Anna from the DeKalb Chamber was our Guest DJ today. We talked about all sorts of fun events the Chamber is doing including Taste of the Town and Spooktacular. You can check their website at www.dekalb.org for more information.

Anne from Barb City Manor was our Guest DJ today. We talked about their Double Good Popcorn Fundraiser coming up on Monday and a Texas Roadhouse fundraiser on the 29th! She went into detail on why these fundraisers are so important and what they will fund. We also talked about sponsoring a Christmas Tree at Barb City Manor. 

Kailee from the Rotaract Club of Sycamore was our Guest DJ today. We talked about their Trick or Trivia coming up on October 10th and also their Pumpkin Fest attire sale! 

Elijah, Natalia, Genevieve, and Katerina from Lightbeam Players joined us today for Guest DJ. They told us all about their Performance of the Matchbox Kids: Finding Home coming up on October 12th at the DeKalb Public Library. They are taking the show on the road through October as well! 

Dawn from KSRA was our Guest DJ today! We talked all about the Donut Dash that is happening this Saturday. It's a fun run 5K that will raise money for KSRA and their mission.. and you get a donut at the end. 

Cami from Voluntary Action Center was our Guest DJ today! We talked about a lot of great stuff coming up including:  Golf outing Golf outing sponsors Dream vacation raffle Emergency meal kits Donors for meal kits Volunteer opportunities to pack crackers Volunteer opportunities to pack meal kits

Diane from the Sunrise Rotary Club was our Guest DJ today. We talked about what Rotary does. We also discussed the Taste of DeKalb which is this Sunday from 9am - 3pm! Lots of good food and fun for the whole family will be available. 

Becky and Josh were our Guest DJs today! We talked all about the Center for Counseling at FSA. We discussed what they offer and the fact that there is NO waiting list right now, which doesn't always happen. It's also Suicide Prevention Month so we discussed some resources as well. 

Kristin and Russ from NIU Steam were our Guest DJs today! We talked all about STEM Fest which is coming up on Saturday from 10am - 3pm! 

Katie from the DeKalb Park District was our Guest DJ today. We talked all about the fall activities they have coming up including:  Spooktacular Scramble at River Heights October 5 Golf season is winding down: seasonal closures after Halloween, weather permitting DeKalb Halloween House Decorating Contest, deadline to enter October 15; People’s Choice Voting October 17-24 Howl-o-ween! Dog Costume Contest October 19 Pumpkin Smash’N’ Bash Teaser- help us fill Hopkins Park with scarecrows! Shelter and Banquet Hall Rentals Indoor Soccer Leagues

Jessica from CASA DeKalb County was our Guest DJ today. We talked about a ton of great information including:  Who is CASA? CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocates We work in the court system with the children involved due to abuse or neglect by a parent or guardian. Most of the children are in foster care and we advocate for them throughout the entire court process Small team of 6 staff plus 50 amazing volunteers who carry out our mission What do CASA and their volunteers do? We are the Guardian ad Litem for the children, which means we are the eyes and ears of the Judge and the voice of the child in court.  Our Advocates visit the children on their case at least once a month and talk to the other people involved in the child’s life to gather information about what is in the child’s best interest We write court reports for the Judge and make fact-based recommendations to the court as to what is in the child’s best interest Volunteers work with one family at a time and are the Advocate for however many children are part of that family  CASA’s goal is for these children to have a safe, permanent home ASAP, preferably in their own home when that is safe Success story example (Advocate communicating with caseworker, foster parent, bio mom, teachers and day care – learned of common behavior issues, advocated for counseling and IPS) Is there a need? Yes! We have about 46 children who need a CASA Advocate (served by staff). Who can be a CASA volunteer? Anyone 24 years old or older can apply. You do not need any specific education or background to serve as a CASA Advocate. We provide all the training you need, and you work closely with an Advocate Supervisor  Only takes about 10 hours a month to volunteer. You can work full-time and volunteer. A lot of the work can be done based on your own schedule. Our next training will be on Wednesdays from October 9 through November 13 from 5-8pm at the CASA office To apply to be volunteer as an Advocate, visit casadekalb.org and choose “Volunteer Application” Want more info? Visit casadekalb.org or call 815-895-2052 CASA upcoming events Save the date for Whiskey, Wine and Cheese on the evening of Dec. 6!

Samantha from the DeKalb Public Library was our Guest DJ today. They have a ton going on for the month of October. A lot of really fun Halloween themed things for all ages. They also have their normal programs as well. 

Zach from the Kishwaukee Family YMCA was our Guest DJ today. We talked all about the fall programs like basketball and swimming. We also discussed an October special they have. We also talked all about the Halloween Bash on October 18th. 

Jessi from the Glidden Homestead was our Guest DJ today. We talked all about the Barbed Wire Weekend which is coming up on 9/28 and 9/29. This is going to be a fun and educational event and it will benefit the mission of Glidden Homestead. 

Tracy from the Pay It Forward House was our Guest DJ. We talked all about how they provide a place to stay for those who have a family member who is hospitalized. We also talked about how they are looking for groups of kids to decorate their welcome bags and how they can use some donations for those as well. 

Cortney and Shannon from Stage Coach Players were our Guest DJs today! We talked all about the show "Rent" opening Thursday! We discussed some of the songs, what to expect, and more. This is an iconic show that they are very excited to bring to DeKalb! 

Heaven from the DeKalb County Mental Health Board and Sara from NAMI KDK were our Guest DJs today. We talked about their partnership, the groups and classes NAMI offers, and their book club coming up. Plus much more! 

Jill from the Sycamore Public Library was our Guest DJ today! We talked all about the library, what they offer, and some things coming up. There will be a visit from Bluey and also, the Friends of the Library Used Book Sale at the end of the month. 

Josh and Cortney from the Habitat for Humanity board were our Guest DJs today. We talked about what Habitat does and offers but also, why they wanted to get involved and join the board. We also talked about the upcoming build where they are moving and restoring a house! Plus, the need for volunteers. 

Izzy from the Ellwood House was our Guest DJ today. We talked all about Wine On The Terrace. This is their biggest fundraiser that helps them with maintaining the Ellwood House as a museum. There will be over 150 different wines to sample, food, and beer as well. 

Kerina from Tails Humane Society was our Guest DJ today. We talked all about the upcoming Mutt Strutt on September 28th at 9am at Hopkins Park. This is a fundraiser to help homeless animals in DeKalb County.

Beth and Kirsti from Safe Passage were our Guest DJs today! We talked about October being Domestic Violence Awareness Month. They have several events coming up to commemorate that including:  Candlelight Vigil and Survivor Speak out - October 7th - Egyptian Theatre Candlelight Vigil and Survivor Speak out - October 16th - Sandwich Public Library The Color Purple Movie Screening - October 21st - Egyptian Theatre The Color Purple Book Club - October 24th - DeKalb Public Library They will also have several fundraisers in the month with more info to come! 

Kristin and Russ from NIU Steam were our Guest DJs today. We talked all about STEM Fest coming up on September 28th. It will be their 15th year for this amazing free event! 

Anna from the DeKalb Chamber was our Guest DJ today! We talked all about what they have coming up including Athena, Taste of the Town, and Spooktacular! 

Anna from Neighbor's House was our Guest DJ today. We talked all about their Fall Afterschool Program coming up. We also talked all about their Giving Thanks 5K as well. 

Cole from the Rotaract Club of Sycamore was our Guest DJ today! We talked about the club, what they do, and that they are looking for new members! We also talked about Trick or Trivia coming up in October. 

Karson and Heather were our Guest DJs today! We talked all about their upcoming Open House on 9/7 from 10am - 1 pm. The event will be held at their Walnut Grove Vocational Farm and will include free hot dog lunches (with locally raised grilled sweet corn), a children's painting project, donations-only rummage sale, and fall plant and garlic sale! 

Roger and Ray from the Maple Park Fun Fest were our Guest DJs today. We talked all about the festival coming up this weekend. There will be tons of entertainment, activities for all ages, Fireworks, and FUN! It's all free to attend minus beer and food, which there will be a LOT of! 

Katie from the DeKalb Park District was our Guest DJ today. We talked about a lot of great stuff including:  DeKalb Kite Fest Golf Club Championship Shelter & Banquet Hall Rentals Wine on the Terrace Halloween Happenings 

Emma from CASA DeKalb County was our Guest DJ today. We talked about a bunch of things regarding CASA and upcoming events including:  What is CASA? CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocates CASA advocates for and serves as the voice for children involved in DeKalb County juvenile court through no fault of their own, but due to abuse or neglect by a parent or guardian What does CASA do and what do their volunteers do? CASA serves as the Guardian ad Litem in 100% of the abuse and neglect cases in DeKalb County juvenile court, which means we are the eyes and ears of the Judge and the voice of the child in court We appoint volunteers to one sibling group at a time and the volunteer becomes the child/children’s advocate in court  CASA advocates visit the child regularly to get to know the child well so that they can share with the court the child’s wishes and what is in the child’s best interest Advocates gather information from a variety of sources, including biological and foster parents, teachers, therapists and others and use that information to write reports to the court that help the Judge make informed decisions regarding the child(ren) CASA’s goal is for these children to have a safe, permanent home ASAP, preferably in their own home when that is safe Who can be a CASA volunteer? Anyone 24 years old or older can apply and you do not need any specific education or background to serve as a CASA advocate Our CASA training and the CASA staff provide you with the knowledge and help you need from the very beginning so you can be a successful volunteer Volunteering takes about 10-20 hours a month. Applications are always accepted at any time. You can apply online at casadekalb.org and choose “Volunteer Application” Our next training will be on Wednesdays from October 9 through November 13 from 5-8pm at the CASA office Want more info? Please visit our website or contact our office with any questions you have! Casadekalb.org or 815-895-2052 CASA upcoming events Coffee with CASA: Thursday, September 12 from 10 to noon at The Greenhouse in Sycamore. Drop by for coffee on CASA and talk with us and current CASA Advocates about volunteering with CASA.

Cami from the Sycamore Parks Foundation was our Guest DJ today. We talked all about a free run to walk, or walk only program they are doing on Wednesday nights. This is for anyone who either wants to or already walks and or runs to do as a group. All are welcome to join this free group.

Samantha and Emily from the DeKalb Public Library were our Guest DJs today! We talked all about the events coming up in September including 8 Countries in One Day and Stone Soup Shakespeare! Plus a new play group and all of their usual groups and programs! Always something fun to do at the library.

Nate from Voluntary Action Center was our Guest DJ today. We talked all about their upcoming Golf Outing and the Dream Vacation Raffle. We also highlighted their capital campaign they are kicking off! 

Sha, Joel, Alessandra and Shatoya from Family Service Agency were our Guest DJs today. Now that it's back to school time, it was awesome to highlight the school based programs they offer. Whether its in school or outside of school, they offer many incredible programs and groups for kids ages K-12! 

John from DeKalb County United (DKCU) was our Guest DJ today! We recapped the season, talked about highlights, and what to expect in the offseason. 

Sara from Barb City Manor and Jessi from the J.F. Glidden Homestead were our Guest DJs today! At 2 p.m. on Saturday, August 31st, the Glidden Homestead and Barb City Manor will host a “Built by Barbed Wire” program at Barb City Manor. This program, which is free and open to the public, will share the history of the building that was built with major contributions from barbed wire barons Joseph F. Glidden, Jacob Haish and Isaac Ellwood. 

Kerina from Tails Humane Society was our Guest DJ today! We talked all about their Online Auction coming up! The Mutt Strutt is also around the corner. They are also looking for volunteers as well. 

Kelsey and Kayleigh from the Kishwaukee Family YMCA were our Guest DJs today! We talked all about their fall guide, their fall specials, and also the swim team! They have some clinics and things coming up, which is very exciting! 

Kim from Habitat for Humanity DeKalb County was our Guest DJ today! We talked about a really special project they are doing for their next home build. We also talked about their home preservation projects, their financial literacy program, and ways you can volunteer! 

Dr. Michelle Vaughn and Emily Faulkner from the DeKalb Public Library were our Guest DJ's today! They talked all about the Dolly Parton Imagination Library which they are working on bringing to DeKalb County! We learned all about what it is and the fundraising efforts they will do to execute this amazing opportunity! 

Deanna from the DeKalb County Mental Health Board and Gerald and Steven from Sauk Valley Voices of Recovery were our Guest DJs today. We talked all about how they got connected and what they offer. There is a dedicated person for Dekalb County specifically able to help people get connected to the treatment they need. We discussed what they do, and how they do it. 

Jill from the Sycamore Public Library was our Guest DJ today! We talked all about what you can expect coming up from the Sycamore Public Library. They have Bluey coming next month, their big Pumpkin Fest party in October, and so much more leading up to that. 

Jill from CASA DeKalb County was our Guest DJ today. We talked all about 50 Men Who Cook!  20th Annual 50 Men Who Cook  August 10, 2024 from 6-9 PM Barsema Alumni & Visitors Center at NIU An evening of delicious dishes made by home cooks and professional chefs from our community, plus a raffle, live music, and a cash bar Tickets: $45 each or $40 each when you buy 2 or more by August 9. Tickets available at the door on Aug. 10 for $45 each. On sale today!  Tickets available online at casadekalb.org/50menwhocook. Tickets also available in person at the CASA Office or by mailing a check made payable to CASA. Our address is 308 W State St, Suite 301, Sycamore, IL 60178 50 Men Who Cook raises money for CASA DeKalb County CASA advocates for and serves as the voice for children in DeKalb County who have experienced abuse or neglect and are involved in the court system through no fault of their own. Most of the children are in foster care. CASA provides them with an Advocate who gives them hope for a better future. When you attend 50 Men, you are helping the children that we serve. You can learn more about CASA at casadekalb.org, or by following us on our social media.

Trenton and Eric from the Rotaract Club of Sycamore were our Guest DJs today! We talked all about their Adopt a Classroom Program! They are also in charge of all of the apparel for Pumpkin Fest and we discussed that as well and more! 

Galen and Tim from Stage Coach Players were our Guest DJs today! We talked all about their new show opening up called "The Foreigner" and it sounds like it's going to be an amazing show. It runs August 15 - 25 and you can get your tickets now at https://stagecoachplayers.com/. 

Beth and Christine from Safe Passage were our Guest DJs today. We talked all about their Golf Outing coming up on September 13th, their free Safe Bar training for anyone who works in an alcohol serving establishment, and their All Good Hair Days donation drive! 

Tia and Devyn from the DeKalb Chamber Gather Group were our Guest DJs today! We talked all about what Gather is, what it means to be a member, and upcoming events you could join! 

Sara from the Corn Fest Board was our Guest DJ today. We talked about some volunteer opportunities that are available for Corn Fest at the end of August. Self Sign Up is now closed so if you'd like to volunteer, email volunteercornfest@gmail.com. 

Dawn from KSRA was our Guest DJ today! We talked all about some Veteran's programming she has coming up including an ice cream party on August 20th. They are planning to have a monthly event for Veteran's and their families to attend and have some fun and camaraderie! 

Jessica from CASA DeKalb County was our Guest DJ today. We talked all about 50 Men Who Cook. Here is some of what we highlighted in the discussion:  20th Annual 50 Men Who Cook  August 10, 2024 from 6-9 PM Barsema Alumni & Visitors Center at NIU An evening of delicious dishes made by home cooks and professional chefs from our community, plus a raffle, live music, and a cash bar Tickets: $45 each or $40 each when you buy 2 or more by August 9. Tickets available at the door on Aug. 10 for $45 each. On sale today!  Tickets available online at casadekalb.org/50menwhocook. Tickets also available in person at the CASA Office or by mailing a check made payable to CASA. Our address is 308 W State St, Suite 301, Sycamore, IL 60178 50 Men Who Cook raises money for CASA DeKalb County CASA advocates for and serves as the voice for children in DeKalb County who have experienced abuse or neglect and are involved in the court system through no fault of their own. Most of the children are in foster care. CASA provides them with an Advocate who gives them hope for a better future. When you attend 50 Men, you are helping the children that we serve. You can learn more about CASA at casadekalb.org, or by following us on our social media. We have a couple of chef spots left! If you or someone you know is a man who loves to cook, we would love to have you as one of our Home Cooks!  Have professional experience? You can join as a Professional Chef! Free to participate, you just cover the cost for your ingredients Each cook is asked to prepare & bring 250 bite-size servings of their favorite recipe in one of the following categories: appetizer, side dish, entree or dessert. A serving is considered 1-2 forkfuls. Sign up and learn more on our website CASA at casadekalb.org/50menwhocook, or by calling CASA at 815-895-2052.  Thank you to event sponsors We couldn’t do this event without the help of our sponsors, including Old National Bank, Shaw Media, Crum-Halsted Insurance Agency, FNBO, First State Bank, Illinois Community Credit Union, Lehan’s, Manny Pena with American Family Insurance, Anderson Funeral Home, DeKalb Sycamore Chevrolet Buick GMC, Doug and Lynn Roberts Family Foundation, Genoa Township, Heartland Bank, Midwest Groundcovers, Midwest Trading, Oral and Maxillo Facial Surgeons for Northern IL, Rose Law, Slingerland and Clark and Willow Real Estate Another way to get involved with CASA is through volunteering as an Advocate! Visit casadekalb.org/volunteer-info to learn about our upcoming Info Session in August, Coffee with CASA in September and our Fall Advocate Training which starts in Oct.