35 YEARS OF HOPE

Wellness House Ball looks to the past, present, and future because caring is Timeless

Thirty-five years ago, a dedicated group of people came together as they saw the impact of cancer on families and friends. Out of concern and determination, Wellness House was born to lighten cancer’s burden through programs that support, inform and educate people affected by cancer – all at no cost.

In the beginning, programs were held in a small home in Hinsdale. This worked, but keen eyes observed that a larger space was needed. A passionate group of community members and volunteers worked tirelessly to build the main location in Hinsdale. As the need for cancer support grew, the community again stepped forward to build an addition to what is now called the Home of Hope.

Through careful planning and ongoing assessment of needs, Wellness House’s programs have continued to evolve and are now more accessible than ever with over 525 programs a month at the Home of Hope in Hinsdale, online, and over 30 partner collaborations throughout Chicagoland. Stepping into Wellness House, the spirit of care fills the air. As participants enter for yoga or cooking class, one can observe the stress each person is carrying lift from their faces as they greet friends and caring volunteers. In an era of isolation, this is the most vibrant community around.

Lisa Kolavennu has served as Chief Executive Officer of Wellness House for 18 years. She is the longest serving CEO, leading the organization for half of its existence. “The sheer longevity of this organization is a testament to the people. Every idea for a program or project is met with volunteers and professionals asking how we can make it happen,” she says when asked about leading Wellness House.

“Last year we offered our evidence-based, thoroughly researched programs to 4,100 people. That’s here in Hinsdale, at satellite sites on the West and South Sides of Chicago, and online. We’re expecting to grow that number 31% to 5,000 people served. We can make those plans and work towards a bold goal because of the donors and volunteers of Wellness House,” Kolavennu says.

Every volunteer is important, from those who help with the Walk for Wellness House in early May, to those who staff the House of Hope, to those who bring the Wellness House Ball to life each Fall.

“We rely on the money raised at the Ball and appreciate every single person who attends or donates. We are especially grateful to our Co-chairs and their incredible committee,” Kolavennu says.

Wellness House Ball 2025 is chaired by Angie and Wes Breton and Carrie and Vijay Thangamani. Themed Timeless, the evening will bring the idea of past, present and future into the narrative.

Co-chair Angie Breton enthuses, “I’m especially looking forward to the Mission Moment. It’s always incredibly moving. While many of us support Wellness House because we believe in the power of its mission, hearing a deeply personal story brings that belief to life in such a profound way. It reminds us that our contributions aren’t just gestures—they’re acts of compassion that can truly change the course of someone’s journey through cancer. That moment always grounds the evening in purpose and connects everyone in the room to why we’re really there.”

Angie previously served a six-year term on the Wellness House Board of Directors. Like many supporters, she has a special connection to the mission of Wellness House. Her mother passed from the disease at age 45 when Angie was just eight years old. She says, “While my family was close-knit and leaned on each other, I often wonder how much lighter the burden could have been if we’d had access to the kind of programs Wellness House offers like support groups, nutritional guidance, family counseling, even summer camps for children affected by a loved one’s diagnosis. These services don’t just support the individual; they lift the entire family. What’s even more meaningful is that Wellness House offers all of this at no cost, ensuring equitable access for anyone who needs it, made possible by the generosity of our community and donors.”

The Bretons and Thangamanis are leading a passionate group of committee members as they plan for what is sure to be an incredible celebration of the first 35 years and a glimpse into what the next 35 years will bring.