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Miles Donated will Help Offset Travel Costs for Girl Scouts Participating in Educational Experiences and Leadership Programs Nationwide CHICAGO–This March, in celebration of International Women's Day and Girl Scouts' 112th birthday, United is encouraging MileagePlus® members to donate miles to Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) to help fund life-changing experiences for Girl Scouts through travel.   United raises miles for Girl Scouts of the USA to help fund travel for educational experiences and leadership programs. United will match the first one million miles raised for GSUSA through Miles on a Mission SM, United's leading fundraising and crowdsourcing program, giving MileagePlus members a chance to use their miles for good. Travel is an essential part of many Girl Scouts' journeys as they are encouraged to explore, make global connections and cultivate skills they can use for the rest of their lives. More than 59,000 Girl Scouts traveled either domestically or internationally in 2023, with many troops funding their own adventures with money earned through the Girl Scout Cookie Program®. "We are honored to be the featured partner for United's Miles on a Mission program this month," said Wendy Lou, Chief Revenue Officer and Head of Membership, GSUSA. "As we come to a close on our 2024 cookie season and many are figuring out creative ways to use their cookie proceeds, including travel, we hope this program can help them take their travel dreams even farther." Since 2022, United Airlines has supported GSUSA in its mission. Through the partnership, GSUSA created resources for both volunteers and council staff to deliver STEM programs and broaden the variety of educational opportunities for Girl Scouts. According to GSUSA research , girls who participate in Girl Scout STEM programs are more confident in their math and science abilities and show more interest in STEM subjects and careers. "At United, we believe that aviation can help connect people and unite the world," said Helon Hammond, VP of Global Learning, People and Community Impact for United. "We are proud to support Girl Scouts of the USA to ensure that members have access and are encouraged to explore and continue learning through travel. We hope to inspire young leaders to continue learning through travel and pursuing careers in aviation." Visit united.com/donate  today to learn more about how you can donate miles to Girl Scouts of the USA and become a MileagePlus member for free. Members can donate their miles to GSUSA until April 12. To volunteer, join or donate, visit girlscouts.org . About United At United, Good Leads The Way . With U.S. hubs in Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, New York/Newark, San Francisco and Washington, D.C., United operates the most comprehensive global route network among North American carriers and is now the largest airline in the world as measured by available seat miles. For more about how to join the United team, please visit www.united.com/careers  and more information about the company is at www.united.com . United Airlines Holdings, Inc., the parent company of United Airlines, Inc., is traded on the Nasdaq under the symbol "UAL". About Girl Scouts of the USA Girl Scouts bring their dreams to life and work together to build a better world. Through programs from coast to coast, Girl Scouts of all backgrounds and abilities can be unapologetically themselves as they discover their strengths and rise to meet new challenges—whether they want to climb to the top of a tree or the top of their class, lace up their boots for a hike or advocate for climate justice, or make their first best friends. Backed by trusted adult volunteers, mentors, and millions of alums, Girl Scouts lead the way as they find their voices and make changes that affect the issues most important to them. To join us, volunteer, reconnect, or donate, visit  girlscouts.org .  SOURCE United Airlines

GIVING BACK | United Raises Miles for Girls Scouts of the USA to Help Inspire the Next Generation of Leaders

Miles Donated will Help Offset Travel Costs for Girl Scouts Participating in Educational Experiences and Leadership Programs Nationwide

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Brand's Largest Philanthropic Initiative Raises Over $2.1 Million for Child Cancer Research, Local Food Charities Since 2017 BATAVIA/ATLANTA– Chicken Salad Chick, the nation's only fast casual chicken salad concept, announced today its annual charitable program, the Giving Card, witnessed substantial success in 2023, with a record-setting $525.225 raised from 113,258 cards sold at its more than 250 locations. Now in its ninth consecutive year, the Giving Card continues its tradition of supporting local food charities and childhood cancer research. The Giving Card offers guests restaurant rewards in exchange for the funds raised for local food charities and CURE Childhood Cancer, an organization raising money to advance cancer research and support patients and their families. Priced at $5, the Giving Card offers users exclusive in-store rewards through the Chicken Salad Chick Craving Credits app. With a total value of approximately $60, these rewards can be claimed once a month throughout the year. Guests who purchase the Giving Card will benefit from complimentary menu items like a large drink, free upgrades, and various deals such as a buy-two-Quick-Chicks-get-the-third-free offer, among other deals. Local food organizations chosen by Chicken Salad Chick franchise owners and company stores in their communities receive 75% of the sales from the Giving Card, while the remaining 25% of the proceeds go to CURE Childhood Cancer "At Chicken Salad Chick, our purpose is to spread joy, enrich lives and serve others. This annual fund-raiser provides much needed funds for cancer research and food for families in need," explained Scott Deviney, CEO of Chicken Salad Chick.  "Through the generosity of our Chicken Salad Chick guests, we've raised more than $2 million over the past few years. We are so grateful to our Chick fans who have joined us to make a meaningful impact in our communities and to Atlanta-based CURE in their vital efforts to fund new research in the fight against childhood cancer." Established in 2014 by Chicken Salad Chick co-founders Kevin and Stacy Brown and Earlon and Betty McWhorter, the Chicken Salad Chick Foundation emerged in response to Kevin's battle with cancer. Aligned with the core mission of Chicken Salad Chick to spread joy, enrich lives, and serve others, the Browns and McWhorters recognized the restaurant's potential to bring about positive change in the lives of their community members facing challenges. Currently, the CSC Foundation is dedicated to two primary initiatives: feeding the hungry and actively participating in the fight against cancer. For more information about the Giving Card, visit chickensaladchick.com/our-food/giving-card/ . About Chicken Salad Chick   Chicken Salad Chick serves full-flavored, Southern-style chicken salad made from scratch and served from the heart. With more than a dozen original chicken salad flavors as well as fresh side salads, gourmet soups, signature sandwiches and delicious desserts, Chicken Salad Chick's robust menu is a perfect fit for any guest. Founded in Auburn, Alabama, by Stacy and Kevin Brown, in 2008, Chicken Salad Chick has grown to more than 250 restaurants in 18 states. Today, under the leadership of Scott Deviney and the Chicken Salad Chick team, the brand is continuing its rapid expansion with both franchise and company locations. Chicken Salad Chick has received numerous accolades including rankings in the 2023 Entrepreneur Franchise 500, Franchise Times' Fast & Serious for the third consecutive year, Fast Casual.com 's top Movers and Shakers from 2018 to 2023, QSR's Best Franchise Deals in 2019, 2020 and 2022, and Franchise Business Review's Top Food Franchises in 2020. See www.chickensaladchick.com for additional information.  About CURE Childhood Cancer Founded in 1975, Atlanta, Georgia-based CURE Childhood Cancer is dedicated to conquering childhood cancer through funding targeted research while supporting patients and their families. With cancer as the second leading cause of death in children, CURE dedicates more than $4.7 million in funding annually to specific research projects aimed at curing cancers that affect children. Through innovative programming, CURE Childhood Cancer also provides crisis-oriented support to patients and their families, addressing their most critical and urgent needs . For more information visit www.curechildhoodcancer.org .

GIVING BACK | Chicken Salad Chick Achieves Record Sales for Annual Charitable Program, The Giving Card

Brand's Largest Philanthropic Initiative Raises Over $2.1 Million for Child Cancer Research, Local Food Charities Since 2017

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NOVEMBER 5 • SUNDAY 50% OF EVENT PROCEEDS TO BENEFIT ANGELS COMMUNITY SERVICES OF JOLIET BOLINGBROOK–With the continued rise in personal assault, carjackings and other crimes, it is critical to be prepared to protect and defend yourself from attacks at home, school, the workplace and elsewhere. The Krav Gym, located in Bolingbrook, is teaming up with Naperville-based RJM Strategy Group to host a Women’s Self-Defense Seminar on Sunday, November 5 from 11:30-1:30 pm . Registration for this hands-on workshop is in progress. Fifty percent of the event’s proceeds will benefit Guardian Angels Community Services of Joliet. This organization’s mission is “to empower people to improve the quality of their lives.” This training event, which is being offered again by popular demand, will be led by head self-defense instructor Michael Jozwiak of The Krav Gym and Ray McGury of RJM Strategy Group , a local leader in law enforcement, safety and security for business owners and residents. It is especially designed for adults of all ages with little to no self-defense knowledge or experience. Will County State’s Attorney Jim Glasgow will also be in attendance to introduce the training workshop and address the attendees. The 2-hour workshop will cover the following aspects of self-defense: • Situational awareness • Proper mindset for safety in combat • Mental and physical effects in combat • Major principles of protection • Threat assessment • How to identify potential attackers • Soft and hard skills • Weapons of opportunity Additionally, since the session will be highly interactive, participants are encouraged to come with questions to ask the instructors who are prepared to provide practical advice, step-by-step guidance, and plenty of encouragement to refine the hands-on techniques covered. The Krav Gym, located at 485 W. Boughton Rd. in Bolingbrook, will host the training. The fee is $25/person; all participants must sign a waiver prior to the start of the training; check-in begins at 11:00 am. Register now at www.thekravgym.com . For more information contact Megan at 331-757-8743 or at megan@thekravgym.com.

GIVING BACK | Women’s Self-Defense Seminar Planned for November 5 in Bolingbrook

NOVEMBER 5 • SUNDAY
50% of Event Proceeds to Benefit Guardian Angels Community Services of Joliet

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Event Features Volunteer Needs of 25 Area Non-Profit Organizations NAPERVILLE–On Tuesday, September 19, 2023, from 5:00-7:00PM, community members, youth and families are cordially invited to attend KidsMatter ’s 20th annual Volunteer Fair to learn about ways they can help out in our local community. This free annual event is intended to familiarize kids, teens, and adults with the many current and active volunteer needs of various area non-profit organizations. The event will be held at the Fort Hill Activity Center, Multi-Purpose Rooms located at 20 Fort Hill Drive, Naperville from 5-7PM. According to Nina Menis, CEO and Executive Director of KidsMatter , “Youth and adults are empowered when they have the opportunity to volunteer and be of service to others. Research has proven that we all benefit from giving back to our community – with improved health, confidence, and disposition. There are so many needs in our community, and this is a great event to not only learn about various non-profit organizations but to identify volunteer needs that interest you most. Matching needs with willing community members is a win-win for everyone! And each person can make a huge difference! KidsMatter looks forward to seeing many attendees on at the 20th annual Volunteer Fair on Tuesday, September 19th. Area non-profit organizations interested in participating should contact Sherilyn Hebel at sherilyn@kidsmatter2us.org for more information. To learn more about KidsMatter, visit kidsmatter2us.org. We are grateful for the support of the Naperville Park District and for the funding from the City of Naperville’s Social Service Grant Program and other key partners.

GIVING BACK | KidsMatter Annual Volunteer Fair Set for September 19, 2023

Event Features Volunteer Needs of 25 Area Non-Profit Organizations

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Aurora City Council Aldermen Approved a Preliminary Plat for the $5,500,000 Development MONTGOMERY—Montgomery-based Fox Valley Habitat for Humanity, a nonprofit housing ministry, plans a 17-home subdivision on Aurora’s far West Side. The Rev. Jeffery Barrett, Habitat CEO/executive director and pastor at Genesis Community Church in Montgomery, announced the Habitat Green Freedom SMART Community. He said it will be located at 1921 Jericho Rd., the northwest corner of Jericho and south Edgelawn Drive. On Tuesday, Jan. 24, Aurora city council aldermen approved a preliminary plat for the $5,500,000 development. The city council Building, Zoning and Economic Development committee approved the plat on Jan. 11. Rev. Barrett said Habitat hopes to break ground in spring this year. According to the Rev. Barrett, “We are now on an exciting new course. We are transitioning from building a few homes a year to building an entire community.” Founded in 1988, Habitat has built or upgraded 70 homes in Aurora, North Aurora, Batavia and Montgomery. He said Habitat Green Freedom is a unique partnership with NICOR GAS to build a net-zero, carbon-neutral energy-efficient SMART neighborhood. Homes will range from 1,500 to 1,700 square feet. Heated with natural gas, the homes will include solar panels, tankless water heaters, gas heat pumps, Insulated Concrete Form walls, and SMART panels allowing homeowners to monitor and control the features of the home through their phones. These energy efficient smart features are being provided by NICOR GAS. Barrett said the homes will also include energy-efficient windows, doors, appliances and zero level entrances for accessibility as families age in place. The 8.5 acre site was purchased in September 2021 through the generosity of grants from Nicor and private donors. A $1.25 million federal Housing and Urban Development grant Habitat obtained with the help of U.S. Rep. Bill Foster, D-Naperville, will be used to provide the infrastructure for the neighborhood, including water and sewer lines, utilities, streets, sidewalks and stormwater mitigation. Rev. Barrett said $3 million has been pledged to the $5,500,000 community. Habitat has kicked off a fundraising campaign to complete the project. Contact Rev. Barrett at (630) 294-8575 to donate or for more information. CARING + SHARING REAL ESTATE AURORA

GIVING BACK | Montgomery Habitat for Humanity Plans 17-Home Subdivision in Aurora

Aurora City Council Aldermen Approved a Preliminary Plat for the $5,500,000 Development

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by Kristen Kucharski, Photos by Mike Catuara FAMILY OF BATAVIA HIGH SCHOOL JUNIOR SHARES, "WE WANT TO MAKE AS MANY MEMORIES AS POSSIBLE...." BATAVIA– Many residents are planning the different ways that they will give back this holiday season– from donating to Toys for Tots and the Salvation Army, to volunteering their time at Feed My Starving Children or the Giving Tree at their local library. Whatever your charitable plans may be, we are hopeful that you will also consider adding a local family in need to your list. The City of Batavia jump started the season by making a Proclamation that November 7th be named Brice Worley Day! A reader, and close friend of the family, contacted us with a special request – that we share this family's story in hopes that members of the community will consider donating to them this holiday season as they fight the unimaginable alongside their 16-year-old son, Brice Worley, a junior at Batavia High School, who has been fighting an inoperable brain tumor. Three years ago, the tumor was found, and with treatments, they were able to shrink it and keep it at bay...until a month ago. Unfortunately, new growth was found deep inside the old tumor, and it's at the brain stem. His treatment options are minimal, although even with no guarantees, he is hopeful a new chemotherapy drug will be the answer to their prayers. Throughout this journey, the community has come together placing green ribbons on trees throughout Batavia and beyond to represent Brice’s favorite color and to remind him he is not alone. Brice is so positive about life and is extremely close to his brothers, Hayden (17) and Lieland (15) and his sister Maisy Starr (21-senior at Columbia College). Brice is an old soul at heart and lives to magnet fish at the local rivers and use his metal detector everywhere and anywhere possible searching for hidden treasures. He loves to be outside riding his electric bike that was given to him by Cal’s Angels . He is not afraid to die. “He’s only afraid of losing us, George and I,” says his mom, Tami. “He told George last month that he is not dying, he’s transitioning! God sent him to us! He’s teaching us all so much. I pray he’s able to continue to handle the chemo meds with little to no side effects for as long as possible.” Brice’s hopes are to stay symptom free, to attend trade school his senior year, complete EMT training, and get a job. He also shared the following bucket list which includes his ultimate dream of a family vacation to Hawaii, metal detecting on the beaches of Hawaii and Florida, as well as on the trails of the Smoky Mountains and the Grand Canyon. “He was expected to live only 18 months,” Tami says. “He beat all of those odds and is our walking miracle! Honestly, we just want as much time together and to make as many memories as possible.” Although a vacation to Hawaii with their large, blended family would be absolutely amazing, their medical bills have become overwhelming, along with the much-needed modifications to their old historic home that was built in 1856, and the need for a wheelchair accessible van. Every day the family gets up to LIVE! They appreciate every moment and live each day to its fullest. DONATE this holiday season toward one of Brice’s bucket list items, home modifications, an accessible van, or medical bills! All contributions are so appreciated! CARING + SHARING BATAVIA KANE

GIVING BACK | Batavia Family in Need as Son Battles Inoperable Brain Tumor

Family of Batavia High School Junior Shares, "We Want to Make as Many Memories as Possible...."

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Adler Planetarium Celebrates the Return to in Person Events with Celestial Bash, Raises Nearly $1.2 Million CHICAGO–On Saturday, September 10, 2022, the Adler Planetarium hosted Celestial Bash ; a reimagined version of our biggest fundraising event of the year. Held at our iconic Chicago lakefront location once again, Celestial Bash guests were treated to a special night at the Adler; getting to explore the entire museum after hours. Furthering the Adler’s commitment to an “Adler anywhere” experience, the event also included a 15-minute digital program streamed on the Adler’s YouTube channel for guests around the world to enjoy. Highlights of the in-person event included getting to know the world’s first high-altitude balloon light pollution mapping system that was designed and flown with the help of our teens and volunteers, creating a masterpiece in our Community Star Studio, experiencing Chicago’s oldest planetarium-the Atwood Sphere, looking at the universe through the new Doane Observatory telescope, relaxing under the Grainger Sky Theater dome as breathtaking space visualizations transported guests to other worlds, and dancing the night away against a backdrop of the Chicago skyline. The Adler’s first in-person event in nearly three years raised almost $1.2 million for everything the Adler does in support of our mission to connect people to the universe and each other under the sky we all share. The work that we are able to do, both in building and virtually, wouldn’t be possible without the generous contributions of the Adler’s donors. The 2022 Celestial Bash Corporate Partner Award recipient is United Scrap Metal, whose president Brad Serlin serves on our Board. United Scrap Metal’s commitment to the Chicagoland community embodies the Adler Planetarium’s spirit of connection. “As the Adler works towards a future where the Planetarium is accessible to people of all ages, all around the globe, a foundation of connection and community is more important than ever,” said Adler President and CEO Dr. Michelle B. Larson. In addition to our award-winning exhibitions, sky shows and hands-on, minds-on programming, the Adler is also home to one of the largest astronomical collections in the world. This year, Celestial Bash sponsors were invited to adopt an exhibition feature or collection item for the night, which were available at a variety of funding levels. This opportunity not only provided the sponsor recognition for the evening, but also gave them a chance to learn about their specific collection object or feature in depth. This approach enabled more local and minority-owned businesses to support the Adler (some for the very first time) and allowed us to create more connections within our community. About Celestial Bash Formerly known as Celestial Ball , the Adler’s biggest fundraising event of the year began in 1994. Now in its 28th year, the event has a new name and a new experience that better represents the Adler’s commitment to our community by giving guests a glimpse into the work we do both in-person and virtually around the globe; building space for everyone, where we can gather, connect, and discover together. About the Adler Planetarium: The Adler Planetarium connects people to the universe and each other. Whether it is introducing a guest to the Ring Nebula, a neighborhood school to a community partner, a research team to a network of citizen scientists, or one staff member to another, the Adler’s focus on meaningful connections dates back nearly a century. The museum typically hosts more than half a million visitors each year and reaches millions more through youth STEAM programs, neighborhood skywatching events, people-powered research, and other outreach efforts. Today, the Adler is bringing our unique approach—scientific exploration rooted in community and connection—to guests from around the world who can enjoy the digital Adler from their own homes, libraries, schools or offices. With the Adler’s support, people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities gain the confidence to explore their universe together and return to their communities ready to think critically and creatively about any challenge that comes their way. ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT CHICAGO

GIVING BACK | Adler Planetarium's Celestial Bash Raises Nearly $1.2 Million

Adler Planetarium Celebrates the Return to in Person Events with Celestial Bash, Raises Nearly $1.2 Million

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Mint Chocolate Chance Giveaway at Navy Pier Kicked Off National Teacher Appreciation Week and Offered for Free Ben & Jerry's for Teachers in Chicagoland Area CHICAGO/NAPERVILLE– Chance the Rapper dished out the first ceremonial scoop to honor a group of people who are as selfless as they are instrumental in helping all people to thrive: teachers. The collective team announced the plan to give teachers free ice cream the week of (May 2-6) at all three participating Ben & Jerry's Scoop Shop s in the greater Chicagoland area including Navy Pier, Glenview, and Naperville. As hundreds and hundreds of Chance the Rapper fans queued up among the large group at Navy Pier, Chicago's son greeted the crowd who responded with tremendous energy. "There is no profession more important and responsible for every single person in our entire country than teachers. Today, we honor them," said Chance the Rapper. "Today, and this week, we're doing something really cool… offering free Ben & Jerry's for teachers in Chicago." Mint Chocolate Chance, Ben & Jerry's most exciting flavor of the year, is a cool mint base with fudgy chocolate brownies. It was inspired by Chance the Rapper's childhood memories when he would add his mother's homemade brownies to mint ice cream. Mint Chocolate Chance is available as both ice cream and as a sunflower butter-based Non-Dairy dessert. His flavor, and all Ben & Jerry's flavors, were up for the choosing for teachers during the National Teacher Appreciation Week giveaway. Chance the Rapper donated a percentage of his proceeds to his five-year-old non-profit, SocialWorks . SocialWorks aims to empower youth through the arts, education and civic engagement with programming that focuses on education, mental health, homelessness and performing and literary arts. SocialWorks directly impacts thousands of young people yearly while inspiring creativity, building dreams and advocating for youth success in all its forms. To learn more about the partnership, visit benjerry.com . About Ben & Jerry's Ben & Jerry's is an aspiring social justice company that believes in a greater calling than simply making and selling the world's best ice cream. The company produces a wide variety of super-premium ice cream and Non-Dairy/vegan desserts using high-quality ingredients and lots of big chunks and swirls. As a certified B Corp, Ben & Jerry's incorporates its vision of Linked Prosperity into its business practices via values-led sourcing initiatives when purchasing ingredients. Ben & Jerry's is distributed in over 35 countries in supermarkets, grocery stores, convenience stores, franchised Scoop Shops, and via on-demand delivery services. Ben & Jerry's, a Vermont corporation and wholly owned subsidiary of Unilever, operates its business on a three-part Mission Statement emphasizing product quality, a fair financial return, and addressing issues of social, racial, and environmental injustice around the globe. The Ben & Jerry's Foundation, guided by Ben & Jerry's employees, granted $3.4MM in 2020 to support progressive, justice focused grassroots organizing around the country. For up-to-date information visit www.benjerry.com About SocialWorks SocialWorks, founded by Grammy-award-winning musician and humanitarian Chance the Rapper , aims to empower the youth through the arts, education, and civic engagement. Since 2016, SocialWorks has created 5 initiatives that present youth the opportunity to learn and act on their passions. SocialWorks' programming focuses on education, mental health, homelessness, and performing and literary arts – directly affecting thousands of youth yearly. Through the initiatives, OpenMike, Warmest Winter, Kids of the Kingdom, The New Chance: Arts & Literature Fund, and My State of Mind, SocialWorks hopes to inspire creativity, build dreams, and advocate for youth success in all its forms. For more information on SocialWorks, please visit https://www.socialworkschi.org/ SOURCE Ben & Jerry's FUN WITH FOOD NAPERVILLE DUPAGE

GIVING BACK | Chance the Rapper, Ben & Jerry's and SocialWorks Celebrate Those Who Teach

Mint Chocolate Chance Giveaway Kicked Off National Teacher Appreciation Week with Free Ben & Jerry's for Teachers

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COME PLUNGE FOR SPECIAL OLYMPICS MAPLE PARK–On, Sunday, March 6 at 1pm, the Kane County Sheriff’s Office will be participating in the Polar Plunge for Special Olympics of Illinois with other agencies this year at the Maple Park Fire Department. There will be refreshments from Soul Loco, polar plunge swag, Special Olympic apparel, and a 50/50 raffle going on with all proceeds going toward Special Olympics. Who wouldn’t like to see the Sheriff Ron Hain and Undersheriff Pat Gengler of Kane County “Be Bold Get Cold” for a great cause? Come on out! Sign up or donate here: https://soill.donordrive.com/index.cfmfuseaction=donorDrive.team&teamID=12531 CARING + SHARING ELBURN KANE

GIVING BACK | Sheriff Ron Hain to Take the Polar Plunge for Special Olympics, Support & Donate

Come Plunge for Special Olympics

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COVID-19 CAUSES LOCAL FOOD PANTRY TO CHANGE TO CURBSIDE WOODRIDGE– In light of the recent surge of COVID-19 cases sweeping the region, out of an abundance of caution West Suburban Community Pantry has temporarily shifted to curbside only service in Woodridge but has developed three ways families can still receive groceries safely and with the variety they choose. The Pantry has reinstated the prepacked boxes that can be picked up curbside, as they had offered at the beginning of the pandemic. Customers can receive two prepacked boxes offering approximately 95 pounds of groceries including a selection dry goods, fresh produce, frozen protein, dairy and bakery items with a no pork option. Customers wishing to choose their own groceries can do so from a curbside menu from the safety of their car when they arrive at the Pantry and have their selections boxed and delivered to their car. Additionally, the Pantry features a Virtual Food Pantry allowing customers to order their specific grocery selections online up to 24-hours before they come to pick them up curbside at a location and day convenient to them. Users of the Virtual Pantry may register for the service at www.virtualfoodpantry.net . “Our first priority is to keep our customers, staff and volunteers healthy and safe,” says Pantry Executive Director Laura Coyle. “We are also aware that access to the vaccine can be more challenging to people living in poverty due to a number of issues including language, education, work, transportation and childcare. Many of our customers are among populations who would be especially at risk if infected. We are doing everything we can to maintain the choice and dignity that are the hallmarks of our service while keeping people safe.” Pantry staff will continue to offer one-on-one case management services to individuals in need of assistance applying for SNAP benefits or qualifying for LIHEAP (Low Income Energy Assistance Program) and can refer clients to additional services as needed, either in person at the Pantry or by telephone. For case management assistance, contact the Pantry at 630-512-9921 or email kjachymiak@wscpantry.org . For food distribution hours and additional information on the West Suburban Community Pantry visit www.wscpantry.org CARING + SHARING WOODRIDGE DUPAGE

GIVING BACK | West Suburban Pantry Temporarily Suspends Indoor Service, Returns to Curbside Service

COVID-19 Causes Local Food Pantry to Change to Curbside

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PARKER'S FUND After losing his mother two years ago to a rare form of cancer, 11 year old Parker now faces another heartbreaking challenge. His father, Jeff Dickerson, a beloved ESPN / Chicago Bears announcer, died this week from complications of colon cancer. He was just 44. The network announced his death in an obituary Tuesday afternoon . Per ESPN, Dickerson died at the same hospice center his wife Caitlin Dickerson died in with melanoma at 36 years old in 2019. He entered the hospice center last week. Dickerson is survived by his and Caitlin's 11-year-old son Parker and his parents George and Sandy Dickerson. His extended family has set up a GoFundMe page to help Parker as he navigates through life without his two parents. The fundraiser has raised over $200,000 so far with close to 4,000 donations and is organized by Jenn Tobin, Dickerson's sister in law. It reads: " It is with the heaviest of hearts that I ask for your prayers and support for my late brother-in-law, Jeff Dickerson, and his 11-year-old son, Parker. Early this year, Jeff was delivered the devastating news that he was diagnosed with colon cancer. Typical JD, he remained completely optimistic for a full recovery, especially to be there for Parker. Jeff was unfortunately playing the roll of both parents as just two years ago, Caitlin lost her struggle with an extremely rare form of cancer, leaving then eight-year-old Parker with Jeff his only parent. Without Caitlin, Jeff has done all he could to support Parker, especially his passion for athletics. Undoubtably you could hear the pride in JD’s voice when he talked about Parker’s achievements at such a young age. GoFundMe Page Jeff also loved working for ESPN and revered his ESPN colleagues, who have been a constant source of support and inspiration throughout his two decades of work for the network. His unwavering passion for the Bear's was felt by all, including even me, his sister-in-law from St. Louis. My husband and I had the privilege to join Jeff and Caitlin in London when the Bears played and won in 2011. It was fun to get to see JD broadcasting on many occasions. He meant so much to so many, but to our family he was simply “uncle JD”. Many people have reached out wanting to know how they can support Parker. We set up this fund to do exactly that. Please know that every dollar raised will directly support Parker’s education, health and welfare … and yes, his athletics. P arker will continue to be surrounded by many fans - doting grandparents Sandy & George, Grandma Patty, aunts, uncles and cousins. We hope this fund becomes a lasting tribute to a loving father, son, a great brother-in-law, uncle, professional, coach, colleague and friend. Donations to Parker's fund will also benefit the cancer research foundation, The V Foundation, founded by ESPN, in which Jeff was on the board. An extremely generous anonymous donor has come forward to match every $1 raised for Parker by making a matching donation to The V Foundation (up to $60,000). The V Foundation for Cancer Research started in 1993 with a big dream: achieve victory over cancer. Since then, they've awarded over $200 million in cancer research grants and have grown to become one of the premier supporters of cutting-edge cancer research." We all love you JD! The entire extended Dickerson, Brody, & Hobin family DONATE TODAY CARING + SHARING DUPAGE

GIVING BACK | Chicago Bears ESPN Announcer Loses His Life to Cancer, Leaves Behind 11 Year Old Son

Parker's Fund Set Up by Extended Family

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NAPERVILLE RUNNING COMPANY SUPPORTS SNOW REMOVAL ON PARK DISTRICT TRAIL Now in 7th year of partnership to clear two-mile trail for running NAPERVILLE–Naperville Park District is pleased to announce that a seven-year partnership with Naperville Running Company will continue this winter to support snow removal on a two-mile trail in south Naperville. The trail extends from the Route 59 pedestrian bridge through Frontier Sports Complex and Ashbury Greenway to Naperville-Plainfield Road. Under the agreement, the Park District will clear the trail after a snowfall (generally when the accumulation of snow is 2 inches or more) and Naperville Running Company will reimburse the Park District for labor and materials. “We appreciate Naperville Running Company’s willingness to contribute toward expanding our winter trail system so that more people can continue to run and enjoy the outdoors,” said Park District Executive Director Ray McGury. Other trails that are maintained year round by Naperville Park District with snow removal as needed include the Riverwalk, the DuPage River Trail between Veterans Park and DuPage River Park, and the trails at Ashbury Greenway, Ashbury Park, Commissioners Park, Country Lakes Park, Meadow Glens, Nike Sports Complex, Wil-O-Way Commons, Wildflower Park and Wolf’s Crossing Community Park. For more information and trail maps, visit www.napervilleparks.org/snowclearing . Unpaved trails at parks such as Knoch Knolls Park can be used for cross country skiing or snowshoeing whenever conditions allow. HEALTH + WELLNESS CARING + SHARING BUSINESS NAPERVILLE DUPAGE

GIVING BACK | Local Business Donates to Keep Park District Trail Plowed During the Winter Months

Naperville Running Company Supports Snow Removal On Park District Trail

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Glancer Magazine March 2024

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