It was my good pleasure to be part of a special event held in Naperville Thursday, July 25. Truly, this event embodied the spirit of Naperville itself, as many members of the community came together to support a valued and worthy nonprofit agency: Western DuPage Special Recreation Association (WDSRA) Foundation. As a new Trustee of the WDSRA Foundation board, I was pleased to witness such synergy from our community in an effort to make a difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities.

Held at bd’s Mongolian Grill, this fundraiser was organized by local small business leaders as part of the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce’s “Adopt-an-Agency” program. Members of the chamber’s TEAM ONE were inspired to support the work of WDSRA in an effort to give back to the community. I had the honor of being a guest griller, alongside such notables as Naperville Mayor A. George Pradel, Naperville Park District’s Executive Director Ray McGury, and Naperville businessman Barry Poll, as well WDSRA executives. So many individuals, families, and friends showed up to dine with us that evening too — making the work of TEAM ONE all worthwhile.

On behalf of those with special needs who benefit from the recreational programs and inclusion services that WDSRA provides, I wish to express my appreciation to all the individuals who participated in the event. It truly demonstrated “community” at its best.

Dan Felson

Naperville

Trustee, Western DuPage Special Recreation Association Foundation Board