PADS of Elgin receives $78,000 gift from Theresa Nollette’s estate

PADS of Elgin recently received a $78,000 donation from the estate of Theresa Nollette, presented by her husband, Michael Janusz.

The gift, received on Jan. 8, 2026, will provide critical general operating support for the organization’s mission to serve individuals and families experiencing homelessness.

Theresa Nollette, who passed away on Nov. 28, 2024, at the age of 75, dedicated her life to serving others. She began her career as a Catholic Sister in the Englewood neighborhood of Chicago, one of the city’s most impoverished communities. She later became a social worker, spending most of her career in Chicago before retiring to Elgin with Michael. Even in retirement, Theresa continued her calling, establishing a practice in West Dundee.

Theresa and Michael were regular attendees of PADS of Elgin, attending the organization’s “Stars Dance” Winter Harvest fundraiser. This estate gift represents Theresa’s desire to make a lasting impact on the work being done at PADS.

Michael expressed hope that his wife’s generosity will help the organization during a challenging time.

"I hope Theresa’s gift to PADS of Elgin will alleviate some of the burden in the face of tremendous funding cuts," he said, referring to the sunset of COVID-era funding with no government replacement on the horizon.

In comments to staff, Rita Corbett, PADS of Elgin board member, celebrated the remarkable depth of character of her longtime friend Theresa and shared her admiration for Theresa’s career and volunteer service.

“We are profoundly grateful for this gift,” said Katie Shaw Thompson, executive director of PADS of Elgin. “Our staff will honor Theresa’s memory by showing up every day with the same compassion and commitment she modeled, helping as many people as possible find safety and dignity.”

PADS of Elgin plans to honor Theresa’s legacy and her commitment to serving others at a new event later this year.

For 35 years, PADS of Elgin has worked to respectfully and compassionately empower persons and families who are in need of housing to become self-sustaining by providing shelter, needed services and professional guidance.