Transforming Kids' Lives, One Square Foot at a Time

Volunteers Makeover Lake Villa Based Allendale’s North Chicago Residential Facility

When community members come together to improve kids’ lives, amazing things can happen. Such was the case recently when volunteers from several local not-for-profits—spearheaded by Fill A Heart 4 Kids, a children’s charity in Lake Forest—joined forces to update Allendale Association’s moderate residential facility in North Chicago.

According to Lee Harms, Director of Allendale’s North Chicago program, the facility is currently home to 12 girls between the ages of 13-17 who are the survivors of childhood trauma. Most will likely remain there for 12-18 months, working on coping skills and social skills until they’re deemed ready for a less restrictive setting.

“The renovations had a big impact on them,” says Harms. “They’re very appreciative to Annie and her volunteers for making their living space more beautiful and comfortable.”

The Annie in question is Annie McAveeney, founder and president of Fill A Heart 4 Kids, which is perhaps best known for providing “We Care” packages and backpacks to institutionalized and homeless children. Every package includes a handwritten note that reminds kids that they’re valuable and that people care about them.

McAveeney mobilized more than 30 volunteers—including some from a local Girl Scouts Troop—to paint the girls’ bedrooms, install new flooring, remodel the common areas and purchase new furniture.

Best of all, says McAveeney, “The residents were involved throughout the project. They helped pick out paint colors and fabrics and took pride in making choices.”

When touring the redecorated space, several girls said it was the first time they felt like they lived in a home, not an institution. At least one child cried upon viewing her updated bedroom. Every child wrote a thank you note to the organization.

In addition, The Gorter Family Foundation and Lake County Community Development organization funded the remodeling of the bathrooms and outdoor renovations. Whole Foods provided a grant and kit for a backyard garden.

Says McAveeney, “Our volunteers were astonished when they saw how little these kids have. The wonderful staff that takes care of them wants to do more, but state budget cuts prevent the kids from having more than the absolute basics.”

Some of the girls were so moved by the experience of working with McAveeney and the interior designer she brought in that they’re now considering careers in interior design. Another bonus, per Harms: they’re doing a better job of cleaning and tidying the common areas as well as their bedrooms.

“There’s no question that living in an inviting, uplifting and comfortable environment has a positive effect on a child’s outlook,” says Jason Keeler, President/CEO of Allendale Association. “The benefits are tremendously impactful in a number of ways.”

“We are so grateful to Fill A Heart 4 Kids and our other community partners for making this possible. It has been so well received that we are hoping to do something similar at one of our group homes in Waukegan.”