Taste of Italy helps kids fighting cancer
January 19, 2012 3:38PM
Taste of Italy committee members prepare to serve pasta during the recent fundraiser to benefit the Pediatric Oncology Treasure Chest Foundation. | Supplied Photo
Updated: February 23, 2012 8:00AM
Residents at Brementowne Manor, a three-story apartment building for seniors in Tinley Park, recently staged a Taste of Italy fundraiser to benefit the Pediatric Oncology Treasure Chest Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides toys, gifts and gift certificates to children and teens with cancer.
Nearly 100 people gathered at the Brementowne Manor’s community room for an Italian dinner, raffles, live music and a comedian. The event raised $1,175.
“All I can say is it’s for the children, period,” said Brementowne Manor resident and chairwoman Joan Smith. “I am blessed to have healthy children. I am anxious to help the foundation in its mission of bringing smiles to kids battling cancer. I had so much help from so many fellow Brementowne residents. Brementowne Manor truly is a giving community.”
“We hosted a turkey dinner last year, and this year we wanted to do something different,” said chairwoman Char Mannix. “Everyone likes pasta, so we thought a Taste of Italy would be a good theme.”
“It took me a month to make more than 150 three-inch meatballs,” said chef Kathy Henke. “Whenever I was tired and had no place to store the meatballs, I thought about all the parents of the children fighting cancer and what they have to go through for years.”
Treasure Chest founder Colleen Kisel expressed gratitude for the support shown by the residents.
“An Italian dinner for more than 100 people was the work of many hands and many hearts,” Kisel said. “We are so blessed to have the support of the residents of Brementowne Manor and of everyone who participated by helping with this wonderful homemade Taste of Italy dinner to benefit the Treasure Chest Foundation.”
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