Wheaton's DoodleBug Workshop supporting veterans
The DoodleBug Workshop in Wheaton is partnering with the City of Wheaton, Downtown Wheaton Association, Wheaton Park District, Wheaton Public Library and the American Legion in showing its support for veterans through several projects this fall.
From Nov. 1-11, the workshop at 314 S. Main St. is hosting a collection drive for Veterans Day. The workshop participants have been helping to set up the facility and volunteering their time and talent to the project. Drop off your leftover Halloween candy; letters for care packages; protein bars and drink mixes such as Gatorade and Powerade; toiletries; winter coats for homeless veterans; and dog food for veteran pets.
Other drop-off locations include: Wheaton Public Library, 225 N. Cross St.; Wheaton Park District Community Center, 1777 S. Blanchard St.; Arrowhead Golf Club, 26W151 Butterfield Road; Wheaton City Hall, 303 W. Wesley St.; Wheaton Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2164, 0N731 Papworth St.; and Warrenville Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8081, 3S371 Mignin Drive.
The DoodleBug Workshop is also partnering with the Warrenville Memorial American Legion Post 589 in "Old Glory on Display," a way for the community to show their patriotism and support for two local nonprofit organizations. Workshop volunteers created flag kits, which included a custom-made wooden stand, a Field of Honor flag, gravel and PVC pole, to be purchased for $100 and put on display at local businesses and restaurants. From Nov. 1-11, residents and visitors are encouraged to stop by these restaurants and shops supporting veterans.
From Nov. 7-11, a presentation of American flags representing veterans in the community will be installed at Memorial Park, 225 Karlskoga Ave., beginning each day at 3 p.m. Each day at dusk, the national anthem will be sung followed by a performance of taps and bagpipes. Flags will be on display and for sale for $25. It will benefit American Legion Post 589.
On Thursday, Nov. 11, the community is invited to the Wheaton/Carol Stream American Legion Post 76's annual Veterans Day ceremony at 11:45 a.m. at Memorial Park. A flag presentation and taps will be followed by a moment of silence.
The mission of DoodleBug Workshop is "Changing Lives One Tool at a Time" by equipping the special needs community with vocational skills, fostering independence and building self-esteem, all with the help of volunteers in the community. Check out the products that are being created by workshop participants at 314 S. Main St., just south of Wheaton Meat Company. They offer many seasonal and gift items - all to help support the operation of the workshop. Learn more at www.doodlebugworkshop.com.