“Thanks and Giving” gathering to celebrate community volunteers

Thanksgiving is an ideal occasion to give thanks for our bountiful blessings. One of the cherished traditions in the community is the Annual Community Thanksgiving Luncheon where business and community leaders come together to reach out in true gratitude and friendship.

Coordinated by the Elgin Area Chamber, the holiday luncheon is being held on Tuesday, November 26 at Elgin Community College. It's a wonderful opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to family, neighbors, and community. The program will beautifully weave themes of “thanks” and “giving” through storytelling, and we hope you can join us as we kick off the holiday season with this beloved tradition, now in its 43rd year! Table centerpieces will be crafted by students from School District U-46.

During the program, the Chamber will be singing the praises of unsung heroes in our community. These special volunteers have been nominated by local nonprofits for their incredible support and dedication and include:

*Sue Campbell, St. Thomas More Catholic School

*Linda Rock, Elgin History Museum

*Jen Pierce, Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestra

*Andy & Ruthanne Bagwell, PADS

*Janet McCarthy, Food for Greater Elgin

*Jon Kramp, Elgin Theatre Company

*Vicki Kellenberger, CASA

*Alison Smith, Marklund

*Jennifer Rome, Fellowship Housing

*Melissa Dotson, EasterSeals

*Bob Malm, Alignment Collaborative for Educ.

*Sheila & Lynda Mukite, Community Crisis Ctr.

*Ken Swanson, Anderson Humane

*Jim McDermott & Bob Pautsch, Habitat for Humanity

*Cheryl Alopogianis, Hoof Woof Meow Animal Rescue

Local service clubs and non-profit organizations will also be recognized for their vital programs and services that benefit our neighbors.

The Community Thanksgiving Luncheon will feature networking from 11:30 to noon followed by a buffet luncheon and program. Reservations can be made at ElginChamber.com or by calling the Chamber office at 847-741-5660.