District 99 Fundraisers to Create Garden Memorials for Fallen Veterans

Submitted by Community High School District 99.

Throughout the years since Downers Grove High School first opened in 1928, 70 young men who have attended District 99 schools have lost their lives in the line of service to the United States of America.

To honor these distinguished alumni, as well as to educate all students on the importance of working toward lasting peace, Downers Grove North High and Downers Grove South High are united in seeking to create permanent memorials.

“When we walk through the hallways of our schools today, we see countless recognitions honoring student accomplishments in academics, athletics and activities — but none for our fallen heroes,” says Christopher Esposito, social studies department chair at South High. “We feel compelled to create something profound and permanent.”

Both schools are planning to install a “Memorial Peace Garden,” which will be built in outside spaces adjacent to each school. Each garden will include extensive stonework, granite stones bearing the names of all men who lost their lives, copper lighting, iron benches and permanent sculptures inscribed with the phrase: “May Peace Prevail on Earth.”

• Click here to see the location and designs for North High
• Click here to see the location and designs for South High

“We’re thrilled to have received a significant donation from a private landscaping company, which includes cost of the garden designs,” says Jenne Dehmlow, social studies department chair at North High. “We now need to raise $50,000 to cover the remaining costs, and are confident that everyone in our community will support this noble and important project.”

To achieve the fundraising goal, proceeds from “all-school” fundraisers throughout the school year will be directed to support the project. For example, a District 99 telethon is being planned for the spring.

Upcoming fundraisers include two “fashion and jewelry” shows:

Downers Grove North High School – Stella & Dot Show

Main Entrance Lobby
4436 Main Street in Downers Grove
Wednesday, Dec. 9, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Shop Online

Downers Grove South High School – Stella & Dot Show

Alumni Room – D180
1136 Norfolk in Downers Grove
Tuesday, Dec. 15, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., 5:30 to 7 p.m.
Shop Online

Those who would like to make a direct donation to the Memorial Peace Garden fund may do so online; please click here and follow the instructions.

Donations are also accepted by check; please make checks payable to “D99 Memorial Peace Gardens” and drop them off at the front office at North High, South High or mail it to the D99 District Office at:

D99 Memorial Peace Gardens

c/o Administrative Service Center
6301 Springside Avenue
Downers Grove, IL 60516

For more information about the Memorial Peace Gardens project, please click here.