St. Coletta's of Illinois raises awareness and support at annual Caritas Benefit

Thanks to the generous support of donors and sponsors, St. Coletta’s of Illinois will continue its mission to serve children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

On May 21, the St. Coletta’s of Illinois Foundation hosted its 69th Annual Caritas Benefit in Tinley Park, showcasing its work with more than 300 individuals from the south and southwest suburbs. It also honored Beverly native William Waddell for his support of the social service agency.

“We are all excited to gather in person once again in support of the individuals we serve here at St. Coletta’s,” said Executive Director Annette Skafgaard.

“This has been an amazingly difficult two years,” she added, referring to the COVID-19 pandemic. “We have been challenged in ways we never imagined. Yet, through the resilience of our staff, the generosity of our donors, and the vision of our leadership, we continue to foster the values of our Franciscan sponsors.”

Founded by the Sisters of St. Francis of Assisi in 1949, St. Coletta’s of Illinois offers a variety of programs and services for the developmentally disabled, including a school; community day services program with a vocational training component; and group homes, which offer 24-hour supervision with cooking assistance, cleaning assistance, life skills training, clinical supports and evening/weekend activities.

More than 300 individuals from the south and southwest suburbs rely on the non-profit’s programs and continuum of care, including students from 19 school districts.

“The individuals we serve are our strength and inspiration,” Skafgaard told those at the Caritas Benefit on May 21. “Every day they bring to life the true meaning of joy, fellowship, compassion and courage. We are grateful for their presence in our lives, and we are indebted to each of you whose generosity and commitment sustain our efforts on their behalf.”

More than 200 area residents attended the event and enjoyed an evening of cocktails, dinner and dancing. By the end of the night, the St. Coletta’s of Illinois Foundation had raised more than $160,000 for the non-profit through ticket sales, a split-the-pot raffle, a silent auction and a live auction.

Among those supporting this year’s Caritas Benefit were sponsors: The Anthony R. & Mary Ann Pasquinelli Family Foundation; Complete Collision Care, Inc.; Lexus of Orland Park; Wolniak Funeral Home; Toyota Financial Services; Alera Group; Old Plank Trail Community Bank; and Ozinga Foundation.

Based in Tinley Park, St. Coletta’s of Illinois is dedicated to making sure every individual it serves can achieve his or her greatest potential within society. For more information about the social service agency or how you can help further its mission, please visit www.stcolettasofil.org or call (708) 342-5200.