It takes just over $1,000,000 to provide service to the more than 1,200 women who walk through the doors of PHD each year. From critical counseling support to education to support in the way of baby clothes, diapers, forumal and baby food, PHD is here.

One program that has contined to make a difference for PHD is the the Spirit of Life Giving Society. This monthly giving program provides a stream of income that allows us to place funds where they are needed most. Today we generate a little over $2,800 per month. We’d like to grow this program to generate $7,500 per month.

We know it’s a big nut to break, and we need your help to do it. This month, PHD has been presented with a special matching challenge to those who donate to the Spirit of Life Society.

Now through May 31, when you register for Spirit of Life monthly giving OR if you are a current member and upgrade your gift, an anonymous donor will MATCH your monthly gift amount for the next 12 months.

This donor  has offered to match up to $1,000 each month for the next 12.

Please consider a monthly gift to PHD. For as little as $1 per day, $30 per month, you can provide hope and opportunity to families in need. Thank you for your continued support!

Click here to register today!

Orders must be placed by Wednesday, May 2, 2012. Pick up is scheduled for Saturday, May 12, 2012 between 10:00 am and 11:00 am at PHD Counseling Center. Just in time for Mother’s Day!

Plant Sale Order Form 2012 – PHD

“More than 80% of PHD funding comes in from individuals,” says Catherine Vincus, PHD’s Executive Director. “This includes people who generously support events like the Gala. It is so important that we are financially successful because the funding helps us to continue to provide our services at no cost to families in need.”

This year’s Gala, which has been generously underwritten by Maggie Stephen, is being chaired by Ann and Ray Franczak of Palatine. Ann, who recently took a position on PHD’s Board of Directors, had this to say, “I’m humbled to be part of an organization that has such a positive impact on our community. Our dedicated staff empowers women each and every day by giving them the tools to be productive moms, which ultimately leads to healthy, happy children and a better community for everyone.”

Attending guests will enjoy cocktails, auctions, raffles, dinner and dancing to music by Lori Shane and The Mix. Wine from around the world, featured in PHD’s wine auction, will be up for grabs. Live auction items include gourmet dinners and vacation packages. An array of silent auction items including gift certificates to local restaurants, jewelry, spa packages, chocolate and more will also be on hand.

Maureen Durack, a resident of Arlington Heights and PHD’s past Board President, is being honored with the agency’s Spirit of Life Award.

“We are thrilled to be able to present this award to Maureen,” says Vincus. “She has been a steadfast and compassionate supporter of PHD in every way. Maureen embodies the best of our founder, Marion Stocker, whose goal was to help others who have no other network of support.  We are so honored to have her in our midst and to present her with this significant award.”

PHD will also introduce Emily Anderson of Lake Zurich who will share her personal experience about the help she received from the agency. Emily first reached out to PHD in September of 2011 when she began experiencing postpartum depression symptoms following the birth of her daughter, Lily, in August of 2011.

PHD’s Clinical Director, Kim Stobbe, will help prepare Emily for the evening. “We think our guests will be moved by Emily’s story. She is like so many new moms out there who are struggling and don’t know where to turn. By sharing her experience others will know that help does exist and that there is hope,” states Stobbe.

Sponsors for the evening include Arthur Andersen Foundation, Northwest Community Healthcare, Weber Stephen Products, Geralyn and Kerry Lavelle, and Barbara and Paul Hills.

PHD, a counseling center for pregnancy help and education, has been providing professional programs and services to women and families in need since 1971. More than 1,100 women each year visit PHD’s Counseling Center in Inverness, IL to receive professional counseling and support services including Baby and Maternity Closet items. All services are provided free of charge regardless of income, race, religious affiliation, marital status, sexual orientation or geographic location.

Tickets for the event are $175 per person. Raffle tickets for the chance to win $1,500 are also available for purchase at $40 each or 3 for $100. Register today for PHD’s Spirit of Life Gala

How did you learn about PHD?
I had my baby girl Lily in August of 2011. After I had her I didn’t feel right. Not knowing what was wrong I turned to the internet to figure out what it was that I was feeling. After reading through various websites I was convinced I had postpartum depression. It really scared me. Fortunately I found a link to PHD’s website within another site. I hadn’t realized a place like PHD existed.

What kinds of emotions were you experiencing?
I was really scared. I confided in my boyfriend of six years and he was very supportive. His ex-wife had gone through PPD and he knew what it was about. I explained to him that something wasn’t normal. I was having what I call “crazy thoughts”. I thought of hurting myself, hurting Lily. I felt like I was losing my mind.  I was crying constantly and didn’t really feel like I could connect with Lily. All I wanted to do was sleep.

What prompted you to contact PHD?
I knew I needed help and I was determined to fix what was wrong. I think in society there is the expectation that women should be able to handle anything. I went through a traumatic C-section with Lily and it really affected me. I was traumatized by that experience and then on top of it had to care for a newborn. It was difficult. It was also good to know that PHD provided the service free of charge. I don’t have insurance and it was crucial for me to find a low cost or no cost program.

Did you reach out to anyone else for support?
My boyfriend was definitely supportive. When I spoke to my mom about it she wanted to brush it away. Her sentiments were that, hey, you’re a mom now and that’s what moms do, they figure things out and move on. I also learned that my best friend had dealt with PPD. She never told anyone. My doctor also encouraged me. She had PPD so she knew what I was dealing with. She didn’t hesitate to work with me and my counselor, Melissa, in finding medication that would work for me while I went through therapy. The combination is huge for me and my treatment plan.

What is hard about going through PPD?
I felt like I was totally alone. I didn’t have support. I didn’t have someone to talk to other than my boyfriend. I felt really isolated. There is a lot of shame that goes along with postpartum depression. I felt like I was losing my mind and was so ashamed about that. I think women today have it much harder than women 30 or 35 years ago. Women stayed home then. They got together with other housewives and they supported each other. They had play groups. Today, women work. Women are raising babies as single mothers. There is more isolation today than there was in my mother’s generation.

What services have you received from PHD?
I am seeing PHD’s Postpartum Depression Specialist and I utilize the Baby & Maternity Closet.

You recently did something very special for the Baby Closet. What was that?
I went to the Closet to receive baby items to help me through the month and when I was there they asked if I wanted a shampoo or a lotion. They explained that they were running low and, while normally they might be able to give me both, they could only do one. I don’t remember what I chose but I did ask them what other kinds of things they were looking for. I thought if I reached out to my friends and told them how PHD was helping me, that they would collect donations for the Closet.

What did you do to make the request?
I have a Facebook account and within my account I set up an event page. I basically told my story and talked about how PHD had done so much for me and I asked them to consider making a donation. I also promised them I would pick up their donation. I received such positive feedback. I’ve already dropped off two car loads of goods to the Closet – food, formula, diapers, clothing, etc. I had people in Plainfield, Aurora, Naperville, even Madison Wisconsin! Family members from out of state even asked if they could send me checks to give to PHD. I am talking about doing it again in a few months. More people are stepping forward saying they have things to give.

Now that you have been with PHD for a while, how have things changed as far as your relationship with your daughter Lily?
I am out of my postpartum depression funk. Counseling has made me a better mom. I enjoy being a mom now and Lily and I are totally bonded. I am sad that I missed out on the first couple months of her life but I am so grateful that I can enjoy her now. I also think my work here with PHD will set a good example for Lily in the future.

How did you find out about PHD?

I became aware about 17 years ago as I was walking into my church which is Holy Family. There was a sign up for PHD and it caught my attention because it emphasized the woman and that PHD was there to help them.  Abortion is such a controversial issue and often times the debate is over the life of the baby.  However, it is not just about the baby but also about the woman faced with the pregnancy. I was frustrated whenever I heard in the media about women being judged so harshly for their decisions. I thought to myself, when I learned about PHD, “finally someone gets it.” This was the first time I had seen an agency approach it in a way that supports women who were struggling with difficult situations.

When my fourth child was four years old, I met Maureen Cochran a board member for PHD at the time.  I was at a place in my life where I could help and I was interested in getting involved. I felt a good connection to PHD’s approach and the mission. Maureen introduced me to Yvonne Gardner and I got the tour. Seeing the building where everything took place made an impact. There are so many things when you’re pregnant that you need help with.

How did you get involved at PHD and what strikes you as important?

I was at a place in my life where I could help; I had enough resources. My thinking was, what about those women who didn’t have that? I connected with Yvonne, watched the video, saw the intake rooms and met various people. I visited the Baby Closet and Resale Boutique and thought it would be a good fit. PHD had an intake coordinator training coming up that summer. In 2006 I started in the Baby Closet then did intake training and moved over to the counseling center.  Just this past winter I went to the case manager training and met fabulous volunteers who work so hard. I loved the idea of giving women a hand up not a hand out.  I also love the parenting classes and resources we offer to help families.

What has affected you the most in working with these clients?

A lot of the women we see have very complex issues. I’m amazed at how much responsibility we (volunteers) are given to listen to each client story and figure out the best way to facilitate their own self-management abilities; the ability to manage and raise their children. We help put them on the right path to resources. It is a powerful responsibility. But I’ve met some of the most fascinating clients – everyone is unique.

What do you enjoy most about PHD?

I love the staff, the counselors, and,  the heart of PHD, which is the volunteers who are the ones that are on the front lines to assist clients. I am also amazed and inspired by the smart group of women in the shifts that I work. I also enjoy being in the moment with a client, helping them where they need an extra boost. I enjoy working with them to help empower them to be the most effective in their own lives with all the challenges they have to face.

Do you think PHD has changed since you began as a volunteer?

Since I began volunteering PHD has moved into the right direction. It started out as pregnancy crisis line and has really blossomed into so much more. PHD is filling a need in the community by offering resources for pregnancy and parenting issues, abstinence issues and educating adolescents about making healthy choices. I appreciate the fact that PHD has expanded beyond just the basics. PHD is growing in the right way and it has come to play such a vital role in the community.

What is your favorite event to attend?

The Fashion Show is a fun event to attend, relax, and have a good time. It’s nice to bring a friend and just get together with my fellow PHD volunteers.  It’s my girl’s night out. The volunteer luncheon is always fun, too.  I enjoy the fun, laughter and conversation.

Catherine Vincus, PHD’s Executive Director, is pleased to announce this year’s event Chairs, “We are thrilled that Ann and Ray Franczak have accepted our invitation to be this year’s Chairs. As Palatine residents they have been extremely involved in both the business and philanthropic arenas. We are extremely grateful for their support of PHD.”

Ann Franczak also sits on the Board of Directors of PHD as its Secretary.

In addition, Maureen Durack, CIO of Vedder Price and past PHD Board President, will be honored with this year’s Spirit of Life Award for her dedication and service to the agency.

“Maureen has been a staunch supporter of PHD’s since she became involved more than eight years ago. I can’t think of anyone more deserving to recieve this award in 2012,” says Vincus.

Our event season kicks off with PHD’s Spirit of Life Gala on April 28, 2012. Held at Stonegate Conference and Banquet Centre this event promises fun and excitement to all who attend.

Learn more about our 2012 events and mark your calendars now!

As her marriage disintegrated, PHD’s professional counseling was integral in Norma’s ability to regain her self-esteem and self-confidence. Through regular sessions with her counselor, Norma began to realize she could be a strong, single parent for her boys, one of who struggled with special needs. Norma participated in PHD’s seven-week, intensive Common Sense Parenting program where she developed effective parenting techniques that continue to provide a healthy balance of nurturing and discipline. Through case management Norma also learned about community resources to help her and her children, including her oldest son who seemed to be struggling most with the divorce. PHD helped connect her son to Bridge Youth and Family Services where he is now awaiting the care he needs to heal.

Over the last year and half Norma has made significant steps in discovering her potential to be a great mom.

The time PHD provides to women (children must be three years and younger) affords them the chance to heal and grow at a pace right for them. Norma’s youngest son will be three next month which means she can no longer participate in PHD’s services. But with the help of her counselor and utilizing her resources, Norma feels empowered to continue her journey. She is working full time, taking classes to obtain her GED and is doing well in her ESL classes.

Norma’s story is just one of hundreds that speak to the needs of women in our community who struggle with the finding a balance of being a good parent to managing a challenging relationship with a husband or significant other. As long as PHD’s doors remain open there will be a safe place for women and families to heal.  With 88 cents of every dollar going to important programs and services, your generosity simply translates into comfort and joy for the clients who walk through our doors each day.

Would you consider making a gift to PHD this holiday season? You can make it an extra special gift by donating in honor of memory of a loved one. Thank you for your kindness and continued support of PHD and the families we serve!

Barbara Baumstark, Co-Manager of the Boutique, says quality donations are key. “PHD relies on the generosity of people in the community to keep our doors open. It is amazing to see the array of merchandise that comes in. Each of these well loved items turns into a fabulous find for someone new and it makes money to support those less fortunate.”

Are you interested in giving to PHD Resale Boutique but aren’t sure where to start? The following guideline will help:

1.PHD is grateful for your generosity and wants to make use of the items you donate. When you donate please make sure items are free from rips, tears and stains.

2.Items should be bagged or boxed so that volunteers can easily maneuver them in the store. Volunteers are a large and instrumental part of the donation process. Your items will be sorted, tagged, priced, and carried to a place on the sales floor.

Popular and appropriate items for a resale donation include:

•House wares
•Clothing that is clean, intact, and in style (Brand names accepted.)
•Antiques and collectibles
•Furniture, Jewelry
•Accessories, purses, shoes, hats, gloves, scarves
•Books (Excludes textbooks and encyclopedias.)
•Framed Art

Tips to Keep in Mind:

The guidelines above are general donation guidelines which differ from consignment shops. All items donated and sold will directly benefit PHD’s Counseling Center and Baby & Maternity Closet.

On occasion a volunteer or staff member may turn away an item because it may not be appropriate due to product recall or other reasons given by PHD. Always check with PHD on donation hours and limitations.

Charitable donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. Thank you for your support!

Click here to learn more.

Jennie began by collecting baskets and boxes for the project that her clients could fill with small trinkets; stuffed animals, photo frames, candles, etc. Each client also had the opportunity to write a note of encouragement to women who would receive the boxes. Each of the boxes were done in memory of the children lost by PHD clients. Their names are Jonathan, Jovany, Jose Angel, Daniela, Jaslene, Theresa and Gabriel.

A total of nine boxes and baskets were handed off to Pam Ferguson, NCH’s Renew Through Sharing Coordinator on Friday, August 19th. A note recently arrived from Pam that describes just how special this project was:

Dear Jennie,

I want to send my sincere thanks to you and your clients for the gift baskets you brought today. I was so touched by how beautiful and unique each one is, reflecting the personal touch of each mom who made them. I know that the moms who get these in the future will be touched and will feel a little bit less alone. What a wonderful way to honor the lives of these special babies. Please pass my warmest gratitude on to the clients and staff involved. Our staff really appreciates having these beautiful gifts to give out.

All the best,

Pam Ferguson
Renew Through Sharing Coordinator
Northwest Community Hospital