“No matter what we do or how we do it, it always revolves around the cause of helping abuse victims in our community,” said Kelley Wotherspoon of Crown Point. “No matter how things have changed over the years, St. Jude House continues to keep the heart of the mission as their focus.”
Friday night, guests filled the hall at Villa Cesare in Schererville to celebrate Stand up for St. Jude House, an event to honor the nonprofit’s 23rd year in service. Frank Ruvoli, a local musician, played while guests mingled, sipped cocktails, put in for the 50/50 raffle and bid on items in the silent auction. Then it was time for the blessing and dinner.
After dinner, Executive Director Linda Perez of St. Jude House took some time to renew the focus of the nonprofit: the mission to serve the community.
“The issue of domestic violence is something that people don’t like to talk about,” Perez said, “but it affects families and the community. [The event] is a big deal for us. It’s an opportunity for us to bring awareness to the issue.”
Board member, Director, and Vice Chairman John Vidal spoke to the larger picture – the one people might not readily see or intuitively understand.
“St. Jude House not only shelters people, they also help transform people’s lives,” Vidal explained. “Sheltering involves getting somebody through a rough time for a couple weeks. Transforming takes somebody from a bad situation and gives them independence and puts them in a good situation.”
Tina Rosenbaum of Crown Point, who attends every year with a tableful of friends, explained that the event, for her, is more than just a fundraiser.
“We want to be here not just to contribute our money and time, but to show support.”
When it comes to domestic violence, a show of support can mean the world to a victim. St. Jude House is a resource, to be sure, but it’s best viewed as a community coming together to help support each other on the path toward something better. This support was on full display as the hosts took time to honor some of their greatest partners in the cause: law enforcement and legal aid.
While the spotlight of the evening was on the incredible work St. Jude House does in its community, standup comic Mike Toomey of WGN fame also had some time in the spotlight Friday night. He cracked wise and spun tales, leaving the room in stitches.
Stand Up for St. Jude House was an elegant evening of love, laughter, and community. To learn more about how you can help St. Jude House achieve their mission, visit stjudehouse.org.