Members of Menard Family Foundation Board of Directors Don Harrington, Marlene Miller and Catherine Scanlon along with Barbara Menard gathered at the U.S. Grant Hotel on Saturday, May 20, 2023, for the 38th Annual Children’s Charity Gala “Waves of Possibilities” benefiting the children’s programs at Fr. Joe’s Villages. Nearly $1.3 million dollars was raised to directly impact the programs dedicated to empowering youth and their families. Honorary Chairs Bob and Eileen Svatos set a welcoming tone for the 400 people who attended the evening. A lively auction was followed by dinner and the award presentations. The Ladies Guild received the Father Joe Carroll Award. They are celebrating their 40th anniversary of service to Fr. Joe’s by raising funds and providing over 14,000 volunteers hours annually. Allan and Peggy Keck received the Father Joe’s Villages Award for their steadfast support of the gala, of children and family services, and support of the commercial kitchen. The Bishop Maher Award was given to Menard Family Foundation with Barbara Menard receiving the plaque and briefly sharing her parents’ long-term support and connection with Fr. Joe Carroll.
