Toy Drive
Dec. 10
Hinsdale South High School
7401 Clarendon Hills Road, Darien
Hinsdale Central and Hinsdale South students are collaborating on a toy drive to celebrate the memory of Joey Ventimiglia, a brave 7-year-old boy from Darien who lost his battle with cancer two years ago. New, unused and unwrapped toys can be dropped off at in the school’s circle drive entrance foyer. Time: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The TWS & CTWS Snow Ball
Dec. 11
https://www.theatreofwesternsprings.com
This virtual fundraising party for the Theatre of Western Springs and the Children’s Theatre of Western Springs features guest starts from past shows, auction items, an exclusive trailer premiere for “It’s a Wonderful (Western Springs) Life!” and more. Purchase premium tickets to enjoy the cocktail/mocktail hour starting at 6 p.m. or receive a goodie basket. Time: 7 p.m. Cost: $25, $50 for VIP tickets, $150 House Party ticket.
Honor Central Teachers
Through Dec. 11
https://www.hinsdalecentralfoundation.org
During these unusual times, rather than an individual gift, consider making a donation to the Hinsdale Central Foundation. This can include a teacher, coach, sponsor, counselor, or staff member. Parents also can donate in the name of their own former teachers/coaches. The honoree will receive a letter with the donor’s personal message included and a special certificate to display. Donations help support programming that benefits teachers, students, and families throughout Red Devil Nation. Send an email to [email protected] listing the personal to honor, his/her department or position, the amount of the donation and the personal message. Payment may be made at the website listed above or by Venmo to @HCHS-Foundation.
Toys for Tots
Through Dec. 12
The Marine Toys for Tots program is collecting new, unwrapped toys and money for new toys to deliver a message of hope that will inspire youngsters in need to grow into responsible, productive, patriotic citizens. Sites in Hinsdale include the Hinsdale Animal Hospital, 218 W. Ogden Ave .; Evergreen Bank, 1 Grant Square; Walgreens, 15 Grant Square; and Cody’s Elves, 134 Maumell.
Blanket Drive
Through Dec. 13
Hinsdale Covenant Church
412 S. Garfield Ave.
(630) 323-2318
The church is holding its annual drive, collecting new or used blankets of any type — lap throws, baby blankets, spreads, sheets and towels. Donations may be left inside the church’s main entrance or placed by the front door on the benches. Pickups also can be scheduled. The items will be passed on to needy families in the inner city on Christmas Eve.
Brookfield Zoo Adopt an Animal
Through Dec. 15
https://www.czs.org/animaladoption
(708) 688-8341
This holiday season, shop for the purr-fect present without having to leave home. The Chicago Zoological Society’s Animal Adoption program is highlighting two featured creatures: Brookfield Zoo’s snow leopard and Amur leopard cubs, both born earlier this year. Donations to the program are gifts that give twice — helping to provide expert care and feeding of an animal for one year as well as giving a thoughtful and unique present to a loved one. Other animals also are available. The basic package includes a photo, certificate, fact sheet and more, with add ons in the more expensive packages. Price: $35 to $120
Tree of Remembrance
Through Dec. 25
Lincoln and First streets, Hinsdale
(630) 856-6993
Amita St. Thomas Hospice once again will decorate its Tree of Remembrance outside of BMO Harris Bank. Community members are able to make a donation and have a loved one’s name listed on the boards beside the tree. Envelopes will be available next to the tree. Questions? Call the number listed above or send an email to [email protected].
Hinsdale Humane Society Gift Shop
Holiday ornaments are one of many items for sale at the Hinsdale Humane Society Pet Rescue and Resource Center online gift shop. Clothing, mugs, water bottles and more are available for the humans on the gift list, with bandannas for furry friends. Purchases help the organization care for the animals at the shelter.
Schools Count Adopt a Family
https://www.schoolscountcorp.org
Schools Count Corp. is sponsoring its first adopt a family initiative to make sure those in need have something to be thankful for this holiday season. Donations will be used to purchase food, holiday gift cards and coats. If donors prefer, they can send a gift card to Aldi’s, Target, Walmart, Jewel or a similar store. Donations may be made online or mailed to Richard Flesher, 12418 S. Compass Ave., Plainfield, IL 60585.
Sponsor a Homeless Animal
https://www.hinsdalehumanesociety.org
Animal sponsorships are a great way to support homeless animals and a great gift idea. For a minimum sponsorship of $50, recipients will help provide care for an animal of their choosing, receive a personalized gift sponsorship certificate and listing on the society’s website, if desired. Sponsorships can be purchased online. Questions? Call Deborah Kraus at (630) 323-5630, Ext. 32, or email her at [email protected].
