Wellness WALK raises $500,000
Almost 2,000 cancer survivors, families, friends and volunteers gathered May 2 for the Walk for Wellness, which raised more than $509,000 for Wellness House.
Participants completed a socially distanced in-person walk near Wellness House or at one of nine forest preserves around Chicago.
After finishing the route in Hinsdale, participants wrote special notes on the Dedication Wall and on Threads of Love for the newly created Inspiration House. Even though this year was different, the same outpouring of love and support for the mission of Wellness House was felt.
”The Walk for Wellness was a powerful show of support, unity and hope,” said Lisa Kolavennu, executive director. “The event not only raised critical funds for Wellness House, but it also gave us all a safe opportunity to once again be together. We feel a deep sense of gratitude for the teams of walkers who participated right here in our community and across the Chicagoland area, as well as the sponsors and donors who made a tremendous impact through their donations. The strength and resilience of our community shone brightly.”
The top five fundraising teams were The CrownRoyalsTeam, Team Inland, Hallstar Hustlers, SM2 and MTCares, with The CrownRoyalsTeam raising $61,595. The top five individual fundraisers were Ernie Turcotte, Mike Soenke, Nancy Bentley, Ann Wallace and Jerry Ball. Turcotte raised $10,770.
D181 CELEBRATES RETIRing staff
Community Consolidated Elementary District 181 celebrated the following retiring staff members at its May 10 board meeting:
Clarendon Hills Middle School
Susan Paul, instructional assistant, 20 years
Hinsdale Middle School
Sally Cuchna, main office secretary, 25 years
Cheryl Esparza, 6-8 language arts, 28 years
Patricia Mendel, English language learners, 15 years
Jane Frawley, instructional assistant, 22 years
Betty Lizzadro, instructional assistant, 20 years
Elm School
Diane Nawa, first grade teacher, 30 years
Monroe School
Jose Tinoco, head custodian, 20 years
The Lane School
Gayle Allen, resource teacher, 15 years
“Our retirees have made a positive difference in the lives of countless individuals, and we will never truly know how far their influence reaches,” Superintendent Hector Garcia said. “We sincerely thank them for their years of service.”
