Who We Are

   The KINDLY WIZARDS is a PTO-sponsored community-service group that was formed in 2006 by Susan Lucci and Suzanne McLeese. Initially, the group was comprised of 20 students, who met monthly.  Today, there are more than 50 KINDLY WIZARDS who meet weekly at lunchtime, electing to perform community service in lieu of their recess time. All third- and fourth-graders at Willard School are invited to join the open group. The WIZARDS’ goals are to: (i) heighten their awareness of the needs of other members of local, national and international communities, (ii) involve children in meaningful, hands-on community service projects with the long-term goal of developing service as a habit, and (iii) provide third and fourth graders with leadership roles within their school. Each meeting begins with an inspirational story followed by discussion and a hands-on activity.

This year, the KINDLY WIZARDS are fortunate to have the leadership of Susan Lucci, Suzanne McLeese, and Deborah Hopkinson. The theme for the 2008-09 school year was PLANT PEACE. The KINDLY WIZARDS installed beautifully decorated potted plants in every classroom and once again marched under the banner “Umbrellas for Peace” in the River Forest Memorial Day Parade with other local service clubs. We have enjoyed educating ourselves about the environment and community needs by hosting several speakers from area nonprofits. Over the past four years, we have collected contributions from the Willard community and distributed them to: West Suburban PADS, U.S. soldiers and students in Iraq, the Oak Park Food Pantry, Sarah’s Inn, Pennies for Peace and a BECA school in Honduras. The KINDLY WIZARDS also clean up their neighboring school and playgrounds regularly and participate in promoting various activities of the PTO. The KINDLY WIZARDS welcome suggestions/invitations to serve the community. Contact Susan Lucci at smlucci@sbcglobal.net.