MAX’S MISSION AND PARK DISTRICT COLLABORATION RECOGNIZED
The Illinois Association of Park Districts awarded the Naperville Park District and Max’s Mission the Partnership Award at its recent gala.
The two organizations collaborated to highlight the importance of community mental health through the installation of four murals at the Rothermel Family Skate Facility, a news release from the park district said.
The murals, which are titled “Afterglow,” were installed and dedicated in October 2025 by Max’s Mission founders Jill and Ray Wijangco to honor the life of their son Max and to offer a message of hope to survivors of suicide loss, the release said.
The murals add beauty to the park, showcase the diversity and creativity of the skate community and offer support to anyone struggling with mental health, the release said.
The Partnership Award was one of 10 awards given by the Illinois Association of Park Districts at its Best of the Best Awards gala.
The award is designed to recognize non-governmental organizations that have collaborated with a park district, forest preserve, recreation or special recreation organization in a significant manner, the release said.
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PARK DISTRICT SEEKING FEEDBACK FROM ADULTS OVER 50
The Naperville Park District is asking adults 50 years and older to take part in an online survey on its active adult programs.
The survey is available through Saturday, Oct. 31.
The feedback will help district officials assess the district’s current programs and plan for future ones, a news release from the park district said.
The district offers active adults and seniors opportunities to socialize and be active.
Some of the program options include Regain your Balance, Senior Kung Fu, Senior Stretch and Senior Tai Chi, the district’s website said. There are also drop-in programs to play dominoes or card games and day trips.
The survey is open to adults whether or not they currently participate in the programs.
The survey is offered online at http://www.napervilleparks.org/activeadults.
DUPAGE COUNTY ANIMAL SERVICES OFFERING WINTER BREAK CAMP
The DuPage County Animal Services, 2255 Manchester Road, Wheaton, is offering the Furry and Bright Winter Break Camp for children in kindergarten through eighth grades.
Camps will take place from 9 a.m. to noon and from 1 to 4 p.m. on Dec. 23 and from Dec. 28 to 30.
Children can sign up for as many sessions as they want. Each three-hour session features games, crafts and time with the shelter pets.
Camps are $50 per session.
For more information, go to https://www.dupagecounty.gov/government/departments/animal_services/
REGISTRATION TO START FOR POPULAR WINTER PROGRAMS
Naperville Park District residents can begin registering for Santa’s Naperville Workshop and Santa’s Hotline at noon Tuesday, Oct. 20.
Nonresidents can register for these two popular events at noon Thursday, Oct. 22.
Santa’s Naperville Workshop will be held from Nov. 30 to Dec. 20 at the Paddleboat Quarry Rentals Building, 441 Aurora Ave.
Children can talk with Santa and visit his magical workshop, a news release from the park district said. Guests should bring their own cameras for photo opportunities, the release said.
Special events, such as Pet Night and Military and First Responders Night, will also take place during the season with registration opening Oct. 20 as well.
Advance registration is required and no walk-ups will be taken. A limited number of time slots are available. The cost is $12 per family for residents and $17 per family for nonresidents.
Register at www.napervilleparks.org/santasworkshop.
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Registration will also begin at noon Oct. 20 for Santa’s Hotline, where children can receive a personal phone call from Santa Claus or Mrs. Claus.
The calls are free and will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 9.
Registration is required at www.napervilleparks.org/santashotline.