The Woman’s Club of Aurora will meet at noon Tuesday, April 10, at Belle Salle Banquets, 1920 East New York Street in Aurora, to take a virtual trip to the Galapagos Islands. This travelogue will be presented by Georgia Valisaris, Aurora area mixed media artist and photographer. Luncheon reservations are necessary.
Club president Judy Pessetti will report on the recent planting of a Pinwheel Garden at Mutual Ground, Inc. West Park and Oak Avenues, Aurora. Members planted more than 125 blue pinwheels that were purchased from Prevent Child Abuse Illinois to raise awareness that every child deserves a healthy, nurturing, childhood as represented by pinwheels, and that the long-term effects of child abuse and neglect, both on individuals and on society, show the very real need to work on preventive measures.
Mutual Ground was selected for the Garden in recognition of the grave connection between domestic violence and child abuse. The Pinwheel Garden will remain on display during April, which is recognized nationally as Prevention of Child Abuse Month.
At the April 10 meeting, members will contribute to its 23rd annual Baby Shower collection for the Healthy Families Aurora site. New or gently-used clothing items, sizes newborn to five years, such as T-shirts and pants for boys and girls, sleep n’ play outfits and onesies are needed. Other items needed are all sizes of diapers and various baby necessities for newborn to three-year olds. Cash donations will be accepted.
Healthy Families Aurora, under the umbrella of Visiting Nurses Association, is part of Healthy Families America, a highly-regarded program of voluntary home visits that help new parents strengthen their family functioning and to reduce the risk of child abuse and neglect. Home visitor programs have proven to be highly effective.
A peer support staff member makes a weekly home visit to promote healthy child development and to provide the tools and support needed to raise and nurture children without physical or emotional violence. There are six Healthy Families Illinois sites.
To receive membership or meeting information about the Woman’s Club of Aurora contact Cindy 630-212-3259.
—The Woman’s Club of Aurora