LaGrange Youth Council fundraiser to benefit garden for late resident

Published 10:00 am Sunday, March 20, 2022

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The LaGrange Youth Council will be hosting the “I Sweat Green” Fun Run Fundraiser Saturday, April 9, along The Thread Trail, to raise funds for a community garden in honor of a slain community member, according to a press release from the City of LaGrange.   All proceeds will go to Calumet Park Neighborhood’s Community Garden, Pat’s Garden, named after the late Patricia Underwood, who owned Pat’s Corner Store on Union Street.

Underwood was killed in Feb. 2020 after a stray bullet went through her store.

According to the press release, Underwood cared for many of the neighborhood children. Citizens of Calumet Park are set to begin construction on a community garden in her name that will benefit the entire community.

“It is very important to the LaGrange Youth Council that we choose to support causes that will benefit our community,” LYC Chairperson Milly Criswell said.

“This year, one of our three committees focuses on sustainability. Hosting a fun run to benefit Pat’s Garden is a great way to promote local sustainability while benefitting community members and honoring the legacy of  Underwood. We invite everyone to join us and help us raise money for this very worthy cause.”

LYC Committee Chairperson Devin Dents came up with the idea of the fun run.

“I am passionate about helping my underserved community that is Calumet Park,” he said.“To start a fun run and help build a community garden for the late Patricia Underwood, a great leader in Calumet Park, is an honor for me.”

LYC Advisor Jeremy Andrews said he was proud of the council’s decision.

“These young leaders are passionate about this fundraiser and have worked hard to come up with a way to help our community on a local level.”

Registration for the fun run is $20 and begins at 8 a.m. with the race beginning at 9 a.m.