While still in high school, this runner founded a 5K race to benefit Youth Services of Glenview/Northbrook.
Now in its seventh year, the race boasts over 500 runners/walkers and 100 volunteers each year, and has raised almost $100,000.
Garvey ran cross-country and track in high school, so in 2005 when she had an idea to create an event to benefit a local charity, naturally it was a 5K race.
“I thought the Glen would be a good location for a race,” says Jessica. So she mobilized friends and family to be on her committee. She met with Nancy Bloom, Executive Director of Youth Services, and once she got approval from the city for the 5K, the event took off.
“It’s a wonderful community event and not only provides much needed funding for Youth Services, but also brings a great awareness about the agency. Aside from the loyal participants and volunteers, we also have generous local sponsors who help us fund this terrific event each year,” says Jessica.
The money raised in previous years from the race went toward the building campaign for the agency’s permanent home at 3080 West Lake Ave. This year’s proceeds will go toward operations so that Youth Services of Glenview/Northbrook can continue to serve over 3,500 kids each year providing programs such as mentoring, counseling, crisis prevention and intervention, and after-school clubs.
Jessica just completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana, and will go back this August to begin a master’s degree in Accounting, but she’s still dedicated to this event in her hometown.
This year’s race is on Sunday, June 26. To register, become a sponsor, or learn more, go to youthmakeadifference.org
Stylists: Dee Brodlo, Amanda Wolfson and Jenna Wolke, Oak Street Design
Makeup: Nafissa Panahi; Hair: Stevie Harrington and Sadaf Hussain, Red Door Spas, Northbrook Court
Zipper front cardigan, $19.80, Dark gray legging, $14.50, Pink and cream striped dress, $15.50, Metallic lace-up shoes, $22.80, Teardrop bead knotted necklace, $7.80, Forever 21
