Hephzibah kids decorated signs with the winners names: Harper Lane, Anneliese Vukotich, Anton Hutchinson and Ben Melickian.
“You enrich our community. You make people feel proud to be Oak Parkers,” said Anan Abu-Taleb, Oak Park’s Village President, to a group of high school volunteers at Hephzibah’s Parent Open House. “Organizations like Hephzibah would not be sustainable without volunteers.”
On October 2, Hephzibah gave Heart Print Awards to four outstanding high school seniors who have invested their time helping kids in our programs: Anton Hutchinson, Harper Lane, Ben Melickian, and Anneliese Vukotich.
Anton Hutchinson, a Fenwick High School senior, began volunteering at Hephzibah as a sophomore because of his mother’s involvement with the Western Auxiliary Board. He has been a big brother in the Group Home for three years. His welcoming, easy going personality helps kids feel comfortable very quickly. Anton chose not to be matched with one child because he enjoys spending time with everyone.
Harper Lane began volunteering in the after school Day Care program when she was still in middle school. She joined the Huskie Helpers club at OPRF High School, continued to work in Hephzibah’s Day Care program during the school year and the summer, and recently became a big sister to a child in the Group Home. Known for her ability to adapt to any situation with a smile, Harper is an encouraging friend to kids and a strong leader among her peers.
Ben Melickian started volunteering with Hephzibah as a big brother during his sophomore year. His relationship with his little sibling in the Group Home has grown into a strong, supportive friendship. The two are always outside playing basketball or running around. Last year Ben began volunteering twice a week instead of once a week. He has shown maturity beyond his years and outstanding dedication to Hephzibah.
Anneliese Vukotich has enhanced the Day Care program at Longfellow school with kindness and acceptance since 2015. With weekly visits throughout summer and the school year, she has been a consistent role model and special friend to the kids.
“Their faces light up when she enters the room,” said Leslie Taylor, Longfellow’s Site Director.
At the Open House, the award winners received t-shirts and signs decorated by the kids. Guests toured the Group Home, enjoyed shaved ice treats from Tropical Sno, and heard words of congratulations from Anan Abu-Taleb and River Forest President, Cathy Aducci.
Abu-Taleb said that when he first learned about Hephzibah, he was blown away. He thanked volunteers for their time and for helping children secure a stronger future.
“The feelings and emotions that fill this house can be felt from the street. It can be observed through the interaction and the bond between the volunteers and the children. It can be seen in the eyes of the kids that come through here, volunteers and the alumni that return with open arms bearing messages and gifts of thanks,” Abu-Taleb said.
“I am here on behalf of the village to say thank you. This place inspires me. Your work inspires me and you inspire our whole community.”
Congratulations to our HeartPrint Award winners and thank you to all the volunteers who are making a difference in the lives of so many children. Learn more about volunteering at Hephzibah.