The Northwest Indiana Parrothead Club, with members from Lake, Porter, and LaPorte counties, has a rich history of philanthropic support. On Sunday, November 10th, the club added the VNA of Northwest Indiana’s Phoenix Center program to its long list of beneficiaries by providing the VNA with a check for almost $3,000.00 in support of the program.
Known widely for its hospice services, the VNA offers four additional programs in the community: Palliative Care; Meals on Wheels in Porter County; Lifeline, and the VNA Phoenix Center program. The VNA Phoenix Center is a safe and supportive environment for children, teens, young adults, and families grieving the loss of a loved one. Through talking, listening and play, children are able to find hope and comfort in their own personal way. The program meets bi-weekly during the school year. During the sessions, children are placed in an age-appropriate group with peers experiencing a similar situation. They exchange their loss and experiences and support each other through storytelling, artwork, basketball, and other fun activities.
As a nonprofit organization, the VNA provides the program without charge to any child who is grieving the death of a loved one. Children who participate in the program have lost a loved one through suicide, drug overdose, murder, medical situations, etc.
The NWI Parrothead Club, whose moto is ‘party with a purpose’ did just that by hosting a tailgate party with all proceeds raised benefiting the VNA Phoenix Center program. More than sixty-five people attended the event, which included all you could eat pizza, hot wings, and a silent auction. The silent auction included over twenty baskets that members of the club donated to help raise funds.
“It’s events like these, hosted by other groups that really help build the community’s awareness of the VNA Phoenix Center. I think the more the NWI Parrotheads learned about the program, the more excited they were about their ‘party with a purpose’. It was a fun afternoon that will really benefit grieving children throughout our community,” said Maria Galka, Director of Development with the VNA.
“I have attended other fundraising functions that the NWI Parrotheads have held and can say that the members put a lot of heart, hard work, and fun into these events. For the club to recognize the importance of this program and select it to raise funds for is an honor. The club’s commitment to this program ensures that the needs of grieving children are met,” said Melanie Marshall, Chief Marketing Officer with the VNA.
About the NWI Parrot Head
Club:
The NWI Parrot Head Club is a phlock of Parrot Heads from Lake, Porter, and
LaPorte counties that “Party with a Purpose.” Some refer to the club as angels
in tropical shirts. The NWI Parrot Head Club has a strong commitment to the
communities and needs of others, while living life to its fullest. The club’s
focus is local charities and volunteering for nonprofit organizations. To learn
more about the NWI Parrot Head Club visit: www.nwiparrotheadclub.com
