in the news  

Someone to Look Up To - Herald News / December 16, 2007

Mentor Program Looks for Bigger Home - Herald News / December 11, 2007

'Big' Effort - Morris Daily Herald / December 11, 2007

AT&T Technology Grants to Upgrade Area Organizations - Herald News / December 9, 2007

Mentors Celebrated - Herald News / November 18, 2007

BBBS Honors Volunteers for Helpful Service - Morris Daily Herald / November 5, 2007

Sweet Escape - Herald News / November 4, 2007

Finale a Sweet Success - Morris Daily Herald / November 1, 2007

Sheriff Donates To Worthy Cause - Sept. 28, 2007

Bowling For Kids, Prizes - Herald News/July 15, 2007

NASCAR’S Matt Kenseth Races to Win For BBBS - July 5, 2007

New Board Members - Herald News / June 26, 2007

A Few Good Men - Herald News / June 21, 2007

Will's Way Helps Local Children - Herald News / June 8, 2007

Area Doctor Named Big Brother of the Year  -  The Star / June 3, 2007

2 Are Top Mentors in the State - Herald News / May 27, 2007

Morris Teen's Mentor is Big Sister of Year - Morris Daily Herald / May 23, 2007

Lovie Smith and Tony Dungy Appear in Super Bowl Ad for BBBS - February 3, 2007

Mural Is 'Big' Student Effort - Herald News - Southwest Weekly / January 26, 2007

Drawn Together: Mentoring Program Relies on Shared Love of Art - Morris Daily Herald / January 17, 2007

A Man To Look Up To: Boys Waiting for ‘Big Brother’ Volunteers  - Chicago Parent / January 2007

Holiday Donation - Herald News - Southwest Weekly / Dec. 29, 2006

Bowling Raises Awareness - Herald News / Oct. 19, 2006

Zeglis Joins Big Brothers Big Sisters' Board - Herald News / Oct. 19, 2006

Cemeno's Match of the Month - Herald News / Oct. 5, 2006

Cemeno's Match of the Month: Big Brother A Father Figure - Herald News / Sept. 10, 2006

BBBS Volunteer Crowned Miss Shorewood Crossroads - Herald News / Sept. 1, 2006

Joliet Councilwoman Quillman Treats BBBS to Jackhammers Game - Herald News / Aug. 27, 2006

Brandon Looking for a Big Brother - Herald News / Aug. 27, 2006

Congressman Weller Donates Computers - Herald News / Aug. 25, 2006

Downtown Murals Really Are A Work of Art - Herald News - Southwest Weekly / Aug. 18, 2006

Aces Around: Mortimer Hole in One - Herald News / Aug. 8, 2006

Someone You Should Know: Lisa Morel Las - Herald News / Aug. 6, 2006

New BBBS Board Members - Herald News / Aug. 6, 2006

Will County Sheriff Paul Kaupas Donates Bikes to Big Brothers Big Sisters - Herald News / Aug. 5, 2006

Grundy County United Way Celebrates on a High Note - Morris Daily Herald / Aug. 4, 2006

Cemeno's Match of the Month: Big Sister Makes a Difference - Herald News / July 30, 2006

Joliet Councilwoman Jan Quillman Donates JackHammers Suite - July 9, 2006

Scout's Oath: Bikes Will Go To Needy Kids - Herald News / June 19, 2006

Sox Fan Looking for a Big Brother - Herald News / May 28, 2006

Teammates for Life: Sports Buddies Bring High School, Grade School Athletes Together - Herald News / May 26, 2006

Students Make the Grades - Herald News / April 12, 2006

Teammates for Life: Sports Buddies - Herald News / March 26, 2006

Big Brothers Big Sisters Adds Two New Board Members - March 22, 2006

Cops/Fire: Bowling For Kids - Herald News / March 19. 2006

Helping Kids is Right Up Their Alley - Morris Daily Herald / Feb. 20, 2006

Big Brothers Has Yet Another Big Year - Herald News / Feb. 19, 2006

Big Brother, Big Winner - Herald News / Feb. 19, 2006

Big Brothers Gets Campaign Rolling - Herald News / Feb. 6, 2006

Little Moments, Big Magic - Herald News / Jan. 29, 2006

Facts at Your Fingertips - Herald News / Jan. 20, 2006

Recalling a Special Little Brother - Herald News / Jan. 15, 2006

Ecolab Donation - Herald News / Jan. 15, 2006

Bowl for Kids' Sake at Area Events - Morris Daily Herald / Jan. 9, 2006

Big Brothers Big Sisters Receives Morris Wal-Mart Donation - Jan. 4, 2006

City Now Involved in Ad Dispute - Herald News / Dec. 31, 2005

Exelon Employees Give Christmas Spirit Wheels - Morris Daily Herald / Dec. 21, 2005

Daisies Paint Big Brothers' Room - Herald News / Dec. 11, 2005

Big Brothers Big Sisters Adds New Board of Directors Members - Oct. 10, 2005

Big Brothers Big Sisters Honors Special Volunteers - Oct. 7, 2005

Big Brothers Big Sisters Seeks Restraining Order In Bench Dispute With Grate Signs - Herald News / June 16, 2005

National City Hosts Bowling Party for Children on Waiting List - June 13, 2005

Joliet Bicycle Club Donates 12 Bikes to One-to-One Kids - Herald News / July 14, 2005

Cops/Fire Bowl For Kids' Sake - Herald News / May 1, 2005

Big Brothers Big Sisters Sets New "Battle" Challenge - Herald News / April 17, 2005

Big Brothers Big Sisters Receives SBC Excelerator Grant - Feb. 22, 2005

Big Brothers Offers New Programs - Herald News - Feb. 6, 2005

Big Brothers Big Sisters Receives Computer Donation from HSBC - Jan. 11, 2005

Ornament Sales to Aid Charities - Herald News / Dec. 15, 2004

Executive Profile: Lisa Morel Las - Herald News / Nov. 14, 2004

'Homework Connection' Awarded 2004 Governor's Hometown Award - Nov. 10, 2004

Brothers Chronicled in Book - Herald News / Oct. 6, 2004

Lisa Morel Las Named Executive Director - August 23, 2004

Unlikely $10,000 Hole-In-One Winner - August 9, 2004

Joliet Man Named Outstanding Volunteer - Herald News / Feb. 15, 2004

'Someone to look up to'

CREST HILL -- Bowling, baseball and bicycling.

Current Big Brothers Big Sisters building.

Lynn Keane, customer relations specialist with Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Will and Grundy Counties, attempts to replace the duct tape that hides the termite damage in the front room of the building. (Terence Guider-Shaw/Staff Photographer)

Lynn Keane (above) walks past the guest bathrooms which are in a hallway that is not up to code with the Americans with Disabilities Act, as is much of the rest of the building in Crest Hill that houses the office for the Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Will and Grundy Counties. (photos by Terence Guider-Shaw/staff photographer)

A sign taped to the mirror asks occupants to keep the water in the sink running during cold weather.

Those are the sort of things that Nick Sayers, 9, of Morris, does with his big brother from the Big Brothers Big Sisters program.

As to why his grades have improved dramatically since he's had a big brother, Nick doesn't really know. Neither does his big brother or his real mother. But they all agree the "Big Brothers" experience seems to help.

"It's someone to look up to," said Nick, who doesn't have a father at home. "I've never had that experience. I have two sisters. They're both older than me. They're starting their own families."

Nick is one of 500 youngsters served by Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Will and Grundy Counties throughout the year. The program provides men and women to serve as mentors and role models for young people, most of whom are in single-parent families. And, the local Big Brothers Big Sisters has been growing along with the counties it serves.

The not-for-profit group last week launched a campaign to raise $1 million to move out of the cramped headquarters, where it operates now, and into a new building.

For about 15 years, Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Will and Grundy Counties has operated out of a converted house on Plainfield Road in Crest Hill. As the agency has grown, the space has become more crowded, said Chief Executive Officer Lisa Morel Las.

"Right now, we're on top of each other, and there's no room to add people," Las said.

Not only that, but Las recently had the building treated for termites. The property has been sold, and the building will be torn down as Big Brothers Big Sisters raises money for a new home.

The agency has its eyes on a Joliet site but has not closed on the property, Las said, since buying the building depends on how much money can be raised.

But Big Brothers Big Sisters is looking for a building big enough to house its staff as well as hold events that could attract more big brothers and sisters to the program, said Las.

Occasionally, the organization holds events to give prospective mentors a sense of what the program is like. A recent event brought in about 35 employees from Chicago Bridge and Iron to meet 35 youngsters to the Crest Hill location. Because of the size of the facility, everyone was spread out into different rooms.

Las said such one-day events are an important way to attract people who may be interested in Big Brothers Big Sisters but don't know enough about the program to make a commitment.

"We have many more kids than we have mentors," Las said.

It really doesn't take much to be a mentor in the program, said Jay Johnson, who is Nick's big brother.

Johnson, who lives in Minooka and is a coach at Lincoln-Way East High School in Frankfort, said he basically spends time with Nick doing things that they both like to do, such as bicycling and bowling.

"That's the good thing about the program," Johnson said. "They match you with someone who has the same interests."

Johnson brings his own son and two daughters along with some outings with Nick. Later this month, they may go to a Chicago Blackhawks hockey game.

"I don't feel like I do a lot," Johnson said.

But Nick's mother, Dana Agnich, vouches for the difference that Johnson has made in her son's life.

He's more focused at school, she said.

"This program has done a lot of good for my son," Agnich said at an event last week to launch the capital campaign. "He got his grades up. He went from Ds and Fs to As and one C."

As to why the program has made a difference, Agnich isn't sure. But Nick seems more confident.

"He just feels better about himself," she said.

Will County State's Attorney James Glasgow talked about the importance of role models at the Big Brothers Big Sisters event last week.

"Young kids today are bombarded with things that give them knowledge that they really can't comprehend," he said. "It's so critical that children have role models."

#  #  #

Mentor Program Looks for Bigger Home
Leaders Want to Raise $1 Million for Big Brothers

CREST HILL -- The family of mentors and children in Big Brothers Big Sisters of Will and Grundy Counties is growing. And, the agency says the old house it uses for its operations is just too small.

Big Brothers Big Sisters announced a campaign Monday to raise $1 million for a new base of operations.

Campaign leaders, staff members and supporters crowded into one of the rooms at the agency's current offices to talk about the growth of Big Brothers Big Sisters and its need for bigger quarters.

Campaign Co-Chairman James Roolf noted that the agency started small 35 years ago. But it now serves about 500 children a year.

"Will and Grundy counties are experiencing growth like they have never experienced before," Roolf said, adding that if everyone in the two counties donated just $1, the campaign would be close to its $1 million target.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Will and Grundy Counties operates out of a converted house at 2323 Plainfield Road, Crest Hill. The agency, which started in shared space in an insurance office in 1972, has been at the existing offices for about 15 years.

Roolf was joined by fellow Co-Chairman Paul Gantzert in describing the good the agency does.

Big Brothers Big Sisters links up adult mentors with children who may need role models.

Gantzert also made a pitch for volunteers, pointing to his own experience as a mentor for two boys who have since grown to become working adults. The experience is good for the mentors as well as the kids, he said.

"I really couldn't be more proud of both Little Brothers," Gantzert said. "I've done a lot of things with them that I wouldn't have done otherwise."

The campaign received some early donations of $70,000 in state dollars secured by State Rep. Jack McGuire and State Sen. A.J. Wilhelmi.

Will County Executive Larry Walsh, a longtime supporter of Big Brothers Big Sisters, and Will County State's Attorney Jim Glasgow also joined in the campaign announcement.

"Children in this program truly believe in themselves because a Big Brother or Big Sister believes in them," Walsh said.

He said children in the program tend to do better in school, are less likely to use drugs and alcohol, and even get along better with their families at home because of time spent with mentors.

Those interested in contacting Big Brothers Big Sisters should call Chief Advancement Officer Bridget Domberg at (815) 725-4324 or visit the Web site www.bbbswillgrundy.org.

#  #  #

Nick Sayers of Morris and Demetri Morris of Naperville discuss where they'd like to go to college with Big Brothers Big Sisters CapitalCampaign Co-Chairs James Roolf and Paul Gantzert. (Herald Photo/Heidi Terry-Litchfield)

‘Big' Effort

By Heidi Terry-Litchfield
Morris Daily Herald Writer

TUESDAY DECEMBER 11, 2007

JOLIET - Duct tape can be found holding the walls together at the current Big Brothers Big Sisters office in Joliet.

According to a recent appraisal, the building “is not functional, nor is it physically reasonable to rehab or add onto.”

The building sits in a small converted home on Plainfield Road, where water retention on the property after rain has resulted in a breeding ground for termites and rodents that have also infested the building, according to published reports.

It's due to the conditions of the existing building, which BBBS has inhabited since the early 1990s, that the organization is announcing the first-ever capital campaign for a new building.

BBBS currently serves Will and Grundy counties, and has done so 1972. The goal of the organization is to match at-risk children primarily from single-parent homes with dedicated mentors.

Co-chairs for the campaign are James Roolf, president of First Midwest Bank's Joliet Banking Center and a member of the Illinois Tollway board of directors, and Paul Gantzert with Gantzert Investment Co. and former Big Brother to two boys who are now successful adults.

“The future of these children starts today,” said Roolf. “We are asking for $1 million in this campaign. If every person in Will and Grundy counties gave just one dollar, we'd almost accomplish our goal.”

The $1 million will be used to purchase a new site and complete any renovations. It also includes a 10 percent endowment component.

State Senator A.J. Wilhelmi and Representative Jack McGuire were on hand to announce $20,000 and $50,000 grants, respectively, to start the campaign in the right direction.

The capital campaign committee members include Laird Ozman, Larry Walsh, Carroll Klotz, and Dr. Ernesto Tan.

Walsh, Will County executive, said the importance of the organization could not be denied.

“Research has shown that children matched with a Big Brother or Big Sister are 46 percent less likely to begin using illegal drugs, 27 percent less likely to begin using alcohol, and 52 percent less likely to skip school,” Walsh noted.

Will County State's Attorney James Glasgow said giving money to BBBS helps save money for taxpayers by providing role models to children who may otherwise turn to the street for examples and be lead to a life of crime.

“We are spending $67 million on a jail expansion,” said Glasgow. “If the money was spent here earlier, it may not be needed there.”

“They have an unbelievable record of success,” he added.

On hand at the campaign kickoff was Nick Sayers of Morris and his mother, Dana Agnich, who spoke about the benefits Big Brothers Big Sisters has brought to their family.

“It's nice to see him enjoy himself and come home happy after an outing,” said Agnich. “It's also benefited his education, since there is an agreement he had to get his grades up and keep them up in order to go on the outings.”

She said his grades have gone from D's and F's to mostly A's, with one C, at Saratoga School, where he is in fourth grade.

“He hasn't had a male role model other then his older sisters' husbands,” said Agnich. “They are now starting families of their own and have less time for him, so this has been great, giving him someone to look up to.”

Sayers said he has gone shopping and to the park with his Big Brother, Jay Johnson of Minooka, who was also on hand at the kickoff.

“He took me bowling once, too,” said Sayers. “I think it's pretty cool to have someone to look up to.”

Johnson, who is serving as a Big Brother and mentor for the first time, said it has been a great experience for him, as well as Sayers.

“It's awesome,” said Johnson. “I think I may be getting more out of it then he does.”

#   #   #

AT&T Technology Grants to Upgrade Area Organizations

The AT&T Foundation -- the corporate philanthropy organization of AT&T Inc. -- announced that it has awarded more than $42,000 to support three organizations in Will County through the AT&T Excelerator competitive technology grant program.

Since 2002, Excelerator has provided more than 2,500 technology grants -- totaling more than $47.8 million -- to organizations across the country.

"Being selected as a recipient of an AT&T Excelerator grant to upgrade our technology infrastructure means so much to us," said Lisa Morel Las, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Will and Grundy Counties. "The AT&T Excelerator grant will help us provide better support and services to our current mentors and the at-risk youth who participate in our programs."

A $20,000 grant to Big Brothers Big Sisters will support a technology infrastructure upgrade to replace aging computers, to enable access to software used by the national organization for donor support and to manage the critical process of matching volunteers with their little brothers and sisters.

"Lewis is honored to be one of this year's Excelerator grantees because technology plays an increasingly important role in mediating access to higher education," said James Gaffney, Lewis University president.

"AT&T's support for Project ATLAAS will enable the university to use Web-based technology to provide many of the same high-quality academic support services that are currently available at our main campus to adult students who are enrolled at our five regional centers."

A $14,000 grant to Lewis will support adult students by offering expanded access to academic support services and tutorial services.

"For the past two years, the Rialto has been planning for a significant technological upgrade regarding ticketing services for our patrons," said Randall Green, general manager of the Rialto Square Theatre Corp.

"The AT&T Excelerator grant provides us with the ability to put the last piece of our technology hardware puzzle in place. Our staff will now be able to fully use a system designed to provide a greater level of service to our patrons and to fully use an e-commerce marketing tool for selling and promoting events at the Rialto."

The $8,500 grant to the Rialto will support the purchase of new computers that will allow the use of Archtics, an in-house ticketing system.

Mentors Celebrated

Volunteers and supporters of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Will and Grundy Counties were recognized at the agency's annual volunteer celebration on Oct. 16 at Dollinger's Farm in Minooka.

Nearly 100 friends and volunteers were in attendance, including a large representation of adult volunteers who serve as Big Brothers or Big Sisters. The children matched as Little Brothers and Little Sisters presented a handwritten certificate of appreciation to their Big Brother or Big Sister while telling the audience how much he or she means to them.

Special recognition awards were given by Big Brothers Big Sisters CEO Lisa Morel Las and program director Megan Johnson to individuals and businesses that provided exceptional support throughout the year .

Awards include:

Big Advocate of the Year: Timothy C. Klotz Memorial Fund, Carroll Klotz.

Big Friend of the Year: Bill and Joan Caton, Realty World Caton & Associates.

Big Business of the Year: Just Kidding Around, of Morris, owner Maureen Headrick.

Big Corporate Sponsor of the Year: Packard Transport, owners Rex and Melody Easton.

Big Sister of the Year: Paulette Mangione-Korallus, of Plainfield.

Big Brother of the Year: Dr. Ernie Tan, of Frankfort.

Big Promising Mentor of Year: Jay Johnson Jr., of Minooka.

Big Committed Mentor of the Year: Kristin Hulva, of Wilmington

Big School-Mentoring Coordinator of the Year: Martha Miranda Villegas, Lewis University

Timothy Klotz's family and friends host the Timothy C. Klotz Memorial Golf Outing and Big Brothers Big Sisters has been one of the recipients of those funds for the last three years.

Bill and Joan Caton support the agency's annual Bowl for Kids' Sake fundraiser. Employees of the Catons formed nine teams and raised more than $5,000 for Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Just Kidding Around store owners Maureen Headrick and Monica Brehm donate proceeds of their Kids Club sales to Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Packard Transport Inc.'s Rex and Melody Easton have supported many of the agency's fundraising events and appeals, and donate tickets for matched "Bigs" and "Littles" to attend sporting and other activities.

Dr. Ernesto Tan, a urologist from Frankfort, was matched with Philip Duckworth of Mokena in 2003 after his father died of cancer. Paulette Mangione-Korallus, a Plainfield Realtor, was matched with Morris teen Eva since April 2002.

Kristin Hulva of Wilmington is a Big Sister to 12-year-old Valerie of Morris.

Martha Villegas has served as the site coordinator of Big Brothers Big Sisters program that matches Lewis students as mentors with grade school students from Ludwig Elementary and Irene King Elementary.

Monica Brehm and Maureen Headrick, owners of downtown Morris children’s clothing store Just Kidding Around, with the ‘Big’ Business of the Year Award from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Will and Grundy Counties.

BBBS Honors Volunteers for Helpful Service
Just Kidding Around Wins Honor of 'Big Business of the Year'

November 5, 2007

Joliet, Ill. – Volunteers and supporters of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Will and Grundy Counties were recognized at the agency’s annual Volunteer Celebration held on October 16 at Dollinger’s Farm in Minooka.

Nearly 100 friends and volunteers were in attendance, including a large representation of adult volunteers who serve as Big Brothers or Big Sisters.  The children matched as Little Brothers and Little Sisters presented a handwritten certificate of appreciation to their Big Brother or Big Sister while telling the audience how much he or she means to them.   

Special recognition awards were given out to individuals and businesses that have provided exceptional support throughout the year by Big Brothers Big Sisters CEO Lisa Morel Las and program director Megan Johnson.

Big Advocate of the Year – Timothy C. Klotz Memorial Fund, Carroll Klotz

Big Friend of the Year – Bill and Joan Caton, Realty World Caton & Associates

Big Business of the Year – Just Kidding Around of Morris, owner Maureen Headrick

Big Corporate Sponsor of the Year – Packard Transport, owners Rex & Melody Easton.

Big Sister of the Year – Paulette Mangione-Korallus of Plainfield

Big Brother of the Year – Dr. Ernie Tan of Frankfort

Big Promising Mentor of the Year – Jay Johnson of Minooka

Big Committed Mentor of the Year – Kristin Hulva of Wilmington

Big School-Based Coordinator of the Year – Martha Miranda Villegas, Lewis University

The Timothy C. Klotz Memorial Fund was chosen for the Big Advocate of the Year award as a result of their support of Big Brothers Big Sisters in the community.  Timothy Klotz’s family and friends host the Timothy C. Klotz Memorial Golf Outing and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Will & Grundy Counties has been one of the fortune recipients of those funds for the last three years.  Additionally, Tim’s widow, Carroll Klotz serves on the Big Brothers Big Sisters Board of Directors. 

Bill and Joan Caton, owners of Realty World Caton & Associates were honored as the agency’s Big Friend of the Year because of their worthy support of the agency’s annual Bowl for Kids’ Sake fundraiser.  Bill and Joan encourage their employees to get involved -- this year alone they had nine teams and raised over $5,000 for Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Recognized as the Big Business of the Year award was Just Kidding Around in Morris.  Every year, store owners Maureen Headrick and Monica Brehm donate proceeds of their Kids Club sales to Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Packard Transport, Inc. owners Rex and Melody Easton received the Big Corporation of the Year award for their long-time involvement with Big Brothers Big Sisters.  They have supported many of the agency’s fundraising events and appeals, and donate tickets for matched “Bigs” and “Littles” to attend sporting and other activities. 

Honored as Big Brother of the Year was Dr. Ernesto Tan, an urologist from Frankfort.  Dr. Tan was matched with Philip Duckworth of Mokena in 2003 after his father died of cancer.  Paulette Mangione-Korallus, a Plainfield realtor was selected as Big Sister of the Year.  She has been matched with Morris teen, Eva, since April 2002.

Jay Johnson, Jr., aquatics director for Lincoln-Way East High School, received the Big Promising Mentor of the Year award.  He was recently matched as a Big Brother with 9-year old Nick of Morris.  Kristin Hulva of Wilmington, was recognized as the Big Committed Mentor of the Year award for her dedication as a Big Sister to12-year old Valerie of Morris.

Chosen as the School-Based Site-Coordinator of the Year was Martha Miranda Villegas of Lewis University.  She has served as site-coordinator of the Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring program that matches Lewis University students as mentors with grade school students from Ludwig Elementary and Irene King Elementary.

Big Brothers Big Sisters is a United Way member agency whose mission is to help at-risk children, predominately from single-parent homes, reach their full potential through one-to-one mentoring relationships.  For more information, visit the web site at www.bbbswillgrundy.org or call call (815) 725-4324.

‘Finale' fundraiser is a sweet success

Thursday, November 1, 2007

JOLIET - One sweet idea created the recipe for success for the first-ever Finale fundraiser to benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Will and Grundy Counties.

The Sunday, Oct. 21 fundraiser at the Jacob Henry Victorian Ballroom in Joliet blended all the right ingredients - top area food establishments serving up fabulous desserts, generous supporters and a hard-working committee.

“The planning committee faced the difficult challenge of whipping up an ultra-classy event on a teeny-tiny budget so more local children can be matched with a Big Brother or a Big Sister mentor,” said Big Brothers Big Sisters CEO Lisa Morel Las.

Stirring this delicious pot was Sandy Price, partnership development coordinator for Big Brothers Big Sisters. It all started with a need for a fall fundraiser and a love of chocolate.

“I'm a big chocoholic,” said Price. “We knew that we wanted a fundraiser that would be different and which would stand out in the community - and our thoughts turned to a dessert-only fundraiser.”

She was happily surprised by the overwhelming success of the event.

“We were hoping to sell 200 tickets,” said Price. “And in the end, we sold well over 250 and could have sold more.”

Next year's “Finale,” because this year's success demanded another, will be on Oct. 12, 2008.

Steve Scherer, Big Brothers Big Sisters board vice president and a vice president at Citizens First National Bank in Minooka, admits he is not a big dessert eater. Still, he said “I really enjoyed it. It was very tastefully done, well attended, well orchestrated. I go to a lot of events and I have never seen one like this.”

Bridget Domberg, chief advancement officer for Big Brothers Big Sisters credits Harrah's Joliet Casino and Hotel for sponsoring the inaugural event.

“Harrah's was the key ingredient of our success,” she said.

Additional VIP Sponsors were Nicor and Will County State's Attorney Jim Glasgow.

“We're so grateful for the 12 vendors who provided the continuous dessert samplings - they were outstanding,” said Las.

For example, the Morris Country Club's white chocolate fountain was exquisite and the colorfully-decorated fish-shaped pumpkin cakes were a unique creation.

The vendors were Aunt Nina's Sweets & Treats, Baklava Bakery, Bella Cucina Catering, Edible Arrangements, Harrah's Joliet, M&M Specialties Custom Bake Shoppe, Morris Country Club, The Elegant Touch Gourmet Catering, Truth Restaurant, WineStyles of Homer Glen, and the Jacob Henry Mansion. The Will County Farm Bureau provided a wide selection of cheese as well.

Attendees were able to vote for their favorite vendors in various categories. Harrah's grabbed two of the awards: Best Presentation and Overall Best. Truth Restaurant won the Sensationally Decadent award.

“Many of the vendors thanked us because they knew that their business would only grow from this exposure,” Price said.

She also said she couldn't have pulled this party off without the help of the Pritz family, owners of the Jacob Henry Victorian Ballroom.

“They were so generous to us, especially Sue Pritz Bornhofen who was there every time we needed her” she said. “They involved their entire family in such a giving way. They love kids, they love our community. It was such a good mix.”

Laurie McPhillips, Will County Recorder of Deeds and a Republican; and Pam McGuire, Will County Circuit Clerk and a Democrat were co-chairs of the “Finale “planning committee . Their politics might differ, but there were no disagreements on how to partner for maximum impact.

The “Finale” committee included Julie Peterson of the Grundy County Sheriff's Department; Mary Lou Bennington of Morris who volunteers as a Big Sister; Clarice Kofoid of Something Unique; Rosa Angeles of First Midwest Bank; local photographer/writer Jan Larsen; nursing professor Lora McGuire of Joliet Junior College; Roxane Geraci for Will County Executive Larry Walsh; Wendy Langlois of MSL Benefits and Consultants; Tina Gildersleeve of the Joliet YMCA; and Annette Leck of Management Strategies Inc.

“I've worked on dozens of fundraising committees the past 20 years and have never seen staff contribute so much before,” said Larsen. “Being on this committee was a cake walk.”

Big Brothers Big Sisters is a United Way member agency whose mission is to help children achieve their full potential through professionally supported, long term, one-to-one relationships with carefully screened, dedicated volunteers.

Most of the children, ranging between 7-13 years in age, are considered at-risk and live in single-parent homes. For more information go to the web site www.bbbswillgrundy.org or call (815) 942-9011.

#  #  #

Truth owner Kate Mohundro (left) accepts the Sensationally Decadent Award
for her white and milk chocolate brûlée in a chocolate custard cup dessert.

FINALE co-chairs Will County Recorder of Deeds Laurie McPhillips and Will County Circuit Clerk Pam McGuire
present the Best Presentation Award and Overall Best Award to Harrah’s executive chef Lam Vongsakoun.

Sheriff Donates To Worthy Cause
Friday, September 28, 2007

On September 25, 2007 Will County Sheriff Paul J. Kaupas presented a check for $2,233 to Lisa Morel Las, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Will and Grundy Counties.  The funds were raised through the yearly event of the Sheriff’s Challenge.  The Sheriff’s Challenge fundraising event has been cancelled after a nine-year stint with Route 66 Raceway. 

Over the nine-year period, the Sheriff’s Challenge raised over $200,000 and the money was split between Wish Upon a Star Foundation and Illinois Special Olympics.  Now that this event has run its final race and the books are being closed, Sheriff Kaupas donated the remainder of the funds to Big Brothers Big Sisters, which he is a current Board Member of.

“Helping out kids in our communities never gets old,” stated Sheriff Kaupas.  “Big Brothers/Big Sisters is a wonderful organization and I couldn’t be happier to donate money to support the many programs that they offer.” 

Will County Recorder of Deeds Laurie McPhillips and members of her office staff came out victorious in the Battle of the Elected Officials competition as part of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Will and Grundy Counties Bowl for Kids' Sake fundraiser. McPhillips and her office employees raised more than $1,500, narrowly beating out Will County Executive Larry Walsh 's team.

This is the third year in a row that McPhillips has earned bragging rights as the elected official who raised the most money in the annual bowling fundraiser. Money raised at this annual event goes directly to matching children with a Big Brother or a Big Sister.

"Big Brothers Big Sisters of Will and Grundy Counties helps so many children from single parent families that it's easy to raise money for them year after year," said McPhillips. "We're a competitive bunch and we love to proudly display the traveling trophy at the Recorder's office for all to see."

In addition to being the recorder of deeds, McPhillips also serves as a member of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Will County Board of Directors

The event spurs some good natured competition, but its main focus is to raise money for Big Brothers Big Sisters.

"In the end, everyone's a winner, most importantly, the children whose lives are positively influenced by being matched with a Big Brother or a Big Sister," says Big Brothers Big Sisters CEO Lisa Morel Las. "There's no dollar amount that can be put on helping a child grow into a productive, successful adult."

For Immediate Release - July 5, 2007

NASCAR’S MATT KENSETH RACES TO WIN $5,000 FOR
BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS WITH EACH VICTORY ON THE TRACK

JOLIET, ILL – NASCAR® maverick Matt Kenseth has additional inspiration for capturing the checkered flag this season.  Kenseth will support Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) through his sponsor Arby’s who will donate $5,000 to the local agency after every win (Nextel or Busch Series).  BBBS is the oldest, largest and most effective youth mentoring program in the country serving more than 250,000 youth in 2006 through one-to-one mentoring relationships.

“Mentoring is a valuable and rewarding experience,” said Kenseth.  “A few hours a month can make a real difference in the life of a young person.  My dad, Roy, was a great mentor to me -- especially considering I took up the same line of work that he did.  He taught me a lot about life and about racecars and I can’t imagine where I’d be without him.”

“Matt Kenseth and Arby’s® are supporting our programs in a BIG way” said Lisa Morel Las, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Will and Grundy Counties – the local BBBS affiliate.   “Matt is great role model on and off the track and we hope he will inspire others to champion the cause of youth mentoring, talk about the power of one-to-one relationships in helping children realize their potential, and encourage more men to become Big Brothers.” 

Kenseth will support youth mentoring throughout the year.  More than 70% of children waiting for a “Big” are boys, but only three out of every 10 inquiries to volunteer come from men.  Research has shown that boys who participate in Big Brothers are less likely to use drugs or alcohol, have greater self-esteem, and get along better with their families. 

Arby’s is the primary sponsor of Kenseth’s No. 17 Ford Fusion in the NASCAR Busch Series.  Arby’s will also appear as the primary sponsor on Kenseth’s NASCAR Nextel Cup Ford Fusion.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters
Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) is the oldest, largest and most effective youth mentoring organization in the country.  The local BBBS affiliate (BBBS of Will and Grundy Counties) has been the leader in one-to-one youth services since 1972, developing positive relationships that have a direct and lasting impact on the lives of young people.  Support for BBBS of Will and Grundy Counties, in both volunteers and donors, has never been stronger and the number of children served has doubled in the last few years.  Yet, the surge in volunteers has been disproportionately female and more men are needed to help boys develop their self-confidence, stay in school and reach their potential.  The website is www.bbbswillgrundy.org and the phone number is 815/725-4324.

About Arby’s Restaurant Group, Inc.
Arby’s Restaurant Group, Inc., based in Atlanta, is the franchisor of the Arby’s restaurant system, which consists of more than 3,500 restaurants worldwide, and is owner and operator of more than 1,000 of those restaurants located in the United States. Founded in 1964, Arby’s quick service restaurants specialize in offering slow roasted and freshly sliced roast beef sandwiches as well as its Market Fresh® deli-style sandwiches, wraps and salads with the convenience of a drive-thru. Arby’s offers guests a unique, great tasting alternative to traditional fast food with its one-of-a-kind menu items including the Beef ‘n Cheddar, Curly Fries and Jamocha shakes. Arby’s Restaurant Group also owns and operates the T.J. Cinnamons® brand and is a subsidiary of Triarc Companies, Inc. (NYSE: TRY, TRY.B). To learn more about Arby’s, please visit www.arbys.com.

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Boys come to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Will and Grundy Counties for a variety of reasons. Some lack adequate role models at home. Some simply need another adult to talk to. Others might have a great immediate family, but just need someone outside their immediate circle to talk to, learn from and spend time with having fun.

Such was the case for Kevin Rand of Joliet. Rand's mother, Tonya Rand, said her 7-year-old son needed a male role model.

"He needed a male influence in his life, a positive male role model in his life, other than immediate family," she said.

He was matched with William VanPelt, a 40-year-old whose children are grown.

"They definitely make a fit," Tonya said of the program. "As a family we socialized together for the first few visits."

Today, one year after the two were matched, they do something together nearly every weekend. "It's been a year in building; it's not something that happens overnight," she said.

Kevin's relationship with Bill has made a big difference in his life. "I see a great difference in his confidence," his mom said. "He's just all around a more joyous boy."

And Kevin said that even though he lives close to his grandfather, Bill suggests activities that he might not do with his grandfather. "He can move around a lot better," Kevin said. "We play mini-golf, we build go-carts, go bowling, play video games," Kevin said.

Lisa Morel Las, Big Brothers Big Sisters chief executive officer, said many of the volunteers who come to the organization hope to make a difference in the life of a child. The difficulty is finding a few good men.

"It's a national trend that all Big Brother Big Sister agencies have trouble getting male volunteers," Morel Las said. "We do have children that have sat on the list and aged out.

"When they hit 14, that's when they age out."

Boys who need a mentor are not able to get one because men have not stepped up to the plate. So, the organization has opened the door to another option. In addition to single male and single female volunteers, they are now accepting couples.

"We're hoping that helps," Morel Las said. "That's new within the last year or two.

"Many of the (volunteers) are childless and are young or they have chosen not to have children."

Morel Las said the organization also is seeing a lot of retirees.

Generally, they have grown children and want someone to spend time with at baseball games and the like.

Mike Keane of Morris volunteered because he wanted to give back. He originally was going to volunteer at a hospital. After helping his wife, who works for the organization, chaperone a trip to U.S. Cellular Field, he was hooked.

Keane was paired with Cody Whitt, a 12-year-old from Plainfield who needed a positive male role model. On a recommendation from a counselor at Walker's Grove Elementary School, Cody's mom, Kelly Whitt, consulted Big Brothers Big Sisters.

"I wanted a positive role model for Cody, someone who could be a friend and set a good example and show that men can be respectful, responsible and have fun," she said.

Keane and Cody have been matched for about a year now and while Keane is Cody's big brother, the two families have really incorporated one another.

"I can't say enough about Keane and his wife, Lynn," Kelly said. "They are like family to us.

"They include us and we include them."

But Kelly said both families make sure that Keane and Cody are able to spend time alone.

"Cody and Keane will do things together and sometimes will get together as a family unit," she said.

In the past year, Kelly said, she has seen many positive changes in Cody.

"What I've noticed is that Cody is developing more personal skills," she said. "He can communicate his feelings.

"He really was kind of closed and shut down for a while."

Keane has seen a change in Cody as well.

"He's quite a gentleman," he said. "He's becoming much more responsible than he was a year ago."

Even if they do not plan an outing once a week, they do talk on the phone. Keane said Cody calls him if something is troubling him, but not too often. In fact, he said the two really don't talk directly about issues.

"We kind of chit chat about this or that," Keane said.

But during the chit chat, Keane is able to offer advice and Cory is able to take it.

In April, when Keane celebrated his 50th birthday party, Cody was there and Keane was grateful. Cody was on hand for Father's Day as well.

"I know I'm not your dad, I'm your big brother, but I'm really glad you came out this weekend," Keane told Cody. "It made my Father's Day just that much more special."