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)...

Peace Preschool

Peace Preschool is a smaller-scale Christian preschool that offers classes to children ages 3-5 in a loving and nurturing environment. What makes us unique? * large outdoor play area with playground * full-sized gymnasium * dedicated library * many field trips and special events throughout the school year * opportunities for parents to assist in the classroom

Andrea Earnest

Chicago Metropolitan Area

Frankfort

Peace Preschool is a smaller-scale Christian preschool that offers classes to children ages 3-5 in a loving and nurturing environment. What makes...

Crystals, Reiki & Sound Healing for the Mind, Body & Spirit

High Ho Gems, Inc.

A welcoming space for healing, exploration, and spiritual education. Step into our crystal and rock wonderland in Mokena, Illinois. Visit our retail store to explore crystals from around the world, spiritual books, gemstone jewelry, traditional brass singing bowls from Nepal, and a wide variety of holistic offerings. At High Ho Gems, Inc., experience immersive sound baths featuring the world’s leading Crystal Alchemy Singing Bowls by Crystal Tones. These extraordinary instruments are also available for purchase, as we are a registered partner. Education is at the heart of what we do. We offer a wide range of classes and events, including Reiki certification (Levels 1–3), chakra studies, crystal education, meditation, women’s circles, Reiki Shares, holistic markets, and our long-running concert series. Shop consciously sourced crystals, receive Reiki, experience sound healing, and grow through guided classes and workshops in our Mokena healing studio. We are a family-owned small business, proudly serving the community since 2014 and rooted in Mokena since 2020. Mission At High Ho Gems, Inc., our mission is to create a heart-centered community where people of all backgrounds feel safe, welcomed, and supported. We offer authentic, high-vibrational experiences that help individuals connect more deeply with themselves, spirit, and their purpose—uplifting, inspiring, and bringing light to every soul’s journey.

Lauren Traut

Mokena

A welcoming space for healing, exploration, and spiritual education. Step into our crystal and rock wonderland in Mokena, Illinois. Visit our...

Affordable Legal Help for Every Illinois Resident

Joerika Stitt Esquire, LLC — My Illinois Court Navigator™

Attorney-guided legal help for Illinois residents — no retainer, no consultation required. Flat-fee uncontested divorce starting at $1,850. Attorney-drafted prenuptial agreements starting at $1,850. Small business formation starting at $1,500. Licensed Illinois attorney serving clients statewide.

Cook County

Cook

Olympia Fields

Joerika Stitt Esquire, LLC — My Illinois Court...

Attorney-guided legal help for Illinois residents — no retainer, no consultation required. Flat-fee uncontested divorce starting at $1,850....

Clearway Promise providing a seamless process!

Clearway Exteriors

We put our customers first walking you through the entire process creating a seamless experience the clearway of doing Business. Home renovations replacing or installing windows, doors, roofs, siding, gutters, gutter guards, soffit &amp; fascia, painting.

Tinley Park

We put our customers first walking you through the entire process creating a seamless experience the clearway of doing Business. Home renovations...

You’re Invited: Studio Open House & Ribbon Cutting

Creations by Beth Photography LLC

You’re invited 🤍 Creations by Beth Photography is hosting a studio Open House on May 7, and we’d love for you to stop by! This is a great opportunity to tour the studio, see real examples of heirloom artwork and albums, and get a feel for what a full portrait experience looks like—from newborn to family sessions. Whether you’re expecting, have little ones, or simply want to update your family portraits, this is a relaxed, no-pressure way to explore what we offer. 📍 9700 W 197th Street, Suite #102-C, Mokena We’d love to welcome you in and connect with more families in the community 🤍 A small giveaway will also be available for those who attend ✨

You’re invited 🤍 Creations by Beth Photography is hosting a studio Open House on May 7, and we’d love for you to stop by! This is a great...

Come join us at the Book Fair. There are books for all ages and interests. Can't make it to the Book Fair? Order online at <a href="http://www.scholastic.com/schoolbookfairs/2897487" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.scholastic.com/schoolbookfairs/2897487</a> until November 28.

Mokena Intermediate School/PTA Book Fair

Schools

Orland Park

New Lenox

Oak Forest

Manhattan

Homer Glen-Lockport

Lorraine Swanson

Palos

Lemont

Homewood-Flossmoor

Soundgrowler Brewing Co.

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo 2026 with a vibrant artisan market and craft experience at Soundgrowler Brewing on Saturday, May 2. From 12 PM to 5 PM, Streetz Artz Alliance will transform the barrel room and outdoor beer garden into a lively marketplace featuring over 40 artists and makers. This event highlights creativity inspired by culture, community, and the spirit of Cinco de Mayo. As you explore the market, enjoy a wide selection of craft beer and beverages from the brewery while browsing unique, handmade goods. Take a break in the taproom or relax on the patio and enjoy freshly prepared tacos and other delicious food offerings available on-site. This family-friendly event is free to attend, with ample on-site and nearby parking available for guests. Event Details: What: Cinco De Mayo Artisan Market When: Saturday, May 2, 2026 | 12 PM – 5 PM Where: Soundgrowler Brewing Co. 8201 183rd St Suite P, Tinley Park, IL 60487 Come sip and shop with us for an afternoon of art, food, and community. Discover one-of-a-kind finds and support local artists while enjoying a fun and welcoming atmosphere.

Local Event: Cinco de Mayo Artisan Market

Cinco de Mayo Artisan Market

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo 2026 with a vibrant artisan market and craft experience at Soundgrowler Brewing on Saturday, May 2....

Orland Park Civic Center 14750 S. Ravinia Ave. Orland Park, IL

Buy Sell Trade
Coins, Stamps, Paper Money, Collectibles and More

Local Event: Orland Park Coin & Stamp Show

Orland Park Coin & Stamp Show

Buy Sell Trade
Coins, Stamps, Paper Money, Collectibles and More

Old Western Avenue & Broadway Street

Mai Fest is back for the 5th year bigger than ever!&nbsp; With over 100 artisan vendors, 4 live bands, and food and drink, it promises to be a great day!&nbsp; A great way to celebrate Mother's Day weekend..find mom the perfect gift, or spend the day perusing the handmade goods and enjoying the live music.&nbsp; The fest runs from Noon to 5pm.&nbsp; There is free parking available in the city lots off of Western Ave north of the Cal Sag, and there will be a free shuttle to transport folks from the lots to and from the fest.

Local Event: Mai Fest 2026 Arts & Crafts Street Fair

Blue Island

Mai Fest 2026 Arts & Crafts Street Fair

Mai Fest is back for the 5th year bigger than ever!  With over 100 artisan vendors, 4 live bands, and food and drink, it...

Assumption Greek Orthodox Church

Celebrate spring with a delightful afternoon of&nbsp;fun and Greek cuisine featuring oven roasted lamb, gyros, and delicious loukoumades.

Local Event: May Day Protomagiatiko Picnic

May Day Protomagiatiko Picnic

Celebrate spring with a delightful afternoon of fun and Greek cuisine featuring oven roasted lamb, gyros, and delicious...

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583090793623&amp;__cft__%5B0%5D=AZbacLItXB132WqgNeeuGrCTPZYWLgON1s90EWCJwriX8RIS4xyUFbKKfXH22K0dlQHr-LYt_ywmTXSZLQXrNSALca1ZDe_iXbtu8P829LqYDk8xOMPTljRLM1S7mu0pQgNKN2ooTzDQf3uwXKDS0lbE1HdoW_tnBro2EuWqKgvK696c3EXT_dwWdAiWfPLGCQg&amp;__tn__=-%5DK-R" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Boxes of Hope TFC</a>, a program of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/firehousechapel?__cft__%5B0%5D=AZbacLItXB132WqgNeeuGrCTPZYWLgON1s90EWCJwriX8RIS4xyUFbKKfXH22K0dlQHr-LYt_ywmTXSZLQXrNSALca1ZDe_iXbtu8P829LqYDk8xOMPTljRLM1S7mu0pQgNKN2ooTzDQf3uwXKDS0lbE1HdoW_tnBro2EuWqKgvK696c3EXT_dwWdAiWfPLGCQg&amp;__tn__=-%5DK-R" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Firehouse Chapel</a> in Orland Park, has been selected by Sterk Family Law Group, PC as the Non-Profit Hero of the Month.
Food insecurity affects many hard-working families. 
There are many children whose main meals are served at school. What happens to these children on weekends?&nbsp;
Boxes of Hope helps fill the gap by providing food boxes for students to take home!&nbsp;
 Through the help of volunteers, Boxes of Hope packs and delivers food boxes to local schools, where they are distributed anonymously to children in need. 
Each box is put together to cover a full weekend of meals, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks for every child in the household. 
While the program primarily supports children facing food insecurity, Boxes of Hope has also stepped in to assist families during times of unexpected need, such as a family crisis, fire, or other emergency.&nbsp;
Boxes of Hope is an example of how simple acts, done consistently, can make a difference!
As this month's Non-Profit&nbsp;Hero award recipient, Sterk Family Law Group, PC&nbsp;presented Boxes of Hope with a generous donation to help them continue their good work and featured the organization on their popular Spotify podcast hosted by attorney and #1 legal book author, Gwendolyn Sterk. 
If you know a family who can benefit from Boxes of Hope, or if you are in a position to volunteer or donate to Boxes of Hope, please check out Gwen Sterk's interview with Alexis Rodriguez and Jason Riha as they share how Boxes of Hope works behind the scenes.
Podcast Link:&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F41NDTSP%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExcm9CalhIeGs5b1FYYWpBT3NydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR6Hl2kDksAd3XGGF382EHYl1_VVFnCMo4_dGsufcOVoVXEFfYgraJCCm8txvA_aem_JzNjvzZhO99zISDHoqRN5A&amp;h=AT4styePW0-HEcrdM2QeU2a-gWggZeSj1myWC5xTWR2RCIyTC0Mzkn2L4JNdCxhAx0Omv8UdxhK21Di0pa29XsW3Q-oEqQGF7rf-wZXz_dAjApxA2p9iW9IfwAl22y_H-PuZRV69oUzyrzk6QMevtJCdwOoWArwt&amp;__tn__=R%5D-R&amp;c%5B0%5D=AT62s_WzH723XKWXYgM5C9R48Ta-l3BirCpBpGsKo7coloCWkF4J-E6BXg_Rd_3vdClJ4RXtWo23K83IhZrhBls7Sd7BufC_KXeqXNdldLNwiThgdLG-DkkGKuAuETfK1bLljU9G-0sGAgMsyFvG185_ERrcx39xeYfSuEGhsOJzgY4a0yk-x-vzuxPGjJ4" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">https://bit.ly/41NDTSP</a>
Sterk Family Law Group, PC
11508 West 183rd Place NW
Orland Park, IL 60467
Phone: (815) 600-8950 &bull; Fax: (815) 600-8519
<a href="mailto:info@sterkfamilylaw.com" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">info@sterkfamilylaw.com</a>
<a href="https://www.sterkfamilylaw.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Orland Park Divorce &amp; Family Law Attorney | Sterk Family Law</a>

Boxes of Hope, A Program of Firehouse Chapel,...

Boxes of Hope TFC, a program of the Firehouse Chapel in Orland Park, has been selected by Sterk Family Law Group, PC as the Non-Profit Hero of the...

Boxes of Hope, A Program of Firehouse Chapel, Honored as Non-Profit Hero of the Month

Hiring: Part-Time Choir Director
Trinity Lutheran Church New Lenox, IL Choir Director Position - Part Time 
508 North Cedar Road New Lenox, IL 60451
Choir Director Job Description and Duties:
-Choose music from files and/or purchase (from budget*) music for selected services. 
-Music is chosen based on voicing, church year theme, readings, and/or gospel reading, if possible. Difficulty level is also a consideration. 
-Let church secretary know for placement in the service bulletin. 
-Organize music including filling and emptying folders and filing music. 
-Conduct rehearsals. 
-Direct choir at services and rehearsals. 
-Choir rehearsals have been held on Wednesday nights at 7pm for usually 1 hour (could be adjusted). More time needed near Easter and Christmas. 
-Choir has traditionally sung after the 2nd reading during services. We also sing during offering as well as for prelude. (concurred with pastor - anywhere during service as needed). 
-Singing dates are chosen based on choir member availability and when music is fully prepared. 
-Singing dates that happen every year: 
*Reformation Sunday, the Sunday before Thanksgiving as well as on Thanksgiving 
*Christmas Eve 11:00pm Service 
*Ash Wednesday 
*Maundy Thursday 
*Good Friday 
*Easter at Both Services 
*Confirmation 
-Choir sings during Advent, Lent, and ordinary time. 
-Recruiting new members
Extra info: 
-During Lent, other rehearsal arrangements may need to be made since Wednesday have the Soup and Sandwich and Lenten Services. Choir has switched to Mondays or Thursdays before. (sometimes practices have been held between the 8:00am and 10:30am Service.) 
-If the organist is not available to accompany, the director may need to hire (budget funds) someone who is capable on piano, organ or other instrument. 
-Presently two choir members teach Sunday School, so when we have to sing during offering at the 9:00am service. The director may text them when the sermon starts.
-Questions, please call or email: (815) 485-6973 or <a href="mailto:tlcsecretary508@gmail.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">tlcsecretary508@gmail.com</a>

Trinity Lutheran Church in New Lenox, IL Hiring...

Trinity Lutheran Church in New Lenox, IL Hiring: Part-Time Choir Director

Free Scrap Metal Pickup. We pick Up: All Appliances, Farm Equipment, Garden Tractors, Snowmobiles, Automotive (all car related parts), Furnaces, Nuts, Bolts, Nails, Screws, &hellip;..if it&rsquo;s Metal we&rsquo;ll take it away for you. If you&rsquo;re wondering if we can take a particular item just give us a call and ask. For Free Pickup please Call Brian @ 815-210-8819

Free Scrap Metal Pickup

Free Scrap Metal Pickup. We pick Up: All Appliances, Farm Equipment, Garden Tractors, Snowmobiles, Automotive (all car related parts), Furnaces,...

Alsip-Crestwood

South Suburban Death Notices, Week Of April 27

South suburban obituaries and available visitation information.

Obituaries

'Potentially Hateful' Online Comments Prompt...

The sheriff's office said deputies spoke to a local juvenile suspect and their family after concerning comments were made online.

'Potentially Hateful' Online Comments Prompt Investigation At Lincoln-Way East: Sheriff

Crime & Safety

Mokena's Curtain Call Theatre To Stage 'Witty,...

Shows are June 12–14 and June 19–21. Tickets are on sale now. 

Mokena's Curtain Call Theatre To Stage 'Witty, Deeply Moving' Play 'The Curious Savage'

Arts & Entertainment

Registration is Now Open for the Cancer Support...

Join CSC June 7 at Commissioners Park in Frankfort, IL to celebrate survivors, honor loved ones, and support free cancer services.

Registration is Now Open for the Cancer Support Center Walk of Hope & Survivor Celebration, June 7

Neighbor News

Francis Road Over I-80 Bridge Replacement...

The bridge replacement will mean road closure and detours. The project is expected to be completed in December. 

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