Celebrating Ability at the SLSF Holiday Luncheon

On Wednesday, December 9, over 150 supporters celebrated the many accomplishments of thousands of children and adults with disabilities in the northwest suburbs throughout the year. Special Leisure Services Foundation (SLSF), a charity that supports recreational programs for individuals with disabilities, hosted its annual Holiday Luncheon at Chandler’s Banquets at the Schaumburg Golf Club. SLSF is the fundraising arm of Northwest Special Recreation Association (NWSRA), providing funding toward scholarships, accessible transportation, inclusion opportunities, athletics and program opportunities.

SLSF received a welcome surprise at the event as Board Member Jim Houser presented a grant check in the amount of $5,000 on behalf of UPS to support NWSRA accessible transportation. Mr. Houser stated “The smiles on the faces of the participants reminds us that our giving and volunteerism means so much to them.” NWSRA provides over 42,000 accessible rides throughout the northwest suburbs annually.

NWSRA Executive Director and SLSF President Tracey Crawford stated “We truly appreciate the commitment and compassion of the donors, attendees, volunteers and staff who have made an impact toward the lives of children and adults with disabilities. Their generosity has opened the doors to so many opportunities for these individuals and we look forward to continuing our mission.”

SLSF presented the Chairman’s Partnership Award in recognition of a respected leader in the community who embraces the SLSF mission. This year’s award was presented to Kolbi Pipe Marker, and its founder, Rob Seitz, for his involvement in SLSF fundraising events, volunteerism and support. The Kevin T. Kendrigan Spirit Award recognizes individuals who have worked to promote and enhance recreational opportunities for children and adults with disabilities. This award was presented to the Mitsubishi Electric Automation VISION Committee, who helps to provide grant funding and organizes an annual Family Day for individuals with severe physical disabilities. SLSF also recognized Premier Partner Schneider Electric, Opportunity Partner Northwest Community Healthcare and Media Partner Daily Herald.

SLSF funds make it possible for individuals with disabilities to have fun, make friends, go new places, learn new things, be included and celebrate their lives through NWSRA recreational programs. Throughout its history, NWSRA has continued to grow, and currently hosts over 16,000 registrations for programs annually in over 2,000 recreational programs. For more information about NWSRA, visit www.nwsra.org and to learn more about fundraising opportunities with SLSF, visit www.slsf.me.