Hope, healing & justice for abused children.

Will County Children's Advocacy Center

The Will County Children's Advocacy Center was founded in 1995 by State's Attorney James Glasgow to partner with multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) comprised of law enforcement, DCFS investigators, medical personnel, prosecutors, and Will County CAC forensic interviewers, family advocates, and trauma therapists in response to reports of severe physical abuse, sexual abuse, commercial exploitation, neglect, and exposure to violence of children, in Will County, IL. Our Will County CAC intake/MDT coordinator, forensic interviewers, family advocates, and trauma therapists provide the following services: * Forensic Interviews: After a child is referred to the Will County CAC by law enforcement or the IL Dept. of Family Services (DCFS), our Intake Coordinator schedules a forensic interview for the child. One of our 4 forensic interviewers listens to the child’s story and asks non-leading, developmentally-appropriate questions as the child talks about the trauma he/she has experienced. Law enforcement, prosecution, DCFS, and mental health professionals observe the interview from a separate room. This reduces trauma for the child and provides a stronger foundation if the case goes to court. * Family Advocacy: Our family advocates are committed to helping each family navigate the complex systems that a family enters when a child makes an outcry of abuse. As each case goes through the investigation, prosecution and healing process, the team is there to help the family understand the process, learn about their rights and successfully access resources that will help their family during crisis. * Trauma-Focused Therapy: Our team of licensed clinical social workers provide short-term, trauma informed therapy to children who have received a forensic interview. Since child abuse affects the whole family, the services are available at no cost to both the child and their non-offending family members. Individual and group therapy is offered in English and Spanish.

Will County

Will

Crest Hill

Illinois

The Will County Children's Advocacy Center was founded in 1995 by State's Attorney James Glasgow to partner with multidisciplinary teams (MDTs)...

Fred C. Dames Funeral Home and Crematory provides compassion

Fred C. Dames Funeral Home and Crematory

Fred C. Dames Funeral Home and Crematory provides compassionate funeral and cremation services to families throughout Will, Grundy, and Kendall Counties in Illinois. With a deep commitment to supporting the community, the funeral home serves as a trusted partner for those navigating the loss of a loved one across the region and beyond. As an approved airline transportation specialist, they also facilitate nationwide and global funeral services with professional care. Beyond traditional funeral arrangements, the firm specializes in comprehensive preplanning and aftercare support. They offer an extensive online grief resource library developed in partnership with Dr. Alan Wolfelt, providing families with practical tools for healing. Additionally, the team actively engages in community outreach by offering public speaking services and specialized programs designed to support individuals and groups through the grieving process. Families can expect a personalized approach that prioritizes emotional well-being and meaningful remembrance. By combining professional funeral direction with ongoing educational resources, Fred C. Dames Funeral Home and Crematory ensures that every family receives the guidance and understanding necessary during their most difficult times.

John Ferak

Chicago Metropolitan Area

Joliet

Fred C. Dames Funeral Home and Crematory provides compassionate funeral and cremation services to families throughout Will, Grundy, and Kendall...

Become a Volunteer Meal Driver: Just 2 Hours a Week

Meals on Wheels for Northern Illinois

For thousands of older adults across Illinois, a knock at the door is more than just a food delivery—it is a vital lifeline. At Meals on Wheels for Northern Illinois (MOWFNI), we are dedicated to helping our senior neighbors live independently, safely, and with dignity in the homes they love. We achieve this through nutritious food, wellness checks, and the power of human connection, but we cannot do it alone. The Power of Our Volunteers Our volunteers are the heartbeat of MOWFNI. If you have just two hours a week to spare, you can make a profound difference. Delivering meals fits seamlessly into a midday routine or lunch break. As a volunteer driver, you do far more than hand over a meal; you provide a friendly smile, a warm conversation, and a crucial safety check for a senior who might not see anyone else that day. We offer flexible scheduling that allows you to volunteer weekly, monthly, or as part of a team with coworkers or friends. Our Core Programs: Home-Delivered Meals: We provide hot, dietitian-approved meals delivered directly to the doorsteps of those who cannot cook or shop for themselves. Community Cafes: Beyond home delivery, our vibrant Community Cafes offer a welcoming space for active older adults to gather, enjoy a delicious lunch, socialize, and build meaningful friendships that combat senior isolation. Make a Local Impact Today When you support or volunteer with MOWFNI, you are directly investing in the health and happiness of older adults right here in our neighborhood. Whether you are looking to give back during retirement, connect with your community, or get your local business involved in a meaningful cause, there is a place for you in our volunteer family. Join us in delivering more than a meal. Visit mowfni.org/volunteer-sign-up to fill out a brief volunteer application, or call us today to learn how you can start changing lives—one hour, one smile, and one senior at a time.

Andrea Earnest

Bolingbrook

For thousands of older adults across Illinois, a knock at the door is more than just a food delivery—it is a vital lifeline. At Meals on Wheels for...

Enrollment is open! Accepting children ages 6 weeks–12 years

Kiddie Kampus Learning Center, Inc.

We’re proud to be a family‑owned and operated, fully licensed daycare serving children ages 6 weeks to 12 years. At Kiddie Kampus, we’ve created a nurturing, safe, and engaging space where every child can learn and grow. We’d love to welcome your family into ours!

Channahon-Minooka

We’re proud to be a family‑owned and operated, fully licensed daycare serving children ages 6 weeks to 12 years. At Kiddie Kampus, we’ve created a...

The 100th Pizza Place to open in town...but also the best!

Not Another Pizza Joint

Whenever a new business is opening in town, the first thing people say is “I hope it’s not another pizza joint!” We sure do have enough of them here. But it’s time we had an authentic south side of Chicago pizza like you had when you were growing up...the thin and crispy crust, the browned cheese...brought home in a paper bag, not a cardboard box. A real mom and pop place, not another chain. We use all of the freshest ingredients, and make our dough and sauce from scratch daily. We are open inside the Hive Kitchen every Wednesday-Friday 12-9pm and Saturday, 4-9pm for carryout or delivery only. Check out our menu and place delivery orders at www.napj.pizza

Whenever a new business is opening in town, the first thing people say is “I hope it’s not another pizza joint!” We sure do have enough of them...

<a href="http://www.willcosheriff.org/pressreleases/?title=9-year-old-female-has-been-located&amp;more=1" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Press release from the Will County Sheriff's Office:</a> Kathy September 21, 2021 The Sheriff's Office has been contacted and is announcing that the 9 year old,  attempt to locate,  juvenile has been found.  In the late afternoon hours yesterday, she was checked by a local law enforcement agency.   <hr />This press release was produced by <a href="https://www.willcosheriff.org/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">the Will County Sheriff's Office</a>. The views expressed here are the author's own.

<a href="http://www.willcosheriff.org/pressreleases/?title=9-year-old-female-has-been-located&amp;more=1" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Press release from the Will County Sheriff's Office:</a>

The Sheriff's Office has been contacted and is announcing that the 9 year old,  attempt to locate,  juvenile has been found.  In the late afternoon hours yesterday, she was checked by a local law enforcement agency.   <hr />This press release was produced by <a href="https://www.willcosheriff.org/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">the Will County Sheriff's Office</a>. The views expressed here are the author’s own.

WCSO: 9 Year Old Female Has Been Located

The Sheriff's Office has been contacted and is announcing that the 9 year old, attempt to locate, juvenile has been found. In the late a ...

Crime & Safety

Shorewood

Emily Rosca

Plainfield

Lauren Traut

Manhattan

Homer Glen-Lockport

New Lenox

Romeoville

Kendall County

Oswego

Yorkville

Parks Place- 102 S. IL Rt.53- Gardner, IL

Come
spend part of Labor Day Weekend in Gardner, where Junk in the Trunk
Morris is set to stage our next outdoor flea market. On Sunday
September 6th
Parks Place, 102 S. IL Rt. 53 in Gardner will be open for shopping
from 9AM until 3PM. Parks Place is conveniently located a block east
of I-55 Exit #227, on a highly visible corner next to Casey’s. At
the event our independent vendors will have a wide variety of items
for sale at excellent prices. If you would like to join them, that
option is still available as advance vendor registration is not
required. Simply arrive at 8AM, pay the $15 fee, and take an
available spot. Vendors are guaranteed a space of at least 10’ by
30’, and when needed can use a small amount of extra space without an
additional charge. Small trailers are welcome. Junk in the Trunk Morris was founded in 2009 as a
charitable fundraiser, and proceeds from vendor fees collected at the
September 6th
Gardner Market will be donated to the Goose Lake Prairie Partners.
For additional information visit us on Facebook, or contact event
manager George Bennett, 630-319-0289 or <a href="mailto:morrissale@yahoo.com">morrissale@yahoo.com</a>.


The
fall schedule of Junk
in the Trunk Morris
events is as follows:

Gardner-September
6th, October 4th and November 1st.

Morris-September
20th and October 18th.

Mazon-October
10th.

All
dates are Sundays except for Mazon which is a Saturday.

Local Event: Junk in the Trunk Flea Market in Gardner

Junk in the Trunk Flea Market in Gardner


Come
spend part of Labor Day Weekend in Gardner, where Junk in the Trunk
Morris is set to stage our next outdoor flea market....

Timbers of Shorewood

The Timbers of Shorewood is hosting an educational program titled “The Healthy Brain” at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 8 at the Timbers, 1100 N. River Road, Shorewood. Presented by Humana, the program will explore how everyday habits influence brain health and offer practical strategies to keep the mind sharp. The program is free and open to the public.
Following the seminar, attendees can enjoy food available for purchase from the Black Walnut BBQ truck on-site from noon to 2:30 p.m. 
“We are always excited to open our doors and welcome members of the surrounding community to The Timbers,” said Sheila Albor, director of marketing at The Timbers of Shorewood. “Educating seniors on health and wellness topics is so important to us. By hosting these free educational sessions, we hope local seniors and their families visit and learn something new.”
This presentation marks the kickoff of the 2026 Timbers Educational Series, a multi-month initiative designed to bring expert guidance on senior health, safety and wellness directly to the local community. 
The schedule for the Timbers Educational Series includes:
<ul>
 <li>Tuesday, Sept. 8 - The Healthy Brain</li>
 <li>Wednesday, Sept. 23 - Fall Prevention</li>
 <li>Tuesday, Oct. 13 - Preparing for Respiratory Season</li>
 <li>Thursday, Nov. 5 - Veterans Benefit Seminar</li>
</ul>
The Timbers of Shorewood is a rental retirement community that provides independent and assisted living apartments and a full schedule of activities and services. Residents whose needs may change are able to stay in the same place and receive appropriate and compassionate care. Furnished apartments are also available for short-term stays. 
Again, all programs in the series are free and open to the public. For more information, visit <a href="https://www.timbersofshorewood.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.timbersofshorewood.com</a> or call 815-609-0669.

Local Event: Free Brain Health Presentation For Seniors at Timbers of Shorewood

Free Brain Health Presentation For Seniors at...

The Timbers of Shorewood is hosting an educational program titled “The Healthy Brain” at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 8 at the...

Free Brain Health Presentation For Seniors at Timbers of Shorewood

Bradley Veerman Charity Fund to Host "In Memory of Our Fallen Heroes" 5K Run &amp; Walk During Elwood Community DaysELWOOD, Illinois&nbsp;— The Bradley Veerman Charity Fund&nbsp;is proud to announce the annual In Memory of Our Fallen Heroes 5K Run &amp; Walk, taking place on Friday, September 11, 2026, at Lloyd Erickson Park, 801 N. Chicago Street, Elwood, Illinois. The event begins with a special remembrance ceremony at 5:00 p.m., followed by the 5K Run &amp; Walk at 6:00 p.m.This year's event holds special significance as the nation commemorates the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001. Participants will gather to remember the lives lost, honor the courage and sacrifice of first responders and public servants, and celebrate the enduring spirit of service that continues to unite communities across America.Hosted in conjunction with Elwood Community Days, the event&nbsp;benefits&nbsp;the Bradley Veerman Charity Fund, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting first responders, advancing public safety initiatives, providing EMS education, and&nbsp;assisting&nbsp;charitable organizations that serve our communities.The charity was&nbsp;established&nbsp;in memory of Bradley Veerman, a dedicated firefighter, paramedic, police officer, Executive Director of the Laraway Emergency Telephone System Board (Will County 9-1-1), and public servant whose passion for helping others continues to inspire the organization's mission. Through fundraising efforts, the Bradley Veerman Charity Fund has provided educational scholarships, supported emergency responders, and partnered with organizations committed to improving public safety throughout the region."Our goal is to bring our community together to remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice while continuing Bradley's legacy of compassion, service, and commitment to helping others," said April Veerman, President of the Bradley Veerman Charity Fund. "Every participant, volunteer, sponsor, donor, and supporter helps us honor our fallen heroes while making a lasting difference in our communities."Participants of all ages and abilities are encouraged to register.&nbsp;Registration includes:​
<ul><li>Official event T-shirt</li><li>Finisher medal</li><li>Admission wristband to Elwood Community Days</li><li>Beer ticket for participants 21 years of age or older</li><li>The opportunity to honor America's heroes while supporting a meaningful cause</li></ul>
Can't&nbsp;make the race?&nbsp;You can still be part of this meaningful event. Community members are encouraged to&nbsp;purchase&nbsp;an official In Memory of Our Fallen Heroes&nbsp;event&nbsp;T-shirt online. Shirts are available for family members, friends, supporters, and anyone who wants to proudly wear them throughout Elwood Community Days&nbsp;while honoring our Fallen Heroes. Every shirt&nbsp;purchased&nbsp;directly supports the mission of the Bradley Veerman Charity Fund by helping fund educational scholarships, first responder&nbsp;assistance, public safety initiatives, and other charitable programs that strengthen our communities.Community members who are unable to&nbsp;participate&nbsp;are also encouraged to support the event through sponsorships, volunteer opportunities, or donations. Local businesses, civic organizations, and community partners continue to play an essential role in making this event possible.Registration is now open.For race registration, sponsorship opportunities, volunteer information, donations, or to&nbsp;purchase&nbsp;an official event T-shirt, visit:Race Registration:&nbsp;<a href="https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Frunsignup.com%2FRace%2FIL%2FElwood%2FElwoodCommunityDaysK&amp;data=05%7C02%7C%7C14a834a473bb4eb8b98508dee7e7f514%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C639203180617801506%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=3f%2FK7URiD4mGcIfQts2Saatr7qV2r1Zy6%2FbotKcaXws%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">https://runsignup.com/Race/IL/Elwood/ElwoodCommunityDaysK</a>Official Event T-Shirt Store:&nbsp;<a href="https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Frunsignup.com%2FRace%2FStore%2FIL%2FElwood%2FElwoodCommunityDaysK&amp;data=05%7C02%7C%7C14a834a473bb4eb8b98508dee7e7f514%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C639203180617816058%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=mG8oe9AAv6y%2BXHbFTVt%2BHFS4PLnFlS%2FyQcY4e0oppLc%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">https://runsignup.com/Race/Store/IL/Elwood/ElwoodCommunityDaysK</a>Bradley Veerman Charity Fund:&nbsp;<a href="https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fbradleyveermancharityfund.org%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7C%7C14a834a473bb4eb8b98508dee7e7f514%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C639203180617827535%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=SkISWUDXj6i2w%2F%2BpjKQnr8TPc8kk%2B4pxN951LngO9VY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">https://bradleyveermancharityfund.org</a>About the Bradley Veerman Charity FundThe Bradley Veerman Charity Fund is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization&nbsp;established&nbsp;in memory of Bradley Veerman. Its mission is to honor his legacy by supporting first responders, providing educational scholarships,&nbsp;assisting&nbsp;nonprofit organizations dedicated to public safety, and strengthening communities through compassion, service, and charitable giving.Media ContactApril Veerman&nbsp; President, Bradley Veerman Charity Fund&nbsp; Phone: (815) 405-3607&nbsp; Email: <a href="mailto:Bradleyveermancharity@outlook.com">Bradleyveermancharity@outlook.com</a>&nbsp; Website: <a href="https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fbradleyveermancharityfund.org%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7C%7C14a834a473bb4eb8b98508dee7e7f514%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C639203180617837530%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=tyU5DUop2PyFn5D0UI30KB8cmrEFw5vI2hKRmfhxJl8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">https://bradleyveermancharityfund.org</a>

Local Event: In Memory of our Fallen Heroes 5K

Elwood

In Memory of our Fallen Heroes 5K

Bradley Veerman Charity Fund to Host "In Memory of Our Fallen Heroes" 5K Run & Walk During Elwood Community DaysELWOOD,...

🌱 Patch AM: How is Channahon caught up in the...

Be sure to catch Junk in the Trunk Flea Market in Gardner on the Channahon Patch calendar

🌱 Patch AM: How is Channahon caught up in the Flock camera controversy?

Community Corner

Fired Will County Sheriff's Sniper Won His Job...

On Jan. 27, 2025, the State’s Attorney for Will County issued a no-bill of indictment, the arbitrator's ruling from July pointed out. 

Fired Will County Sheriff's Sniper Won His Job Back, But Has Lt. John Allen Returned To Sheriff's Facility?

Joliet Catholic Academy Announces Its 3...

Benjamin Alessio, son of Carrie and Joseph Alessio of Shorewood, is a graduate of Minooka Junior High School.

Joliet Catholic Academy Announces Its 3 September Students Of The Month

Schools

🌱 Patch AM: Labor Day Specials at Channahon...

Spotted on the Channahon calendar: Junk in the Trunk Flea Market in Gardner

🌱 Patch AM: Labor Day Specials at Channahon Lanes & Mini Golf and 13 more events

VIDEO: Woman Bites Joliet Policeman, Arrested...

Her garbage bags of belongings were placed on the street curb, but she defied Joliet police and began scampering toward the Super 8 Motel. 

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

Crime & Safety

WCSO: 9 Year Old Female Has Been Located

The Sheriff's Office has been contacted and is announcing that the 9 year old, attempt to locate, juvenile has been found. In the late a ...

Press Release Desk, News Partner

Find out what's happening in Channahon-Minookafor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Find out what's happening in Channahon-Minookafor free with the latest updates from Patch.

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