This month’s picks for people, places and things with which you can make a difference:
Give Time
Teen Mother Choices
Marathoners, triathletes and casual runners can join TEAM TMC, a new program that encourages runners to raise awareness and support for teen mothers and their children. Train with other athletes running for TMC and you also empower teenage mothers to become independent, functioning members of society while giving their children the best possible start by addressing their physical, emotional and spiritual needs.
To learn more, please contact TMC at 847-599-8135 or email info@teenmotherchoices.org.
International Center of Deafness and the Arts
Volunteer as an usher or costume and set designer, or offer to help with the box office, office administration or fundraising events. There is something for everyone who wants to get involved, have fun, and contribute to the artistic endeavors of deaf children. Volunteers choose the times, location and activities in which they participate.
ICODA hosts a variety of ongoing and special events throughout the year and volunteers are needed on a permanent and semi-permanent basis. To volunteer, please contact Christine Strejc at 847-509-8260.
Meals at Home
Volunteers are invited to help deliver meals one day a month. Volunteers usually work in pairs, with one driving and the other carrying the meals to the door. Meals at Home also needs individuals with specialized skills such as: graphic design, website technical skills, data base knowledge and skills, advertising expertise, accounting and legal backgrounds.
To sign up, download the application form found on the volunteer link on their home page. Questions? Contact the volunteer coordinator at 847-729-0911 or email volunteer@MealsAtHome.org “mailto:volunteer@MealsAtHome.org” volunteer@MealsAtHome.org
Give Things
Interfaith Refugee & Immigration Ministries
CTA cards, sewing fabrics and notions, and bedding supplies are all needed. Interfaith Refugee and Immigration Ministries creates opportunities for refugees fleeing war, terror and persecution to build new lives of safety, dignity and self-reliance. IRIM provides a full range of services to more than 3,000 refugees and immigrants resettling in the Chicago metropolitan area.
Call 773-989-5647 to arrange a donation.
IceReach
Dedicated to introducing ice sports to individuals and groups, this group needs skates (figure, hockey, speed skates), hockey equipment, curling shoes, curling stones, brooms, sliders and helmets for both children and adults. IceReach educates about the ice sports and helps athletes to participate regardless of age, strength or physical limitations.
To arrange a donation, call 312-519-3788.
Warming House Youth
The Warming House needs computers, conference tables, office chairs, office desks, X-Box or other video game systems, DVD Movies and stereo equipment. The Warming House provides mentorship, builds self-esteem, develops identity and character, and emphasizes social responsibility for the community’s vulnerable teens. It’s open to high school teens five days a week.
If you have items to donate, call the Warming House at 847-256-5288.
Give Support
The Family Room
The Family Room supports families with children under the age of four through their parent education classes, Baby ‘N Me groups, and events planned with the whole family in mind. You can donate directly to general operating funds or to the Dominic Kowalski Scholarship Fund that provides help for those unable to afford their programs.
Parkways Foundation
For $100, you can send a kid to camp this summer! Raising support for the Send a Kid to Camp Scholarship Fund is a major initiative for Parkways this year. This fund is essential, especially now, to allow children to participate in Chicago Park District camps and programs.
Wagner Farm Rescue Fund/Have a Heart Farm
This organization promotes humane treatment, good living conditions, medical care, transportation and lifetime care for any animals no longer wanted at the Glenview Park District’s Wagner Farm. The goal is to establish a permanent farm sanctuary.
