To begin 2019, I thought I’d mention a few unknown and known facts about the Exchange Club of Naperville.
- The Exchange Club of Naperville was chartered in September 1987.
- The Mission of the Exchange Club is the prevention of child abuse and domestic violence.
- The first Ribfest was held on Father’s Day Weekend in 1988 on Rotary Hill.
- Glen Ekey, former Executive Director of the Naperville Park District, brought the idea of having a Ribfest to the Club.
- The Exchange Club sponsored the Veterans Plaza on the Riverwalk.
- The Exchange Club sold bricks and granite stones placed around Memories Fountain in Fredenhagen Park in the amount of $250,000.
- The Exchange Club in partnership with the City of Naperville and the Naperville Park District fund the 4th of July Fire Works.
- Keeping Kids Safe is a project of the Exchange Club which has now become a National Exchange Club Project through the efforts of former Naperville Detective and Exchange Club Member Rich Wistocki.
- Over 100 people benefit each year at Christmas time through the Adopt a Family Program sponsored by the Community Service Committee.
- The Exchange Club through the Americanism Committee recognizes first responders that go above and beyond their duty with a “Police Officer of the Year” and “Fire Fighter of the Year.”
- Also, through the Americanism Committee, the Exchange Club coordinates the September 11th Memorial Service at City Hall.
- Through the years, the Exchange Club of Naperville has donated more than 16 million dollars back to the community.
- In 2020, Ribfest will find a new yet-to-be-determined location for its annual fundraiser in support of many causes related to our mission.
- Meanwhile, 2019 Ribfest is planned July 3-6 in Knoch Park. Save the dates. It’s sure to be blast!
The Exchange Club of Naperville meets on the first Fridays at 11:45AM at Hugo’s Frog Pond and on the third Thursday at 5:30PM at Traverso’s. Please come and join us and meet some new friends.
Happy New Year!
