Resource Sessions: Legal and Resource Podcasts by Sterk Family Law Group, P.C.

The Yard Foundation is a dynamic team of four extremely driven individuals (Clem, Erin, Tony, and Amy) who strive to find fun, creative ways to help others all while bringing awareness to various causes.  Sterk Family Law Group is proud to honor them as our November 2022 Non-Profit Hero.  The Yard Foundation officially started in 2021 after a group of friends found that their online philanthropic efforts needed to become official in order to be able to pay it forward. 

John, aka Clem, had a large Facebook group that had firefighters who pooled together to help out the widow of a firefighter who lost his life in the line of duty.  While their hearts and intentions were all in the right place, they realized that it was time to make their cause an official 501c3 organization so they could continue sharing the love.  The group initially started to fundraise for firefighters, but their outreach quickly evolved to also supporting children and women’s issues and those affected by illness and injury.  The team at the Yard is quick to lend a hand to various other needs in the community as well which includes supporting other area non-profits.   

Thank you Anthony Di Novo for taking the time to share your awesome cause with us!  For the remainder of November, The Yard Donation will be collecting funds for a holiday toy drive. Check out their website for more details on this campaign, their weekly Giving Tuesday, to get your Yard Card, or to find out about other upcoming events!  

https://www.theyardfoundation.org/ 

https://www.facebook.com/TheYardFoundation  

To learn more or to connect with Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. or Gwendolyn Sterk, call 815-600-8950 or visit www.sterkfamilylaw.com 

 ****  Sterk Family Law provides a full range of family law and estate planning services in Orland Park for clients in Will, Cook, and DuPage counties.  The Sterk Family Law Group team provides a holistic approach to the practice of law and strives to not only service a client’s legal needs, but also help manage a client’s emotional and overall well-being by establishing connections with a vast network of counselors, support groups, and various other non-traditional service providers within local communities by way of the unique Resource Center.  The Resource Center provides Sterk Family Law clients with access to other professionals to help prepare for the next step in their lives.   ****  This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. This is a legal advertisement from Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. and it does not constitute legal advice and should not be construed as such.  #theyardfoundation #nonprofit #nonprofitorganization #support #givingback #womenshealth #firefighter #firefighters #payitforward

After Jennefer Hofferica’s mother, Nadine, passed away in 2020 from ALS, Jennefer was looking to find a way to honor her mother while servicing. Nadine was a long-time victim of domestic abuse and had a small blue butterfly tattoo on her shoulder and Nadine’s legacy helped Nadine’s Blue Butterfly emerge from it’s cocoon.  Sterk Family Law Group is pleased to honor them as our October 2022 Non-Profit Hero!    

Knowing that children are greatly affected by the effects of abuse, Jennefer wanted to find a way to flutter some joy into these kids’ lives. In the midst of the pandemic shutdown, Jennifer reached out to her neighbors to inquire if they had any gently used or new items that could be given to children and teens who are affected by traumas.  After an outpouring of donations was received, Jennefer’s path to officially establishing Nadine’s Blue Butterfly was in flight.   Jennefer and NBB’s team works closely with domestic violence shelters, such as the Crisis Center for South Suburbia and Guardian Angels, to help provide for the needs of child victims.  

Nadine’s Blue Butterfly hosts private “shopping sprees” to provide clients from partnered domestic violence and social service organizations the opportunity to "shop" for gifts for their children as well as basic necessities and clothing.  Registration is required for these events, but Jennefer and team do not require those registering to disclose any information other than a name and number to help ensure their safety.   

If you are looking to support or if you know someone who may need the service that Nadine’s Blue Butterfly offers, you may connect with them here:

https://nadinesbluebutterfly.com/ 

https://www.facebook.com/nadinesbluebutterfly 

To learn more or to connect with Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. or Gwendolyn Sterk, call 815-600-8950 or visit www.sterkfamilylaw.com 

 ******  Sterk Family Law provides a full range of family law and estate planning services in Orland Park for clients in Will, Cook, and DuPage counties.  The Sterk Family Law Group team provides a holistic approach to the practice of law and strives to not only service a client’s legal needs, but also help manage a client’s emotional and overall well-being by establishing connections with a vast network of counselors, support groups, and various other non-traditional service providers within local communities by way of the unique Resource Center.  The Resource Center provides Sterk Family Law clients with access to other professionals to help prepare for the next step in their lives.   

******  This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. This is a legal advertisement from Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. and it does not constitute legal advice and should not be construed as such.  

#nonprofit #nonprofitorganization #nonprofits #domesticviolence #domesticviolencesurvivor #givingback

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and in an effort to help raise awareness and share our gratitude for their efforts, The Pediatric Oncology Treasure Chest Foundation is being honored as Sterk Family Law Group's September 2022 Non-Profit Hero! The Pediatric Oncology Treasure Chest Foundation is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing comfort and distraction from painful procedures to children and teens who have been diagnosed with cancer, by providing gifts from a treasure chest and 

On February 15, 1993, seven-year-old Martin Kisel was diagnosed with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia. During the following three years, Martin — like so many other young cancer patients — experienced a series of painful procedures as well as intensive chemotherapy as part of his treatment protocol.As Martin endured the seemingly endless procedures, his mother, Colleen Kisel, discovered that providing him with a small toy after each procedure resulted in a calming distraction from his pain. Colleen could see the joy these toys gave her son and believed this would be good for all children who were being treated for cancer, and soon after that vision, the Pediatric Oncology Treasure Chest Foundation was born.

The hope, dream and goal of the Pediatric Oncology Treasure Chest Foundation is to have a treasure chest in all pediatric oncology facilities in the nation.  The Treasure Chest program allows cancer patients (ranging in age from birth through 18 years) at 65 children’s cancer treatment centers to choose a toy as a reward for having the courage to undergo painful but necessary procedures.

For more information, to connect or get involved with the Pediatric Oncology Treasure Chest Foundation, visit https://www.treasurechest.org/contact/

To learn more or to connect with Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. or Gwendolyn Sterk, call 815-600-8950 or visit www.sterkfamilylaw.com

********  Sterk Family Law provides a full range of family law and estate planning services in Orland Park for clients in Will, Cook, and DuPage counties.  The Sterk Family Law Group team provides a holistic approach to the practice of law and strives to not only service a client’s legal needs, but also help manage a client’s emotional and overall well-being by establishing connections with a vast network of counselors, support groups, and various other non-traditional service providers within local communities by way of the unique Resource Center.  The Resource Center provides Sterk Family Law clients with access to other professionals to help prepare for the next step in their lives.

********  This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. This is a legal advertisement from Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. and it does not constitute legal advice and should not be construed as such.

#pediatriccancer #childhoodcancerawarenessmonth #childhoodcancerawareness #hope #treasure

Guest Joseph Baar Topinka joins us to discuss some of the history and the evolution of women in the workplace in America. The first women's rights convention was held in 1848 in Seneca Falls, New York to demand civil, social, political, and religious rights and since then, women have made great strides in labor and employment. Listen to learn some historical facts, how women have overcome gender roles, and learn about laws that have affected women's rights.   

Joseph Baar Topinka is an academic professor, Veteran, and published writer of books including "Just Judy: A Citizen and Leader for Illinois"  which teaches civics while showcasing his mother's unique portrayal of modern Illinois history based on the life of a female politician who defied traditional gender roles to rise to the top of her profession and support the lives of people throughout the state.   

To learn more or to connect with Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. or Gwendolyn Sterk, call 815-600-8950 or visit www.sterkfamilylaw.com  

**********  Sterk Family Law provides a full range of family law and estate planning services in Orland Park for clients in Will, Cook, and DuPage counties.  The Sterk Family Law Group team provides a holistic approach to the practice of law and strives to not only service a client’s legal needs, but also help manage a client’s emotional and overall well-being by establishing connections with a vast network of counselors, support groups, and various other non-traditional service providers within local communities by way of the unique Resource Center.  The Resource Center provides Sterk Family Law clients with access to other professionals to help prepare for the next step in their lives.  

 **********  This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. This is a legal advertisement from Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. and it does not constitute legal advice and should not be construed as such.  #womenempowerment #women #womeninbusiness #womenshistory

Since 1936, United Way of Will County has united communities and resources to empower people and create positive sustainable change.   United Way of Will County fights for the self-sufficiency, health, safety and education of every person in Will County. Through their extensive network of individuals, funded partners and corporate affiliates, they lead collaborations, community and business partnerships and develop solutions to the challenges facing our community.  Through programs and services, their focus areas provide self-sufficiency, safer communities, healthy lifestyles and youth success.    

Thank you, Kamala Martinez, CEO and President, and Jim Tidaback, Senior Vice President of Development, for joining us to speak about United Way of Will County, Sterk Family Law Group's Non-Profit Hero for August 2022.   

For more information about United Way of Will County, visit https://uwwill.org/   

To learn more or to connect with Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. or Gwendolyn Sterk, call 815-600-8950 or visit www.sterkfamilylaw.com 

 ************  Sterk Family Law provides a full range of family law and estate planning services in Orland Park for clients in Will, Cook, and DuPage counties.  The Sterk Family Law Group team provides a holistic approach to the practice of law and strives to not only service a client’s legal needs, but also help manage a client’s emotional and overall well-being by establishing connections with a vast network of counselors, support groups, and various other non-traditional service providers within local communities by way of the unique Resource Center.  The Resource Center provides Sterk Family Law clients with access to other professionals to help prepare for the next step in their lives.  

 ************  This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. This is a legal advertisement from Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. and it does not constitute legal advice and should not be construed as such.

Chances are you've heard the news about the fluctuating mortgage interest rates. 2021 saw a plummet in rates for homebuyers and the housing market was booming.   Now, in quarter three of 2022, the interest rates are changing almost daily and all of us have questions about what this means. For those who are in the process of a divorce, this can bring up even more questions.   Attorney Gwendolyn J. Sterk, Sterk Family Law Group, P.C., sits down with Larry LoVetere - VP of Mortgage Lending with Guaranteed Rate to discuss some pressing questions such as:  

• Everyone hears to stop a recession, interest rates need to go up. Is this true? 

• What impact do increased rates have on real estate sales? 

• Should someone delay acquiring a new mortgage because of the increased rates? 

• Will the rates will continue to rise? 

• What impact will increased rates have on available home inventory? 

• Is it better to rent or to buy? 

• How do interest rates impact my divorce?  

Larry LoVetere has been in the mortgage industry for over 18 years and became a loan officer because he wanted to be in a business where he could help people and make a difference in their lives.  To connect with Larry or to schedule a free consultation, visit: www.rate.com/larrylovetere or call (331) 214-5662  

To learn more or to connect with Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. or Gwendolyn Sterk, call 815-600-8950 or visit https://www.sterkfamilylaw.com/    

**************  Sterk Family Law provides a full range of family law and estate planning services in Orland Park for clients in Will, Cook, and DuPage counties.  The Sterk Family Law Group team provides a holistic approach to the practice of law and strives to not only service a client’s legal needs, but also help manage a client’s emotional and overall well-being by establishing connections with a vast network of counselors, support groups, and various other non-traditional service providers within local communities by way of the unique Resource Center.  The Resource Center provides Sterk Family Law clients with access to other professionals to help prepare for the next step in their lives.  

**************  This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. This is a legal advertisement from Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. and does not constitute legal advice and should not be construed as such.  

#mortgage #mortgagerefinancing #mortgagelending #divorce #interestrates #interest #mortgagerates #realestate #recession #homebuying #divorce

For over 65 years, United Cerebral Palsy-Center for Disability Services in Joliet, IL has provided support and direct services to individuals and families impacted by the challenges of developmental disabilities, in addition to providing community awareness and advocating for issues pertaining to those with developmental disabilities. UCP-CDS offers individuals and their families access to a comprehensive educational and therapeutic day school, day services activities to enhance daily living skills as well as independent living skills, family support & home-based services, as well as in-home respite services.

Thank you Executive Director Mike Hennessy, for taking the time to share the mission, vision, services, and passion of the employees and volunteers of United Cerebral Palsy-Center for Disability Services who is being honored as Sterk Family Law Group, P.C.'s July 2022 Non-Profit Hero!

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To learn more about United Cerebral Palsy-Center for Disability Services, visit: https://ucp-cds.org/ or call: (815) 744-3500

To learn more or to connect with Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. or Gwendolyn Sterk, call 815-600-8950 or visit www.sterkfamilylaw.com

**************  Sterk Family Law provides a full range of family law and estate planning services in Orland Park for clients in Will, Cook, and DuPage counties.  The Sterk Family Law Group team provides a holistic approach to the practice of law and strives to not only service a client’s legal needs, but also help manage a client’s emotional and overall well-being by establishing connections with a vast network of counselors, support groups, and various other non-traditional service providers within local communities by way of the unique Resource Center.  The Resource Center provides Sterk Family Law clients with access to other professionals to help prepare for the next step in their lives.

**************  This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. This is a legal advertisement from Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. and it does not constitute legal advice and should not be construed as such.

In December 2016, the seed for Project Fire Buddies was planted when firefighters and paramedics, from the Oak Forest, IL Fire Department, helped one child who was struggling with complications from cancer. The experience touched their hearts and they wanted to do more to help and Project Fire Buddies was born.

Through the efforts of volunteer firefighters and first responders, Project Fire Buddies brings joy to kids struggling with serious illnesses. Every critical illness a child is battling is a fight Project Fire Buddies gives their all to and they strive to ensure that each child they reach will stand with the support of our firefighters and our community.

We had the pleasure to speak with Project Fire Buddies Board Member Ryan Ballard, to learn about the wonderful acts of kindness that their volunteer organization provides to bring joy to children who have serious illnesses. Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. is honored to feature Project Fire Buddies as their June 2022 Non-Profit Hero for the extraordinary efforts that they provide for children and their families. 

For more information about Project Fire Buddies visit projectfirebuddies.org or visit their Facebook page. 

To learn more or to connect with Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. or Gwendolyn Sterk, call 815-600-8950 or visit sterkfamilylaw.com

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Sterk Family Law provides a full range of family law and estate planning services in Orland Park for clients in Will, Cook, and DuPage counties.  The Sterk Family Law Group team provides a holistic approach to the practice of law and strives to not only service a client’s legal needs, but also help manage a client’s emotional and over-all well-being by establishing connections with a vast network of counselors, support groups, and various other non-traditional service providers within local communities by way of the unique Resource Center.  The Resource Center provides Sterk Family Law clients with access to other professionals to help prepare for the next step in their lives.

************** This is a legal advertisement from Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. It does not constitute legal or medical advice and should not be construed as such. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only.

In Illinois, if a parent who has either equal parenting time or the majority of parenting time pursuant to a court order wants to move, certain laws are applicable.  In general, there are distance restrictions that determine if the move is allowed without permission from the other parent or court order.            

As of January 2022, there have been some modifications to the law, under 750 ILCS 5/603.5, in which "the court may order the relocation of the child on a temporary basis before the entry of a final allocation judgment if it is in the best interests of the child."    What does this mean? 

Tune in as Attorneys Gwendolyn J. Sterk and Keshia P. Bardney of Sterk Family Law Group, P.C., break this down and discuss what this means for parents in a pending family law case in Illinois.  

To learn more or to connect with Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. or Gwendolyn Sterk, call 815-600-8950 or visit https://www.sterkfamilylaw.com 

**************  Sterk Family Law provides a full range of family law and estate planning services in Orland Park for clients in Will, Cook, and DuPage counties.  The Sterk Family Law Group team provides a holistic approach to the practice of law and strives to not only service a client’s legal needs, but also help manage a client’s emotional and overall well-being by establishing connections with a vast network of counselors, support groups, and various other non-traditional service providers within local communities by way of the unique Resource Center.  The Resource Center provides Sterk Family Law clients with access to other professionals to help prepare for the next step in their lives.   **************  This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. This is a legal advertisement from Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. and it does not constitute legal advice and should not be construed as such.  #familylaw #familylawyer #relocation #parenting #illinoisfamilylaw #familylawinillinois #lawfirm #sterkfamilylaw

Many people may find themselves watching videos of puppies, kittens, or other cute animals throughout the day to take a break and relieve some stress. Beyond being cute to watch, animals can play an important part in various forms of therapy for people as well. According to Psychology Today,  "Animal-assisted therapy can be a useful intervention for some individuals or groups. A meta-analysis of 49 studies reporting on animal-assisted therapy found positive outcomes and overall improved emotional well-being in those with autism, medical conditions, or behavioral issues." 

Since 2017, The Legacy Ranch in Lockport, IL has been using horses to provide various forms of Equine-Assisted Therapy and has also incorporated their horses for mental health, occupational, physical and speech therapies in partnership with licensed therapists. 

Their therapies include interaction with the horses, which has been scientifically-proven to help heal individuals who have not previously seen success with traditional styles of therapy.

Honored as Sterk Family Law Group's Non-Profit Hero for May 2022, take a listen as Kate Rasmussen, Executive Director, shares the wonderful benefits, services, and programs The Legacy Ranch has to offer. 

To contact The Legacy Ranch, visit thelegacyranch.org

To learn more or to connect with Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. or Gwendolyn Sterk, call 815-600-8950 or visit www.sterkfamilylaw.com

**************  Sterk Family Law provides a full range of family law and estate planning services in Orland Park for clients in Will, Cook, and DuPage counties.  The Sterk Family Law Group team provides a holistic approach to the practice of law and strives to not only service a client’s legal needs, but also help manage a client’s emotional and overall well-being by establishing connections with a vast network of counselors, support groups, and various other non-traditional service providers within local communities by way of the unique Resource Center.  The Resource Center provides Sterk Family Law clients with access to other professionals to help prepare for the next step in their lives.

**************  This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. This is a legal advertisement from Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. and it does not constitute legal advice and should not be construed as such.

#equinetherapy #animaltherapy #horsetherapy #mentalhealth #occupationalhealth #speechtherapy #physicaltherapy