Hometown Heroes: 5 people making life better for Chicago families and kids

When it comes to the movers and shakers in Chicago, it’s the ones who target the community’s children that have the ability to change the future. By touching even one child’s life, these Chicagoans make a difference that can last generations.

Nominate your hometown hero!

Bear-hearted

The Bears’ 24-year-old wide receiver teamed up with the Chicago Housing Authority this fall to take 25 kids shopping for school supplies.

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A voice for Illinois children

Kathy Ryg spends her days focused on Illinois’ kids, making sure they have the best opportunities even before they are born.

 

Giving back

Ted Rock is a full-time volunteer, clocking in more than 75 hours a month, Ted Rock spends his time loading food for the Greater Chicago Food Depository, teaching kids about bees at Garfield Park Conservatory, delivering Christmas trees to Chicago kids and coordinating the many activities of the junior naval ROTC in the city.

 

Helping refugees start over

As part of the refugee and immigrant services team for Heartland Human Care Services in Chicago, Joy Duginske spends her time helping refugees get a job and start their new lives in America.

Giving families of sick kids a normal moment

During Melissa Fragen’s two-year bone cancer battle, her mother was able to pull herself together enough to take her to the doctor and to sit quietly next to her and play Scrabble. But while Fragen’s world was being turned upside down, the outside world didn’t halt. It never does.

Helping Chicago charities make holidays bright

This holiday season, an online service originally launched to help fill kids’ holiday wish lists is helping Chicago charities fill their coffers.

 

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