On a sunny Saturday in late June, Hope Hub™ Chicago celebrated its very first in-person gathering for families navigating the challenges of a parent’s life-threatening illness. The inaugural Clubs-N-Cones event brought together five families—including one who traveled all the way from Wisconsin—for an afternoon filled with ice cream, mini golf, laughter, and meaningful connection. New friendships began to bloom as families of all ages enjoyed a fun-filled day together.
The afternoon kicked off at Baskin-Robbins, where families gathered over scoops of ice cream for a relaxed meet-and-greet. It didn’t take long for the conversations to start flowing as children, teens, and parents got to know one another and eagerly planned their mini-golf teams. Claire, 11, exclaimed:
“I liked meeting new people who are going through the same stuff that we are and hanging out and having a good time. Everyone was really kind.”
Before long, the newly formed Hope Hub™ Chicago community headed across the way to put their putting skills to the test. From waterfalls and sand traps to several exciting holes-in-one, all 28 participants made their way around the course with plenty of smiles, friendly competition, and encouragement along the way. Stephanie, a diagnosed parent and mom of six, shared:
“It was wonderful to set aside doctor appointments and busy schedules to spend quality time both as a family and with others walking a similar journey. The event was so thoughtfully planned, seamlessly jumping from one fun thing to the next. We genuinely enjoyed spending time with everyone.”
As the afternoon came to a close, each family received a summer resource gift bag filled with hope-centered family resources, fun activities, and surprise treats to help continue the joy throughout the summer. But many families weren’t quite ready to say goodbye! Soon, the kids and teens had started impromptu parking lot games while parents lingered in conversation, continuing to build the connections that had begun just a few hours earlier.
Then came one final surprise: the wonderful Baskin-Robbins staff brought out even more treats for everyone to enjoy. While the sweet donation of extra ice cream was certainly appreciated, the sweetest part of the day was the genuine care, encouragement, and community shared among these Chicago-area families. One family reflected:
“Even our most dramatic teenager, who adamantly opposed attending, met some friends and had a great time. We’re really looking forward to our next event!”
Hope Hub™ Chicago will continue gathering each month to build a caring community for families who truly understand one another’s journey. To better serve families spread throughout the greater Chicago area, in-person gatherings will be held approximately once each quarter, with virtual family nights offered during the other months so families can connect from the comfort of home. For the Fitzgerald family, Hope Hub™ Chicago is already making a difference:
“We are so grateful to have a community of other families and kids who get it! You realize you’re not alone when you spend time with others on a similar journey and through Hope hub we’ve found friends in our own community to connect with as a family.”
-Susan Fitzgerald, mom & Hope Hub participant
If you know a family who could benefit from Hope Hub™ Chicago, or if you’re interested in serving as a volunteer, we’d love to connect with you. Visit the Hope Hub™ Chicago website to learn more and get involved.