The annual Kids’ Best Friend Awards Benefit is slated for Fri., Nov. 16, at the Hilton Lisle/Naperville.
At this year’s benefit dinner, the spotlight will shine on local individuals who are brightening the lives of homeless children and people with disabilities. In addition, The Education Center will present Make a Difference Awards to two community members who have impacted the lives of children through the court system and church ministries.
This year’s recipient for the Kids’ Best Friend Award is Diane Nilan of HEAR US.
The 2012 Community Leader Award will go to Vicky Joseph of Families Helping Families.
The 2012 Business Leader Award will honor Greg Bizzaro of Special Talents America.
Making a Difference Awards will be presented to Honorable Robert J. Anderson, 18th Judicial Circuit Court Judge; and Janice Rubin, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church and Collaborative Youth Team.
The Education Center is a nationally-recognized children’s organization that helps kids succeed in school and in life. With a 97 percent success rate of graduating students who are diagnosed as learning disabled and underachievers, the center offers area families a place of hope and help.
“As the weak economy impacts more and more families each year, we are pleased to focus attention at our Kids’ Best Friend event on two people who are in the front lines battling for the education and stability of homeless kids,” said Dr. Michael Litow, founder and executive director of The Education Center. “We are also excited about highlighting some exceptional programs on behalf of people with disabilities, distinguished work with children through the court system, and innovative student ministries.”
Awards will be presented at the annual dinner held in the Hilton Lisle/Naperville Grand Ballroom. Tickets are $125 per person and include a cocktail reception, which begins at 5:30PM, followed by dinner and dancing.
For more information or to purchase tickets, contact The Education Center at (630) 420-7807 or visit www.TheEducationCenter.org.
UPDATE: During the Sept. 18 meeting of the Rotary Club of Naperville/Downtown, Ray McGury introduced his wife, Sue, and Marva Litow and Dr. Mike Litow, all pictured here. Before he addressed the club as its featured speaker, Litow informed the service club that Downtown Rotarians Ray McGury, Ron Nyberg with his wife, Nancy; and Dwight Yackley had been recognized with previous Kids Best Friend Awards.
The Rotary Club of Naperville/Downtown meets at 4:44PM on Wednesday 50 weeks during the year at Hugo’s Frog Bar. Look for the tent sign for directions. Guests always are welcome. Guest fees are $20 for libation, refreshments, a great program and fellowship.
FYI: Founded in 1979, The Education Center of Developmental Resources has a mission to help children succeed in school as well as in life. In the past, The Education Center has been a recipient of one of the Rotary /Downtown Community Grants.
Top photo courtesy The Education Center
