After a long winter, it’s time to live this summer to its fullest. Pillars, the area’s leading mental health and social service agency will once again host “Party for Pillars,” a series of events held throughout the month of June to support its extensive services. Proceeds from Party for Pillars events will fund mental health services such as Constance Morris House, a safe haven for those experiencing domestic violence; addiction services; and Head Start programming for children at the Child and Family Development Center.
Following the success of last year’s Talent Showcase, local artists will be making an appearance at this years’ Pillars Got Talent, hosted by WGN Radio’s Wendy Snyder. Guests will be able to take in the chic atmosphere of Wire, one of Berwyn’s newest music clubs, while supporting local musicians and the Pillars cause. Guests who would like the true VIP experience can purchase tickets that will allow them to enjoy Wire’s beautiful balcony lounge with complimentary snacks.
Party for Pillars has historically showcased La Grange’s local businesses in inviting and exciting ways, and this year is no exception. Kama Bistro, a Michelin recognized Indian bistro, has proven itself to be a highlight of the area’s dining scene. Pillars has partnered with the establishment to host “AmeriKama,” combining American fare with Indian flair. Another La Grange favorite involved in this year’s Party for Pillars is Francesca’s, which is inviting guests to a night of trattoria-style food and Spanish guitar by Leo Fron.
Pillars’ dedicated staff and volunteers have banded together to host a series of themed events, which cater to diverse tastes and sensibilities. Among this year’s parties is a “Hawaiian Holiday” at the Village Club of Western Springs and a wine tasting at the beautiful La Grange home of Corliss and Dennis Kajmowicz, among others.
Living up to its family-friendly work in the community, Pillars, alongside Family Video of La Grange Park, will co-host a Fun Fair that will prove to be an afternoon filled with engaging activities for children and families after the end of the academic year. With incentives for students who bring proof of their grade “A” work, the event should be a beautiful opportunity to get out and enjoy a day with the family.
Other events that will be held during June include a Zumba workout with Anna Krueger at Foundations Performance Center, a night of drinks at Kama Bistro with guest bartender Linda Reid-Kilzer, an innovative approach to fitness with Pamela Berk’s Nia class and many others.
For their dedication to the community, Pillars has been the recipient of early sponsorships from many of the area’s institutions. First National Bank of La Grange has shown their continuous support of Pillars with their generous sponsorship this year. Kinematics Corps Pilates Studio has also stepped up to show its commitment to the health of the community by supporting Pillars this June. Pillars is especially thankful for its sponsors who have shown initiative in funding Party for Pillars, with donations from MacNeal Hospital, Smothers Realty Group, DeSitter Flooring Inc., Park District of La Grange, Wire, and Century Moving & Storage. For a full list of sponsors, visit www.PartyforPillars.com.
Michelle Halm is a Party for Pillars committee member and longtime volunteer with the agency. She has given her efforts to Pillars “because of the support they offer to children and families.” Halm, who has volunteered at Buddy's Place for nearly four years, adds, “Pillars does unique and meaningful work that has otherwise been neglected. They offer peer support for children who have had a loved one die and help adults learn how to support their children as well.” Along with Halm, Pillars Party Committee has been driven by the combined efforts of Mary Gibbons, Tim Trompeter, Rose Ashby, Elizabeth Wheeler and Jessica Eterno.
Pillars’ President and CEO Ann Schreiner describes Pillars’ mission by saying, “At the heart of every nonprofit is its mission. However, the soul is in the generosity of all those involved with Pillars.” Party for Pillars holds a special place in the organization’s event book because “through Party for Pillars, we bring in the vibrancy of the community to celebrate and raise awareness. We do so by sharing the stories that must be told.
"Our clients are the true inspiration for our efforts, and paired with the amazing individuals across various communities that come together for these events, we are able to fulfill our mission to make connections and change lives."
To learn more about Party for Pillars, view a complete list of this June’s events and buy tickets by visiting www.PartyforPillars.com. To learn more about Pillars’ programs and services, visit www.pillarscommunity.org.
