Mt. Prospect Employees Give Back

On Friday, December 7, over 100 employees of the Mt. Prospect Park District gathered at Friendship Park Conservatory to participate in the first holiday “Fruit Pack & Give Back” event to pack, wrap and deliver over fifty fruit, chocolate, jam and nut baskets for homebound seniors in Mount Prospect. An additional twenty baskets were prepared and delivered to the Frisbee Senior Center in Des Plaines.

The newly formed District Employee Committee, chaired by Community Relations & Marketing Director, Ruth Yueill, and Executive Professional Compliance Manager, Teri Wirkus, organized the event. The twelve member committee sought to bring employees together through service rather than traditional celebration at this holiday season.

Yueill coordinated the basket details with Julie Kane of the Village of Mount Prospect Department of Human Services. Kane reiterated that specialty items such as fruits, nuts and chocolate, are greatly appreciated this time of year. “As we reflect on 2018, the District feels both proud and privileged to work together as a team to serve the community that supports us on a daily basis” said Interim Executive Director, Jim Jarog.

All District employees (full and part time) were invited to attend between 7:30 and 9:30 am and asked to bring a bag of apples, oranges or pears. Other basket items were donated by the Park District as well as Fresh Thyme Market and Fannie May in Mount Prospect. In exchange for their fruit donation, employees were treated to a pancake breakfast courtesy of the Mt. Prospect Park District and Gail’s Carriage House in Des Plaines. Additionally, a spare change basket was also available for those wishing to donate but with no time to shop.

The formation of the District Employee Committee is a direct result of the Positive Work Environment Goal of the 2018 Strategic Plan. The goal seeks to create an environment that is supportive and respectful for all employees as well as to institute team building exercises and events.  The committee felt there was no better place to begin solidifying our team than by working together on a project that benefits others in the community.