Solstice Hop & Vine Fest benefits local families
While sipping wine and brews on a warm Saturday evening, Solstice Hop & Vine Fest attendees will be doing more than celebrating summer.
With every ticket sold benefitting the Schaumburg Park Foundation, fest-goers will help ensure all children in the community have a chance to swim, play a sport or go to camp this summer. Set for 6 to 9 p.m., June 17, at Meineke Park, 220 E. Weathersfield Way, the fest raises money for recreation scholarships and other projects of the foundation, such as Spring Valley's Bison's Bluff Nature Playground.
The recreation scholarship program started about 10 years ago as a way to give low-income families within Schaumburg Park District the opportunity to enjoy the district's many programs and activities. About 400 families have received assistance through scholarships, helping them obtain fitness and pool passes and join in a variety of recreational programs.
"Without these scholarships, some families could not participate in everything the park district offers," said Brian Bieschke, chairman of the Schaumburg Park Foundation. "Scholarships mean access to programs and facilities regardless of economic status."
Foundation proceeds also support the Schaumburg Park District's community outreach efforts such as the LATER program, a free evening camp offering group games, sports and crafts for children ages 6 to 17.
"Although the foundation values the importance of all community residents being able to enjoy the district's programs and facilities, we have historically focused our efforts toward Schaumburg's youth," Bieschke said. "LATER is a great example as it brings camp counselors, community leaders and Schaumburg youth together to build community relationships in a positive way."
For Solstice vendors, giving back to Schaumburg residents makes participating in the fest even more worthwhile.
"Lynfred Winery is a family-owned business and many of our employees and customers are raising their families in Schaumburg," said Christina Anderson-Heller, marketing director for Lynfred, the fest's host winery. "Coming together as a community to support our youth is one of our greatest priorities."
Vince Kennedy, recreation superintendent for Schaumburg Park District, has seen firsthand the difference recreation scholarships make for families.
"It means a family can swim in our pools, exercise in our fitness centers, take a dance class, attend summer camp, etc.," Kennedy said. "It is life changing when a person can exercise or a child can learn to swim when they otherwise would not be able to afford those activities."
Solstice tickets are available at parkfun.com/solstice2017.
For more information, call (847) 985-2115 or visit parkfun.com.
If you go
What: Solstice Hop & Vine Fest
When: 6 to 9 p.m., Saturday, June 17
Where: Meineke Park, 220 E. Weathersfield Way
Admission: $30 (purchase tickets at parkfun.com/solstice2017 )
Information: (847) 985-2115 or visit parkfun.com