This is the Skokie branch of United Way, which has a worldwide network in more than 45 countries and nearly 1,300 local branches in the U.S. The United Way focuses on advancing the common good via three key building blocks: education, income and health.
The United Way movement creates long-lasting community change by addressing the underlying causes of problems that prevent progress in these areas.
The Rice Foundation is a philanthropic organization located in central Skokie. Founded over six decades ago, the Rice foundation continues its work of helping those less fortunate. The Rice Foundation does this work through a series of other charitable organizations and individuals. The bulk of the foundation's philanthropy is focused on social welfare.
Lubavitch Chabad of Skokie provides traditional Chasidic values with comtemprary techniques to provide a haven for Jewish heritage in Skokie. Lubavitch Chabad of Skokie was founded by Rabbi and Mrs. Yosef Posner. Events and programs include daily service, Shabbat and holiday services, Shabbat dinners, children's programs, Torah study, toddler and pre-school classes, Koshering kitchens, public menorahs and guest lectures.
Les Turner was a Chicago area businessman who was diagnosed with ALS in 1976. Frustrated by the lack of information and research on ALS at the time, he didn't want anyone else to have to suffer without knowledge as he did. His family and friends started the Foundation that bears his name in 1977.
Les Turner passed away in 1977 at the age of 38. Thirty years later, the Les Turner ALS Foundation is recognized as a local and national leader in research, patient care and education about ALS.
The Niles Township Food Pantry exists to help those in need of fundamental foods like pasta, breads, cereal, tuna and peanut butter. The pantry wants to make sure that every person has the food they need to sustain themselves and they are always seeking donations to help the 2,700 plus individuals (on average) who use the pantry each month. To receive their services, come with a valid photo ID. Further information may be required upon second visit.
Ars Viva! Symphony Orchestra is a musical organization that performs classical music concerts at the North Shore Center for Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd., in Skokie.
The organization focuses on outreach to the elderly, the disadvantaged and the physically challenged. The orchestra, which consists of many members from the Chicago Symphony, also sponsors youth initiatives, competitions and senior outreach programs.
KidPower is a non-profit organization that has been around for over 20 years. Its mission is to help people of all ages learn how to stay safe, act wisely, and have confidence in themselves by using methods such as self-defense. Along with KidPower programs for younger people, TeenPower programs for teenagers and FullPower programs for adults are also offered. Check the Web site for class schedules.