North Shore Senior Center to Present Awards at Annual Gala

On September 22, 2018, more than 250 friends of the North Shore Senior Center will celebrate Lois Melvoin, the Crain-Maling Foundation and Abbott at the 2018 Gala: Making an Impact. Held at Skokie Country Club in Glencoe, the Gala will begin at 5:30 p.m. and feature a cocktail reception, silent auction, dinner and program.

For Lois Melvoin of Highland Park, the North Shore Senior Center holds a special place in her heart. Lois’ memories of the Center date back to her childhood when her father was a member, her mother was an active volunteer and eventually her brother Millard Grauer served on the Board of Trustees. After starting her own family, Lois joined the staff as a case manager.

In this role, Lois became aware that many of her clients needed assistance easing the cost of medications, eyeglasses and other one-time expenses. In 1993, while still on staff, Lois, and her husband Hugo established a generous fund to help cover these costs. Initially it was anonymous, but eventually the anonymity was dropped and the fund was named the Lois Grauer Melvoin Between the Cracks Fund. The family continues to contribute to the fund. The grants, ranging from $10 to $410, are part of a broad array of services offered to senior clients, most of whom are low-income.

“I saw firsthand the hardships many people experienced as they aged and we felt providing financial assistance would make a tangible impact on their daily lives,” explained Lois. “We were proud to lend a hand and today I’m pleased the Fund is still actively making a difference. I am honored to be presented with Outstanding Philanthropist Award and remain committed to supporting social services for those on the North Shore.”

After resigning from the Center’s staff, Lois stayed involved with the organization as a volunteer. She helped at the House of Welcome, which provides specialized programs for people living with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. Additionally, Lois served on past Benefit Committees. Prior to Hugo’s passing in 2013, the couple enjoyed countless Lifelong Learning classes and special events together. Today, Lois continues to attend classes on topics such as current events, history and film, remains active as an Associate Board member and advocates for the Center.

Throughout the years, the Melvoins have supported many important local organizations, including the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Field Museum, Highland Park Hospital, Jewish Federation of Chicago, Lyric Opera, Northlight Theatre and North Shore Congregation Israel.

The Center will also honor the Crain-Maling Foundation with the Distinguished Community Partner Award. The Crain-Maling Foundation made a generous donation in honor of their friendship with Dr. Arnold (Arnie) Weber to help fund the Edna Weber Garden of Light Wing at the Center’s House of Welcome. Edna fell victim to Alzheimer’s disease and began coming to the House of Welcome in 2008. The space named in her memory reflects Edna’s passion for gardening and the outdoors, and features a three-season porch that will be used in spring, summer and fall.

Finally, longstanding local healthcare company Abbott will receive the Dedicated Corporation Award for their ongoing financial support of the North Shore Senior Center's many programs for seniors and their family members. Abbott's support reflects its broader work to help people build better lives and stronger local communities across the Chicago area.

“Support from corporate partners like Abbott is critical to furthering our mission,” said Jordan Luhr, executive director of the North Shore Senior Center. “We are grateful to Abbott for its commitment to our 20/20 Corporate Campaign, which aims to secure $20,000 from 20 local corporations by the year 2020, and appreciate the company’s investment in its community.”

Created in honor of the Center’s first executive director, the Janet Burgoon Philanthropic Excellence Awards recognize those whose generosity has helped older adults maintain their independence and enhance their connections to the communities in which they live.

North Shore Senior Center

Founded in 1956, the North Shore Senior Center remains dedicated to the idea that as a community resource we can help older adults live engaged, empowered and enriched lives. Today, with 3,500 members, 500 volunteers and more than 23,000 individuals being served annually at five locations, North Shore Senior Center's game plan for success has not varied. The mission of North Shore Senior Center is to foster the independence and well-being of older adults, enhance their dignity and self-respect, and promote their participation in and contribution toward all aspects of community life.

For more information, visit www.nssc.org or call 847-784-6000.