Palatine Jaycees Give 10 Area Families a Holiday Shopping Spree

The Palatine Jaycees made a difference in 10 Palatine families' lives on December 8th, treating each one to a $ 500-holiday shopping spree at the Palatine Walmart, located at 1555 North Rand Road.

"The Jaycees worked with several outreach agencies in the community to select the families. Each family received a $500 gift card to be used to purchase any items they needed, such as gifts, clothing, and food," said Stephanie Stopka, one of the Jaycees heading the project. Families are chosen based on the recommendations from agencies such as The Bridge Youth & Family Services, Children's Home & Aid, Palatine Opportunity Center, Palatine Township Senior Center and WINGS.

"This is a wonderful experience for the families and the Jaycees," said Megan O'Brien, Jaycee project leader. "The Palatine Jaycees are always involved in many community activities and outreach, and this holiday project is something special." Walmart also handed each family a holiday-themed tin of popcorn as they checked out.

Every year, the Palatine Jaycees conduct numerous programs to serve the Palatine area and raise money to support community grants, scholarships, the annual Easter Egg Hunt, fireworks and entertainment for the Fourth of July Hometown Fest celebration, holiday giving programs and more.

The Palatine Chapter of the Jaycees has more than 130 members and is one of the largest of the 50 chapters throughout Illinois. The Jaycees give individuals ages 21 to 40 the opportunities to develop personal and leadership skills while serving their communities. The Palatine Chapter has been recognized locally and internationally for their efforts.

The Palatine Jaycees hold their monthly general meeting on the third Thursday of the month at 7:30 pm at Durty Nellies in Palatine. For further information on the Palatine Jaycees, membership or any of their sponsored events visit their website at http://www.palatinejaycees.org, email them at info@palatinejaycees.org.