With the power of three, the Wellness House hopes to better reach those living with cancer, far and near.
There are now three ways people can connect with Wellness House. Anyone can choose to participate in the more than 500 free-of-charge programs made available in person and any time online. And now through a generous donation, there is a new hybrid option.
"It's really amazing because as we evolved our programming during the pandemic, we have increased our accessibility," said Debra Kwiatt, marketing communications manager for Wellness House. "Anyone can choose how to participate in our free programming. (The new hybrid option) is a really meaningful way to join in-person programming, by dialing in and participating virtually through a new Bose system."
It's no secret that for more than 30 years, the Hinsdale nonprofit has gone all in to help those living with cancer and their families. With that in mind, this year's annual fundraising ball, with proceeds accounting for roughly 20 percent of the nonprofit's annual budget, will follow that dedicated mindset.
More than 500 people are expected to attend the Wellness House's "All In" event Saturday, Oct. 15. After two years of virtual or limited-capacity events due to the pandemic, organizers are anxious to return to a downtown ballroom. The event planning once again will be led by renowned Kristina Taheri Special Events.
Kwiatt added that the ball's theme speaks to a number of factors. The community, participants, staff and board are "all in" to deliver accessible and equitable cancer support.
Event Co-chairs Lauren and Matt Houder and Dottie and Todd Martin are planning a memorable evening that will honor and support those affected by cancer. A unique story telling portion of the event promises to be a compelling call to action, told by breast cancer survivors.
"Todd and I are honored to represent and give back to Wellness at this year's gala," Dottie Martin said. "It's really exciting, especially post-pandemic, to be able to gather in one room and make an impact on a disease that in some way has touched us all. Sadly, my own dad lost his battle to brain cancer very quickly and I only wish that I was aware that such a caring and supportive center existed in our community."
The black-tie gala will take place at the Four Seasons Chicago from 6 p.m. until midnight. Tickets are $500 per person. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit https://www.wellnesshouse.org/ball-2022.
Humane society brings color
The Hinsdale Humane Society's Junior Board is hosting a colorful bash to bid adieu to the summer on Saturday, Sept. 10.
Children of all ages, and their families, are asked to wear white clothes for the event's water balloon toss, which will feature balloons filled with water colored with food-dye. Games will be divided into various age groups and prizes will be awarded.
Guests also will enjoy a bake sale, lemonade/sweet tea stand, face painting, chalk drawing, raffles and more. All proceeds will help support the society's feline and canine residents.
The event will take place from 1 to 4 p.m. at the society's headquarters at 21 Salt Creek Lane. To purchase tickets, which are $10 for adults and $5 for children 13 years and younger, please visit https://www.hinsdalehumanesociety.org/events/back-to-school-bash.
- Alexis Braden is the paper's society columnist. Readers can email her at [email protected].
