The True Spirit of Christmas - Alive and Well at LYDIA!
"Thank you" seems like such an inadequate phrase to express the profound gratitude that we at LYDIA/Safe Families feel for what you have done for our children and families this holiday season. Over 250 children received gifts from individuals, families, churches, corporations and even neighborhoods! Thanks to you, LYDIA kids:
- Have new toys, clothes, sheets and pillows
- Know they are loved
- Will laugh, play, sing and create with many new gifts
- Experienced a measure of hope and a season of gratitude
Thank you, and Happy New Year! |
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Ride with Joyride to Benefit LYDIA! |
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 Support LYDIA while getting in shape! January 25 at 6PM, Joyride Cycle Studio in Highwood is hosting a fundraiser for LYDIA. Ride begins at 6PM refreshments at 7PM. Space is limited, so sign-up online today to reserve your spot.
Joyride is the perfect fun fitness studio for you to trim down, firm up and perform better. You will work hard and enjoy the benefits of a stronger heart and lungs. Riding along side friends and fellow riders, you'll become a member of the Joyride community. The music at Joyride Cycle Studio will energize you and elevate your mood.
Joyride Cycle Studio is located at: 218 Green Bay Road, Highwood, IL (directly behind Gabe's Backstage).
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Inspired by True Events |
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 Lilly Grayce is a singer-songwriter in Chicago whose new single, "Chance" was inspired by her family's experiences as Safe Families volunteers. Lilly sang the song at our Benefit Gala in November (pictured left). We encourage you to listen to it and see the video on YouTube.
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LYDIA Urban Academy: "They Helped Me Here" |
Ricky came to LYDIA Urban Academy from a local public high school about three years ago. His tattooed arms and neck told a story of past violence and gang affiliations. He was 16 years old and had accrued only one high school credit. He should have been finishing up his sophomore year but instead was just beginning as a freshman.
Ricky had never really learned how to read. Complicating matters further, he had severe ADHD. The list of obstacles seemed almost insurmountable. But Ricky surprised us. In our small, supportive classrooms, he began to learn. His teachers, who are trained professional counselors and social workers, helped Ricky get some of his hyperactive behaviors under control. READ MORE |
