Join us Thursday, Jan 29 at 6:30pm in the Whisper Room at Johnny Cabs (212 Burr Ridge Pkwy, Burr Ridge, IL) for a free community gathering. THRIVE (inspired by Pat Green’s Hearts of Glass book series) is a survivor-centered evening of art, music, and conversation to support healing from DV/SA and other trauma. Featured speakers Pat Green (YA author of Hearts of Glass) and Alexandra Charecky (author of Buford’s Purposeful Day) will share their stories and creative work. Ashara will perform songs, and participants are invited to engage in art and writing activities.
Certified crisis counselor Stephanie Karas will moderate with a trauma-informed approach, ensuring a safe, supportive space. The event is free and guests are encouraged to purchase food or drinks from Johnny Cabs to thank them for the donated space.
• When & Where: Thu, Jan 29 · 6:30–9:00pm (walk-ins welcome) – Whisper Room, Johnny Cabs, Burr Ridge, IL.
• Cost: Free; (please support the venue’s goodwill by buying food/drinks).
• Theme: Creative healing from DV/SA through art, music, storytelling and community.
Speakers & Program Highlights
• Pat Green (author, Hearts of Glass YA series) – Pat will read from and discuss his novels, illustrating how storytelling fosters resilience.
• Alexandra Charecky (author/educator) – Alexandra will share her perspective on empowerment and creative healing as well as her Children’s book.
• Music by Ashara – A live vocal performance of songs, underscoring the evening’s hopeful tone.
• Stephanie Karas – Moderator and trauma counselor, guiding discussions and activities with a survivor-focused, caring approach.
• Interactive Workshops: Short readings and Q&A with the authors; creative breakout sessions (art journaling, writing prompts, etc); optional story-sharing circle.
• Survivor-Centered Environment: All facilitators are trauma-informed; there will be resource tables and quiet areas if needed.
Partners & Resources
Local support organizations will be on hand to provide information and assistance:
• Constance Morris House (Pillars Community Health): A confidential emergency shelter in La Grange for survivors of DV/SA, offering private family rooms and comprehensive counseling.
• Guardian Angel Community Services (Joliet): Formerly “Guardian Angel Home,” this nonprofit offers 24‑hour DV/SA hotlines and counseling to those in crisis.
• Beacon of Hope & Healing: A network providing support and resources to veterans and their families.
Each group will have representatives and materials available. We are also collecting donations and other resources for these organizations.
“Double the Light” Book Donation Match
In the spirit of giving, we’re running a “Double the Light” book drive: for every copy of Pat Green’s or Alexandra Charecky’s (and other partner authors) book that you donate to our partner groups, the event will match it with another copy. This 1-for-1 match doubles the impact of each gift, so more survivors receive inspiring resources.
• Example: Donate 5 books, and 10 books (total) will be given to local shelters.
Logistics & Special Thanks
• Accessibility: The space is fully accessible but space is limited to 40.
• Safety: A trauma counselor and nurse will be present throughout.
• Presented by: Barnstormer Publishing in collaboration with local DV/SA survivor support groups.
• Thank You: Special thanks to the owners and management of Johnny Cabs for generously donating the beautiful Whisper Room. Your patronage (food/drink purchases) helps us thank them for the venue.
For more info, please contact patgreenauthor@gmail.com