West Dundee resident shows fun can be free
West Dundee resident Jill Harris has implemented a stimulus package of her own to help local families forget about their checkbooks and focus on having fun in the form of free community events.
From dog days to water balloon fights, Harris, 46, has devised and organized six events through the summer and into the fall.
Participants are asked to donate a canned food item to benefit the FISH food pantry in Carpentersville.
"I thought about how everything we do costs money and it seems like everything is being cut because they cost money," Harris said. "Everyone - towns, states, villages - are all tightening their belts. I want to take peoples' minds off of the economy and get families to come out and relieve some stress for something everyone can afford: one canned food item."
The village board and staff provided support and logistical assistance, while many local businesses - large and small - have donated prizes and sponsorships. McDonald's donated Happy Meals for kite flying children, while Francesca's donated gift certificates.
"The local business community has really stepped up in saying they want to help out," Harris said. "It's a way for them to give back to the community and let people know they are here."
The village board on Monday also agreed to reimburse Harris $1,000 to offset some of the costs of putting together the events.
"(Jill) saw a need in the community for these types of events and then stepped up to volunteer," Trustee Becky Gillam said. "These are the types of events we want in the village."
The series started with a kite-flying event last month and continues Sunday with a dog activity day at Prairie Meadow Park on Village Quarter Road.
Harris, and her husband, Duane, built the course from scratch out of PVC pipe and donated lumber.
"I just want people to come out and have some fun," Harris said.
<p class="factboxheadblack">Free stuff to do in West Dundee</p> <p class="News">All events take place at for Prairie Meadow Park on Village Quarter Drive in West Dundee, unless otherwise noted.</p> <p class="breakhead">Dundee Dog Days</p> <p class="News">11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, May 17</p> <p class="News">Dogs will compete for prizes in events like the agility course, ugliest dog and amazing pet tricks.</p> <p class="breakhead">Sports Day in the Park</p> <p class="News">Sunday, June 14.</p> <p class="News">Start forming teams for events including bocce ball, volleyball and bag-o's. </p> <p class="breakhead">Water balloon fight</p> <p class="News">Sunday, July 19</p> <p class="News">Prepared to get soaked in a battle for water bomb supremacy.</p> <p class="breakhead">Photo shoot in Grafelman Park</p> <p class="News">Sunday, Sept. 27</p> <p class="breakhead">Pumpkin Carving</p> <p class="News">TBD</p>