Girl Scouts' Volunteerism Benefits Cancer Center, Project Kennedy

HOMEWOOD, IL — In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, local Girl Scout troops dedicated their day of service to supporting individuals impacted by cancer. The troop partnered with the Cancer Support Center in Homewood and Project Kennedy to create items of comfort and raise awareness about early detection.

The Cancer Support Center, a pillar of the Homewood community for over 30 years, provides services at no cost to individuals and their loved ones affected by cancer. With an additional location in Mokena, the Center extends its reach to anyone in need, regardless of residency.

The Girl Scouts contributed to two important initiatives during their visit. They strung beads to assemble informational cards promoting breast cancer awareness, emphasizing the importance of mammograms and early detection. Additionally, they crafted cozy blankets for Project Kennedy, a non-profit organization that distributes comfort items to adolescents battling cancer. Project Kennedy was founded in memory of Kennedy Parker, a Homewood native who died of sarcoma.

This collaborative day of service was a joint effort between the Cancer Support Center, Project Kennedy, and the Homewood-Flossmoor area Girl Scout Troops. The event also served as the launch of the Cancer Support Center’s “Ribbons of Hope” campaign, a new initiative in 2025 designed to raise awareness for all cancers and reinforce the message that no one should face cancer alone. The campaign’s name reflects the diverse ribbon colors representing various cancer types.

"We are so grateful for the Girl Scouts choosing the Cancer Support Center for their MLK Day of Service," said Kristen Kolwelter, Executive Director of the Cancer Support Center. "The Girl Scouts have been such wonderful supporters of the Center for many years, whether it’s through fundraising, assisting with different projects around the center, or cheering on our walkers at our annual walks. Their dedication to our mission and the community is truly inspiring."

Darnesha Evans, Community Outreach Coordinator for the Cancer Support Center, shared her enthusiasm for the collaboration.

"It’s heartwarming to see the young citizens of our community giving back in such a meaningful way. It was a joy to welcome them to the Center," Evans said. "We hope to deepen our connections with the youth of our community in 2025 and find more ways to get them involved in our mission."

About the Cancer Support Center:

The Cancer Support Center exists to provide strength, guidance, and support to anyone impacted by cancer—whoever and wherever they are, or what stage of their journey. They provide services at no cost to the participants, including virtual programming, to anyone impacted by cancer, regardless of residency. They offer a variety of programs, including support groups, counseling, educational workshops, and wellness activities. For more information, or to support their mission visit: CancerSupportCenter.org.

About Project Kennedy:

Project Kennedy is dedicated to utilizing their platform to raise awareness and provide services to cancer patients and their families and communities. They are devoted to giving moral support to help strengthen and encourage those affected by cancer. Project Kennedy was designed to help bring a smile to families. The organization was founded by Kennedy Parker, who bravely fought sarcoma. To learn more or support their mission, visit: ProjectKennedy.com.