League of Women Voters of Roselle/Bloomingdale to host wine tasting fundraiser Oct. 8

The League of Women Voters of Roselle/Bloomingdale will host their annual membership kickoff at a wine tasting and fundraising event from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 8, at Lynfred Winery, 15 S. Roselle Road in Roselle.

The evening will include a presentation and facilitated discussion titled, "A Year in Review: Achievements of Your Community Mental Health Board."

Speakers include Frank Giammarese, Bloomingdale Director of Public Safety, and Marianne Pokorney, YWCA Senior Manager of Strategic Engagement.

The local 708 Mental Health Board was established by referendum in 2017. This board is composed of local citizens who have a vested interest in providing quality community services to those in need. The board is responsible for strategic planning and allocation of funds and services, along with evaluation and coordination of referrals and programs within the local community.

In 2018-19, the 708 Board did careful long-term planning based specifically on the needs of our community. Next, they targeted funds to reduce gaps in service, such as long waiting lists or arbitrary cut-off limits for underserved populations. The 708 Board is able to act quickly in times of critical need and their recently finalized community plan allows the area to attract greater grant and foundation funding thus increasing potential for non-tax funding of needed programs and services.

Cost is $20, which includes wine and hors d'oeuvres.

This event is open to the public and attendees do not need to become a League member to participate.

For information about this community event or reservations, contact Patty Burns at (630) 251-5508.

For more information about other League's events and monthly meetings, contact Roberta Borrino at (630) 283-2894.