Helping hands create community spirit in Mundelein

Like many seniors who need help, the resident of a modest ranch style home on South Seymour Avenue in Mundelein didn't want to trouble anyone.

But when a crew from Cub Scout Pack 189 began scouring the backyard like ants on a hill, it was evident the daunting task of clearing leaves, brush and debris left by several towering old trees could not have been done without help.

"Isn't this wonderful?" asked Eileen Brennan, who said her elderly mother who lives in the house needs a walker to get around. "In the hour they've been here, a huge transformation has taken place."

That was true at dozens of sites throughout Mundelein as nearly 150 volunteers completed projects big and small during the 15th annual A-May-Zing Mundelein event.

Altogether, 44 homes and 132 jobs were on the list. The event was advertised in the village newsletter and as it has become well known, word gets around to senior agencies and others.

Initiated as a part of the village's Project CAPE (Create A Positive Environment), the effort has become a tradition for volunteers to give back to the community and establish relationships and friendships in the process.

"It just kind of tears at your heartstrings a little bit. You walk away feeling good," said Police Chief Ray Rose, who has been involved from the outset.

Rose and village Trustee Ed Sullivan paired Saturday to take on several chores, including window washing at the home of Astrid Reinhard on South Lincoln Avenue.

"I'm very thrilled about this, especially for people like me who live alone and don't negotiate ladders any longer," she said.

The work day is being coordinated with the village spring cleaning effort, in which any items put on the curb the next two weeks will be carted off.

"This is not the only day of the year - this is the official day that sets the tone for people who want to help their neighbors," Sullivan said.

On Dunbar Road, about 14 volunteers from Libertyville United Methodist Church had cleaned the roof, gutters and windows (inside and out), made some minor repairs and brought the planting beds up to snuff.

Inspectors from the Mundelein Fire Department also made sure the interior systems were in good working order.

"This is great for us," said Agnes Radakovitz, who has lived in the home for 29 years. "They just look at something I didn't know (about) get tools and fix it."

This is the third year the church has participated. Organizers say the event puts residents in need on the radar for follow-up work or assistance.

Gurnee resident Christina Parmar, 16, a member of the church's youth group said she had never installed garden edging. The work was difficult but rewarding, she said.

"Seeing the people's faces, it's always a good feeling."