mitzvah guide 2013

NationalCouncil of JewishWomenAt the forefront of social change

ExtraordinarypeopleBettering thecommunity and theworld

MitzvahG U I D E

Israel SportCenterfor theDisabledPioneers in the fieldof sports rehabilitation

2 | 2013-2014 MITZVAH GUIDE

MITZVAH GUIDE 2013-2014 | 3

The simple meaning of the word of“mitzvah” is deeply rooted in history:a biblical connotation that embraces

many interpretations. Among those definitions,“mitzvah”means a good deed.

Included in these good deeds are charityand philanthropic projects. Involving childrenin such work helps bring the family togetherover a common goal to serve others and thecommunity. The opportunities are countless forchildren to help other youth around the world.

Mitzvahs are perpetually revered, espe-cially in Jewish households when 13-year-oldchildren celebrate their bar or bat mitzvahs.

“They’re really just at the beginning of theirjourney,” said Julie Newman of the NationalCouncil of JewishWomen Chicago NorthShore Section, an organization that is featuredlater in this magazine.

Newman said the bar or bat mitzvah, “reallymeans that you’re taking on the responsibili-ties of becoming a Jewish adult.”

One way some families choose to honorthis important step is by undertaking a mitz-vah project. Some children incorporate a mitz-vah project as part of their bar or bat mitzvahcelebration.

“We have a bar and bat mitzvah program,”said Stuart Nitzkin who is the national execu-tive director of the Deerfield-based AmericanFriends of the Israel Sport Center for theDisabled (AFISCD).

“A lot of kids pick charitable projects astheir bar and bat mitzvah project,” Nitzkin said.“We offer our organization as one of thoseplaces.”

The AFISCD creates a mitzvah projectwebsite for each child going through this pro-cess. Some bar/bat mitzvah celebrations mayhave table centerpieces, for example, whichcontain elements of mitzvah project good-will. Photographs of each child are featuredat www.fiscd.org with a synopsis of mitzvahproject goals.

The purpose of this Mitzvah Guide isto honor awareness about the wealth ofcharitable organizations welcoming bat/barmitzvah families.

A good deed is similar to a pebble tossedin water. The ripple effect is endless. Readmore about the mission of the two orga-nizations Stuart Nitzkin and Julie Newmanrepresent. Ask questions of other charitableproviders in your community.

A guide to good deeds

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4 GOOD SPORTSIsrael Sport Center for the Disabled

8 MITZVAH PROJECTBeautifying Belmont-CraginElementary School

10 A MAN OF INTEGRITY AND HONORDo good abroad

11 DONATE YOUR OLD COMPUTEREQUIPMENTTechnology for Humanity

14 SAFEGUARDING INDIVIDUAL RIGHTSAND FREEDOMSNational Council of Jewish Women

16 GOOD DEEDS DIRECTORYLocal businesses help create yourideal mitzvah celebration

18 VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIESStrengthen the community throughphilanthropy and charity

22 MAZEL TOVEvanston Art CenterOutreach with ArtReach

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Karie Luc is with Lori Komisar and Stu Nitzkin inWinnetka as they explain the philanthropic missionof the Israel Sport Center for the Disabled.

Lori Komisar ofWinnetka, and longtimesupporter of the Israel Sport Center forthe Disabled (ISCD), is a philanthropist

who prefers staying behind the scenes. Goingabout her day with cell phone handy, her callsare frequent. Often, Morrie Silverman, her lifepartner, gives her a shout.

Walking the grounds of her riparian

residence, Komisar is used to having a cellphone glued to her ear. As landscapers work,Komisar artfully navigates a mower’s path.

Poise and grace are mandatory withinshouting distance of Lake Michigan.

“That was Morrie,” said Komisar, with asmile, finishing a conversation before bestingravine steps to a private patio overlooking herbackyard.

Silverman, also a supporter of numerouscharitable causes, equally prefers to go abouthis work quietly. The two would prefer deserv-ing children be featured on the society pages.

The mission of the ISCD, the only serviceprovider of its kind in the world, prompted

Komisar to grant a rare interview.The conversation with Komisar took place

on a spectacular early autumn morning. Herbackyard is a Lake Michigan beach.

“It’s a beautiful day,” Komisar said. “I do feelfortunate I live in this environment but I haveto say, it doesn’t define me.”

What does define her, she said: “It’s a smileon a face; it’s a medal on a kid.”

Stuart Nitzkin, who serves as nationalexecutive director for the American Friendsof the Israel Sport Center for the Disabled(AFISCD), accompanied Komisar.

“The center is a place, in my opinion, thatGod kissed and never left,” said Komisar,gesturing with her left hand to demonstrate ahigher power’s path.

BY KARIE LUCFor Sun-Times Media

Lori Komisar and Stu Nitzkin

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Israel SportCenterfor theDisabled raisesspirits andchanges lives


“That’s how I feel about the center,” saidKomisar. “For me, it’s totally emotion.”

Nitzkin, known as Stu to colleagues, isproud of the ISCD, located in Ramat Gan,Israel.

“We head up the American Friends of theIsrael Sport Center for the Disabled,” he said.“Our responsibility is to raise as much moneyas possible to help the 3,000 kids who gothrough the center each year.”

“Of those 3,000 kids, some have beenborn with a disability, a congenital disabilitylike spina bifida or cerebral palsy; some havecome to us via accidents or a terror attack,loss of limb or they’re paralyzed,” Nitzkin said.

The ISCD staff includes occupational thera-pists and social workers.

“The beauty of what they really do is theytake these kids, and they don’t just physicallyrehabilitate them, but it’s the mental rehabilita-tion,” Nitzkin said. “It’s giving them some life,giving them the chance to succeed in theirlife, to make something of themselves and tocontribute back to the society at large whichis really special and unique.”

The ISCD opened in 1960, and it usessports such as basketball to boost staminaand confidence.

“We like to say the center is performingmiracles every day, it’s incredible,” Nitzkinsaid.

One teenager — Caroline Tabib of Israel— travels around the world as a table tennischampion and future Paralympic contender.

“What we do at the center builds a nationbecause, if you think about it, disability islooked at, in most places, as almost conta-gious,” Komisar said. “You know: you can’t gettoo close to it; it might rub off on you.You don’tknow what to do; the people are different. But,at the center, everybody is the same.”

Children served often come of age whilebeing mentored by the ISCD. Tabib, who has

Eye on the ball: At the American Friends of theIsrael Sport Center for the Chicago Golf Classicat Twin Orchard Country Club in Long Groveon July 15, Morrie Silverman and Lori Komisarhosted internationally ranked table tennis ath-lete Caroline Tabib of Israel. Tabib was born withspina bifida. | KARIE LUC ~ FOR SUN-TIMES MEDIA

SEE ISRAEL, PAGE 6

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a spinal condition, started herISCD journey as a 3-year-old.

“She’s never been out of awheelchair. She sits very tall, hasa face that lights up the room andreally feels like she’s lucky,” saidKomisar, of Tabib who is becom-ing a young adult.

Nitzkin believes all familieswith children turning the age of13 can celebrate globally. Thewebsite — www.fiscd.org — fea-tures a Mitzvah Project option.

North Shore families haveused bar/bat mitzvah parties toraise money for the ISCD. Some

have gone as far as stagingseparate fundraisers such asbasketball shoot-out tourna-ments.

“What I think a huge draw to alot of these kids is they’re helpingkids their age,” said Nitzkin, whosays the AFISCD makes the bar/bat mitzvah charity process easy.“They can relate really well. That,‘Wow, there’s someone just likeme in Israel who’s in a wheel-chair, that I can help.’”

“It’s some very cool stuff,”Nitzkin said. “I love knowing thatwe’re helping to make a differ-

ISRAEL | CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5

Ping-pong: Internationally ranked table tennis athlete Caroline Tabib ofIsrael is officially included in the Israeli National Paralympic Team that willcompete in the Rio 2016 Olympic Games. Tabib was born with spina bifida.She has been a member of The Israel Sport Center for the Disabled sinceearly childhood. | KARIE LUC ~ FOR SUN-TIMES MEDIA

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Play sports: Left: Lori Komisar (right) of Winnetka is a philanthropistand longtime supporter of the Israel Sport Center for the Disabled. StuNitzkin (left) of Highland Park is its national director. Below: Komisar,national president of the American Friends of the Israel Sport Centerfor the Disabled smiles with her kids (from left: Miriam, 22; Komisar;Randi, 22; and Davey, 18). | KARIE LUC ~ FOR SUN-TIMES MEDIA

ence in the world.”Komisar summed it up with

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Sabrina Morris learned earlyon what it felt like to giveback. This year, for her

birthday, she wanted to spreadthat feeling around. The Glencoe12-year-old and her family havebeen very involved in fundraising,in particular for the cause of cur-ing and controlling cystic fibrosis,an ailment that Sabrina and her14-year-old sister, Sophie, share.Each August, their father, David,runs an event where the sistersspeak about how cystic fibrosishas affected their lives and howthe Cystic Fibrosis Foundationis moving forward to find a cure.The entire Morris family, includingmother, Jamie, and sister, Amelia,have seen the effects of philan-thropy and do what they can tomake their marks.

This year, instead of having aparty for her bat mitzvah, Sabrinaand her family launched a full dayof projects to give back to oneChicago Public School. On Oct. 5,a crew of about 100 Glencoe kidsand 20 teenagers and adults wentto work under the leadership ofChicago Cares to work on variousprojects to help beautify Belmont-Cragin Elementary School. Dueto CPS cutbacks, the group ofK-8 kids moved to co-locate withNorthwest middle school, intotheir current shared building,which was lacking certain things.

“The idea was Sabrina’s,” saidher mother. “She wanted to takethe mitzvah, a worthy deed, anddo something meaningful along-side her friends.”

The result was a thought-ful, hands-on group project thatallowed the children involved tosee what their hard work couldaccomplish. The focus of the work

was based upon the needs of theschool, which included buildingbenches, cubbies and planters aswell as a plywood mural reading“Welcome to Belmont-Cragin.”

BY TERRA COONEYFor Sun-Times Media

Sabrina Morris

Just keep digging: This year, instead of having a party for her bat mitzvah, Sabrina and her family, under the leadership ofChicago Cares, worked on various projects to help beautify Belmont-Cragin Elementary School. | SUPPLIED PHOTO

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Mosaics and landscaping werealso among the top things on theschool’s wish list.

“We hope the kids walkedaway proud of their efforts andthat maybe they make a com-mitment to continue the cycle,”Jamie said.

Sabrina has always wanted toinitiate ways to give back to thedoctors and organizations thathelp her and her sister. In tryingto stay busy during sick timespent at home, she started herown business making braceletsfor kids like her who were goingin for hospitalization. The jewelrystarted selling by word-of-mouthbefore she started a website(www.breathejewelry.org) to sellthe bracelets. All proceeds go tothe Cystic Fibrosis Foundation orThe Cystic Fibrosis Institute.

“Cystic Fibrosis is what hasmade [my kids] the strong,independent people they aretoday,” said Jamie. “For Sabrina,[Breathe Jewelry] is a way toembrace her disease and be apart of raising awareness.”

A little help from my friends: “Theidea was Sabrina’s,” said her mother,Jamie Morris. “She wanted to takethe mitzvah, a worthy deed, and dosomething meaningful alongside herfriends.” | SUPPLIED PHOTO

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R ick Glickman tries everyday to be a mensch andlive a life of mitzvah. That’s

not easy, he said.“It takes a lifetime, but you’re

working on yourself every day,”said Glickman.

Glickman, president of theNorthbrook-based DreamKitchens, Inc., which specializesin kosher kitchen design, said helearned that from his father, anOrthodox rabbi.

Perhaps the most well knownof Glickman’s mitzvahs is the wayhe helps travelers to Israel. Forthe last few years, Dream Kitch-ens has been the only pickuplocation in Illinois for phonesrented through Israel Phones, acompany that lends cell phones

to people visiting Israel.“It used to be the only way to

get a rental phone was to rentone from NewYork,” he said.

Glickman said he is happyto help make the trip easier forpeople traveling to Israel andto also save them some money.He said renting a phone is farcheaper than paying Americancarriers’ international rates.

“It’s dollars per minute versuspennies per minute,” he said.“We have 60 phones in stockat any given moment. It’s amitzvah.”

Glickman said he grew up in

small towns without many Ortho-dox Jews and said he sometimesstood out from the crowd.

“I was the only yarmulke in myhigh school,” he said with a slightlaugh. “It really was a great op-portunity to be an example.”

Earlier this year, the SkokieCommunity Kollel, a Jewisheducation center, honored Glick-man with the Torah V’AvodahAward. In his speech introducingGlickman, Rabbi KalmanWorchsaid the perfect word to describeGlickman is the word “mensch.”

Glickman said that while hislife of mitzvah may manifest itselfin the form of allowing his com-pany to be used as a pickup lo-cation for Israel Phones, he reallywants to be known as someonewho does mitzvahs every day.

“You’ve got to be a mensch allday long,” he said. “It starts whenyou get up and ends when yougo to bed.”

BY BILL MAYEROFFFor Sun-Times Media

Local businessmandoinggoodabroad‘You’ve got to bea mensch all daylong... It starts whenyou get up and endswhen you go to bed.’RICH GLICKMAN, DreamKitchens, Inc.

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Phone home: Rick Glickman’s DreamKitchens is the only local pickup loca-tion for phones rented through IsraelPhones, which lends phones to travel-ers going to Israel. | SUPPLIED PHOTO

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AndyVass sees the key to improv-ing a fragmented society resting inone object: the computer. The retail

wholesaler-turned insurance broker realizedit in the early 1980s when the economy wason the brink of change and then again in 1996when the Internet world turned on its head.Way before smartphones and Google,Vassrecognized a divide.

The core family might come out fine. Thebroken families, the impoverished, the under-served?

“Technology could be wonderful forhumans on the planet or terrible,” he said. “Itmay separate people rather than bring themtogether.”

Technology for Humanity — a charityspearheaded byVass that he runs out of

his Northbrook home office — is his effortto bridge that digital gap with gently usedcomputers, monitors, keyboards and printers.He collects five- to seven-year-old equipmentfrom companies refurbishing their collectionand adorns schools and computer labs most inneed. He focuses on minority groups, seniors,veterans and people with disabilities.

Vass said the desire to do good is tied to hisupbringing. He was raised a Reform Jew andnow attends a Glencoe congregation wheresocial action is always stressed. His parentswere both Holocaust survivors from Hungary,his father placed in Mauthausen and mother inAuschwitz.

“People like me, the next generation ofsurvivors …The need to fix things is there,” hesaid. “The progress of humanity: it’s always twosteps forward, one step back.”

It took time for the charity to catch on. Now,the pipeline has been cracked open enoughon both ends where businesses looking todonate computers reach out toVass, and thosecoming up short are aware of a resource. Re-

cently, in the span of two weeks, a Bronzevillecomputer lab received 15 computers andanother 15 found a home in a north sideChicago school where kids —many of whomwere special needs — hailed from all parts ofthe globe.

Dry spells still crop up where two weekscan pass without the exchange of a singlecomputer.

“We need ten times the computers wecan get,” saidVass, who wants to figure out asteadier monthly stream. “The bottom line isif a kid comes out of high school today anddoesn’t have a computer or know how to useone, they’re screwed. But we’re also screwed.”

If your company or organization is lookingto donate equipment or would like to place arequest to receive some, contactVass at [email protected], call (847) 909-7500 or visit www.technologyforhumanity.org.

BY JESSICA NIKOLICHFor Sun-Times Media

Andy Vass

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Spread the love: Technology for Humanity, spear-headed by Andy Vass, collects gently used computers,keyboards and printers and gives them to organiza-tions and people in need. | SUPPLIED PHOTO

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There were only two categories: 1) aband with a band leader, or 2) a DJservice (complete with a DJ, 2 turntablesand a microphone). After years ofstagnant outdated options, the Chicagoentertainment industry saw some muchneeded changes.

The early 1990’s brought the NewYork model to Chicago. This new formattransformed the DJ into a charismaticMaster of Ceremonies that acted asequal parts hype man, dance leader andprogram director on the floor. The DJwas then free to focus on delivering the

best beats for the party. Dancers wereadded to the mix to add to the hype,along with staging and nightclub lighting.Over time, iconic shtick was added: LineDances (remember the original electricslide and the Macarena?), costuming(who could forget the sombrero for “HotHot Hot" and Rumba sleeves for Latindance sets) and party favors (think bigglasses, hats and maracas). This newformat was interactive, designed as acatalyst to get the audience up anddancing.

Personalities Inc., a Northbrook

based interactive entertainment group,founded in 1995, was at the epicenter ofChicago’s entertainment transformation.Since the mid-1990’s Personalities hasadded its own stylings and innovations toChicago’s interactive entertainmentbusiness. Lou Loiben, founder and DJ/MC of Personalities, has seen it all. Forover twenty years, Loiben has broughthis own innovative approach to parties.Blending the perfect balance of energy,humor and warmth to his events (all thewhile staying on top of new trends, andcreating his own).

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Loiben has worked in diverseenvironments, big and small.He has worked with huge musical actssuch as Journey at Chicago’s Navy Pier,and One Direction at a live Good MorningAmerica interview in front of 5,000screaming fans. Throughout his career,Loiben has a passion in performing for alltypes of audiences: “No matter the party,big or small, I am always in the momentand reacting to the guest’s energy. I rollwith the punches to deliver the bestentertainment I can.”

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Enter the creative mind ofPersonalities newest partner,Entertainment Specialist CJ Koenig.Working with elite consultants from Miamito LA (including Larissa Goldenberg,whose budgets range anywhere from fivethousand to over a million dollars). CJ,along with Wizz Kid were booked as anentertainment duo for 25,000 concertgoersat Milwaukee’s annual Summerfestcelebration this past summer. It is nosurprise that the entertainment industry ischanging once again. The newest trend inChicago’s interactive entertainment sceneis having radio station DJ's and MC's forprivate events. This concept doesn’talways translate smoothly, however,because this type of DJ doesn’t alwaysknow how to orchestrate a party in aninteractive style. Staying on the cusp ofchange, Personalities found a solution.

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Loiben’s experience speaksvolumes to the ever changingworld of entertainment. “I’ve beenin the business for over 20 yearslearning every aspect of eventproduction. From concept throughcompletion. In this ever changingindustry, learning never stops. I lovethat every day I go to work and learnsomething new while collaborating withthe most talented artists around.”

CJ KOENIGENTERTAINMENT SPECIALIST

Hailing from New York City, CJ isone of the original architects ofthe interactive entertainmentconcepts. CJ has built successfuldance studios in the North Shore,modeled and acted in Los Angeles, andwas featured in Platinum Weddings onthe WE Network. Over the last severalyears CJ has traveled the countryproducing award winning corporateshows and private events.

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Wizz Kid is one of the mostsought after party DJ’s in thecountry. Not only does Wizz Kid havea deep knowledge of all musicalformats and styles, but his skills as aturntablist are unsurpassed. Loibenstates that “having a music producer onWalter’s level, in-house, is an invaluableasset. From designing the perfectFlash Mob mix (and after party-set) forthe Purple Reign Show at The ChicagoTheater, to all the custom proprietaryaudio and video tracks he creates forour events, Wizz Kid gives us anadvantage over our competitors.”


Karie Luc is in Northbrook with JulieNewman of the National Council of JewishWomen Chicago North Shore Section.

As membership and programmingdirector for the National Councilof JewishWomen Chicago North

Shore Section inWilmette, Julie New-man is used to putting others first.

This includes her dog, Gizmo, aplush pup of a cockapoo who accom-panied Newman to the interview on acrisp, fresh air day at Northbrook Vil-lage Green Park. There, Newman spokeof family, fellowship and the NCJW, anational organization.

“It’s a progressive advocacy group,”said Newman, as Gizmo seemedcontent resting on the grass. “Our mis-

sion is to improve the lives of children,women and families by safeguardingindividual rights and freedoms.”

The NCJW offers many programswith an advocacy goal. The three priori-ties this year are immigration reform,gun violence prevention/legislation andreproductive justice.

“We are involved in trying to end hu-man trafficking, a big national initiativethis year as well,” Newman said. “It is ahorrendous, worldwide issue.”

Affordable, accessible health care isanother priority, including independentand fair judiciary practices.

“It’s a phenomenal group of people,and we’re all just working toward thesame causes and issues that we feel areimportant,” Newman said.

Volunteerism is a big piece. All agesare encouraged to participate whereappropriate. Children entering thebar/bat mitzvah age are welcome tovolunteer their time and/or select NCJWmissives as mitzvah projects.

BY KARIE LUCFor Sun-Times Media

Advocacy: Julie Newman is membership and programming diretor for NCJW, the National Council of Jewish Women Chicago North Shore Section. The organization’sthree priorities this year are immigration reform, gun violence prevention/legislation and reproductive justice. | KARIE LUC ~ FOR SUN-TIMES MEDIA

NationalCouncilof JewishWomen

strives for socialjustice and turns

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Julie Newman

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“They’re really just at the beginning oftheir journey,” said Newman, of the comingof age years. “It’s really the idea of helpingothers.”

“A big message in Judaism is ‘TukkumOlan,’ which is repairing the world, and it’sjust about performing mitzvah and helpingothers,” Newman said.

Newman and her husband, Brent, haveone son, Daniel.

Teens are encouraged to volunteer at theorganization’s Encore & More thrift shop at1107 Central Ave. inWilmette.

“Teens could absolutely help merchan-dise in the shop,” Newman said. “We alwaysneed help so that would be a great project.”

A Highland Park childcare facility might

appeal to teens that enjoy working withchildren.

In October, the organization holds anannual project, which literally touches thehands of parents and children in crisis, calledLuggage for Freedom Pack and DeliveryDay.

“We pack and deliver backpacks andluggage to mothers and children filled withnecessities to start out their new lives uponleaving domestic violence shelters,” New-man said.

As a mitzvah project, this domestic shelterinitiative has year-round need. Suitcases andbackpacks always need new linens, toilet-ries, school supplies and other preferreditems appealing to children and parents.

Placing an empty backpack or smallsuitcase in the center of a table at a bar orbat mitzvah celebration would be a stunningcenterpiece, said Newman.

“People who are leaving these sheltersreally have just gone through unbelievabletrauma,” said Newman. “We hope that havingthem leave with a suitcase, in lieu of a plasticbag, with their belongings gives them asense of dignity.”

“So that would be a great project for a baror bat mitzvah child and their family to par-ticipate in or to donate,” she continued. “It’sthe idea that you could transform people’slives.”

Call (847) 853-8889. Email [email protected] ncjwcns.org.

“People who are leaving these shelters really have just gonethrough unbelievable trauma. And we hope that having them

leave with a suitcase in lieu of a plastic bag with theirbelongings gives them a sense of dignity.”

JULIE NEWMAN, National Council of Jewish Women Chicago North Shore Section

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Peanut, Tree Nut & Gluten FreePopcorn and Fudge!

Open 7-days a weekFamily Owned & Operated

Popcorn Party BarRetro Candy, Hostess Trays, Tins,

Party Favors for every Theme & Occasion

464 Central AvenueHighland Park, IL 60035

847-433-4200www.highlandpop.com


GOOD DEEDS DIRECTORYA L’Amour Bridal236W. Northwest Hwy.Barrington, IL 60010(847) 381-5858www.alamour.comA L’amour is a premier bridal salonfeaturing an exquisite collection ofdresses for every special occasion. Theonce-in-a-lifetime experience of findingthe dress of your dreams should go hand-in-hand with a boutique that surroundsyou with beautiful selections, knowledge-able assistance and trained consultantswho truly love what they do. Service is AL’Amour’s promise and pleasure.Category: Retail

Bella Via Ristorante1899 Second St.Highland Park, IL 60035(847) 681-830www.bellaviahighlandpark.comBella Via offers delicious Italian foodand exceptional service, combined withbeautiful rustic private rooms. The staffwill tailor specific menus to meet yourneeds, whether it is for a bar/bat mitzvah,a wedding or special occasion.Category: Banquet Hall & Restaurant

Castle Entertainment Complex632 N. Dearborn St.Chicago, IL 60654(312) 266-1944Chicago’s premier destination for bar/bat mitzvahs. Craft Pub/Eatery/Cabaret/Nightclub.Category: Party Fun & Favors

Dairy Queen2770 Dundee Rd.Northbrook, IL 60062(847) 498-2571Order a famous Blizzard for your sweettable or create a make your-own-sundaebar with nine topping options. DairyQueen caters! Call for a custom order oremail [email protected]: Cakes & Pastries

Etch U Productions(310) [email protected] in custom party favors, event

entertainment, live music and preservedEtch-A-Sketch portraits by the World’sFastest Etch A Sketch. Artist: ChristophBrown, The Amazing Etch Man.Category: Party Fun & Favors

Fancy Thattt(847) 680-3210www.fancythattt.comCustom centerpiece design for bar/batmitzvahs, corporate events, theme par-ties, holiday parties andmore.Category: Party Fun & Favors

Get Flipped! Chicago3328 Commercial Ave.Northbrook, IL 60062(847) GETFLIPED or (847) 272-7865www.getflippedchicago.comGet Flipped! Chicago provides pho-tographic entertainment for bar/batmitzvahs, corporate events, weddings,proms, birthdays andmore. Anyone canget flipped! Standing in front of a greenscreen, guests strike a pose for twodistinct pictures. The wackier, the better!In minutes, they receive animated Flip-Cards, which are two photos in one.Category: Party Fun & Favors

Guys & Co.827Waukegan Rd.Deerfield, IL 60015(847) 940-4897www.guysandco.comThe largest selection of boys and youngmen’s dress wear in the North Shore for allspecial occasions (mitzvahs, commu-nions, graduations, Homecoming) as wellas cool lifestyle clothing. Everyday trendsthat your guys love to wear in T-shirts,sweatshirts, track pants and jeans. Boysizes 4-22 in dress wear and 8-20 incasual apparel. Youngmen’s sizes 28-40.Category: Retail

Highland ParkCommunity House1991 Sheridan Rd.Highland Park, IL 60035(847) 432-1515www.highlandparkcommunityhouse.orgCategory: Banquet Hall & Restaurant

Highland Pop464 Central Ave.Highland Park, IL 60035(847) 433-4200www.highlandpop.comHighland Pop gourmet popcorn andfudge is family owned and operated. Thedelicious gourmet fudge and popcorn ismade fresh daily. All recipes are nut andgluten free. Check out the adorable giftpackaging. Place your order for a custompopcorn bar for your next event.Category: Confections

Hilton Chicago Northbrook& Allgauer’s on the Riverfront2855 N. Milwaukee Ave.Northbrook, IL 60062(847) 509-7010 or (847) 480-7500www.northbrookallgauers.comThe ideal location for all of your Simchas.Hilton provides superior service, a beauti-ful setting and extraordinary amenities.Your event will be customized to showcaseyour personal style.Category: Banquet Hall & Restaurant

Jeff Kovit Video Productions(847) 624-3752www.jeffkovitvideo.comProfessional quality video of bar/batmitzvahs, weddings and special events ataffordable pricing. Fully edited.Category: Video

Jewish Community Centerof Chicago5050 Church St.Skokie, IL 60077(847) 675-2200www.gojcc.orgDedicated to ensuring a strong andvibrant Jewish community. Througheducation, recreational and cultural activ-ities, JCC enriches the lives of individuals,families and communities.Category: Social & Educational Programs

Jewish United Fund/Jewish Federation ofMetropolitan ChicagoBen Gurion Way30 S. Wells St.

Chicago, IL 60606(312) 346-6700www.juf.orgThe organization funds a vital network ofagencies that act upon core Jewish val-ues, including caring for people in needand sustaining the Jewish community.Category: Social & Educational Programs

Judith Joseph Studio1215Wendy Dr.Northbrook, IL 60062(847) 204-4043www.judithjosephstudio.comArt and calligraphy for weddings(ketubahs) and bar/bat mitzvahs. Invita-tion design; personalized kiddush cups,candle-sticks and hallah covers.Category: Invitations

KESHETA Rainbow of Hope for Individualswith Special Needs3210 Dundee Rd.Northbrook, IL 60062(847) 205-0274The Sandy and Glenda MasonKeshet Administrative Office617 Landwehr Rd.Northbrook, IL 60062(847) 205-1234www.keshet.orgPremier provider of educational, recre-ational, vocational and social programsfor individuals with intellectual anddevelopmental disabilities. Operatingaccording to traditional Jewish values.Category: Social & Educational Programs

Marcello’s Father & SonRestaurantsNorthbrook:1911 Cherry Ln.Northbrook, IL 60062Catering Office: (847) 201-3100Restaurant: (847) 498-1500Lincoln Park:645W. North Ave.Chicago, IL 60610Bakery: (312) 654-2576Catering Office: (312) 654-2550Restaurant: (312) 654-2550Logan Square:2475 N. Milwaukee Ave.

Local businesses help create your ideal mitzvah celebration

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Chicago, IL 60647Restaurant: (773) 252-2620www.marcellos.comThree restaurants, party rooms, anonsite-bakery and a full service off-premises catering and event team offerflavor, convenience, value and options.Category: Banquet Hall & Restaurant

North Suburban YMCA2705 Techny Rd.Northbrook, IL 60062(847) 272-7250www.nsymca.orgThe NSYMCA offers a unique celebrationfor your guests. Parties can accommo-date special requests including rental ofthe indoor pool, gymnasium or x-zone.Category: Party Fun & Favors

ORT AmericaThe Claire and Bob Mazer FamilyMetropolitan Chicago Region Office3701 Commercial Ave., Ste. 13Northbrook, IL 60062(847) 291-0475www. ortchicago.orgJewish organization committed tostrengthening communities against allodds and obstacles.Category: Social & EducationalPrograms

Personalities, Inc.3328 Commercial Ave.Northbrook, IL 60062(847) A-PARTY-2 or (847) 272-7892www.personalitiesinc.comPersonalities offers DJs, MCs and danc-ers that utilize a fusion of audio andvideo technology along with interactiveconcepts for special events: mitzvahs,weddings, corporate events, birthdaysandmore. Personalities also featuresroom up-lighting, custom backdrops andstaging configurations, personalized CDgiveaways, karaoke, game shows andcorporate teambuilding.Category: Party Fun & Favors

Pinstripes, Inc.Northbrook: (847) 480-7676South Barrington: (847) 844-4810Oak Brook: (630) 575-8744Edina, MN: (952) 835-6437Coming soon: Georgetown, D.C.:(202) 625-2800www.pinstripes.comA distinctive entertainment and eventvenue. Celebrate sophisticated fun inits warm and inviting 45,000-square-

foot indoor/outdoor facility. Completewith 18 bowling lanes, six bocce courts,exceptional Italian-American bistro andwine cellar. Outdoor patio/fireplace andbeautifully appointed event/party roomsthat can accommodate 20-600.Category: Banquet Hall & Restaurant

Robin Elliott’s SpecialOccasions6740W. Dempster St.Morton Grove, IL 60053(847) 470-9400www. robinelliottofchicago.comWomens store featuring ladies formalwear, wedding attire, prom and bridedresses and beauty pageant gowns.Category: Retail

Stationery Station610 Central Ave.Highland Park, IL 60035www.stationerystation.com(847) 432-3044For more than 36 years, StationeryStation has offered a huge selection ofinvitations, stationery, gifts, party goods,wrap, ribbons andmore. Its ongoingpledge is to inspire dedication, creativityand a desire to exceed your expectations.Category: Invitations

Teddie Kossof salonspa281Waukegan Rd.Northfield, IL 60093(847) 446-9526www.teddiekossof.comTeddie Kossof supports nonprofit orga-nizations locally and nationwide. Visitwww.teddiekossof.requestitem.com formore information.Category: Salon

The Amazing Bottle Dancers(800) 716-0556www.bottledancers.comAdd a touch of tradition and excitementto your b’nai mitzvah or wedding.Category:Music & Entertainment

The Bank Band(847) [email protected] of the best party and dance bandson the North Shore. The Bank Band playsconcerts, parties and special events.Friend the band on Facebook.Category:Music & Entertainment

GOODDEEDS

DIRECTORY

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23rd AnnualORT Party Planning Showcase

Sunday, January 26, 2014 10:30AM-3:30PMLincolnshire Marriott Resort

FEATURING OVER 100 PARTY PLANNING PROFESSIONALSOpen to the public ♦ Exhibitor contract deadline 12/27/2013

METROPOLITAN CHICAGO REGIONORTchicago.orgfacebook.com/ORTAmericaChicago

ORT America is a Jewish organizationcommitted to strengthening communities throughout the world

by educating people against all odds and obstacles.

Call (847) 291.0475 for more information.

A L’Amour has an amazingcollection of stunning dresses for Bat Mitzvah!

You will LOVE the newest looks from

Sherri Hill and our other top designers!

236 W. Northwest Hwy, Barrington847-381-5858

Closed Tuesdays and Sundays

Check www.alamour.com for a map,directions, hours & events.

If you have a passion for fashion,you will love what you find.

Fall in Lovewith Fabulous

A L’Amour....Dressing Dreams

for 23 Years!

Let us WOW you with our selection for bothMothers and Daughters as you prepare to

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A Safe Place provides shelter, courtadvocacy, referrals and counseling pro-grams for victims of domestic violence.(Children, Domestic Violence, Housingand Shelter, Women) www.asafeplace-forhelp.org, 847-249-5147.

Advocate Lutheran General Hospital isa 617-bed teaching, research and refer-ral hospital and a Level 1 trauma center.It is home to Advocate Lutheran GeneralChildren’s Hospital, the only children’shospital in the greater north and north-west suburban region. (Adults, Children,Health, People with Special Needs) www.advocatehealth.com/luth/about/commu-nity/volunteer, 847-723-6105.

American Cancer Society (ACS) islooking for volunteers to drive cancerpatients to their chemotherapy andradiation appointments. The ACS is

also seeking cancer survivors to providesupport to those currently facing adiagnosis. (Adults, Health, People withSpecial Needs) www.cancer.org, 847-328-5147.

American Jewish World Service (AJWS)alleviates poverty, hunger and diseaseamong the people regardless of race,religion or nationality. (Health, Housingand Shelter, Nourishment, Poverty) www.ajws.org, 800-889-7146.

American Joint Distribution Commit-tee (JDC) serves as the overseas armof the American-Jewish community. JDCsponsors programs of relief, rescue andrenewal and helps Israel address its ur-gent social challenges. JDC is committedto the idea that all Jews are responsiblefor one another. (Israel and Other JewishCommunities Abroad) www.jdc.org.

ARK provides opportunities for Jews tovolunteer and perform mitzvahs (gooddeeds). ARK delivers medical, socialwelfare, legal and similar human ser-vices in the spirit of tzedakah (charitableacts) and chesed (loving-kindness).(Adult, Children, Community Resources,Elderly, Families, Health, Housing andShelter, Jewish Community in Chicago,Nourishment) www.arkchicago.org,773-943-1000.

CASA (National Court Appointed Spe-cial Advocate Association) supportsand promotes court-appointed volunteeradvocacy for abused and neglectedchildren so that they can thrive in safe,permanent homes. (Children) www.nationalcasa.org, 847-808-9154.

Cancer Wellness Center providesfree supportive services and health

information for people diagnosed withcancer and their loved ones. (Adults,Community Resources, Families, Health,People with Special Needs) www.cancer-wellness.org, 847-509-9595.

CENTER for Enriched Living servespeople with developmental disabilitiesor special needs. (Young Adults, Peoplewith Special Needs, Recreation) www.centerforenrichedliving.org, 847-948-7001.

Chai Lifeline offers comprehensiveservices to address the needs of childrensuffering from serious illness and theirfamilies. (Children, Health, Jewish Com-munity in Chicago) www.chailifeline.org/midwest, 847-763-1818.

Chicago Action for Jews in theFormer Soviet Union is dedicated to the

Repairing the world one good deed at a timeVOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

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2855 N. Milwaukee AvenueNorthbrook, IL 60062

847.509.7010 | northbrookallgauers.com

BOOK YOUR EVENT BY DECEMBER 31, 2013 AND RECIEVE A FREE IPAD!

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sustenance and security of the Jews inthe third largest Jewish community inthe world. (Israel and other Jewish Com-munities Abroad) www.chicagoaction.org, 847-433-0144.

Chicago Botanic Gardens promotesthe enjoyment, understanding andconservation of plants and the naturalworld. Volunteers monitor butterflies,plant annuals and help in classroomsand the Café. (Environment)www.chicagoaction.org, 847-433-0144.

Chicago Christian Industrial Leagueprovides clothing, shelter, counsel-ing, training, life skills and affordablehousing opportunities for the homeless.(Adults, Children, Housing and Shelter)www.ccilworks.org, 312-421-0588.

Chicago Lighthouse for PeopleWho Are Blind or Visually Impairedprovides education, clinical vocationaland rehabilitative services for children,youth and adults who are blind or visu-ally impaired including deaf-blind andmulti-disabled. (People with SpecialNeeds) www.thechicagolighthouse.org,312-666-1331.

Chicago Public Library’s Talk-ing Book Center (TBC) providesChicago residents with visual orphysical impairments a free libraryprogram for the Library of Congress,National Library Service for the Blindand Physically Handicapped. The TBCprovides specially designed equipmentto residents who are unable or havedifficulty reading standard print materi-als. (People with Special Needs) www.chipublib.org/003cpl/irlbph/cpltbc.html,312-747-4001.

Children’s Memorial Hospital isIllinois’s only freestanding hospitalexclusively for kids. Volunteer opportuni-ties are available in many programs.(Children, Health, People with SpecialNeeds) www.childrensmemorial.org,773-880-4000.

Children’s Research Triangle (CRT)improves life for children with specialneeds or those who are at risk fordevelopmental, behavioral, psychologi-cal or educational problems. In additionto clinical services, Camp SOAR (Special

Outdoor Adaptive Recreation) is a week-long overnight camp for children withextensive cognitive or physical specialneeds, including those who require totalcare. (Children, People with SpecialNeeds, Recreation) www.childstudy.org,312-726-4011.

Coalition on the Environment andJewish Life (COEJL) helps Jews makea connection between Judaism and theenvironment. (Environment) www.coejl.org, 212-532-7436.

Council for Jewish Elderly (CJE),through its commitment to Jewishcommunal values, provides community-based and residential programs andservices for older adults and their fami-lies. (Community Resources, Elderly,Health, Housing and Shelter, JewishCommunity in Chicago, Recreation)www.cje.net, 847-929-3064.

Direct Relief International providesmedical assistance to improve life forpeople victimized by poverty, disasterand civil unrest at home and throughoutthe world. (Health) www.directrelief.org,805-964-4767.

Doctors Without Borders/MédecinsSans Frontières (MSF) deliversemergency aid to people affected byarmed conflict, epidemics, natural orman-made disasters or exclusion fromhealth care in more than 70 countries.(Health) www.doctorswithoutborders.org, 212-679-6800.

Emily Dorfman Foundation for Chil-dren raises fund to support those whowill find cures and provide needed sup-portive services for seriously ill children.Miles for Smiles is its annual fundraiser.(Children, Health) www.emilydorfman.org/miles, 847-291-3690.

Ezra Multi-Service Center secures re-sources that keep community residentsfrom falling through the cracks andpromotes active participation in com-munity affairs through linkages to otherorganizations. (Adults, Community Re-sources, Families, Nourishment, Poverty)www.ezramsc.org, 773-275-0866.

Friedman Place provides housingand supportive services to people who

are blind or visually impaired so thattheir lives can be healthy, dignifiedand stimulating. (Housing and Shelter,People with Special Needs) www.friedmanplace.org/home.shtml, 773-989-9800.

Ginkgo Organic Gardens grows, usingorganic methods, approximately 1,000pounds of vegetables, herbs, fruit andflowers each year and donates them toUptown-area nonprofit organizations.(Environment, Nourishment) www.ginkgogardens.org.

Glenview Terrace Nursing andRehabilitation Center offers compas-sionate skilled nursing, rehabilitative,Alzheimer’s and respite care. (Animals,Elderly, Health, Jewish Community inChicago) www.glenviewterrace.org,847-729-9090.

Greater Chicago Food Depository, afood distribution and training center,provides food for hungry people whilestriving to end hunger. (Nourishment,Poverty) www.chicagosfoodbank.org,773-247-3663.

Habitat for Humanity builds simple,decent, affordable housing for peoplein need. (Housing and Shelter) www.habitat.org, 847-623-1020.

Heifer International works with com-munities to end hunger and poverty aswell as to care for the earth. The goal ofevery Heifer project is sustainability andproject partners achieving self-reliance.People create an expanded network ofhope, dignity and self-reliance whenthey share their animals’ offspring—along with their knowledge, resourcesand skills—with others. (Animals,Families, Nourishment, Poverty) www.heifer.org, 800-422-0474.

Inspiration Corporation (theInspiration Café and the Living RoomCafé) helps people who affected byhomelessness and poverty to increaseself-sufficiency. (Community Resources,Nourishment) www.inspirationcorp.org,773-878-0981.

International Center on Deafness andthe Arts (ICODA) provides access toeducational resources and professional

arts opportunities to children who aredeaf and hard of hearing. (Arts, Chil-dren, People with Special Needs) www.icodaarts.org, 847-509-8260.

International Rescue Committeeserves refugees and communitiesvictimized by oppression or violentconflict worldwide. The IRC is commit-ted to freedom, human dignity and self-reliance. This commitment is expressedin emergency relief, protection ofhuman rights, post-conflict develop-ment, resettlement assistance andadvocacy. (Health, Housing and Shelter,Nourishment, Poverty) www.theirc.org,212-551-3000.

Jewish Big Sisters assistis Jewish girlsages 9-18 with special social needs.(Children, Recreation) www.jewishbig-sisters.org, 773-764-4759.

Jewish Child & Family Servicesoffers therapeutic, educational andpreventative programs and fosterspersonal growth and dignity in individu-als, couples and families. (Children,Community Resources, Families, Health,Housing and Shelter, Jewish Communityin Chicago, People with Special Needs)www.jcfs.org, 312-357-4800.

Jewish Council on Urban Affairs com-bats poverty, racism and anti-semitism.Guided by prophetic Jewish principles,JCUA pursues social and economicjustice by promoting a vision of empow-ering communities from within. (JewishCommunity in Chicago, Poverty) www.jcua.org, 312-663-0960.

Jewish Funds for Justice invests inhealthy neighborhoods, vibrant Jewishcommunities and skillful leaders. (Jew-ish Community) www.jewishjustice.org,212-213-2113.

JUF TOV: The Tikkun Olam Volunteer(TOV) Network places members of theJewish community with Jewish UnitedFund/Jewish Federation affiliated agen-cies and community service projects,in accordance with tikkun olam— theJewish concept of repairing the worldone good deed at a time. (Other) www.juf.org/tov, 312-357-4762.

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JUF Uptown Café is Chicago’s first ko-sher anti-huger program for the needy.In addition to providing hot meals in arestaurant-style setting, the programbrings dignity and hope to people inneed. (Nourishment) www.juf.org/tov/uptown_cafe.aspx, 773-275-0866.

Jewish Women International (JWI)finds and heals victims of abuse andbreak the cycle of violence in Jewishrelationships and homes. (Children,Domestic Violence, Women) www.jwi.org, 847-373-3535.

Kagan Home for the Blind provides ahome and therapy to the blind and vi-sually impaired citizens who are unableto live independently. (Elderly, Peoplewith Special Needs) www.kaganhome.org, 773-478-7040.

Kids Can Free the Children: To helpfree children from poverty and exploita-tion, Free The Children implementsfour specific Education for All Childrenprograms: education, alternative in-come, health care, water and sanitationand peace building. (Children, Health,Poverty) www.freethechildren.com,416-925-5894.

Lake County Forest Preserves pre-serves a dynamic and unique system ofdiverse natural and cultural resources.Every weekend, volunteers are neededfor land management, brush clean-ing, seed collection and planting,weed control, tree planting and otherprojects. (Environment) www.lcfpd.org,847-968-3329.

LifeSource, Chicagoland’s BloodCenter supplies blood and bloodproducts to 94 percent of Chicago’shospitals. (Health) www.lifesource.org,847-298-9660.

Make-A-Wish Foundation grants thewishes of children with life-threateningmedical conditions to enrich the humanexperience with hope, strength and joy.(Children, Families, Health, People withSpecial Needs) www.wish.org.

Maot Chitim of Greater Chicagosearches for the best and most reason-

ably priced Kosher products. Productsare packed and delivered at Pesachand Rosh Hashana. (Jewish Com-munity in Chicago, Nourishment) www.maotchitim.org, 847-674-3224.

NA’AMAT, Hebrew acronym for “Move-ment of Working Women and Volun-teers,” strives to enhance the qualityof life for women, children and familiesin Israel, the United States and aroundthe world. (Children, Israel and otherJewish Communities Abroad, JewishCommunity in Chicago, Women) www.naamat.org, 847-675-7275.

National Council of Jewish Women(NCJW) takes a progressive stance onissues such as child welfare, women’srights and reproductive freedom.(Children, Jewish Community inChicago, Women) www.ncjwcns.org,847-853-8889.

Night Ministry serves homeless,runaway youth, working poor adults,uninsured and underinsured individualsseeking medical assistance, childrenwho are unsupervised and need a placeto gather in safety and others who havefallen through the cracks. (Housing andShelter, Youth) www.thenightministry.org, 773-784-9000.

North American Conference on Ethi-opian Jewry (NACOEJ) was foundedwith four mandates: to help EthiopianJews survive in Ethiopia, to assist themin reaching Israel, to aid in their ab-sorption in Israel and to help preservetheir unique and ancient culture. (Israeland Other Jewish Communities Abroad)www.nacoej.org, 212-233-5200.

Northfield Township Food Pantry issustained entirely by local individu-als, community organizations, schoolsand churches that generously donatecanned food, food certificates and/orfunds. (Families, Nourishment) www.twp.northfield.il.us, 847-724-8300.

OneFamily provides direct financial, le-gal and emotional assistance to victimsof terrorism in Israel. (Israel and otherJewish Communities Abroad) www.onefamilyfund.org, 866-913-2645.

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You can help by teaming up with Keshet forthe following volunteer opportunities:

Sunday School, Buddy Baseball, Buddy Bowling,Special Olympics, or…give us a call,

hear what Keshet is all about, and we will work with youto create a unique project of your very own!

For more information, please call(847) 205-1234

or visit www.keshet.org

You can help by teaming up with KYou cacan he itup itup itup itwwamin Kupupte witin up wtete upamb itlp g ithte w hte upcacaca am itit

Keshet’s goal isto enable children

with disabilitiesto participate as

fully as possible inthe mainstream of

community life.

Keshet’s goal islsh ’sshshshet isgoag isl isKeshKesh

Looking fora SpecialMitzvahProject?


PADS of Lake County (Public Actionto Deliver Shelter and Supportive Ser-vices) provides emergency shelter, per-manent housing and services to thoseexperiencing homelessness. (Adults,Community Resource Center, Housingand Shelter, Nourishment) www.pads-crisis-services.org, 847-689-4357.

Palliative Care Center and HospiceCenter of the North Shore promotesindependence, wellness, comfort andquality of life for the ill, aging anddying. (Elderly, Health) www.carecenter.org, 847-467-7423.

Project Hamotzi, at Beth Emet Syna-gogue, combats hunger and poverty.Activities include a weekly soup kitchen,annual High Holy Day food drive, foodstamp application program, Council ofJewish Elderly Shabbat lunch and Inter-faith CROP Walk Against Hunger, as wellas educational workshops and advocacyprograms. (Nourishment, Poverty) www.bethemet.org, 847-869-4230.

Project Linus supplies handmadesecurity blankets to comfort children

who are critically ill, traumatized or oth-erwise in need. (Children, Health) www.orgsites.com/il/projectlinuschicago,847-498-3959.

Religious Action Center for ReformJudaism (RAC) educates and mobilizesthe American Jewish community on leg-islative and social concerns, advocatingon issues from economic justice tocivil rights to religious liberty to Israel.(Legal) www.rac.org, 202-387-2800.

Response Center’s supports adoles-cents and their families in the Jewishand general community by providingprevention, outreach, counseling andmedical services in a teen-friendlyenvironment. (Health, Youth) www.responsecenter.info/, 847-676-0078.

REST (Residents for Effective ShelterTransitions) provides safe, quality, per-manent and emergency housing optionsand supportive social services. (Adults,Community Resource Center, Housingand Shelter, Nourishment) www.restweb.org, 773-784-0909.

Ronald McDonald House is a tem-porary respite near a medical facilitywhere family members can sleep, eat,relax and find support. (Children,Health, Housing and Shelter, Nourish-ment) www.restweb.org, 773-784-0909.

Sarah’s Circle offers welcoming, saferefuge for women who are homelessor at risk of becoming homeless.(Nourishment, Community ResourceCenter, Women) www.sarahs-circle.org,773-728-1991.

Save-A-Pet is a no-kill animal shelterdedicated to finding loving, qualityhomes. (Animals) www.1-800-save-a-pet.com, 800-728-3273.

Shalva provides services to helpvictims and survivors of domesticabuse in the Jewish community. Free,confidential clinical services include24-hour help line, individual andgroup counseling, legal information,referral services and rabbinical courtsupport. (Domestic Violence, Women)773-583-4673.

Soles 4 Soul impacts lives with thegift of shoes. (Adults, Children, Poverty)www.soles4souls.org, 866-521-7463.

Special Olympics empowers indi-viduals with intellectual disabilities tobecome physically fit, productive andrespected members of society throughsports training and competition. (Chil-dren, People with Special needs, Sports)www.soill-org.secure05.anaxanet.com/index.php, 847-478-0935.

United Power for Action and Justiceprovides training and development op-portunities for the current and emerginggeneration of leaders. The organizationseeks to build power systematicallyand wield power effectively. This power— the ability to act— enables theinstitutions to operate with more impactand success with other power figuresand power institutions in the privateand public sectors. (Children, Health,Housing and Shelter) www.united-power.org.

SEE VOLUNTEER, PAGE 22

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Sweet Treatsfor your next event!

Order our “Famous Blizzards” for your dessert table or reallyimpress your guests with a “Make Your Own Sundae Bar”

including nine great toppings to choose from!

Call EDfor more information

847-498-25712770 Dundee Road

Northbrook, IL

t toppings to choose from!


West Deerfield Township operatesa year-round food pantry for needy resi-dents. (Families, Nourishment)www.westdeerfieldtownship.org/com-munity_services.htm, 847-945-0614.

WINGS (Women in Need growingStronger) helps homeless and abusedwomen and children by offering shelter,education, guidance and support.

(Children, Domestic Violence, Housingand Shelter, Women) www.wingspro-gram.com, 847-577-4668.

Women’s Residential Services (WRS)is a residential treatment program forchemically dependent women and theirchildren. Mothers and children livetogether and receive treatment jointlyfor the family disease of chemical

dependency. Individualized treatmentfocuses on two main areas: developinga chemical-free lifestyle and improvingparenting skills. (Children, Housingand Shelter, Women) www.co.lake.il.us/health/bhs/SubstanceAbuse/wrs.asp847-377-7950.

Yad Sarah, the largest voluntaryorganization in Israel, provides freeor nominal-cost services for sick,disabled and elderly people and theirfamilies. (Elderly, Health, Israel and

other Jewish Communities Abroad,People with Special Needs) www.yadsarah.org, 212-223-7758.

Youth Services of Glenview andNorthbrook promotes positive mentalhealth for young people by aiming atprevention and/or intervention in alltypes of environmental stress andjuvenile delinquency. (Youth) www.youthservices-gn.org, 847-724-2620.

Courtesy of www.bjbe.org/story/outside-volunteer

MAZ

ELTO

V

Founded in 1929 by civic and culturalleaders, namely Alice C. Riley, the Evan-

ston Art Center (EAC) has been supportingdiverse artists and enriching the communityfor more than 80 years, which makes it one ofthe oldest and most accessible art centers inIllinois. Beyond teaching, public lectures andart exhibition endeavors, the EAC, a nonprofitorganization located right on the lake at 2603Sheridan Road in Evanston, is also involved invarious outreach initiatives.

“Our ArtReach program served the com-munity at Evanston’s Family Focus for a num-ber of years,” said Norah Diedrich, executivedirector at Evanston Art Center.

Family Focus is an advocacy

organization that offers education, mentorship,social activities and support services to low-income families.

“Our community outreach is a priority,and the Evanston Art Center will continue toprovide high-level afterschool programs andvisiting artist opportunities,” said Diedrich.

Offering complimentary arts activities, theEAC participates in neighborhood events suchas: Ethnic Arts Fair, Fountain Square Arts Festi-val, Citizens for a Greener Evanston Weekendand a weekend-long celebration of street artsand hip-hop.

Recent programs where kids had the op-portunity to get involved include: High SchoolWeek, a program that allowed kids to buildtheir artistic portfolio in an intensive one-weekstudio experience at the end of the schoolyear, and Evanston Public Library Collabora-tion, a summer initiative that promoted visual

literacy and helped kids tobecome better readers.

“This past summerthe Evanston Art Centeroffered several newclasses for itsYouth ArtsCamp,” said Diedrich.“Classes like Mathemat-ics in Art, Toy Makingand Architecture wereover-subscribed. Theseclasses ran alongside theusual favorites of Gaming,Observational Drawingand Fashion Design. It wassuch a joy to visit theseclassrooms and observehow creative these young

artists are at such an early age, especiallyknowing that recent research tells us earlyexposure to the arts translates into a enjoyingthe arts as an adult.”

“Over the course of the Evanston Art Cen-ter’s history, many free programs and projectshave been provided to public schools andcommunity organizations throughout the com-munities we serve,” said Diedrich.

Needs-based scholarships are given toyouth each session. EAC allows free accessto all galleries and is open to the public everyday of the week. Arts administration intern-ships are also offered to kids through Evan-ston’sYouth Job Center-a career training, place-ment and support center for young adults.

Diedrich goes on to say that for many youngadults, the arts increase self-esteem, self-ex-pression and a feeling of accomplishment.

“Young creative minds are nourished andchallenged at the Evanston Art Center withclasses in various mediums taught by an ex-perienced faculty of teaching artists,” Diedrichsaid.

For more information on how to better theworld by making art a part of your life, visitwww.evanstonartcenter.org.

BY WENDY ALTSCHULERFor Sun-Times Media

Art education, communityconnection for youth throughtheEvanstonArtCenter

DYI art: ArtReach serves more than 500 children inthe after-school child care program. | SUPPLIED PHOTO

the Evanston Art Center the Evanston Art Center offered several new offered several new classes for itsYouth Arts classes for itsYouth Arts Camp,” said Diedrich.Camp,” said Diedrich.“Classes like Mathemat-“Classes like Mathemat-ics in Art, Toy Making ics in Art, Toy Making and Architecture were and Architecture were over-subscribed. These over-subscribed. These classes ran alongside the classes ran alongside the usual favorites of Gaming,usual favorites of Gaming,Observational Drawing Observational Drawing and Fashion Design. It was and Fashion Design. It was such a joy to visit these such a joy to visit these classrooms and observe classrooms and observe how creative these young how creative these young

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