A bunch of clowns trying to make the world a better place
The Berkoskis are a family of tramps - in clown speak, that is.
It started with the late Donald "Ski" Berkoski, who in 1982 became a clown as an unorthodox way to communicate with prisoners.
He transformed into a "tramp clown," a down-on-his-luck character who looks like he's been riding the rails or working in coal mines. So encouraged by the inmates' response, Berkoski founded Valparaiso, Ind.-based Smiles Unlimited Universal Clown Ministry to train others in the art of spiritual clowning.
Now Don "Doc" Berkoski wants to continue his father's legacy in the Northwest suburbs. The new Palatine resident is organizing a six-week clown crash course open to anyone who believes in the therapeutic value of laughter.
"We're not Bible thumpers pushing the Lord on someone," said Berkoski, 41, Smiles Unlimited's director of operations. "This is about fun and people opening up because of a simple hug or smile."
Berkoski, who's received the go-ahead to meet at Palatine's St. Thomas of Villanova Catholic Church, hopes for enough interest to start Smiles Unlimited's 18th chapter. The nonprofit boasts about 250 members in the Midwest, and the training course has graduated more than 5,000 clowns.
Three characters are taught. The classic whiteface clowns are the intelligent leaders, throwing pies rather than taking them in the face. Next in the pecking order are the brightly dressed fools known as auguste clowns. Finally, there are the happy hobos and sad tramps.
Clowns also learn makeup, costumes, about 10 skits and other tricks of the trade.
"A shy person can really shine through their character," said Berkoski.
Amy "Little Doc" Berkoski is learning the family business. The 8-year-old joined her dad on a recent trip to a nursing facility back in Indiana. They visited Amy's uncle and watched football with residents. Berkoski hopes they'll eventually put on skits together.
"Amy's getting more comfortable," said Berkoski. "She gave a couple hugs to some old ladies."
The Smiles Unlimited course costs $85, which includes makeup and a one-year membership. No set schedule for a Palatine class has been determined yet. For more information, go to smilesunlimitedclowns.com or contact Berkoski at 1smilesunlimited@sbcglobal.net or (847) 991-2886.