A Sparkle of Hope that Never Dulls!
Last month on Sunday, September 22, I returned to the The Sparkle of Hope Fundraiser Luncheon where I had the honor of being the emcee for this year’s gathering!
Together At Peace (TAP) featured an incredible line-up of speakers, guests, and organizations including USA Today bestselling author of Normal Broken Kelly Cervantes, Maureen Claffy and the Maureen Claffy Art Academy!
The luncheon had interactive activities both adults and children attending could enjoy! Ever heard of a Mobile Library? Or a permanent jewelry station? Well the Sparkle of Hope Luncheon had both at their event and more! There was also additional interactive artistic stations such as Hug-A-Bear Building Station, photo-ops with a balloon background, and live art-making with the talented Brooke and Ange. My partners as well, were featured in the Silent Auction, offering some exclusive deals and items, giving back to the TAP and Chicago community.
The unimaginable feeling of losing a loved one or knowing someone, who has experienced loss hits our hearts deeply. Grief never goes away, but what can bring those a little more comfort, is a guiding light, there to support them and honor those they have lost.
Together at Peace (TAP), a foundation I’ve been long-time partnered with, makes it their mission to support and provide care for those, who have experienced loss. Collaborating with bereavement care programs driven by the same mission, TAP creates unique, and impactful methods that help raise funds that directly impact those going through their journeys of grief. Funds that provide comfort and relief during a time they need it most.
Hosting conversations of hope has been my life’s purpose. These conversations bring a sense of common ground and inspiration to those going through difficult times, and every individual’s story is a testament of their courage, strength, and compassion. Every year, this luncheon is a cornerstone of inspiration that I am so grateful to be a part of.
This year we raised $103,602! These funds were donated to Camp Kesem (Northwestern Chapter), an organization that supports children affected by a parent’s cancer, building empowering year-round programs that instill pillars of connection and value. These funds make a major difference in enhancing their camp experience.
And of course, I want to give a shoutout to my lovely friends, Christine Marzullo and Brittany Jelinek, who worked endlessly in planning this luncheon and ensuring it was such a blast! You two are making the sparkle in this world brighter, and your work makes such a difference to all the lives you touch.
See you at next year’s luncheon on September 28, 2025!
Magical Moment With Harry Potter Cast
Hey all you Harry Potter fans! If you didn’t know, Broadway Chicago is bringing the infamous play, Harry Potter and The Cursed Child for the first time ever to our city! The troupe is performing at the James E. Nederlander Theater this Fall!
Broadway Chicago brings an artistic richness that makes our city shine! I sat down with Trish Lindstrom and Benjamin Thys to discuss their roles in this production. For both Trish and Benjamin, their personal experiences were able to add a richness to their performances as Ginny Potter and Draco Malfoy.
Trish and Benjamin were kind enough to share how their personal lives impacted their roles. Trish Lindstorm, who play’s Ginny Potter, was impacted by grief around the time of accepting this role. She speaks about how her role in the production helped her work through her loss.
“The play is around grief and death and loss. And in that way it’s so rich and it’s about love and it’s about parent-child relationship.”
For Benjamin Thys, this role is incredibly special because it allows him to use the skills he learned as a magician early on in his career. He never thought this past experience could be used in his acting career, but now it has strengthen his connection to the role of Draco Malfoy.
For these artists, their childhood dreams are being fulfilled, playing a part in making this fictional universe come alive on stage. Nothing could be better! Exploring these deeper moments is the ones that remind us we all have a story, no matter how magical or mundane!
Hang tight because all of this and more will be shared with you soon. And of course, go see Harry Potter and The Cursed Child now here till February 2025!
Click the link above to watch the interview on PBS.org!
Getting The Word Heard On WGN! || WITH WHIT
GET HYPED! Season 8 is just around the corner, and it’s been awesome playing offense in getting the word, HEARD, about all the incredible things that are to come this fall! My Season 8 promotion continues, where I got to be on WGN this week with the brilliant, John Landecker.
It’s such a crazy feeling that we’ve made it to eight seasons of our show, and getting to talk about the journey to this point with John, brought back a lot of wonderful memories and pivotal moments that really launched this mission of mine to success!
To hear more of our conversation, click my picture to tune in! Or checkout WGN’s page using this link here!
SEASON 8 of The Whitney Reynolds Show premieres on October 21st!
Old DeLorey Takes Us Back! || With Whit
As summer comes to a close, my son and I had the wonderful opportunity to be tourists in our own city and enjoy the Broadway adaptation of Back to the Future. It’s not every day you get to relive your childhood, revisit your ‘80s roots, and step into a time machine with Marty McFly and Doc!
Experiencing the magic of Broadway firsthand is always a privilege. Over the years, we've had the honor of interviewing Broadway stars, delving into their journeys from dreamers to performers. We spoke with Britney Coleman about how her passion and dedication have led her to shine in roles that truly touch audiences’ hearts, such as her portrayal of Bobbie in Company. We also chatted with Deon’te Goodman, who captivated audiences as Aaron Burr in Hamilton, about the pivotal moment he realized he was destined for the spotlight.
Just as Marty McFly and Doc took us on a time-traveling adventure, be sure to tune in this fall to hear more incredible stories and journeys that remind us of the power of dreams and perseverance!
‘FLAIR’-ING THE FIRE OF FASHION, FUN, & PHILANTHROPY | WITH WHIT
As I prepare to step onto the runway once again, I can't help but feel a wave of excitement mixed with deep gratitude. On September 13th, I'll be modeling for The Chicago Lighthouse’s annual fashion event, FLAIR, an evening dedicated to celebrating style, inclusion, and empowerment. This isn’t just another fashion show—it's an opportunity to support a cause close to my heart while showcasing the beauty of the women and superstars in our community.
The Chicago Lighthouse is an extraordinary organization that has been making a profound impact for over a century. Founded in 1906, The Lighthouse was initially created by a group of socially prominent Chicago women who were concerned about the future of the city’s blind community. From its humble beginnings, collecting donated food and clothing and teaching employable skills like weaving and carpentry, the organization has grown into a beacon of hope and empowerment for individuals who are blind, visually impaired, disabled, and veterans. The growth of this organization has been such a joy to cheer on and be a part of!
The funds raised through the FLAIR event this September, will go directly to support vital programs for these people. FLAIR helps Chicago Lighthouse continue its mission of building enduring success for those with disabilities, empowering individuals through lifelong learning and employment opportunities, and discovering new approaches to further their impact. Walking alongside the models, who come from all walks of life and experience, is incredibly moving, and really listening to each of their stories written by their hard work, positivity, perseverance, and triumph!
The electric energy from the looks to these stories expresses our show’s pride and love in advocating for those stories that need to be heard most. Whether you know someone who is a veteran and or has a disability from it or not, FLAIR is a wonderful event where you can learn or connect with these people.
It's going to be a night to remember, and I’m so excited to share it with all of you. To learn more about FLAIR, click here for ticket and event information.
WISHLIST TICKETS
Don’t miss out on the chance to enjoy a fun-filled day and be part of a show that’ll brighten your holiday season. Click on the ticket above to submit a request to be in the live-audience for this memorable experience!
Whitney's Wishlist will be filming on October 19th at 1PM. The final segment will be airing on WGN in December. Hope to see you there!
Shadrach, A Series For The Whole Family || WITH WHIT
Get a glimpse of my upcoming interview with director, producer, and screenwriter, Sean McNamara on his new, executive produced television series, “Shadrach.” Don't miss this conversation, where Sean shares detail on "Shadrach" and describes how it’s a show that all members of the family can connect to and enjoy! It was a highlight of my July to speak with him and how his series inspires those of all ages and points of life.
To watch this and episodes from our last season, checkout our drop down tab, “PBS” under Watch, and download the PBS App on your smartphone, tablet, or smart TV. With the app, you can stream our newest season and never miss a moment of inspiring content.
ATTENDING DAY ON THE TERRACE!
Typically, you see me in the studio, counting down “3, 2, 1” before the cameras roll! But this weekend, I traded my usual role as a national, television talk show host for that of a model, sashaying down the runway with my Service Club of Chicago sisters at Day on The Terrace this past Monday!
I’m overwhelmed with joy and love for all the hard work my friends put into this fashionable night! Scoring the venue, The Peninsula Chicago, gave the show a city backdrop that looked unreal, where myself and guests enjoyed lovely food, drinks, and conversations. The event was completely sold out, which made me so privileged to be amongst those who care so much about our contributing our part, in bettering the community and our city!
My dress, which I had the honor to wear on the runway, was a piece that I’ll never forget modeling! The catwalk I must say is no easy feat, but it’s worth it for all the fundraising Service Club of Chicago does for its local, partnered organizations.
Off the runway, I got to meet some lovely people who also made their appearance at the event! A group of Marines I bumped into was a conversation that sparked such inspiration and hope! And of course, my television personality friends that make Chicago television its best, including Courtney Hall from NBC Chicago Today, Dawn Housbrouck from FOX Chicago, and Chicago media personality and journalist, Anna Dalvantes. I always smile thinking about how lovely, hardworking, and incredible these ladies are beyond their roles!
Last year’s event was spectacular, but this year took it to new heights. The energy, the support, and the contributions were more impactful than ever. The Service Club Together, it makes me want to ask you the questions, how can you leverage the table you are at to make change?
CREATING A RUNWAY FOR CHANGE!
MISSION OF THE SERVICE CLUB:
The Service Club of Chicago is an all-volunteer, women-led charitable organization which has continually served the needs of Chicago and its surrounding communities since 1890. Our mission is to award grants to Chicagoland’s 501(c)(3) organizations that will expand their facilities, improve their equipment and initiate new programs, thereby uplifting the community as a whole.
Pedal For Purpose!
Looking for an adventurous, scenic bike ride that also supports a heartfelt mission? Well you’re in luck! Come join the herd of cyclists on the trail and tell the epic tale at the CowaLunga Charity Bike Tour hosted and run by the Respiratory Health Association (RHA).
This event is more than just a ride; it’s a powerful movement that will bring the RHA’s mission to life! Their mission: to prevent lung disease, promote clean air, and help people live better through education, research, and policy.
Today, the organization tackles a range of respiratory issues including asthma, COPD, lung cancer, tobacco control, and air quality. Their work wouldn’t be possible without the collaboration and generosity of individuals, businesses, and foundations across Chicagoland. The Respiratory Health Association is one of our long-time sponsors here at the show, and I’m honored to be a part of this group, working closely to ensure the value of this critical cause and bring awareness to those across the city and the country about respiratory health.
An initiative started by the RHA that I love to bring light on as well, is Catch Your Breath. The initiative brings an emphasis on the challenge WOMEN face in struggling with lung disease, and the disproportionate effects it has on them. As a women’s health advocate, I’m proud to do everything in my power to make sure that this support in research and funding is allocated to women as much as it is to the rest of the community.
The relationship I’ve built with the RHA team has motivated me to share ways that you can make the same one with them! You can start that at any time, through donating and participating in CowaLunga this year!
Either an ammatuer or expert, CowaLunga welcomes all bike-riding capabilities! The “moo’velous” weekend, taking place on August 3rd & 4th, will have you ride through the picturesque landscapes and charming towns from northern Illinois to southern Wisconsin - which can be done on a one, or two day ride.
Being part of a herd means being embraced by a community where you find support, strength, and a shared purpose. I love Cowalunga’s theme of joining the herd, because it shows us that our strength and support of one another is made possible in numbers. We all desire to be a part of a herd, to feel the same sense of inclusion and connection. To me, the RHA and the Cowalunga event has created a herd that makes it known that you are never alone in your journey. And that together, we are bonded by a cause we care for deeply!
Register here for Cowalunga! Details on the event time, location, etc. can be found on our Calendar Page.
“Every mile you ride helps them fight for healthy lungs and clean air for all!” - The Respiratory Health Association.
Whitney and Nascar
A Conversation With Brad
In a recent interview, Whitney Reynolds sat down with Nascar driver Brad Keselowski to discuss the much-anticipated Chicago race in the Nascar circuit. The conversation shed light on the preparations, expectations, and excitement surrounding this thrilling event. Brad Keselowski, known for his skill and determination on the track, shared insights on all of the details regarding his career. What Whitney got most from the interview was Brad’s love for racing. When asked how he manages to keep going, he emphasizes how his past races inspire him to go to the next!
on With the Races!
The Chicago streets thundered with cheers and applause for the Grant Park 165 Nascar race here in our great city! The roar of the engines, the thrill of the speedway, and the electric atmosphere made attending an unforgettable experience. Even the rain couldn't stop the fun and excitement of seeing Chicago, our home market, host such an exciting event. The city truly came alive with the spirit of racing!
Prior to the race, we caught up with Brad Keselowski, learning how he mentally prepares for them. It was incredible to witness him compete in fierce competition and feel the passion of Brad and the Nascar fans!
The Strides We've Taken, Pride Month
Whitney Reynolds Interviews Golden Girls Play Cast: Exploring the All-Male Performance**
In a groundbreaking interview, Whitney Reynolds delved into the world of theater with a unique twist—an all-male cast bringing the iconic characters of "The Golden Girls" to life on stage.
The conversation offered a glimpse into the creativity, challenges, and inspiration behind this innovative LGBTQ+ production.
Whitney on, The View in Your Mirror
The best view? Getting to sit across the lovely Lisa Rubin and Katie Harms, to have a lovely, passion-driven conversation on their podcast, The View in Your Mirror!
Founded and hosted by Lisa and Katie, the podcast is inspired by their passion in helping people hone in on the best view in their mirror, listening and understanding the similarities we all share in our lives, through morning, day, and night conversations spanning across all topics. In Lisa’s and Katie’s respective industries, their dedicated years of work bring inspiration in how they walk into each day as the best versions of themselves, sharing tips, tricks and strategies from their many years of experience!
I don’t want to give too much away for you all who want to listen, but I was so proud to share the dots that have created the path to where I am today. From dressing as Sally Jessy Raphael and interviewing people with a make-shift microphone, to landing a deal with PBS to have my show nationally syndicated, I felt reminiscent on how my superpower of “resilience”, and sense of vulnerability and determination, has driven me, as a talk show host, business-woman, entrepreneur, and a mother.
The space to connect on the values that have driven us our whole lives, was a common thread that I found between myself, Lisa and Katie. We really bonded on the word “mission” and how our dedication in fulfilling it through our careers, also blends as our passion. And how to continuously be driven by mission, you have keep pushing through to make that into a reality!
The best version of myself was on full blast! Embracing my mission, balancing the chaos and blessings that have been thrown my way, thinking outside the “shoe” box, and inspiring future generations to seek the same!
A major thank you to Lisa and Katie, for having me! Listen to the full episode below!
Keeping Note!
Baylor is keeping note!
If you haven’t seen, Baylor Magazine’s latest release of their “Class Notes” column highlighted a piece of my story! Even David was featured this time alongside me!
Baylor University, as you know, holds an incredibly special place in my heart. The three golden years I spent at Baylor, meeting lifelong friends and colleagues through my unique plate of activities and interests, were ones I wouldn’t trade for anything else. In all the hard-work it’s taken to achieve my dream in sharing impactful stories, Baylor was one of the places that supported me in making this possible.
I hope younger eyes reading my name on pages of Baylor Magazine are able to take inspiration, and pave the way to making a difference!
Dear Twenty-One Year Old Whit || WITH WHIT
The magic of returning to the places that shape us is incredibly special. For my career and the greater circle of people I’ve met through television, Good Morning America (GMA) was one of those places that gave me the foundation to launch a show of my own. I was lucky enough to revisit during my time in New York City MC’ing at the Power of One Gala!
The beautiful lessons began immediately from my first trip to New York City. High-school Whitney walked in with the courage to chase the vision of being a talk show host. You’d be surprised to know I was there for a DECA event! I found GMA through a chance encounter meeting a fellow Baylor alumni who worked there. Magically, GMA worked its way back into my path, becoming the dot point that would lead next to an internship a few years later.
“Baylor in New York!” had me, twenty-one-year-old Whit, in a pool of countless opportunities, and getting to explore those with my peers. It was the internship that made the city dream come to life! Not just the aesthetic, but stepping into the shadow of the valuable people who made the show possible, was life-changing to witness. Now, many of them are dear friends!
Stepping into the studio again was such a warm welcome back! The hugs, incredible talent in front of the camera and behind the scenes, and even rocking out to Darius Rucker, made my return to my old stomping grounds incredibly special. It felt like coming home, seeing familiar faces and reminiscing about my early, twenty-one-year-old intern days. This bite of the Big Apple I made tastes even sweeter now, full of experience and cherished memories, that I am forever grateful for!
On The Move for Melanoma Research, Education, & Awareness || WITH WHIT
On the move! This summer, the annual fundraiser 5K, Miles for Melanoma (MRF) is back in Chicago. Register your team for the run/walk at Montrose Beach Park, happening on Sunday, July 21st. Your participation supports and raises funds for nationwide research, education, and awareness of Melanoma. Come join me in running alongside these warriors, caregivers, and supporters!
At any pace, YOU can make a difference. The Melanoma Research Foundation, the largest independent organization devoted to Melanoma, instills hope and initiates active change for those who have been affected. Your contribution can come in any size! Whether through a donation, running, or cheering on the sidelines, your presence acknowledges those who have gone through so much with Melanoma and celebrates their courage in fighting against it.
Behind every statistic for this disease, is humans, going through their unique and individual journey with Melanoma. At MRF, I’ve gotten the chance to meet those, who bravely share their stories of resilience. I walk away from these conversations feeling incredibly moved as well as educated on the ways all of us can prevent, detect early, and teach those about Melanoma. Their stories make a difference for the better and save lives!
I will be Emceeing this event, and I am so excited! Meet me at Montrose Beach for a fun, early-morning 5K for a great cause! Details about Chicago’s participation can be found here.
A Royal Send Off For My Friend Borris! || WITH WHIT
Our dear friend, Borris Powell, hosted his final resident fashion show this past Sunday. It was a magnificent celebration of his talent, creativity, and philanthropic outreach!
All the proceeds go back to support his nonprofit, the Saving Lives Foundation. Their mission is: “dedicated to empowering youth from under-resourced communities through arts-based education designed to help build identity and self-esteem, and rebuild community, empathy, and opportunity.”
Themed “Kings Kourt,” Borris followed no restraints in creating such dazzling, innovative looks that captured the essence of 17th Century royalty fashion, with his modern and inclusive vision. Borris’s show was truly a testament to his artistic attention to detail and care about uplifting our community here in Chicago.
He doesn’t just bring this attention to detail to his physical fashion looks but brings it to causes he cares about deeply. All the proceeds donated, benefit The Saving Lives Foundation; locally built by Borris, which raises funds for staffing, equipment, and programming that supports Chicago’s Youth. Naturally, he makes fashion and philanthropy such a great team!
I was overwhelmed with pride and admiration for Borris on Sunday, watching his talent and heart take the runway! His work ethic and dedication to his art give a glimpse of how much he has achieved throughout his career.
To our friend - thank you for allowing my family to be a part of your incredible journey. It’s been an honor to have your back and support your career, creativity, and fashion brilliance for so many years!
Whitney EMCEE’s in Times Square!
School has made its wrap! But before we headed into summer mode, we got to look back and celebrate all the hard work and academic success students had completed this year! It was my honor to be a part of this celebration, where this week, I was able to be the Special Guest Mistress of Ceremonies, leading the 3rd Annual, The Power of One Gala for Common Denominator.
Common Denominator, truly fulfills its motto, “rising to the equation!” As a fully volunteer-based mathematics program, they are dedicated to their mission of providing math and mentorship to in-need middle schoolers struggling with the impact of learning loss.
The gala, taking place in Times Square, at the New York Marriott Marquis, shined light on these students, who have shown adversity through educational, economic hardship, and disadvantage to achieve success in mathematics. Hosting conversations of recognition for these students will call them to ignite, real, and transformational change that with no doubt, they can make possible!
This event is crucial to keep Common Denominator going. In the past, they have raised $313,000 in donations from this event, and I am very excited to learn what our 2024 Gala will do for this nonprofit.
Kids, Summer, Healthy Lifestyle, WITH WHIT
CHECK OUT MY STORY ON FETE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE ABOUT HI-FIVE SPORTS CLUB CHICAGO!
Summer has officially kicked off! And I’m here to introduce the wonderful, Hi-Five Sports Club for your kids to join this summer, uniting our great city and the nation’s youth as a whole! My kids have had the absolute joy in attending the Chicago location.
Hi-Five has served the community as a vehicle for improving children's current & future well-being. Now more than ever, there is an urgent need for children to be physically active and disconnected from technology. Experiences and skills gained through sports are often forgotten or ignored, and a generation of children needs to catch up on life lessons that would be instrumental to their personal growth.
Hi-Five Sports chicago:
Easy Ways to Encourage Kids Into Healthy Lifestyles
Article Written by MomsTribute Inc.
& Katie Clark
Raising active, healthy children while juggling work responsibilities can be challenging. Finding activities that are safe, fun, and educational for your kids can often feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. You need the help of the best blog for busy moms at work. Look no further! This blog is going to recommend a super nationwide venue: Enter Hi-Five Sports Clubs, a game-changer for busy working moms with kids who are bursting with energy and curiosity.
With 17 locations across eight states, Hi-Five Sports Clubs have become a trusted name for engaging and enriching after-school activities, summer camps, sports training, and even birthday parties. Whether your child is a preschooler or a teen, Hi-Five offers various activities catering to their developmental needs and interests. Their mission of promoting a healthy, active lifestyle for kids is in line with the team here at MomsTribute.com and is listed on our Kid Friendly Venues app, and that’s why we are glad to shout their praise from the rooftops as one of the best places to visit with kids!
Get Kids Moving
One of the core missions of Hi-Five Sports Clubs is to get kids up and moving. In today’s digital age, where screens often dominate our children’s lives, physical activity is more important than ever. Hi-Five introduces children to a variety of sports, including basketball, football, and soccer, ensuring they stay active while learning the fundamentals of teamwork and sportsmanship.
But it doesn’t stop at traditional sports. Hi-Five also offers a medley of other activities, from musical chairs and Lego-building sessions to delightful bouncy houses and open gym play, ensuring there’s something for every kid. These activities not only promote physical fitness but also help in developing cognitive and motor skills.
Lessons For Life
Hi-Five Sports Clubs prioritize physical activity, but I can also recommend their other achievements. They aim to instill life lessons that will benefit children in the long term. Team-building exercises teach the importance of collaboration and communication. Through sports, kids learn about dedication, perseverance, and how to gracefully handle both wins and losses.
With positive role models of coaches and mentors, Hi-Five creates an environment where children can interact with those guiding them and build self-confidence when praise and encouragement is given. The focus is on nurturing well-rounded individuals prepared for the various challenges life may throw at them.
A Safe Space for Kids
For working moms, safety is paramount when choosing an extracurricular activity for their children. Hi-Five Sports Clubs provide a secure and supportive environment. Background-checked, experienced staff members ensure that every child is cared for and given the attention they deserve.
Additionally, the clubs maintain high standards of hygiene and safety protocols, making them a reliable choice for parents concerned about their child’s well-being.
Catering to a Wide Age Range
Another standout feature of Hi-Five Sports Clubs is their ability to cater to a wide age range. From preschoolers to teens, there are activities designed to suit every developmental stage. This means you don’t have to juggle multiple programs for kids of different ages—depending on what activities your local sports club offers, Hi-Five can be a one-stop solution for all your children. You’ll want to be sure to check into what your nearest location has to offer.
Activities Galore
Preschoolers can enjoy basic motor skill exercises, introductory sports, and fun games designed to get them moving and interacting with peers.
School-age kids can participate in structured sports training, team-building exercises, and creative activities like Lego building.
Teens can engage in more advanced sports training, leadership activities, and games that challenge both their physical and cognitive abilities.
Building a Community
Hi-Five Sports Clubs pride themselves on fostering a sense of community among their members. Joining a Hi-Five club means becoming part of a larger family that values health, education, and teamwork. Kids build lasting friendships, and parents connect with like-minded individuals, creating a supportive network within the community.
Business-minded working moms will want to keep in mind that Hi-Five Sports Clubs aren’t just for kids; they offer exciting franchise opportunities for those passionate about making a difference in their communities. With 17 locations in eight states, Hi-Five is expanding rapidly and looking for partners who share their vision of promoting healthy, active lifestyles for children.
But they don’t stop there! At Hi-Five they believe in giving back. Local franchises, such as Chicago North Shore Hi-Five, regularly offer scholarships to kids in need of assistance. The details of these can be obtained by contacting their head office via their website. They also support local charities and work with local PTAs to help school-aged children. At times, they have even offered their programs FREE to everyone!
A Haven
In a world where balancing work and family can be overwhelming, Hi-Five Sports Clubs provide a haven for both kids and parents. Offering a variety of activities, expert curation, and a commitment to safety and community, Hi-Five is the perfect solution for working moms seeking fun, educational, and engaging activities for their children. Don’t forget to download the free KFV app to check out the best kids friendly venues in your area!
Don’t forget to download the free KFV app to check out the best kids friendly venues in your area!
Learn more about Hi-Five Sports Chicago here!
Summer Sprint... ALWAYS BE KIND
ALWAYS BE KIND… A MOTTO THAT HELPED LARRY SURVIVE CANCER:
THEIR WHY: We started our organization as our way of repaying the kindness that our family received during my husbands cancer diagnosis and treatment. We also started the organization to spread the idea that kindness does indeed help to heal. Lastly, after seeing first hand the financial burden a cancer diagnosis can cause we want to help families to help ease some of that burden.
We have two primary goals. One is to help cancer patients and their families to ease some of the financial burdens of a cancer diagnosis so that they can focus on getting better. Second, is to spread the idea that simple kindness can help to heal. We believe that kindness helped my husband in his recovery.
During our first year, we raised just under $10,000 that was then donated to two primary beneficiaries - the Northwestern Memorial Foundation’s Patient Family Assistance Fund and UChicago Medicine’s Cancer Patient Emergency Fund. Financial distress starts with $15 for parking, $100 for meals, etc. Our donations have helped hundreds of of families handle the small expenses that add up.
We put our trust in two organizations that are pillars of the Chicago community - Northwestern and UChicago. In addition, we work directly with families that we know exactly where the money goes.
We mostly do this face to face and one person at a time by calling families we know are being affected by a cancer diagnosis and explaining the help we can provide. We also are working closely with the Northwestern Memorial Foundation for advice and counsel on how to slowly expand our reach.
We measure the impact in a couple of ways - first of course is our ability to donate to Northwester, UChicago and to individuals. Second is by hearing from people we have helped. Many do not want public promotion of their situation, but their expressions of appreciation for our small part in helping makes it all worth while for us. When we started this organization, we said that even if we help just ONE person, we will be a success. That has not changed.
JOIN FORCES: This will be our first attempt at a 5K walk/run. We plan to stay small for the foreseeable future. Next year, we may expand to a second even that may include a silent auction and other activities to raise more money. As we expand, we may reach beyond cancer patients and their families. The notion that Kindness can help to heal goes way beyond cancer.
“ We measure the impact in a couple of ways - first of course is our ability to donate to Northwester, UChicago and to individuals. Second is by hearing from people we have helped. Many do not want public promotion of their situation, but their expressions of appreciation for our small part in helping makes it all worth while for us. When we started this organization, we said that even if we help just ONE person, we will be a success. That has not changed. ”
Our 1st ever Always Be Kind 5K Walk/Run takes place on a scenic, course along the beaches of Lake Michigan starting at Montrose Beach. It starts at the Dock on Montrose Beach and heads south with amazing views of the most beautiful skyline in the world. Then returns back toward The Dock on Montrose Beach. All of the money raised will be donated by Always Be Kind to those who need it the most to help ease the cost of cancer treatment. We help people with the little things that add up - things like, parking, meals, lodging, etc. So every little bit helps. In 2023 we raised almost $10,000 that we donated to Northwestern Hospital and UChicago Hospital to help cancer paitents and their families. We are hoping that 2024 and for years to come we will continue to help many people!