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Pediatric therapy patients at Franciscan Health Outpatient Therapy Homewood will soon benefit from a new sensory room, funded by a $10,000 donation from the Circle of 1875. The facility is part of the expanded clinic set to open in 2025 at 18428 Governors Highway.
Shana Manning, a pediatric physical therapist and clinic manager, expressed her enthusiasm for the new resources: "I love seeing these moments where everything comes together and clicks for our patients. Having these tools will help us give them what they need to have more of those moments and achieve the outcomes we're working to help them achieve."
The Circle of 1875 is a women's giving circle named after the year the first Franciscan hospital opened in Lafayette, Indiana. It supports Franciscan's mission and programs with members pledging at least $1,000 each. While similar circles exist in Indiana, this is its inaugural year at the Franciscan Health Foundation of South Suburban Chicago with ten current members.
Each year, Circle members hear proposals from various departments and programs seeking funding. They then vote on which project to support. This year, they unanimously voted for the pediatric therapy sensory room equipment as their first funded project.
Jennifer Tavares-Kitchen, director of service excellence and business initiatives for Franciscan Health Olympia Fields and a Circle member said, "The Circle gives me an opportunity to serve and focus on making a real difference in the local community and our patients." She added that the group aligns with Franciscan's mission and values.
Laurie Crosby, executive director of the Franciscan Health Foundation of South Suburban Chicago and a Circle member, aims to increase membership annually. Those interested in joining or learning more about the foundation can call 708-852-2430.
For more information on Franciscan Health's pediatric therapy programs, visit their website or call 708-852-2535.
