December 10, 2007

Play It Forward

Children’s Clothing and Toy Donations

Since it’s so easy for you to toss your children’s stuff (as opposed to, say, your New Kids on the Block tapes), here are charitable ways to ensure gently used items stay in rotation once you put them out the door.

Jane Addams Hull House Association needs books, toys, toiletries, and diapers to support its child care, foster care, and literacy training services. Drop off at 1030 West Van Buren Avenue, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Christopher House accepts baby formula, toys, clothes, and books for its teen parent and infant development program. Drop off at 2507 North Greenview Avenue, in Lincoln Park, Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m.-7 p.m.

Hephzibah Children’s Association gives new books, toys, and clothing to kids ages 4-12 residing in its group home. Drop off at 946 North Boulevard, in Oak Park, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Now you’re hangin’ tough.

CREATE
Photo Ornament Workshop
What: Event designer Natalie Walsh shows how to make family photo keepsake ornaments with felt, sequins, and ribbons.
Why: Get with the picture.
When: Tues. & Wed., 6-7:30 p.m.; Sun., noon-1:30 p.m.
Where: Hello Darling Floral and Event Styling, 450 N. Paulina St., b/t Grand and Hubbard Sts. (312-226-2440). Reservations required.

PLAY
Polar Adventure Days
What: Watch ice carving, meet Siberian huskies, make crafts, and listen to storytellers.
Why: Baby, it’s cold outside.
When: Sat., noon-4 p.m. Jan. 19 & Feb. 23, noon-4 p.m.
Where: Northerly Island, 1400 S. Lynn White Dr., at Lake Shore Dr. (312-742-7529).

NAVIGATE
Raceline Motorworks
What: Test and buy remote control helicopters, planes, and boats.
Why: You love boy toys.
When: Mon.-Thurs. & Sun., 9 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri., 9 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat., 8 a.m.-11 p.m.
Where: Westfield Hawthorn Mall, 304 Hawthorn Ctr., Vernon Hills (847-367-3316).