Schaumburg Township wins state award

Schaumburg Township has been honored with a Governor's Hometown Award for its annual Disability Services Holiday party for children with disabilities.

The township event, which has been held for more than 25 years, won in the category of projects and mentorship.

The party is almost completely organized by volunteers who determine details, select a theme, make entertainment choices and incorporate suggestions from the previous year and wrap presents.

Every child under the age of 16, as well as any siblings, receives a present appropriate for their interests and capabilities. The day of the party, volunteers help register, assist as chaperones, cook and serve food and decorate. Santa Claus also makes an appearance at the free event.

All of the event's costs are paid by community contributions.