Patch Picks: Five Nonprofit Groups Making a Difference

Nonprofit organizations are a big part of our community. Here are some in Hinsdale, Clarendon Hills and Burr Ridge that make a difference:

1. , 415 W. Eighth, Hinsdale

The services offered by The Community House are varied. In addition to members in its home base of Hinsdale, this thriving community center serves the residents of Burr Ridge, Clarendon Hills, Darien, Downers Grove, Oak Brook, Westmont and Willowbrook. The Community House has a counseling department that has provided mental health services to DuPage County residents since 1978, as well as a preschool, youth sports, a program for active adults and a theater troupe called the Community House Players. Click here to learn about donating to The Community House. 

2. , 19 E. Chicago, Hinsdale

Formerly Hinsdale Community Service, this organization provides food and shelter to those in need in Hinsdale, Clarendon Hills, Burr Ridge and other neighboring communities. HCS Family Services is headquartered in the Hinsdale Memorial Building, where they operate a permanent food pantry. In addition to this pantry, the staff at HCS Family Services also operates a mobile food pantry that distributes food at the Resource Center at Hinsdale Lake Terrace in Willowbrook. The full choice food pantry operates on the second floor of the Memorial Building every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. To learn more about volunteering at or donating to HCS Family Services, call 630-323-2500.

3. Burr Ridge Community Park Foundation, 15W400 Harvester Drive, Burr Ridge

This three-year-old organization focuses on raising funds for the  and its programs and facilities. Its members wish to maintain and improve Burr Ridge's parks, as well as preserve open spaces in the area. The foundation also sponsors fundraising events, such as the spring 2011 "Splash into Fashion" Afternoon Tea and Fashion Show to benefit the Burr Ridge Park District Aquatic Projects. To learn more about volunteering or donating to the foundation, click here or call Jamie Janusz at 630-920-1969. 

4. , 7425 Wolf Road, Burr Ridge

The Flagg Creek Heritage Center is a 36-year-old organization that is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of history in the Flagg Creek area. Society members teach locals about this exciting history through lectures, publications, educational programs and the museum that is operated on the grounds of the . In addition to the museum, the park district also boasts the Robert Vial House, a restored 1856 residence that is open to visitors who wish to see what life in our area was like more than 150 years ago. To join the Heritage Society or contribute a donation, click here. 

5. , 131 N. County Line, Hinsdale

The Wellness House is a facility that supports and assists families who are living with cancer. Its members wish to provide a complement to treatment for cancer patients, as well as provide comfort and community for their families. Those living with cancer can take classes focusing on nutrition, fitness and stress management, as well as Family Matters groups that allow children and families to talk about their experiences living with cancer. The Wellness House hosts two yearly fundraising events, such as the Walk for the Wellness House  on May 15. Click here to learn more about volunteering at the Wellness House, or here to donate.