a legacy of caring
INFANT WELFARE SOCIETY OF CHICAGO 3600 W. Fullerton Avenue, Chicago, IL 60647 773.782.2800 fax 773.782.5042 info@infantwelfare.org
Mistletoe Medley 2009
We are delighted that this event has become a beloved holiday tradition for so many of our guests who return year after year. We were honored to host over 750 guests on Tuesday, December 1. Allison Rosati, our Honorary Chairman and Mistress of Ceremonies, extended her thanks to our attendees who enable the Chapter to provide significant financial support to the Clinic. Allison continues to be enormously popular with our guests, and we appreciate her loyalty to the organization!
As per tradition, guests who brought donations of formula, diapers or infant clothing for Healthy Steps received a free raffle ticket. For many years now, Kate Peot has collected our guests’ contributions for Healthy Steps, and we thank her for her commitment to this effort.
There was much to interest our guests with our terrific Preferred and Grand Raffles. Our Special Raffle offered a stunning sapphire and diamond ring donated by Merry Richards Jewelers. There were 42 vendors this year. They proved to be very popular with our guests. Our guests were thrilled with our Mistletoe Medley centerpiece this year, a Mark Roberts Santa Fairy, “Bellsnickle.”
Our fashion show, presented by Tracey Tarantino and Zzazz Productions, offered a great overview of the best of Chicago couture. Designer James De Colon made a special appearance on the runway and was warmly greeted by our guests who loved his fashions.
We look forward to seeing you at Mistletoe Medley 2010!
Auxiliary’s Holiday Special Gifts Program
On another holiday note, our Chapter was also delighted to participate in the Auxiliary’s Holiday Special Gifts Program. We adopted 20 children.
Tammy Luther coordinated this effort, and we appreciate her hard work and dedication! We also thank our many members who donated money, purchased gifts and wrapped presents for the children.
It is always gratifying to know that families at the Clinic will have a brighter holiday thanks to our members’ generosity and kindness.
Spring was a busy season for our Chapter. In April, we were delighted to welcome Milagros Hernandez, the Director of Child Development and Support Services at the Clinic. She spoke eloquently about our new Mother/Infant Therapy Groups designed to treat women experiencing postpartum depression. Milagros’ presentation was well received by our members. At the end of her talk, she was given two large baskets with donations for Child Development and Support Services. They contained a wide variety of children’s items such as clothing, thermometers and toys.
At our May meeting, our Chapter hosted a “Meet and Greet” at the Oak Brook Library for residents of surrounding communities that do not have an Infant Welfare Auxiliary Chapter in their area. Guests and members watched a video presentation concerning the Clinic. Those in attendance were impressed hearing patients’ firsthand accounts of the impact the Clinic has had upon their lives.
Joyce Cox-Cunningham and Shirley Tsourmas coordinated arrangements for our recent Baby Shower and Luncheon in June. We enjoyed getting together for our last meeting before the summer break. Our members brought in many donations of diapers, clothing and formula for our pediatric patients at the Clinic.
Chapter President Linda Layland with Tammy Luther and
Diane Douglas at the Martini Medley Preview Party
Sally LaCrosse, Renee Cronin, Barb Nasharr and Nelly Naguib at the Mistletoe Medley raffle tables
Mistletoe Medley 2009
Our membership is thrilled with the proceeds from Mistletoe Medley 2009. Again, our Chapter wants to thank the many Auxiliary members who support us each and every year. Your loyalty is very much appreciated. Of course, we’re not content to rest on our laurels!
We are making great progress in planning our 2010 Martini Medley and Mistletoe Medley.
Our Chairmen this year are Debbie Heidecke and Toni Hudecek, and we thank them for
their leadership. Debbie and Toni are supported by a great Committee that will oversee
specific aspects of both events. Currently, Committee members are reviewing invitation
and centerpiece concepts and are beginning to solicit donations and raffle prizes.
Our members also donated hats, mittens and books for the children, and these have been delivered to the Clinic. Last but not least, we also want to thank Linda Layland for her phenomenal work as our President. Our Chapter is so fortunate to have had her outstanding leadership and excellent guidance these past two years.
