Marillac's Weekly Highlights - June 27, 2011

Volunteers

The Peace Builders were at Marillac the entire week.  They had a wonderful time connecting and working with the kids in Hope Junior.  Feeding America volunteers spent Friday morning helping to move Project Hope and Hope Junior items to the thrift building.  They worked very hard and accomplished a lot.  Project Hope and Hope Junior must vacate their present location in the main building as LEARN Charter School expands.

Take Charge Seniors

Take Charge held their Honors Luncheon on Thursday.  Sister Rita awarded certificates to 25 seniors for perfect attendance at all meetings.  Fifteen seniors received awards for only one absence.   Other awards included Attendance Helpers, Chauffeurs, Holiday Drivers, Kitchen Helpers, Meal Delivery, Senior Companions, Table Captains and waitresses.  The seniors enjoyed the luncheon and they are excited about their upcoming summer field trips.  Next Monday they will attend the Taste of Chicago.  It says a lot about Sr. Rita’s leadership and the quality of her program that our seniors make every effort to attend – even during blizzards!

Child Care

Social Services celebrated Fathers Day with an early morning “Donuts with Dad” for fathers in the childcare program.  There was a nice turn out of fathers who appreciated the recognition.

50 families in the Early Childhood Program participated in Family Movie Night and went to see Kung Fu Panda 2.  The families involved were grateful to have an enjoyable night out with their children.

On Thursday, Social Services hosted the end-of-the-year Parent Appreciation Dinner. About 30 families participated and witnessed the parents receive certificates and share their thoughts about the groups they attended throughout the year.  Often our families do not have a way or the means to participate in parent/child activities and are very appreciative when we can facilitate such special events.

West Side Collaborative

The West Side Collaborative (WSC) received a $35,000 grant from VNA to hire a Medical Case manager.

Project Hope

On Wednesday Project Hope hosted an Appreciation Dinner with the teen parents and their children.  About 40 young parents attended.  Since this was the last event in the Project Hope area before LEARN takes over the space, there was a lot of discussion about memories and the good things that happened there.