Mayor Tokar Cautions Against Letting Our Lady of the Ridge School Close

CHICAGO RIDGE, IL -- As Our Lady of the Ridge School faces its last three weeks of fundraising to stay open, Mayor Chuck Tokar of Chicago Ridge cautions residents that the school’s closure would have a devastating impact on the local economy.

Tokar speaks of his experience at OLOR in a video and further explains that, “... there are
parents coming from twelve different schools districts, visiting Chicago Ridge. You have to think
about the impact that’s having, not just on the school...but on the little businesses that mean so much to a community.”

It is for this reason that Tokar has joined the fundraising efforts for the school: attending meetings,
gathering raffle baskets and generally offering support. As the mayor says, “...losing the school would be dreadful.”

OLOR’s goal was to raise $250,000 and secure 114 enrolled students by February 26th. The school currently has 103 students enrolled and has raised over $151,000. With a major phone-a-thon and fundraiser still on the horizon the school’s prospects are optimistic but Tokar cautions all Chicago Ridge residents against complacency and to act now.

The “Save Our Lady of the Ridge School” fundraiser will be on Sunday, February 19 from 2 - 7pm at 115 Bourbon Street. 3359 W. 115th St. in Merrionette Park. Tickets are $35, which includes food, open bar, raffles, silent auction, music and fellowship.

After more than 60 years, Our Lady of the Ridge School has become a destination school in the
southwest suburbs teaching children from twelve different zip codes. Having graduated thousands of community leaders from priests to public servants to athletes and artists, OLOR has been the home to families for up to four generations.

Submitted by Our Lady of the Ridge School