WINGS see new hope in fundraiser, store re-opening

WINGS Executive Director Rebecca Darr is putting things mildly when she says it's been a long summer.

Vital fundraising that supports the nonprofit organization's domestic violence services was a struggle in the wake of the economic downturn. Then in June, a fire in Palatine destroyed its most profitable resale shop.

But there's renewed hope on both fronts at Women in Need Growing Stronger, which this month will host its annual Purple Tie Ball and also open its long-awaited new store.

"It's been quite a process, but we're excited," Darr said. "This being WINGS' 25th anniversary makes it all the more special."

Tickets are still available to the Purple Tie Ball, a fundraiser featuring dinner, an auction and concert by esteemed pianist Randall Atcheson. Organizers hope to raise $200,000 at the event, which takes place Saturday, Sept. 11, at the Schaumburg Renaissance Hotel and Convention Center, 1551 N. Thoreau Drive.

A program will honor Nancy Kelley, a woman who graduated from the WINGS program and went on to earn a Ph.D. in social work. Kelley said she discovered a sanctuary in WINGS when she finally found the courage to take her infant daughter and leave an abusive and controlling relationship.

"To get to the point where you're truly self sufficient takes some time," said Kelley, who lives in Omaha. "Being a young single parent, I wouldn't have persevered the way I did without the financial assistance and emotional support."

After Kelley utilized WINGS services from 1993 to 1996, she served on the board of directors. She returns for visits and sends the organization Christmas cards and pictures of her daughter, who's now a high school senior.

"WINGS became my surrogate family," she said.

Kelley will receive the David K. Hill award, named in memory of the late Kimball Homes leader. He and his wife, Diane Hill, committed $1 million to WINGS over four years.

Another revenue stream will soon start flowing with the opening of the new resale shop. WINGS just signed a lease for a property at 1315 N. Rand Road, located in the Park Place Shopping Center next to T.J. Maxx. Some permit issues still need to be worked out, but Executive Director Darr hopes to open in about two weeks.

The 8,600-square-foot space is only slightly smaller than its former location on Northwest Highway. Darr said the owner "gave us a great deal on rent," an amount they can lock in for three years if they so choose.

"It's a high traffic location and many of the people who shop at WINGS are T.J. Maxx shoppers too," Darr said. "I'd be shocked if this doesn't work out great for us."

For more information about WINGS or to RSVP to the Purple Tie Ball, go to wingsprogram or call Terri Channer at (847) 519-7820 ext. 210. Tickets cost $200 each.