Paint-A-Thon of Dundee Township brightens lives of local citizens
More than 75 volunteers from around the Dundee-Carpentersville area teamed up to brighten the lives of five homeowners during the 2015 Paint-A-Thon of Dundee Township Sept. 12.
The program, which is open to homeowners who are senior citizens or permanently disabled veterans, provides paint and labor to spruce up the exterior of the recipient's homes, enhancing both the home's look and adding protection from the elements.
The event, which was first held more than 20 years ago, previously was known as the Carpentersville Paint-A-Thon. The name was changed for this year's event.
"The program has grown and the services we provide now stretch beyond Carpentersville," said event co-chair Ken Pozehl, one of the event's founders. "We felt the name change accurately reflects the people we serve. It also acknowledges our volunteers and donors from the greater Dundee Township area."
Volunteers, materials and financial donations were provided by sponsors, including Market Financial LLC, Behr Paint/Home Depot of Carpentersville, the Michael Hasselbring State Farm Agency in East Dundee, and Polynt Composites in Carpentersville.
Local restaurants, including the Anvil Club of East Dundee, Village Squire in West Dundee and Rosati's in Carpentersville, provided meals to the volunteers during the all-day event. Area residents also participate as volunteers.
"We ask nothing of the homeowners who are selected for the program," said event co-chair Beth Jareczek-Miller. "But their appreciation is always felt.
"One of the homeowners provided a home-cooked meal for her team," continued Jareczek-Miller, who noted the family and friends of one of the homeowners provided 25 volunteers for the painting project.
Homeowners who wish to benefit from the program must meet certain criteria, including being a senior citizen or a permanently disabled veteran in need. Plans are already under way for selecting homes and accepting donations for the 2016 annual Paint-A-Thon of Dundee Township, scheduled for Sept. 10, 2016.
To be considered as a recipient for next year's event, or if you would like to volunteer in 2016, contact Beth Jareczek-Miller at (708) 287-3692 or statefarmbeth@yahoo.com.