giving to the RFPL Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, you can honor a parent, child, or other family member; a cherished teacher or mentor; a dear friend; or your own love of learning. Your gift will inspire others and help to ensure that the Library will always be here to grow and change with us. Mail donations to the RFPL Foundation at 735 Lathrop Ave, River Forest, IL 60305, or go to www.riverforestlibrary. org/donate.
Sarah’s Inn
Since 1981, Sarah’s Inn has worked to improve the lives of those impacted by domestic violence and to break the cycle of violence for future generations. Our Intervention Program provides bi-lingual services for families affected by domestic violence in order to safely navigate crisis, effectively process trauma and ensure self-sufficiency. Our Training and Education Program creates a network of skilled bystanders to appropriately intervene as first responders and community advocates. Our Together Strong Project was created to prevent relationship violence by teaching youth about
John Miniutti
has a wealth of expertise and successful business experience. But most of all John has a wealth of kindness, informed by the loving relationship with his late son Fritz. In 2011, John sought an effective organization to provide supports for Fritz, his son with disabilities who resided with him in their River Forest home. John found a willing partner – UCP Seguin of Greater Chicago – to support Fritz with a range of services to make his life more productive and meaningful. John wanted to be an advocate for his son and other individuals with disabilities. In 2012 he joined UCP Seguin’s Board, providing his keen insights to ensure excellence in its programs and soundness in its finances. But John has provided so much more, generously donating his treasure to help sustain UCP Seguin’s innovative services. Sadly, John’s son Fritz Miniutti passed away in August 2014. Fritz was an intelligent, active man with many interests – going
Giving Guide Sponsors:
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the impact of their choices, giving them the tools to lead healthy lives, and empowering them to make a difference in their community. To donate, visit donatenow.networkforgood. org/sarahsinn, or make a tax-deductible donation through postal mail by sending a check to: Sarah’s Inn, PO Box 1159 Oak Park, IL 60304
UCP Seguin of Greater Chicago UCP Seguin believes that all people, regardless of ability, deserve to achieve their potential, advance their independence and act as full members of the community. So we stop at nothing to provide life skills training, assistive technology, meaningful employment and a place to call home for people with disabilities, as well as specialized foster care for children. Our goal: life without limits for people with disabilities. Make a difference in the lives of people with disabilities. Donate online at ucpseguin. org send gifts to UCP Seguin, 332 Harrison Street, Oak Park IL 60304
Your holiday donation will help even more neighbors receive the gift of healthy living. To donate, visit WestCookYMCA.org/donate or send your check to West Cook YMCA, 255 S. Marion St., Oak Park, IL 60302. (708383-5200)
Wonder Works Children’s Museum Creative and imaginative play are vital to a healthy child and Wonder Works Children’s Museum provides countless opportunities for both, giving children a safe space to explore. Wonder Works is committed to providing an environment where early learning flourishes through thoughtfully designed “experience zones” and educational programming. Rachel Rettberg CEO Wonder Works Children’s Museum 6445 W North Ave, Oak Park IL 60302 773.636.7971 rrettberg@wonder-works.org www.wonder-works.org www.facebook.com/ wonderworkschildrensmusem
West Cook YMCA It’s our passion at the West Cook YMCA that financial need should never stand in the way of anyone who wants to achieve vitality and improve their well-being. YMCA scholarships cover everything from memberships and class fees to after-school programs and summer day camps for children. Community support makes it possible for us to provide more than $120,000 in scholarships to local residents for Y programs and memberships each year.
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to the gym, working with computers, watching movies, dining out, playing with pets, and working, either at the local theater or as a volunteer for the office of State Senator Don Harmon. Fritz received Life Skills Training, Employment and Respite services from UCP Seguin, accessing social-recreation venues with a UCP Seguin staff member who became his good friend. Imbued with his love for Fritz, John has been a generous donor to support UCP Seguin’s programs. He sees his gifts of time and resources as going hand in glove to ensure the success of the agency that gives so much to individuals with disabilities. Through these years of dedicated service and giving, John Miniutti has been a philanthropist in every sense, keeping individuals with disabilities served by UCP Seguin foremost in his thoughts and deeds. Like John Miniutti, you too can help provide life without limits for people with disabilities. Donate online at ucpseguin.org or send gifts to UCP Seguin, 332 Harrison Street, Oak Park IL 60304
John Miniutti with his dear late son Fritz
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November 9, 2016
Special Advertising Section
We help you give back. How is up to you.
“This is a great time for the entire community to invest in the Community Foundation.�--John & Linda Tibensky, donors Connect with
Kristin Carlson Vogen or Rhea Yap
Donate to the Fund for Now https://v.gd/7cO3Kb
708-848-1560 kcvogen@oprfcf.org | ryap@oprfcf.org 1049 Lake Street, Suite 204, Oak Park or visit us at: www oprfcf.org facebook.com/OPRFCF
Donate to the Fund for Forever https://v.gd/BR71VE
The Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation has partially underwritten the Season of Giving in support of nonprofit organizations serving Oak Park and River Forest.