7 SPECTACULAR | Ways to Help Local Kids in Need

THIS SEASON, WE INVITE YOU TO GIVE BACK LOCALLY WITH THESE CHOSEN CHARITIES

Giving Tuesday has passed but it’s not too late to donate! There’s no better time to donate than the holiday season. The opportunity to give back is abundant. Here are a few favorite local charitable organizations that are in need of your support this season. Check each site for festive programs & events. Here are 7 Spectacular Festive Ways to Give-Back this Holiday Season

1.Make a Wish Foundation

This organization creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses each year. Since being founded locally in 1985, Make-A-Wish Illinois has granted more than 16,000 wishes and continues its mission to share the power of a wish® with children in all 102 counties across the state.

www.wish.org/illinois

2. KidsMatter

Recognized as Naperville’s proactive, youth-oriented human service organization, KidsMatter is working to help young people build developmental assets including positive values, healthy relationships, and self-esteem. Serving over 45,000 kids, residents can donate, volunteer and more.

www.kidsmatter.org

3. Family Counseling Services

The holidays can be a very hard time for many after losing loved ones, living far from home, etc. This local organization provides a wide range of counseling services in Aurora. If you, a family member, loved one or friend are going through difficulties, they can help you get through these tough times. Your donation can also help those in need!

www.aurorafcs.org

4. Teen Parent Connection

Since 1985, Teen Parent Connection has delivered education, support, and resources to adolescent parents and their children in DuPage County. Your partnership allows for young families to have extra support during the holiday season. Last year’s generous support brought every child served an opportunity to experience the warmth and kindness of the holiday season. Help again this year! www.teenparent

connection.org/holiday-program/

5. GiGi’s Playhouse Down Syndrome Awareness & Support Center

This organization provides programming and support for individuals with Down syndrome and their families, offering therapeutic and educational programs free of charge. It is a Down Syndrome Achievement Center that aims to empower and uplift the community.

www.gigisplayhouse.com

6. Our Children’s Homestead

Our Children’s Homestead (OCH) believes that every youth, despite their troubled past, deserves the opportunity and is capable of developing healthy family relationships and participating in typical life experiences. Donate today!

www.ochkids.org

7. Cal’s Angels 12 Days of Christmas

The annual 12 Days of Christmas Program was created to help families who have a child fighting cancer with special circumstances. It is Cal’s Angels’ goal to help these families focus on making memories with one another and not worry about the stress brought on by the holidays. Cal’s will provide a family gift, a gift card for their holiday dinner, and a family game. Donate today!

www.calsangels.com