HOW FRESH IS YOUR PATH DIRECTORY? If you currently own a PATH directory, check your “freshness date” at the bottom right-hand corner. Is it over a year old? Make sure you have the very latest information to make the right referrals for your clients. Resources are constantly changing. If you do not own PATH’s Directory and you are working with people in nearly any capacity, you need one! Cost is $30 per directory for McLean County only information, $35 per directory for McLean, DeWitt & Livingston Counties combined. Additional charges apply if shipping is required. Contact Amanda at 834-0580or nd order a directory printed fresh for you.
PATH’s Community Resource Seminars – 2016. We want to answer your questions about our local system of social services -- register today for our ½ day (4 hour) training! The cost is $35/individual, plus $25 (optional and special seminar rate) for the McLean/DeWitt/Livingston County PATH Directory or $20 for the McLean County only Directory. Both go hand-in-hand with the seminar content.
Just a few openings left for ournext half-day seminar, this Thursday, May 19th, from 8:30 am-12:30 pm.
To register, contact Amanda at 834-0580 or download the registration brochure from our web site.
Normal Public Library Happenings:
There's a Martian in the Opera House! -May 14, 10:00 - 10:45
Prepare to be amazed by this intergalactic performance, featuring some of the world's greatest opera and classical music composers!
This activity is geared towards children in kindergarten and up, but all welcome. Please be sure to bring your grown-up!
Thank you to Prairie Fire Theater and the Town of Normal Harmon Arts Grant for providing this free event!
Solar Bloomington-Normal Informational Meeting - May 16, 6:00 - 7:00 pm - FREE
The Ecology Action Center has partnered with the Midwest Renewable Energy Association (MREA) and the Grow Solar Partnership to coordinate a solar group buy in Bloomington-Normal. The advantage of a group buy is the power of volume purchasing, which can significantly reduce the up-front costs of installing solar on your home or business.
Learn more at this informational meeting.Can't make it but want to learn more? Attend another upcoming meeting or learn more about the program online. Please feel free to bring a meditation cushion or yoga mat for your comfort.
NPL BookClub: Where'd You Go, Bernadette? -May 19, 6:30 - 7:30
In this month's book: Bernadette Fox is notorious. To her Microsoft-guru husband, she's a fearlessly opinionated partner; to fellow private-school mothers in Seattle, she's a disgrace; to design mavens, she's a revolutionary architect, and to 15-year-old Bee, she is a best friend and, simply, Mom. Then Bernadette disappears.
Registration Starts for Fourth of JulyBandanna Wreath - May 24, 9:00 am - FREE
Use patriotic bandannas to make a festive Fourth of July wreath.For patrons age 15 and up.
This activity is Thursday, June 2 from 10:00 to 12:00 and Tuesday, June 7 from 6:00 to 8:00.
Registration is required and runs Tuesday, May 24 through Tuesday, May 31.
Pratt Music Foundation Music Lesson Scholarships:Do you know a student who would benefit from privatemusic lessons for piano and strings but who is restricted by finances?
The Pratt Music Foundation’s mission is to providetalented youth an opportunity to enhance their musical ability through privatelessons. Musiclessons are expensive and simply not an option for some childrenand families: this is where the Pratt Music Foundation comes in.TheFoundation grants full music lesson scholarshipsto the Illinois Wesleyan University Music Preparatory Program.
Instruction is available in piano or strings (violin,viola, cello).
Music scholarships are awarded to area students ingrades 2nd through 12th each spring, and are based on financial need, motivation,and talent.
Applications are due by June 1. Eachscholarship covers one school year of instruction, starting in thefall (2016-2017) and includes summerlessons (2017). Free musicbooks are supplied from the Music Shoppe.
Downloadableapplications are available: Go to
For questions or to request an application, call309-827-5534, or .
Upcoming Events at the Bloomington Public Library:
Saturday, May 21 - Basic Bike Maintenance
At 11am in the Library’s Parking Lot (under the overhang) attendees will learn how to get their bikes in top shape with the West Bloomington Revitalization Project. They’ll lead a class on basic bike maintenance, from tightening brakes to changing tires.
Thursday, June 2 - Database Speed Dating
Let’s get to know some of the Library’s awesome databases and online resources. At 6:30pm in the Community Room, we’ll discuss the features and uses of several databases in this quick-fire demonstration class. Discussion will include but not be limited to Lynda.com and Newspapers.com – two of our newest databases.
Monday, June 6-August 7 - Summer Reading
Bloomington Public Library’s Summer Reading Program begins today!
In 2016, the Summer Reading theme is Read for the Win. The Library’s many game-related programs will – as always – be offered absolutely free! The Summer Reading program is for people of all ages: kids, teens, and adults. There are prizes designated to each age group.
- Reading Log Pickup: June 6-Aug 7
On or after June 6, participants can pick up a reading log in person at the Library or on the Bookmobile. Logs will also be available for printing from the library’s website at bloomingtonlibrary.org
- Prize pickup: June 20-August 7
- End of Summer Reading Party: Saturday, August 6
- Teen End of Summer Reading Party: Friday, August 19
- This special, teen-only, after-hours party will take place only if the teens as a group read for a total of 5,000 hours during the Summer Reading Program.
Tuesday, June 7 - Prairie State Legal Services—Free Legal Assistance
At 6:30pm in the Community Room, come to the Library to learn about Prairie State Legal Services, a not-for-profit agency which provides free legal services to those who qualify. Experienced attorneys work with those who meet income or age qualifications. PSLS’ Education and Outreach Coordinator, will provide attendees with an introduction to how Prairie State can help them. (This program will repeat on Thursday, August 11, at 6:30pm).
It's time to get those car seats checked before the summer travel season begins. CCRRN and the City of Bloomington will be hosting a free car seat check by appointment on Saturday, May 21, 2016. Certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians will be available to inspect car seats and boosters for proper use and installation. Seat belt checks are also offered for older children. To schedule an appointment, call CCRRN at 828-1892. The next opportunitywill beJune 21st.
A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns about Falls -Many older adults experience concerns about falling and restrict their activities. A Matter of Balance is an evidence-based program designed to manage falls and increase activity levels. Goals of the program include: viewing falls as controllable, setting goals for increasing activity; making changes to reduce fall risks at home; and exercising to increase strength and balance. WHO should attend: anyone concerned about falling; anyone interested in improving flexibility and balance; anyone who has fallen in the past; and anyone who has restricted activities because of falling concerns. CONTACT: Marina Neufeld at (217) 428-0013 with any questions. UPCOMING CLASS: June 2nd-July 21st. They will meet once a week for 8 weeks on Thursdays for 2 hours. This class will be located at Holy Trinity Church located on 711 N Main Street Bloomington, Il 61701. To register please call Donna Redding at Holy Trinity, 309.829.2197. Class size is limited so please call today.
Humane Society of Central Illinois (HSCI)To Start a Summer Reading Program to Pets
WHAT:HSCI will be launching a new program this summer, Tales 4 Tailsto promote literacy for kids by
having them read to dogs and cats at the shelter. Kids who have completed K-5 grade are
eligible to participate. Having the interaction with the pets will enhance the animals’ social skills,
as well as provide an opportunity for parents and kids to volunteer together each week for one
hour.
COST:$36 per kid for the nine week program. Non-refundable.
Limited availability: 20 kids per session = 40 kids total
WHEN:Thursdays in June and July, 2016
Session A: 9-10 am
Session B: 1-2 pm
WHERE:HSCI, 423 Kays Drive, Normal
DETAILS:Registration will be held May 12-26 at HSCI, 423 Kays Dr, Normal. No online or phone
registrations for this program.
Kids will be allowed to bring their own books, but other books will be available for use.
A parent or grandparent must accompany the child to each session. Kids and guardians will be
required to wear closed-toe shoes at all times onsite.
The mission of the HSCI is to find loving, forever homes for abused and unwanted pets. At the heart
of HSCI’s operation is thePet Adoption Center. Staff and volunteers work with over 1,000 animals
each year...some injured or lost, many simply stray. HSCI accepts dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs,
hamsters/gerbils/rats, chinchillas, and birds for adoption. HSCI will vaccinate, microchip, spay or
neuter, and socialize animals. Pets available for adoption can be seen at the Center. For more
information go to /.
2016-2017 First Book Grant Workshop Information- The First Book McLean County Local Advisory Board (LAB) is currently accepting book grant applications for 2016 - 2017. To qualify for a book grant, applicants must be a tutoring, mentoring, Title I or Title I eligible School, Head Start or family literacy program that works with children from low-income families
A grant application workshop will be held on Tuesday, May 17, 2016 at 3:00 pm at the McLean County Health Department, 200 West Front Street, Room 323 in Bloomington. Attend thisworkshop to receive a copy of the new application form and we will provide updated information on the new grant process. It is highly recommended that all current grantees and new applicants attend. To register for the workshop or if you have any questions please contact Sheila Diaz, Applications Chair of First Book–McLean County at 309-838-83036 . Grant applications are due Friday, June 10, 2016.
First Book is a national nonprofit organization with a single mission: to provide low-income children with their first new books. First Book McLean County is comprised of local volunteers from all sectors of the community who work to promote and facilitate the distribution of new books to literacy programs in McLean County through existing community-based educational programs. All books distributed by First Book are provided at no cost to the child or program. For more information about First Book, please visit
University of Illinois Extension Nutrition & Wellness Educator, Jenna Smith, has multiple programs coming up in Livingston and McLean Counties!
Dehydrating Foods- Learn to use a food dehydrator to preserve your food. You’ll walk away knowing how to make delicious fruit leathers, jerky, vegetables for soups and stews, and dried fruits for snacking. Recipes and tasting samples will be provided. This program will be at OSF Center for Healthy Lifestyles on May 26, 2016 from 5:30-7 p.m. There is a $20 fee to participate. To register, visit or call toll-free 1-888-627-5673.
Preserving Practice: Jams & Jellies- This hands-on program will focus on jams, jellies, and preserves. You will learn the difference between jams, jellies, and preserves, how to use commercial pectin and natural pectin, and identify trouble-shooting remedies. You’ll also have the opportunity to review the basics of home canning, receive the latest safety guidelines, and practice hands-on canning in the kitchen! You’ll receive a binder of resources and recipes, as well as jars of the products you prepare in class to take home and enjoy. This program will be held June 1, 2016 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at the McLean County Extension office, 1615 Commerce Parkway, Bloomington. There is a fee of $15/person for this program or $25/person when you sign up for this program and the Tomatoes & Tomato Products programJune 14, 2016 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at the Livingston County Extension office. For more information about both programs and how to register, visit:
Volunteer Opportunities:
Become a PATH Hotline Volunteer:Adult volunteers are needed to answer phones on the 24-hour hotline. Volunteering your time on the hotline offers a rewarding experience and a great opportunity to give back to your community. A complete training program and professional back-up is provided. Our training program teaches you everything you need to know, including communication techniques and community resources. The next 8-week training class session begins June 9th. If interested, the volunteer application is available on-line at Classroom training meets on Thursdays from 6 to 9 pm. Questions? Call Kevin at PATH at 309-834-0541.
Be an Advocate for Literacy. Attention book lovers, bakers, event planners, organizers, laborers and clerical experts! Books to Benefit is in immediate need of volunteers to carry out its three-fold mission in support of literacy: host the June semiannual book sale where the proceeds of the sale directly benefit STAR Adult Literacy; fund book scholarships for Heartland Community College students through its bakes sales and provide volunteer opportunities for community service. To apply download the volunteer application at and email it to . For more information, contact Vice President in Charge of Operations Norma Valentine at (309) 531-8320.
STAR Adult Literacy Program Offers Training for New Volunteer Literacy Tutors
The STAR Adult Literacy Program is in need of volunteers to tutor adults who are learning to read, working to improve math skills or who are learning English as a second language. Daytime, evening and weekend tutors are needed. You do not need to speak a foreign language or have a teaching degree to become a volunteer. Tutors are expected to volunteer for one or two tutoring sessions a week. Sessions generally run for 1- 2 hours. Tutors work with individuals or with small groups of students. All tutoring takes place in public locations. STAR Literacy provides instructional support and materials for all tutors.
STAR Adult Literacy will begin its next tutor training sessions on Saturday, June 4, 2016 from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm at the McLean County Health Department Building, Room 323 at 200 West Front Street in Bloomington. For additional information on becoming a volunteer or to register for the volunteer training session, call 834-9222, or e-mail learn more about the STAR Adult Literacy Program, visit our website at
Fundraising Opportunities:
Books to Benefit Semiannual Book Sale in Support of Literacy – June 2-5
Books to Benefit is hosting its semiannual book sale with proceeds to benefit STAR Adult Literacy from June 2-5 at the 700 Wylie Drive location in Bloomington. Browse over 20,000 books, comic books, magazines, movies, games, puzzles, music and more. Proceeds from the bake sale funds the Heartland Community College Books to Benefit Community Service Scholarship.
Preview Sale: Thursday, June 2 ...... 5pm - 8pm ($5.00 admission)
Regular Sale:Friday, June 3 - 10am-8pm and Saturday, June 4 - 10am-2pm
Half-Price Sale: Saturday, June 4-2pm-5pm
Family Day: Sunday, June 5 - Noon-4pm ($5.00 bag sale)
To learn more visit or phone Norma Valentine at (309) 531-8320.
Employment Opportunities:
Boys & Girls Clubs Hiring Multiple Summer Program Staff - Pay: $10/hr
PRIMARY FUNCTION:
Implements, supervises and evaluates all programs and activities for designated group in program areas of Academic Success, Good Character & Citizenship, and Healthy Lifestyles.
KEY ROLES:
1. Ensure programs, services and activities that prepare youth for success is being implemented; promoting
safety of members and quality in programs at all times. Provide guidance and role modeling to members and staff.
2. Contribute to the planning and implementation of the strategic plan by:
- Planning, organizing and implementing a range of program services and activities for drop in members and visitors;
- Recommend the development of service area programs; and
- Promote and stimulate program participation and ensure outcomes.
Interested applicants should contact Senior Unit Director, Jennifer Hall, at 309-829-3034 or
YouthBuild McLean County is now accepting applications for the Summer Jobs Program. At risk youth between ages 16 and 18 are encouraged to spend the summer with YouthBuild while increasing their employment and professional skills, earning work readiness certifications in business,food service, healthcare and have the potential to earn college credits through Heartland Community College. Youth will also be attending college and trade school tours, participating in community events and building their overall self esteem and opportunity for success. Youth will also have the opportunity to complete an internship with an area nonprofit or business. The program runs from June 20th through August 19th between the hours of 9am and 3pm M-F with several weekend opportunities. Youth are eligible to earn up to $150 bi-weekly. All youth must be referred by an agency or school. Youth under 18 must have parental or guardian signature on application. Applicants must have photo id and social security card to apply. The Summer Jobs orientations are on May 10th at 3:30 * May 12th at 3:30 * May 18th at 3:30 * May 24th at 3:30 * June 2nd at 3:30 * June 9th at 10am at YouthBuild (360 Wylie Dr. in Normal). For more information contact Alicia Lenard at .
Children’s Home + Aid Employment Opportunities:
1. EARLY LEARNING TEACHER – Full-Time and Part-Time positions available (Bloomington) - Join our team of passionate educators who are committed to making a difference in the lives of the children and families we serve. As an early childhood Teacher, you will assist the Lead Teacher to manage the classroom, conduct age-appropriateactivities,provide individualized care to children, assist in assessing the development of children,and communicate with parents.
Qualifications:
- High School Education or equivalent required.
- Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development or equivalent is preferred.
- 1-3 years experienceworking in a program serving children ages0-5preferred.
2. HEALTHY START CASE MANAGER (Bloomington) - The Case Manager for Family Support Programs – Healthy Start works with young mothers to support early and strong parent-child attachment, maternal and infant health, the development of parenting skills, and access to state benefits. The Case Manager provides home visits, group services, and referrals to help the mother build the foundation for the child’s health and development, future relationships, and eventual success in school. Working with these clients, the Case Manager provides parent training, conducts parent and infant assessments, and ensures the child has access to state benefits such as medical, dental, vision and any necessary specialized services.