Glenwood Academy will host its first-ever virtual gala at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 19. The event is free and open to all supporters, parents, sponsors, volunteers and to those who are looking to learn more about the residential education facility that is devoted to changing the lives of vulnerable children.
Registration is now open by visiting virtual2020.givesmart.com.
The “UNLuncheon 2020” will showcase an exciting and interactive program featuring NBC5 Chicago’s entertainment reporter, LeeAnn Trotter as the emcee. Guests will also have the opportunity to hear from Mary Hollie, president and CEO of Glenwood Academy, as well as meet the students and families who have been positively impacted by the school and its mission.
Glenwood Academy serves more than 150 students in grades second through eighth, with a high school option at local partner schools. Normally, students live at the school Sundays through Fridays in a nurturing environment, away from the violence, poverty and challenging situations that they may have experienced previously.
Nearly all students live below or at the poverty line. Glenwood Academy is almost fully funded by fundraising events, as well as donors and sponsors.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic began in the spring, Glenwood Academy has worked diligently to maintain connections and ensure the safety of their students, who are currently living off-campus in their communities with their families/caretakers.
In the past few months, needy Glenwood Academy families have been provided gift cards for food and essentials. All students have been provided Chrome Books to maintain connections with their teachers, and to have the opportunity to e-learn.
Teachers, house parents and support staff has been available around the clock to provide tutoring sessions or assistance. Social workers have been checking in on a near daily basis to ensure the students are in a safe environment, as well as providing individual, group and family therapy sessions, if needed.
Medical staff members continue to make sure they are in contact with students and that proper medication is being administered and health issues addressed.
“During these unprecedented times, our families and students need the support of Glenwood Academy now more than ever,” Hollie said. “It is through the support of our sponsors and donors that we have been able to provide food and essentials to our families, as well as 24/7 support for those who need it. The majority of our students live below the poverty level, and come from backgrounds that involve neglect, traumatic situations, abuse and substance abuse.
“Our families are suffering during this pandemic with loss of jobs, homes, food security and more. It is my hope that all of Chicagoland will tune in to our UNLuncheon to learn more about what we do for our students and families and see how Glenwood Academy is changing the lives of our future generations.”
The annual Glenwood Academy Luncheon is typically held in-person each November in downtown Chicago and is one of the largest fundraising events of the year for the organization.
For sponsorship opportunities, please contact Jen Wolff at 708-756-6496 or [email protected].
For more information on Glenwood Academy, visit www.glenwoodacademy.org