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Michael Joseph Foundation marks 20 years
Kathy Ciganek with husband and keynote speaker, executive board member Anthony “TC” Ciganek, both of Barrington. | Lee A. Litas~Sun-Times Media
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Updated: December 2, 2012 6:05AM
The Event: To highlight 20 years of aiding families in crisis, on Oct. 6 the Michael Joseph Foundation, along with 255 of its volunteers, sponsors and guests, rang in the milestone anniversary in Roaring ’20s-style. The party was held at Barrington’s opulent Sanfilippo Estate, which was donated — plumed and baubled — for the occasion.
The Foundation, dedicated to helping the homeless through transitional housing, is completely staffed by volunteers. No one, including the executive board, gets any payment for their services. In fact, each member of the board had paid, as they do each year, for his or her ticket to the benefit that raises funds for MJF.
Cause célèbre: Executive board member and keynote speaker Anthony “TC” Ciganek took a moment to highlight some vital statistics noting that, since its inception in 1992, MJF has collectively raised more than $1.7 million dollars and assisted some 650 families.
“Just shows you what can be done to help people that are truly in need,” said Ciganek.
After 20 years of volunteer service, organizing committee member Ida Cardelli is most proud “of the fact that MJF is able to help people get back on their feet with dignity. We have contact with all of our clients and it is most interesting to see how they progress in life along with their children.”
MJF founder Michael Maude Sr., was on hand to help celebrate the landmark event, along with numerous members of his family, many of whom have worked for the foundation. “When life throws you a curveball, we’re here to help (and) it is extremely rewarding and very fulfilling,” said Michael Maude Jr.
Bottom line: The Michael Joseph Foundation derives a major portion of its annual budget from the event, which raised nearly $100,000.
