Comedians help raise $10K for Mercy Circle
A comedy fundraiser brought in more than $10,000 for Mercy Circle in Chicago’s West Beverly neighborhood.
Comedians Tim Cavanagh, Ed Kerfin and Bill Gorgo performed at the fundraiser to support ways for Mercy Circle residents and staff members to celebrate the retirement community’s 10th anniversary this fall.
More than 100 people were on hand for the event at Saint Xavier University’s Butler Reception Room and McGuire Hall.
Fun, food, resources at Summerfest event in Dolton
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kicks off its 5th annual Summerfest event at 11 a.m. June 25 at Dolton Park, 721 Engle St., Dolton.Designed for the unhoused populations and low-income communities of Chicago and the suburbs, Summerfest is an outdoor event that offers a day of entertainment and fun activities, while also providing access to workforce development, health resources, clothing, food, and other essentials, according to a news release.
Michael Airhart, founder and CEO of Taste for The Homeless, said the organization also hosts a Winterfest event in January at Columbus Park in Chicago.
“Our goal five years ago when we started offering these resource fairs was to help people who are having a tough time surviving economically,” he said. “We offer them on the West and South sides because we want to go where the need is, but anyone in need is welcome to attend.”
The nonprofit organization also provides free meals throughout the year.
“I go out to cook meals and serve them nearly every day,” Airhart said. “Because people do not have resources and they need to eat, I go out and set up my grills and I serve them. There is a lot of need, and it’s hard for me to ignore it. I don’t do it alone. There are always people willing to help, and I am grateful to them.”
The organization is working with shelters and social agencies to transport people to the event. Walk-in participants are also welcome. Summerfest 2023 is sponsored by United Pharmacy Staffing and Conscious Alliance.
Free Baby Expo event planned in Olympia Fields
Franciscan Health Family Birth Center Olympia Fields is hosting a free Baby Expo July 8 at the Olympia Fields County Club for new and expectant parents.
The event features a breakfast buffet, prizes and gifts as well as information on safe sleep, prenatal care, car seat safety, breastfeeding and more.
The Baby Expo takes place from 10 a.m. to noon July 8 at Olympia Fields Country Club, 2800 Country Club Drive in Olympia Fields.
The event is free, but registration is required at 866-790-2229 or www.Franciscanhealth.org/events.
Mental health sessions offered in Oak Forest
NAMI Family-to-Family, a free, eight-week educational program for family and friends of people with mental health conditions, will begin July 11, at Bremen Township Senior Complex, 15350 Oak Park Ave., Oak Forest.
Taught by NAMI-trained family members who have been there, the program includes presentations, discussions and interactive exercises and is designed to improve the coping and problem solving abilities of the people closest to a person with a mental health condition.
NAMI Family-to-Family not only provides information and strategies for taking care of a loved one, but offers support and compassion from others in similar situations through its group setting.
Participants will receive a free workbook and certificate of completion. More information and registration is with Marianne Bithos at 708-852-9126 or [email protected].
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