Fundraising in full swing for Bartlett memorial
It's taken a couple of years, but the Bartlett Veterans Memorial Foundation has finally shifted into full fundraising mode.
The foundation, organizing a proposed memorial on a 1-acre plot at Stearns and South Bartlett roads, will host a wine tasting Sept. 20 at the Bartlett Hills Country Club.
It's an event Hanover Township Clerk Brian McGuire, also the group's fundraising chairman, hopes will bring in $6,000.
Public fundraising efforts kicked off in January with a black-tie affair. The dinner dance, which had a World War II theme, raised $25,000. Another one is planned for January.
McGuire hopes the foundation will eventually reach a point where it raises $100,000 annually.
Most people don't know it, but the project is actually an upgrade from a tiny star-shaped stone memorial in front of Bartlett's village hall.
The cost could range from $500,000 up to a few million dollars if Bartlett goes with something grander, like the memorial in neighboring Streamwood.
The village paid $168,000 for the land in 2005, but the remaining expenses fall on the foundation.
The foundation's first two years were spent getting a nonprofit organization designation, as well as forming a board that includes members of the VFW, the American Legion, the Bartlett Chamber of Commerce and other residents. It recently hired an architectural firm to come up with a variety of renderings, from a single monument to a multifaceted shrine.
Creating a proper memorial is the bottom line.
"With everything going on, people really understand the importance of honoring men and women in uniform," McGuire says. "Their sacrifices need to be honored."
But unless a few generous benefactors step forward, it's going to be four or five years before any dirt is turned.
That's OK, says McGuire.
"There's an ownership that comes from the community doing this and I don't think you get that with one great donation. Of course, I wouldn't want to discourage anyone who'd feel inclined," McGuire added, noting money will be needed for the memorial's upkeep.
In the meantime, the foundation is set to launch a program encouraging the public to host their own events at homes with the goal of collecting $1,000 or more.
Hitting the mark merits a certificate and membership in the Commander's Club. Those interested will soon be able to pick up an informational packet with suggestions and sample invitations.
If word spreads, the timeline could be cut down dramatically.
"Sometimes it seems like a daunting task, but there are 40,000 people in Bartlett," McGuire said. "It's doable."
If you go
Wine tasting fundraiser for the Bartlett Veterans Memorial Foundation.
When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Sept. 20, Bartlett Hills Golf Club, 800 W Oneida Ave.
Tickets: $40 each, $70 per couple, $100 for a sponsorship and two tickets
Details: (630) 675-9147
To donate: Make checks out to Bartlett Veterans Memorial Foundation, P.O. Box 8412, Bartlett, IL 60103