Buffalo Grove honors community members through its Caring Community Program

A group of young business leaders from Stevenson High School and a community singing group were honored this week by Buffalo Grove.

The village’s Caring Community Program was started a year ago to recognize efforts to enhance quality of life, show leadership and demonstate collaboration, compassion and innovation.

At Monday’s village board meeting, Stevenson High School’s Future Business Leaders of America received recognition. They help students prepare for college and careers. They partnered with Fill a Heart 4 Kids to organize and pack over 350 gloves filled with treats for youth who couldn’t go trick-or-treating.

Members of the executive board attended, including sophomore Adithi Modekurti, junior Dhriti Udayagiri, senior Sarvesh Palani, sophomore Kiinjal Bhargava, junior Srinithi Kambhampati, senior Mahitha Chanduri, senior Brady Meng, junior Varad Bhave, junior Gurveen Sekhon, and junior Tanvisree Thimmancherla. Sophomore Allan Hu and junior Lilian She were absent.

Stevenson business teacher Jenni McBride, a group sponsor, said there are over 400 members.

Two individual community members were recognized, Kriti Mohan and Subathra Raju.

Mohan founded Help Them Up, leading clothing and supply drives for women and children affected by domestic abuse. Her service includes victim advocacy, music education initiatives and over 100 volunteer hours each year for families in crisis.

Raju was honored for creating welcoming spaces for children, adults and individuals with special needs.

“Subathra has removed barriers to the arts while building confidence and connection. Through free classes, thoughtful choreography, and compassionate leadership, her work has empowered participants to step onto the stage — and into a stronger sense of community,” said Village President Eric Smith.

The Buffalo Grove Singers, a community staple for 30 years, were honored. They recently celebrated that milestone with 30 acts of kindness. Through volunteering, fundraising and partnerships with dozens of local and regional organizations, the group donated more than $50,000 to charitable causes last year. The group entertained the board with song during the ceremony.

“They do so much for so many,” said Conductor and Director Linda Rosen of her group, adding they work with the Vernon Township food pantry and Bernie’s Book Bank, among others.