Our Mission Continues...

JDRF Illinois continues to mourn the loss of our friend Ron Santo.  Ron became involved with JDRF in 1979 when the Walk took its first steps.  For more than thirty years, he was at the heart of the event, being its biggest supporter, champion, and voice.  He will be missed by everyone who knew him and millions who heard him during WGN Radio broadcasts.   

JDRF Illinois will continue to honor Ron well into the New Year.  Walk day was important to Ron, and while it will never be the same, it will continue to grow because of each of you.  So we thank you and invite you to continue walking with us.

We are also grateful for the many cards and gifts sent to us in his honor.  If you would like to make a donation in honor of Ron, you may do so through the JDRF web site at http://www.jdrfillinois.org/ or by mailing a memorial check to JDRF Illinois, 11 S. LaSalle Street, Suite 1800 Chicago, IL  60603-1344.



Ron at the 2010 Walk

Ron dedicated his life to finding a cure for diabetes and we will continue to work hard on his behalf to make his dream a reality - but we need your help!

It's not too late to turn in donations!  It is going to take a concerted effort to reach our $5 million goal.  Donations can be sent in a collection envelope or mailed to the JDRF Illinois Chapter office.  Please be sure to include a note with your site, team name and walker name.

Looking for ideas to raise additional funds? Keep up the great work by trying one of these ideas:

• Plan a holiday party benefiting JDRF!
• Include an appeal in your holiday card.
• Ask your child's school to hold a Kids Walk. The Kids Walk Program gives students the opportunity to help fellow classmates affected by diabetes AND raise money for their school. Schools can receive 10% of the money raised! For more information, visit www.jdrfkidswalk.donordrive.com or contact your local Walk Manager to set-up a Kids Walk.
• Ask a local business or restaurant to donate a percentage of sales back to JDRF.
• Auction off a close parking space at the office during the cold winter months.
• Collect change for JDRF - every cent counts! JDRF canisters are available. Contact your local Walk Manager to place an order.

All donations received through the end of February will be counted towards your team's 2010 total.


Walk Awards Receptions

We look forward to celebrating your incredible fundraising efforts at our Walk Awards Receptions in January.

Chicagoland Walk Awards Reception

Thursday, January 13, 2011
6:30 p.m.- 8:30 p.m.
Hyatt Regency O’Hare
9300 Bryn Mawr Avenue
Rosemont, IL

All teams who raised $3,500 and above, as well as all individuals who raised $1,500 and above, are invited to attend.

RSVP BY JANUARY 7th to Kathie DeBow at kdebow@jdrf.org or 312.447.7968.

Central Illinois Walk Awards Reception

Wednesday, January 26, 2011
6:30 p.m. Dinner
7:00 p.m. Awards Presentation
Embassy Suites 
East Peoria, IL

All teams who raised $500 or more, as well as all Golden Sneaker recipients, are invited to attend.

RSVP BY JANUARY 19th to Molly Waller at mwaller@jdrf.org or 309.740.4019.

2010 Team Award Levels
$3,500 - $9,999 - Bronze
$10,000 - $24,999 - Silver
$25,000 - $49,999 - Gold
$50,000 - $99,999 - Platinum
$100,000 - $199,999 - Diamond
$200,000 + - Ron Santo Award

Thank you for your support of JDRF!