Once upon a time, in a swirling world of cornfields and skyscrapers known as Illinois, lived an extraordinary group of young artists. They weren't ordinary kids, oh no! They were members of the Splatter Society, Illinois' most creative crew! They squinted at sunsets, closely examining the colors for their next masterpiece. They saw shapes in the clouds that they couldn't wait to capture on canvas. Each one of them had a paintbrush in hand, crayon in pocket, or an idea bubbling in their brilliant brains. The leader of this vibrant crew was Mona the Laughing Llama, a magical creature with rainbow-colored wool and a beret perched jauntily on her head. She had a knack for making art out of everything, even using her multi-colored wool to knit beautiful tapestries! And oh boy, did she have a sense of humor! When she wasn't encouraging the kids to create, she was making them laugh so hard that their bellies ached. While the tall skyscrapers of Chicago reached for the sky, these kids' imaginations reached even further. From the rolling prairies of central Illinois to the bustling streets of Windy City, their art echoed the beauty, diversity, and energy of their state. They painted the Mississippi River as it sparkled under the sun, they drew the historic Route 66 with its neon signs and roadside attractions, and they crafted sculptures inspired by the mighty Lake Michigan. Like Picasso said, "Every child is an artist." In Illinois, the Splatter Society and their Laughing Llama leader proved him right, filling their state with color, laughter, creativity, and above all, extraordinary art. They were the heart of Illinois, splashing joy onto every canvas and every corner of their beloved state.
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Swift Nature Camp is the perfect place for your child to spend their summer! Our overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 is located in beautiful Wisconsin. We offer a unique blend of traditional summer camp activities and environmental education to help kids increase their appreciation for nature, science, and the environment. We’ve got it all – fun, friendships, adventure trips, and nature! Spend your summer with us – you’ll never forget it!
For more than ninety years, the Forest Preserve District of Kane County has been dedicated to preserving and restoring the natural areas of the county. This has resulted in improved wildlife habitat and an overall higher quality of life for all county residents. The forest preserves of Kane County offer a wide variety of activities and sights, whatever the season. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk, camp out for the weekend, or have a picnic with friends and family. Nature enthusiasts can take advantage of the opportunity to learn about the local environment, watch birds, or even fish. Those looking for more active experiences can golf, ride horses, or even volunteer. All of this is set in a stunning backdrop of over 23,000 acres of woodland, wetlands, and prairies. Kane County is the perfect place to get out and enjoy the beauty of nature. With so much to explore and experience, the Forest Preserve District of Kane County invites you to come and explore.
The BTPD is dedicated to enriching the quality of life in the community through recreation, education, and preservation. Our mission is to provide families with a variety of recreational opportunities and activities. As a Park District, we are responsible for preserving open space, developing parks, and providing recreational programs for people of all ages. The BTPD offers four facilities to the community, including Recreation Station, Exploration Station, a children’s museum, and Willowhaven Park & Nature Center. We also have four parks, Perry Farm Park, Diamond Point Park, Willowhaven Park & Nature Center, and Turnberry Park. Every park offers a unique and exciting atmosphere where families can come together and enjoy time together. The BTPD is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable environment for people of all ages. We strive to ensure that all of our parks and facilities are well maintained and offer a wide range of recreational activities. Through our recreational programs, educational opportunities, and preservation efforts, we aim to make the BTPD a place where families can come together and make memories that last a lifetime.
At our business, we are dedicated to fostering creative reuse and community partnerships, all while promoting environmental consciousness and social responsibility. We source materials in a variety of ways to ensure that we are using all of these elements. To help local businesses, we identify their excess materials and potential throw away items, recyclables and scraps that can be used in our repurposing studio. We are also proud to partner with community groups dedicated to green initiatives to collaborate and collect materials from various warehouses and organizations. This helps us to limit our impact on local landfills, while also assisting in creating an environmentally aware community. We also work with individuals in our community to create regular pick ups and drop offs of materials that are ready for reuse. This helps to ensure that each of our business and organizational partners are proudly named as our partners. By doing so, we are able to elevate each of our partners and showcase their dedication to our mission.
As an Art influencer and an Art leader, Sue's footprint expands outside of Regis Glass Art. The Art Movement Inc, founded in 2017 is Sue Regis' first non-profit endeavor igniting the Arts in Joliet and initiating a cultural renaissance. In addition, Sue Regis also serves as a Commissioner on Joliet's newly coordinated City Arts Commission. Sue is a dynamic Artist and a pivotal leader throughout all of her success. started working with glass when she was 17 years old. She is the sole proprietor of Regis Glass Art since 2005 located in the heart of a booming downtown Joliet, Illinois.
The Gretchen Charlton Art Gallery is a must-see destination for families visiting Provena Heritage Village in Kankakee, Illinois. Since 2009, the Kankakee County Convention and Visitors Bureau has recognized the gallery as an “essential” tourism spot. This gallery is dedicated to enriching the lives of all ages in the Kankakee River Valley through the celebration of the arts. The gallery showcases the work of both local and regional artists from a variety of genres. Whether you’re an avid art enthusiast or new to the scene, the Gretchen Charlton Art Gallery is a great place to explore and discover the beauty of the arts. The gallery also serves as an advocate for both local and visiting artists, providing them with the opportunity to showcase their talents. A visit to the Gretchen Charlton Art Gallery is sure to be a memorable experience for the entire family.
Open Studio Project, based in Evanston, Illinois, has been serving the Chicagoland community for more than 30 years. OSP is a non-profit arts organization dedicated to providing award-winning arts programming in a safe, welcoming atmosphere. We believe that creating art is a powerful tool for personal growth and well-being. OSP offers a variety of classes, workshops, and programs for adults and children of all ages and abilities. Our programming is designed to foster confidence, foster creativity, and strengthen social-emotional learning in a welcoming and supportive environment. At Open Studio Project, we invite you to reconnect with your own creativity and share the joy of making art with others. We believe that art can be a powerful way to connect with ourselves and our community. Our experienced staff and instructors are dedicated to helping you make the most of your experience here. Join us and discover the transformative power of art!
The Huntley Park District is committed to delivering the highest quality of parks, programs, open spaces, and facilities for everyone to enjoy. We strive to create spaces for healthy activities, creative expression, and learning opportunities to enhance the quality of life for our residents and visitors. We are proud to offer a wide selection of fun, safe, and affordable programs and services to our customers. The Board has put in place sound and fair policies, and with the help of our dedicated staff, we are able to provide a safe and rewarding work environment. We also provide training, encouragement, and supervision to our front-line staff to ensure a positive experience for all who participate.
At Villa Olivia, we want to ensure our slopes are a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. We are proud to provide 100% snow making, ski and snowboard lessons for all levels, and rental equipment for those who need it. Our hill includes seven runs, a chairlift, six rope tows and a tubing hill - all conveniently located just a short drive from anywhere in the Chicago area. However, we also reserve the right to ask patrons to leave if they are behaving recklessly. Our Ski Patrol and Supervisors are here to ensure the safety of all our guests, and we will not tolerate any behavior that puts other guests or staff at risk. We hope that everyone can have a wonderful time at Villa Olivia and keep our slopes as safe as possible for everyone to enjoy.
As a member of the C.W. Avery Family YMCA, you become part of a movement focused on improving the health of the community and yourself. The YMCA is dedicated to providing programs that help to strengthen the spirit, mind, and body of all its members. Their mission is to promote Christian principles through the various activities and resources offered. The C.W. Avery Family YMCA is committed to helping individuals and families achieve and maintain their health goals. Through a variety of programs, the YMCA works to build a healthier and stronger community. From group fitness classes to youth sports, the YMCA has something to offer everyone. By joining the YMCA, you become part of a movement that is focused on improving the health of the community and yourself.
Today, the Old Town School of Folk Music is a thriving institution which offers more than 700 accredited classes, workshops, and private lessons to students of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. From guitar and banjo classes to folk dancing and family sing-alongs, the school has something for everyone. Professional instructors teach a range of musical genres, from American folk music to international styles. The Old Town School of Folk Music also offers concerts featuring nationally renowned artists. It is a place where students can celebrate music and cultural expressions rooted in the traditions of diverse American and global communities. The Old Town School of Folk Music is dedicated to providing broad access to the arts. Its five-year strategic plan focuses on improving and expanding artistic opportunities for its students. To ensure its programs remain accessible, the school provides tuition assistance to qualified families. Through its commitment to quality education and its dedication to providing broad access to the arts, the Old Town School of Folk Music has become a pillar of the Chicago community.
At CYT Chicago, we provide students with an opportunity to explore the performing arts in a safe and nurturing environment. Our after-school program is designed to give children and teens the tools to be creative, think critically, and work collaboratively. Students will have the chance to develop their skills in voice, drama, and dance while building self-confidence and making lasting friendships. We also offer a variety of other creative experiences, including 18 mainstage productions and week-long camps each summer. Our instructors are carefully selected professionals who are committed to helping our students reach their full potential. We strive to ensure that our classes and shows reflect our mission statement, values, objectives, and goals, so that our students can have the best experience possible.
Life Time Algonquin is an athletic country club that offers something for everyone. From the expansive fitness floor to the unlimited studio classes, basketball courts, eucalyptus steam rooms, and indoor and outdoor pools, you’ll find everything you need for a total body workout. Take your workouts to the next level with a Signature Membership. With this membership, you’ll receive unlimited group training and individualized attention. Plus, you’ll be able to customize your membership to fit your fitness goals. At Life Time Algonquin, build your membership today and enjoy the luxury of an athletic country club. With world-class amenities and personalized training, you’ll be on your way to a healthier lifestyle.
The Cary Community Pool provides a safe, secure, and nurturing environment for children to grow and learn. Our comprehensive program of developmentally appropriate activities fosters physical, emotional, social, and cognitive growth, while also encouraging a lifetime love of learning. Our experienced staff is dedicated to creating a positive, sensitive, and responsive atmosphere to ensure that all children feel valued. The Cary Community Pool is conveniently located at 100 Cary-Algonquin Road in Cary. We are committed to providing a positive and supportive environment where children can learn, grow, and explore. Our team of qualified professionals is focused on helping children develop a love for learning through activities that are tailored to their needs. At the Cary Community Pool, we aim to create a safe and welcoming atmosphere where children feel appreciated. We strive to provide a positive and inclusive learning experience that leads to physical, emotional, social, and cognitive growth. Our goal is to help children develop a lifelong passion for learning.
The Park District and Park Foundation are collaborating to ensure that all park district residents have access to the recreational programs. To this end, assistance is provided to those facing financial hardship. This program is available to all who live in the park district boundaries and are in need of assistance. Individuals who have special medical, physical, psychological, and/or emotional needs or receive special services from the school district are also encouraged to reach out to the Park District. The staff at Lincolnway Special Recreation Association will work with the Park District to provide reasonable accommodations to participants with disabilities. Participants who would like to request inclusion services are asked to complete the appropriate forms provided by the Park District.
Bring your family and explore the great outdoors together. Everyone will love the breathtaking views and educational opportunities available at Pilcher Park Nature Center. Pilcher Park also offers rental services for company picnics, field trips, and overnight stays. Our catering services can provide food for any occasion. Your family and friends can relax and enjoy the scenery of Pilcher Park while learning about the importance of conservation and the environment. Experience the great outdoors and create lasting memories at Pilcher Park Nature Center. With 640 acres of land, there is something for everyone. Whether you prefer hiking, biking, or cross-country skiing, we have the perfect trail for you. Take advantage of our rental services and make your next event one to remember!
The Manteno Public Library District is a vibrant community hub that offers educational and cultural resources for lifelong learning. With a vast selection of materials and services, the library provides the residents of the Library District with the opportunity to reach their personal, educational, and informational goals. From convenient access to information to stimulating an interest in reading and learning, the library is a great resource for the entire community. The Manteno Public Library District is dedicated to helping the community thrive by providing quality resources for lifelong learning. With a wide variety of materials and services, the library makes it easy for residents to access the information they need and to explore their interests. The library also encourages an interest in reading and learning among all ages, making it a great place to go for everyone. The Manteno Public Library District is a vital asset to the community, providing educational and cultural experiences for all ages. From nurturing personal growth to offering a resource center for the entire community, the library provides an extensive selection of materials and services to help residents reach their informational, educational, and personal goals. With its commitment to lifelong learning, the Manteno Public Library District is a great place to explore and grow.
At Side Street Studio Arts, creativity and collaboration come together to create a vibrant and inclusive space for artists in Elgin. Founded in 2013, the studio has been a place for artists to gather, to learn, and to share their work and experiences. With its mission of supporting the artist and artistic journey through collaboration, Side Street Studio Arts has quickly become a cornerstone of the Elgin arts scene. Side Street Studio Arts offers educational and creative resources that help to nurture the artistic journey. From classes and workshops to open studio hours and artist-in-residence programs, Side Street provides a space for artists to come together and collaborate. Whether it’s a professional artist looking to hone their craft or an amateur artist looking to explore and learn new techniques, Side Street Studio Arts is a place to find inspiration, encouragement, and support. The collaborative spirit of Side Street Studio Arts has made it a thriving community of artists in Elgin and beyond. By providing a place for artists to come together and share their ideas and experiences, Side Street Studio Arts has helped to foster a strong and vibrant arts scene. With its commitment to creativity, collaboration, and inclusivity, Side Street Studio Arts is a place for all artists to explore and grow.
With the support of the residents, the Lemont Township Park District was established in 1963. Its mission was and still is to provide the very best parks and recreation experiences to the community while being safe and fiscally responsible. Today, the Lemont Park District continues to carry out this mission, providing the community with safe and enjoyable outdoor experiences.
PrairieArt offers an innovative way to approach art education. The curriculum combines art with academic concepts, mirroring the world-renowned drawing program developed by Mona Brookes. Every week, a new theme is presented to students, giving them an opportunity to learn about the subject they are drawing while honing their techniques. A diversity of media and techniques are available for students to explore. With individualized attention, students are able to progress at their own pace, discovering their creative potential through realistic drawing. Structural guidance is provided to ensure success while allowing enough freedom for students to express themselves.
The Painted Turtle is CTF Illinois' newest addition to the downtown Tinley Park area. It is an art studio which provides individuals with disabilities the chance to learn new skills, take part in art therapy and create beautiful works of art which are then showcased in the storefront. They also have the opportunity to make money from their artwork by selling it at The Painted Turtle and at various community events. At The Painted Turtle, those with disabilities can discover their full potential through art. Each individual has the chance to explore and develop their abilities and create works of art that will be displayed in the storefront. With the help of art therapy, they can also earn money from their artwork by selling it at The Painted Turtle and at various local events. The Painted Turtle is a wonderful resource for those with disabilities in the Tinley Park area. It gives them the chance to express themselves through art and gain recognition for their work. With the help of art therapy, individuals can learn new techniques, create beautiful art pieces and gain financial independence by selling them in the storefront and at numerous community events.
Easel Art Studio is the perfect place for your child to explore the world of art. Our studio is dedicated to encouraging creative exploration and curiosity through the use of everyday materials. We believe that the process of creating is more important than the final product, and that each artwork is a masterpiece in its own right. At Easel Art Studio, we teach kids the history of art and the stories of some of the world’s greatest artists. We also provide a safe and supportive environment in which kids can express themselves through their art. We strive to help them find their own unique creative voice and to foster a lifelong appreciation for art. At Easel Art Studio, we want kids to have fun, be creative, and learn about the world of art. Our studio is a place where your child can explore the medium of art and find their own unique style. We believe that art is a journey and that each work of art is a masterpiece.
Parents in the Lockport Township area will be delighted to learn that the Park District recently has made a great effort to renovate and beautify existing parks, as well as create several new parks like Hawthorne Preserve, Sagebrook, and Oak Creek. Every park offers a range of recreational activities, including open play and spaces, playgrounds, sports fields, outdoor fitness trails, and more. There’s even a spray park and complete handicap access at each park. The Park District’s commitment to providing a great outdoor experience is exemplified by the recognition of Canyons, Dellwood Park’s Disc Golf Course. The course was recently rated #1 in Illinois and #5 in the world by UDisc.com. Altogether, the Lockport Township Park District maintains approximately 950 acres across 41 parks.
Drawing is an ideal medium for young learners as it engages both sides of the brain. Through the Young Rembrandts Method and curriculum, children are given the opportunity to learn in a way that is compatible with their growing minds. The classes provide the foundation for crucial brain-based learning, helping to foster the development of modern minds. Through these classes, children are able to gain the following skills:
At SSSRA, we strive to provide individuals with disabilities or special needs with the opportunity to be involved in year-round recreation. Our organization is an extension of seven park districts and three recreation and parks departments, and we are committed to promoting the power of choice and enhancing the quality of life of individuals of all abilities. Our goal is to provide accessible recreation in an environment that promotes dignity, success, and fun. At SSSRA, we understand that recreation can have a powerful impact on the lives of individuals in the community. We are continuously evolving to meet the changing needs of our community and to ensure that we provide quality resources to make a positive difference. We believe in the inherent value of recreation for everyone, no matter their abilities. Our goal is to create a safe and fun environment where individuals can explore and develop at their own pace. We strive to provide a warm, welcoming atmosphere to ensure that everyone can participate and enjoy recreation in its fullest form.
The Bolingbrook Park District offers a wide variety of recreational activities and amenities for families in the community. Located in Bolingbrook, Illinois, the Park District is just a short 25 miles away from the city of Chicago, and serves a population of 76,272. With over 1,106 acres of land, the Bolingbrook Park District provides two community centers, an indoor/outdoor aquatic park, a golf course, a banquet facility and restaurant, a fitness center, two outdoor skate parks, a sports complex, and 50 parks with multiple playgrounds, picnic shelters, and more. According to Money Magazine, Bolingbrook is one of the nation’s Top 100 Cities to Live. Residents and visitors of the Bolingbrook Park District can take advantage of the many recreational opportunities available. With all the amenities available in the park district, families can enjoy a variety of activities from picnics and sports to dining and leisurely walks. The Park District is a great place to spend quality time with family and friends.
Spend quality time with your little one and meet other moms in the area with Morning with Mommy. This program offers age-appropriate activities for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, so no matter your child's age, they can benefit from the fun. And it doesn't have to be done with mommy - whether you're a daddy, grandma, or caregiver, your little one will enjoy the time you spend together. Plus, all the planning is done for you - just show up and have fun! Make the most of your time with your little one and take part in the Morning with Mommy program. It's designed for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, so no matter your child's age, they can join in the fun. Plus, you don't have to do it alone - invite a daddy, grandma, or caregiver along too! And all the planning has been taken care of for you - just show up and get ready to have a great time!
At DuPage Art League, our mission is to provide the community with a creative learning center that encourages the exploration and appreciation of the visual arts. Our not-for-profit organization offers a variety of classes and workshops that cater to all ages and skill levels, so everyone can find something that piques their interest. We also host gallery exhibits and free public fine arts programs that allow our artists to show off their work in commercial and public buildings. In addition, we provide financial endowments to public institutions of arts education and scholarships to students. These funds help ensure that everyone has the opportunity to express their creativity through the visual arts, regardless of their financial standing. Our aim is to cultivate a vibrant art culture in the community, and our scholarships and endowments are an important part of that mission. At DuPage Art League, we believe that art should be accessible to everyone. We strive to make the visual arts an enriching and rewarding experience for all who take part in it, and we are proud to empower our community with the tools to explore and create.
SD Studios is a unique art school located in North Berwyn, which welcomes students of all ages and skill levels. Our focus is to equip students with the tools to foster creative growth, critical thinking, and problem solving. Through supportive and encouraging instruction, our students are able to develop and refine their artistic skills while engaging in imaginative projects. We strive to create an atmosphere of exploration that is tailored to each student’s interest. Through individual and group activities, students are encouraged to think independently, engage in critical conversations, and interact socially. Our projects are designed to be creative, fun, and focus on the process rather than the product. We strive to help our students unlock their creativity and reach their full potential. At SD Studios, we strive to create an environment that inspires our students to achieve their goals. Through our individualized approach, we provide students with the confidence to explore their art and take risks in order to unlock their hidden potential. With our support and guidance, our students are able to create amazing projects that they can be proud of.
At Dottie's Art Studio & School in Plainfield, IL, we are proud to serve the art needs of all the surrounding communities of Plainfield, Shorewood, Joliet, Romeoville, and beyond. Our full art studio offers something for everyone, from adult and child art classes to cork and canvas classes and birthday parties. We are even experienced in creating religious and pet portraits. Our commitment to excellence has been recognized by the Plainfield Chamber of Commerce, nominating us for Business of the Year two years in a row. At Dottie's Art Studio & School in Plainfield, IL, we offer a wide variety of art services, perfect for adults and children alike. From art classes to cork and canvas classes and birthday parties, we have something for everyone. We also specialize in religious and pet portraits. Our dedication to our craft has earned us the recognition of being nominated for Business of the Year two years in a row by the Plainfield Chamber of Commerce. Dottie's Art Studio & School in Plainfield, IL is the area's premier art studio, serving all the surrounding communities of Plainfield, Shorewood, Joliet, Romeoville, and beyond. From adult and child art classes to cork and canvas classes and birthday parties, our full art studio has something for everyone. We even offer religious and pet portraits. Our excellence has been recognized by the Plainfield Chamber of Commerce, nominating us for Business of the Year two years in a row.
The Manhattan-Elwood Public Library is committed to providing the community with the resources to promote enlightened citizenship and enrich personal lives. As a center of reliable information, it offers educational, civic, and cultural activities for groups and organizations, as well as opportunities and encouragement for all ages to educate themselves continuously. Additionally, the library strives to identify community needs and provide programs of service to meet them, including recreational opportunities through literature and other art forms.
Are you looking for a night of fun with friends or a creative project to tackle? Board & Brush Creative Studio in New Lenox is the perfect answer! With an incredible selection of projects and all the supplies you'll need, you'll be crafting something you're proud of in no time. And you can avoid the mess of crafting at home! Plus, with ale houses like Bull Dog Alehouse and Arrowhead Ale and the soon-to-be Cooper’s Hawk, Board & Brush is the perfect addition to a night out in the town. Book a workshop at Board & Brush Creative Studio and join in on the fun! New Lenox is a bustling community of restaurants, shops and more, with exciting activities to bring the community together. With Board & Brush, you’ll have a creative project to work on with friends, all the supplies you need, and the opportunity to have a fun night out in the town. So come on down and join in on the fun!
The park system in Joliet had its start in 1899 when the City of Joliet purchased West Park (40 acres) and Highland Park (45 acres). These two parks served as the foundation for what is now the Joliet Park District. In 1920, the district was gifted 327 acres from the late Robert Pilcher, which were purchased from Harlow Higginbotham. This land is now known as Pilcher Park and is a great addition to the park district. The Joliet Park District has come a long way from the purchase of West Park and Highland Park in 1899, to the addition of Pilcher Park in 1920. It is now a thriving park system enjoyed by many local families.
The Bradley Public Library District is dedicated to providing exceptional service to the members of the community. With a focus on providing access to technology, expanding early childhood education, and encouraging a love of reading, the Library strives to help individuals reach their educational goals. As part of this mission, the Library is supported by the Friends of the Bradley Library, who advocate for the Library’s needs, and raise funds to help fund programs, services, and materials purchases. The Bradley Public Library District is a cornerstone of the community, offering friendly service, state-of-the-art collections, and enriching programs. To make sure the Library is able to support the educational growth of its residents, the Friends of the Bradley Library are committed to advocating for library services, and providing essential monetary support. Through fundraising activities, the Friends of the Library help the Library continue to provide access to technology, early childhood education, and a love of reading.
At Parents Magazine, we strive to give every young person the resources to reach their full potential. Our goal is to create a world-class Club Experience that ensures that all members have the opportunity to succeed. We want to make sure our youth have the opportunity to graduate high school with a plan for the future, while also demonstrating good character and citizenship and living a healthy lifestyle. We understand the importance of giving our young people the resources they need to reach their full potential. We work hard to ensure that all our members have the support they need to succeed in life. We want to make sure that our youth have the opportunity to graduate from high school with a plan for the future, while also developing good character and citizenship and being mindful of their health. Our mission is to provide all young people, especially those in need, with the resources they need to reach their full potential. We are committed to providing a high-quality Club Experience that helps our youth to succeed and to graduate from high school with a plan for the future, while also demonstrating good character and citizenship and taking care of their health.