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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
HONORING THE OAK PARK-RIVER FOREST INFANT WELFARE SOCIETY AS IT CELEBRATES ITS 100TH ANNIVERSARY
WHEREAS, the Infant Welfare Society (IWS) was started in December of 1902 after a baby died from diphtheria in his father’s arms on the streets of Chicago. For the next decade the IWS worked to distribute clean milk for free or below cost to infants; and
WHEREAS, the Oak Park-River Forest Infant Welfare Society began in 1916 as an association of Chicago-area women who support the IWS Children’s Clinic in its mission to provide all children with unfettered access to quality health care; and
WHEREAS, since its inception, the IWS has been organized around “circles,” which are small groups of women who join together to support the society’s mission through fundraising and volunteering; and
WHEREAS, currently, the Oak Park-River Forest IWS consists of 150 members in eight circles, each with its own personality and traditions; and
WHEREAS, the society’s work is powered by dedicated members and volunteers, a highly competent professional staff, generous donors, engaged partners, and enlightened communities who share the view that sustaining the health of our children is a critical investment in the future; and
WHEREAS, in addition to its recurring fundraising events, the Oak Park-River Forest IWS is taking on special centennial events, including a business luncheon in March at Dominican University, a block party for children and families in May, and a dinner in September.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board of Commissioners does hereby honor the Oak Park-River Forest Infant Welfare Society as it celebrates its 100 years of dedicated service to the health of children.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a commemorative copy of this resolution be distributed to the Oak Park-River Forest Infant Welfare Society on the occasion of its 100th Anniversary.
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