Above / Charming youngsters wowed the audience when they showed off a 1950’s attitude during last year’s benefit for Easter Seals. (Photo by Rich Howe Photography)
Easter Seals DuPage & Fox Valley’s 35th Annual Luncheon and Fashion Show is slated to begin at 11AM Sat., Sept. 19, at Drury Lane in Oakbrook Terrace. During festivities, the Youth Ambassador as well as a dedicated therapist will be recognized with the help of emcee, NBC 5 News Anchor, Dick Johnson.
A professional fashion show begins at 2PM.
Congratulations, Matthew!
This year’s Youth Ambassador, 14-year-old Matthew Williams, is a leader in his community on spreading awareness and respect for people of all abilities. He joins every leadership opportunity and speaks to organizations about his experience with cerebral palsy and autism. Starting speech services early at Easter Seals DuPage & Fox Valley was a vital part of Matthew’s success.
“It was so much more than making sounds and words. It was the moment of success to hear him squeal, a smile on his face, and no coughing, “said parent Machonne Williams. “The dark path we thought we would be going down was illuminated by the amazing staff at Easter Seals DuPage & Fox Valley.”
In honor of the 35th anniversary, this year a special award will recognize a member of the Easter Seals DuPage & Fox Valley clinical team. The new Spotlight Award will be presented annually at the Fashion Show to a therapist who exhibits exceptional personal and professional dedication to the children at Easter Seals DuPage & Fox Valley.
“We are honored to give the first award to Linda Merry, a dedicated occupational therapist who has helped all her clients achieve their maximum independence for over 30 years,” Theresa Forthofer, President and CEO of Easter Seals DuPage & Fox Valley said.
The theme of the event is “Come Build With Us,” as block by block Easter Seals builds brighter futures. NBC 5 news anchor, Dick Johnson, will emcee the event for another year providing commentary on the runway where clients of Easter Seals, dressed up in costumes, will show off their skills on the catwalk. The costumes and the fun are all part of celebrating the progress of each child with their friends and family.
The event is sponsored by Pacella Trucking Express and the Naccarato Family Fund of the DuPage Community Foundation.
RSVP for Tickets online by Sept. 16
To purchase tickets (Adults $60 and Children ($25), donate raffle prizes or to find out more information about the fashion show, visit www.EasterSealsDFVR.org/FashionShow2015.
To check later in the week for last-minute ticket availability, call Jennifer Price at (630) 282-2031.
About Easter Seals DuPage & Fox Valley
The mission of Easter Seals DuPage & Fox Valley is to enable infants, children and adults with disabilities to achieve their maximum independence and to provide support for the families who love and care for them. Founded in 1952, Easter Seals DuPage & Fox Valley is one of the largest and most highly regarded pediatric outpatient rehabilitation centers in the Nation serving nearly 3,200 infants, children, and adults with therapy and audiology services each year. Key services include: physical, occupational, speech-language, nutrition and assistive technology therapies and audiology services for all ages. Additional services include social services, community outreach programs, specialty clinics and The Lily Garden, an inclusive childcare center. Support children and adults with disabilities at www.EasterSealsDFVR.org.
Submitted by Erin Skaggs for Easter Seals DuPage & Fox Valley / Photos courtesy Rich Howe Photography
