Tree of Life's 'Justice for All Ball' raises money for social justice causes
On Jan. 27, the Justice for All Ball hosted by the Tree of Life Unitarian Universalist Congregation in McHenry raised hundreds of dollars for social justice causes. Attendees were asked to donate to the causes and organizations of their choice.
A total of 13 organizations benefited from $644 in cash and check donations, led by the American Civil Liberties Union and PADS. In addition, some people donated nonperishable food for local food pantries and diapers for the Diaper Bank.
"We were thrilled by the generosity of those who came, especially several members of the McHenry County community with no direct tie to our congregation," said Janet Burns who was a principal organizer of the event for the church's Social Justice team.
The Ball was just the first in a series of upcoming events that "celebrate diversity and rally resistance to a tide of oppression and hatred."
That includes the "Rattle the Walls Concert," the first event of a new cooperative venture of accomplished Chicago area musicians, organized by Tree of Life's Music Director Forrest Ransburg on Saturday, Feb. 18, with proceeds going to the ACLU. Details on the concert are still being finalized.
At 7 p.m. Friday, March 10, there will be a "Poets in Resistance" public reading hosted by Patrick Murfin at the church, 5603 Bull Valley Road. It is open to the public; there will be a free-will offering.
For more information, call (815) 322-2464, email office@treeoflifeuu.org, or visit treeoflifeuu.org.