Saturday, November 21st was no ordinary day. Eight different senior citizens throughout Downers Grove, Darien & Oak Brook discovered that Global Hope is no ordinary service organization. 44 volunteers (names & group photo below) broke into 3 groups and set out to rake, bag and sweep and rake, bag and sweep some more (one yard had over 33 bags!).

- Ted hugs a homeowner after doing an extra fix-it job
Smiles were contagious as our friendly, happy volunteers left the Global Hope “seal of approval” on each yard while happy, grateful seniors beamed. It was a brilliantly planned 2nd Annual Fall Yard Clean-Up and we have Marjie Kremer to thank for that!
Hard work did not come without its rewards for our tireless crew. . . as volunteers headed back to Perma Seal for Connie Christoff’s amazing chili and cornbread, her delicious roasted veggie lentil soup and Norine Guy’s cookies and cider. We are deeply grateful, Connie and Norine, for the delectible feast. Our appreciation once again to Perma-Seal for hosting.

- Nancy, Marjie, Nathan & Steve enjoy Connie & Naureen’s Chili Bar
Beyond the raking and the feasting was something more – the afterglow of service. Once again we had touched the lives of several “neighbors in need” and we felt warm and full. We realized that our lives had been touched also – in the same way our hearts have opened in all of our service projects.

- Olivia rakes for the first time with Nancy Gelband
Thank you to all of you “rakers” for generously offering your time and effort – for empowering Global Hope to be “Goodwill in Motion”
If you’re interested in volunteering with us, email us here.
