Hello, Friends

Here is hoping this finds you and your families in good health, thriving, and enjoying life in all its abundance. I savor every ray of sunshine and warm evening breeze as summer winds down. I fondly remember the aroma of grilled sausages, barbecue ribs and sizzling roasted chicken.  I was surrounded by family and friends as we strutted and sang along to “Old School" tunes.

Peer Plus had a very busy summer! We were in the community most weekends, providing materials, resources, as well as awareness about breast cancer and the importance of annual screenings. I was amazed by how many women had not had a mammogram, and the conversations revolved around the same issues: cultural/religious taboos, inaccurate information, and fear. It was so satisfying to see the smiles when women signed up, knowing that someone cared and would be there to lend support.

As we prepare for our October 1st fundraiser, celebrating 22 years of providing "Support, Services, and Resources" to people in need, please remember this: Your continuing support and contributions to Peer Plus make our mission and vision possible. We could not do this without you. Thank You! —Phyllis & Bruce

Honoring a Trailblazer

Please join us on Sunday, October 1st, for our Annual Fundraiser at the beautiful Harborside Golf Club restaurant in Chicago. We're celebrating 22 years of Peer Plus with a memorable evening that includes delicious hors d'oeuvres, a cash bar, DJ and dancing, raffles and a silent auction. Peer Plus will also be honoring Dr. Sharon E. Byrd, a neuroradiologist at Rush University Medical Center, with our 2023 Trailblazer Award for her years of service, leadership and overcoming barriers within the medical profession.

Tickets are available for purchase via Zelle to 312-914-1186.

#WeOutHere

Promoting Health & Wellness

August 4–Peer Plus joined company volunteers from Exact Sciences to raise awareness of early detection and prevention of colorectal cancer at the Black Woman's Expo, McCormick Place in Chicago. Exact Sciences is a leading producer of colorectal cancer screening tests. Their inflatable colon exhibit provides visitors with an educational experience of walking through a human colon, showing large-scale examples of healthy and diseased tissue.

July 8–Peer Plus hosted a "Woodlawn Community Health & Wellness Fair" that featured multiple health screenings, insurance representatives, live music, refreshments and a variety of community resource vendors. Panelists also shared frank and intimate challenges of caring for loved ones afflicted with Dementia and Alzheimer's disease. The free event was held at Harris Park in Chicago.

In Loving Memory

This summer also brought profound sadness. Denice Swift, a consistent and always reliable ambassador for Peer Plus, passed away in July. 

Denice had a rich history of service, as she volunteered for various causes, such as the AIDS Walk of Chicago and the March of Dimes. Commitment, service and caring for those in need were in her heart and spirit. When raising funds for Peer Plus, she was always the winner and uncontested champion in selling raffle tickets. She simply would NOT take "No" for an answer! 

"Denice was a dear, cherished childhood friend," said Phyllis Rodgers. "We had a long history and many wonderful memories from our youth to adulthood. She will be greatly missed, but never forgotten."

818 E. 63rd Street, #144

Chicago, IL 60637