Red Hat Society brings smiles with annual ice cream social at St. Coletta’s of Illinois

Summer was a little sweeter at St. Coletta's of Illinois on July 17 as Elaine Repa and members of the Red Hat Society returned for one of the organization's most anticipated traditions—an annual ice cream social for students, adult participants and staff.

For years, Repa and her fellow Red Hat Society members have volunteered their time to transform lunchtime into a special celebration, serving ice cream and an assortment of homemade desserts while creating an afternoon filled with smiles, laughter and conversation.

The event has become a favorite among the individuals served by St. Coletta's, many of whom look forward to the annual visit each summer.

"What makes this event so special isn't just the ice cream," said Heather Benedick, CEO of St. Coletta's of Illinois. "It's the kindness and generosity Mrs. Repa and the Red Hat Society bring with them every year. They make our students, participants and staff feel loved, appreciated and part of a wonderful community."

The Red Hat Society's partnership with St. Coletta's began many years ago after Repa, whose son participates in St. Coletta's Community Day Services program, wanted to find a meaningful way to give back.

Since then, the annual ice cream social has grown into a cherished tradition. Along with generous servings of ice cream, guests enjoyed a variety of homemade baked goods and other sweet treats donated and prepared by the Red Hat Society members.

St. Coletta's of Illinois extends its sincere gratitude to Mrs. Repa and the Red Hat Society for their continued generosity and for helping create lasting memories for the children and adults the organization serves.

For more than 75 years, St. Coletta's of Illinois has empowered children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to achieve their greatest potential through educational, residential, vocational and community-based services.

To learn more about St. Coletta's of Illinois, visit www.stcolettasofil.org or call 708-342-5200.