Teeing up hope, one swing at a time

More than 100 golfers came together Aug. 18 for a day of fun, purpose and generosity at the 36th Annual Kennedy Golf Outing, hosted by the St. Coletta’s of Illinois Foundation. The event raised more than $125,000 to support programs that improve the lives of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Golfers teed off at the exclusive Crystal Tree Golf & Country Club—but the event offered far more than a great round of golf. The day was filled with memorable moments, including an inspiring speech from CEO Heather Benedick and a fan-favorite competition on the course: the “Beat the Nun” challenge, where golfers donated $25 for the chance to hit closer to the pin than Sister Maryann Dosen. The joyful rivalry raised additional funds and lots of smiles.

One of the most moving moments came during Benedick’s speech, as she shared the story of Eric, a young man and longtime St. Coletta’s resident who became a partial quadriplegic after surgery. Facing the possibility of being placed in a nursing facility, donors made it possible for him to return home. More than $60,000 in contributions funded critical renovations to his Intermediate Care Facility home, purchased an electric wheelchair and supported intensive physical therapy.

“Thanks to our donors, Eric is back where he belongs,” Benedick said. “He can now lift his legs, and his next goal is to stand and transfer himself in and out of his chair. His future is looking brighter every day.”

Benedick also introduced Jerry, a former Kennedy School student who returned to St. Coletta’s after nearly 50 years following the death of his mother. His story underscored the organization’s lifelong commitment to the individuals it serves.

Beyond changing individual lives, donor support has also fueled St. Coletta’s long-term growth. Contributions to the Foundation provided the capital investment needed to launch the organization’s Behavioral Health Clinic, which is now generating revenue to support its mission. “It means a lot to our long-term health,” said Benedick.

That same spirit of generosity was on display at the golf outing. Golfers not only enjoyed their time on the course, but also gained a deeper understanding of how their contributions make an impact.

“Your support provides critical services for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities,” said Bill Rybak, Golf Outing Chair, as participants gathered for lunch ahead of the 1 p.m. shotgun start.

Each golfer contributed $600 to participate – supporting not just a game, but a mission.

Joining those in supporting the mission were a number of businesses and individuals who signed up to be a golf sponsor. Among them were: Kowalis Auto Group, Dealer FI Services, CIBC Bank, Town Center Bank, Society of the Divine Word Charitable Gift Annuity, Old Plank Trail Community Bank, Cherry Bekaert, State Street, Lexus of Orland, Orland Toyota, Sue Pavish & Dave Roper, Gas N Wash, Jones & Cleary, CBIS, Bill and Jane Rybak, Ed and MaryAnn Wood, Beary Landscaping, Rochelle Frantz & Lisa Knight, David & Kathryn Langevin, Chuck & Jo Shomo, KodoCare Pharmacy, Planning Legacies Financial Group, John J. Angelus Attorney At Law, Tinley Park Chamber of Commerce, First Nonprofit, Mars Medical, Aleck Plumbing, Atlas Putty, GBU Life, Heide Wealth Management, Invesco, Mrs. B Parking Lot Maintenance, Apple Chevrolet, and PDM Plumbing, Heating & Cooling.