“ART OF CARING” RETURNS

IT’S BEEN TOO LONG—too long since civic, philanthropic, and community donors have been able to gather to support Catholic Charities and its critical programs and services throughout Lake County.

“We are so excited to get together for the ‘Art of Caring’,” says Jane Hinton-Kedo who is co-chairing this beloved event with Joanie Reynolds and Natalie Reinkemeyer. It will take place on Saturday, April 29 at Exmoor Country Club.

With more than 50 years of service to the Women’s Board of Lake County among them, Hinton-Kedo, Reinkemeyer, and Reynolds truly embrace the organization’s mission of serving those in need, regardless of faith, race, gender, or ethnicity.

“The clients that Catholic Charities works with are not only deserving, but extremely grateful for the help,” Reynolds explains. “Catholic Charities is a life-changing organization. I feel so blessed to play a small part in helping those in need. I find so much fulfilment being a member of the Woman’s Board.”

Reinkemeyer found her way to Catholic Charities of Lake County when she was looking for an opportunity to actively help people in need.

“I remember the first meeting I attended where a spokesperson from each program within Catholic Charities talked about what they did and what we could do to help,” Reinkemeyer says. “I was so impressed with the scope of their mission and all of the hands-on opportunities where our help was needed within Lake County. I immediately signed up to take a ‘Meals on Wheels’ route to see for myself how I could make a difference. During COVID, food deliveries became even more critical to the people who were at risk. Catholic Charities did not waver in its determination to keep their food program going during that difficult time.”

This year, Lake Forest’s Barb and Ron Kelner have offered to serve as the honorary chairs for the event that promises a cocktail reception, short program during dinner, a spectacular lineup of live auction items, followed by live music and dancing.

“I think Catholic Charities is a well-run organization that is a good steward of the money we raise,” adds Reinkemeyer. “They make sure that the proceeds support services and programs for housing, counseling, food and nutrition, veteran support and senior services. I can’t say enough about this organization and how proud I am to be a part of it.”

Each year, the Irene Leahy McMahon Award is presented to a Women’s Board member who has given unselfishly of her time and talent to the Women’s Board activities and to Catholic Charities. This award is intended to honor those who continue Irene’s legacy of dedication to Catholic Charities in the true spirit of service. Mary “Buffy” Rock will receive the award posthumously at this year’s event.

“Buffy was one of the most humble and compassionate women I have ever met,” Reynolds says. “Buffy loved being a mom to her three wonderful daughters and was a lifelong nurse. The Women’s Board of Catholic Charities was near and dear to her heart. She enjoyed delivering Meals on Wheels, purchasing and delivering much needed items for the Welcome Home Program, and assisting with the Art of Caring auction committees through the years. Most importantly, Buffy never wanted any recognition for her service. Her commitment to Catholic Charities was steadfast and brought her so much joy. I am so looking forward to the evening when Buffy’s family accepts the award on her behalf.”

To learn more about the work of the Women’s Board of Catholic Charities or to purchase a ticket or sponsorship for “Art of Caring,” visit catholiccharities.net/events/art-of-caring.