Almost 1,000 Sandwiches Later...

After three days of hard work assembling and delivering, Ridgewood freshmen, junior mentors, and adult mentors have combined their efforts with the Night Ministry and Salvation Army to make sack suppers to feed the hungry in Chicago.  This year, we were joined with Captain Nancy and Henry, who presented their hopes and goals for this project.  Henry, who once was on the streets himself, recounted that it was the kindness of others in the form of a sandwich that inspired him to join the Salvation Army in their work.  After hearing his story, the students and adults were driven to work together and continue the kindness shown to Henry.  Not only did students deliver the sandwich suppers, but they also passed out gloves and scarves and other supplies needed for the harsh cold and wrapped presents.  Students also worked with Ridgewood art classes to help decorate O'Hare Airport for their annual Fantasy Flight.  This program allows chronically and terminally ill children and their families to fly to the "North Pole."  This project was a great success because of the community's generous support.  Huge thank you's to Captains Nancy and Brian and Henry from the Salvation Army, United Airlines, Ridgewood High School, and junior and adult mentors, especially Helen, Rogelio, Ian, Chuck, Beth, Pat, Mike N, and John B.  Merry Christmas and have a great holiday!

 

On the Town: Mentors Meet with the Blackhawks and Salvation Army

Mentors had the opportunity on November 17th to venture downtown on the L.  First stop was meeting Mr. Steve Waight at the United Center.  Last year, Mr. Waight helped Mr. Duncan in presenting a case on the Blackhawks.  This year, he talked to the group about his role as Senior Executive Director for Corporate Sponsorships for the team as well as his path from college to finding a job with the team.  Other members of his marketing team also discussed marketing and being leaders in their field.  

Afterward, it was a quick walk to the Billy Goat Tavern for lunch.  It was a great opportunity to see a great institution in Chicago's history, inspiring a Saturday Night Live Sketch.  Pictured is the group congregating around the goat.

Last stop on the trip was the Salvation Army where Captain Nancy Davis talked about sandwich making with the Ridgewood Mentors and freshmen.  She was joined by Henry, who shared his story of being swept off the street by the Salvation Army and going through the steps to overcome a drug addiction.  He now works with community outreach to get the homeless into their care.  

Thank you to Mr. Waight and the Blackhawks and Captain Nancy and the Salvation Army for imparting their wisdom on service and leadership!