Des Plaines Center of Concern to host ‘The Growing Gap’ event on rising costs

The Center of Concern in Des Plaines is hosting “The Growing Gap: Cost of Living and Community Needs,” a special event dedicated to addressing how rising costs are impacting our community on Monday, Sept. 14.

The evening will start with appetizers and networking at 5:30 p.m. and an expert panel discussion and awards ceremony beginning at 6:30 p.m. The event will be hosted at the historic Des Plaines Theatre, 1476 Miner St. It is free though donations are encouraged.

It will provide the opportunity for socializing, resource sharing, insightful discussions, and recognition of extraordinary community members who support the Center of Concern’s mission to enable vulnerable residents to live with dignity and independence.

Attendees will explore the resources, strategies, and partnerships that can increase access to housing, food, healthcare, and transportation for older adults and low-income individuals and families.

Guest speakers include Danita Childers, executive director of the Housing Authority of Cook County; Dr. Kiran Joshi, chief operating officer of the Cook County Department of Public Health; John Schomberg, assistant secretary for programs at the Illinois Department of Human Services; and Diane Slezak, president and CEO at AgeOptions.

Sen. Tammy Duckworth will provide virtual opening remarks, and state Rep. Michelle Mussman will serve as the discussion moderator.

Annual award recipients include Sister Kathleen Stadler, Volunteer of the Year; Kathy Zelm Gazzolo, Dee Heinrich Award; Park Ridge Mayor Marty Maloney, Excellence in Leadership Award; and Jewel Osco, Benny Velazquez, Partner of the Year Award.

Also being recognized this evening are former board members Tom Merlin and Cathy Thompson in appreciation of their dedicated service to the Center of Concern board of directors.

To RSVP by Sept. 7 or learn more about this special event, go to centerofconcern.org/needs or call (847) 823-0453.

The Center of Concern is a nonprofit social service agency dedicated to providing housing, community, and older adult services that empower vulnerable residents to live with dignity and independence.