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

In this episode of Resource Sessions, Attorney Gwendolyn J. Sterk of Sterk Family Law Group, P.C., spotlights the Southland Development Authority (SDA) as the Non-Profit Hero. Joined by CEO Bo Kemp and Vice President of Programs & Client Services, Manny Davila, the conversation dives deep into the organization's mission to revitalize and economically empower the South Suburbs of Cook County.Bo Kemp shares the story behind SDA’s formation in 2019 and its roots in collaborative efforts to address the unique economic development challenges of small municipalities. The discussion highlights SDA’s innovative programs born out of the pandemic, especially the now-core Business Growth Services, which has helped hundreds of local businesses thrive and secure nearly $11 million in relief funding.Manny Davila explains how SDA works hands-on with business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs, from those launching kitchen-table startups to seasoned manufacturers, through strategic support, training, and access to resources. He also outlines initiatives like the Metals Hub, a workforce and supplier development program aimed at revitalizing local manufacturing and addressing national supply chain needs.Listeners will also learn about SDA’s real estate redevelopment work, including land banking, cold storage facilities, and the major Project Bloom industrial site in University Park. The episode culminates with a preview of the Achieve Summit 2025, a landmark event in Tinley Park, IL, set to bring entrepreneurs, developers, and thought leaders together, featuring Shark Tank’s Daymond John as a keynote speaker.This episode showcases how local economic development can spark regional and national impact—and how listeners can get involved, whether as entrepreneurs, supporters, or investors in the future of the Southland.For more information about the SDA, visit: https://southlanddevelopment.org/Learn more about Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. at: 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 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 this episode, we shine a light on our latest Non-Profit Hero, National Association for Down Syndrome (NADS), which is dedicated to supporting individuals with Down syndrome and their families.

Joining us is Linda Smarto, Executive Director of NADS, who walks us through the organization’s history, their wide range of supportive services for families, and how they continue to advocate, educate, and build inclusive communities.

We’re also joined by Sterk Family Law Group's Attorney Gwendolyn J. Sterk, an advocate for family support and community empowerment, and paralegal Heather Bernal, a parent whose family has been impacted by the work of NADS. Heather shares a heartfelt, real-life perspective on how the organization has guided and uplifted her family’s journey.

• The founding and evolution of NADS

• Services offered to individuals with Down syndrome and their families

• A parent’s story of connection and empowerment

• Upcoming programs, events, and how you can get involved

Whether you’re a parent, advocate, educator, or simply looking to support an incredible cause, this episode is a must-listen!

Learn more and support NADS at: nads.org

Learn more about Sterk Family Law Group, P.C. at: 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 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.

#DownSyndromeAwareness #NonProfitHero #NADS #InclusionMatters #CommunitySupport #ParentVoices #AdvocacyInAction

In this episode, we’re joined by Jackie Montvidas, a commercial real estate broker with Oliveri Real Estate, and Gwendolyn J. Sterk, a family law attorney with Sterk Family Law Group, P.C., for a big-picture conversation about real estate as a possible long-term investment. They talk about the things people often overlook—from how life changes can affect property ownership, legal considerations and how to plan before before making your first move.

It’s not a how-to—it’s a look at the bigger questions behind potential commercial property investments.

This podcast is not legal, financial, or investment advice, it is for informational purposes only.

To connect with Jackie Montvidas visit olivierirealestate.com

To connect with Sterk Family Law Group, P.C.: visit ⁠⁠sterkfamilylaw.com⁠⁠ or call 815-600-8950 to Empower Yourself With Options.

*********** 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 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.

For many families, pets are more than just animals—they’re members of the family. But when a couple divorces, who gets custody of the pet? In this episode of Resource Sessions, we review Illinois' approach to pet custody, exploring how courts determine pet ownership and what factors influence these decisions.

We discuss Illinois’ law that considers a pet’s well-being in divorce proceedings, factors to consider, and whether joint pet custody is an option. Plus, we share practical tips on how to protect your pet’s future during a divorce.

If you’re going through a divorce and worried about your furry friend, this episode is a must-listen.

To connect with Sterk Family Law Group, P.C.: visit ⁠sterkfamilylaw.com⁠ or call 815-600-8950 to Empower Yourself With Options.

*********** 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 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.

Change is never easy—especially when the economy feels uncertain. Many individuals and families hesitate to make important legal decisions, fearing financial instability or the unknown.

In this episode, Sterk Family Law Group explores how economic uncertainty impacts Illinois family law matters, from estate planning to parenting modifications and other major life transitions. We’ll break down the emotional and practical barriers that keep people feeling stuck and share insights on how to move forward with confidence.

Topics:

• How economic factors sometimes influence family law decisions in Illinois
• Common fears that hold people back from making necessary legal changes
• Ideas for preparing for life’s transitions with stability and confidence
• Resources available for Illinois families facing uncertainty

At Sterk Family Law Group, we believe in empowering individuals to make informed legal choices, even in uncertain times.

To connect with Sterk Family Law Group, P.C.: visit ⁠sterkfamilylaw.com⁠ or call 815-600-8950 to Empower Yourself With Options.

*********** 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 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 this episode, we celebrate our latest Non-Profit Hero, Josephine's Way, an initiative founded by Arrie Simpson, inspired by her grandmother Josephine's legacy. Known for her warmth, sass, and boundless generosity, Josephine was the heart of her community. Her home was a place of support and inclusivity, always open to children and neighbors alike, ensuring everyone felt valued and cared for.

Guided by Josephine’s spirit, Josephine’s Way was established to extend that same sense of care, support, and belonging to communities often lacking accessible mental health services.

The organization is dedicated to bridging the gap in mental health care, empowering providers to focus on serving clients without the burden of funding or insurance barriers.

To connect with Josephine's Way, visit: josephinesway.org

To connect with Sterk Family Law Group, P.C.: visit sterkfamilylaw.com or call 815-600-8950 to Empower Yourself With Options.

*********** 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 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 this episode of Resource Sessions by Sterk Family Law Group, we are joined by Samantha, the owner of Rose & Rae Hair Studio located in New Lenox, IL. Sam has not only established her business in the beauty industry but she has also gone above and beyond to offer additional services to the community

Realizing that there are so many people suffering various forms of grief in silence, she created free grief support groups to help as a stepping stone in people's healing.

These gatherings are not led by mental health professionals, but rather by Sam herself, who brings her creativity and compassion together in a calming environment.

The groups provide a safe space for participants to gather to create remembrance items. The goal of these groups is to allow individuals to express their emotions and memories in a special way.

Join us in this episode as we learn how Sam's dedication to blending beauty with community care and how she hopes to make an impact on those who may need it most.

To connect with Rose & Rae Hair Studio:

roseraehair.com

Rose & Rae Facebook

Rose & Rae Instagram

To connect with Sterk Family Law Group, P.C.: sterkfamilylaw.com or call 815-600-8950 to Empower Yourself With Options.

*********** 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 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.

Join us in this episode as Attorney Gwendolyn J. Sterk and Kelly Garver discuss the important work of their office mascot and beloved team member, Duke Sterk, a certified therapy dog. Discover how Duke offers comfort and relaxation to clients, especially during stressful situations like consultations and depositions. His calming presence has become an invaluable part of the office environment and has made him an invaluable member of Sterk Family Law Group's Resource Center.

Beyond his work duties, Duke is involved in the community and actively participates as a therapy dog in variety of community events. His influence extends to younger audiences through his series of children's books, which are designed to help kids navigate challenging times and also to provide parental guidance.

Stay connected with Duke's adventures and insights by following him on social media and visiting his website. This episode is a testament to the positive impact that animals can have in both personal and professional settings

dukesterk.com

facebook.com/DukeSterk

To connect with Sterk Family Law Group, P.C.:sterkfamilylaw.com or call 815-600-8950 to Empower Yourself With Options.

*********** 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 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.

This episode highlights our latest Non-Profit Hero, Bridges to a New Day. Founded in 2003 by Carolyn Khan and a group of dedicated volunteers, Bridges to a New Day was established to address gaps in the community mental health system, with a clear focus on preventing long-term mental health issues. Officially incorporated in 2004, the organization began offering workshops across Will County.

Key Programs Offered

Bridges to a New Day continues to make a significant impact by providing essential mental health services, with a special emphasis on support for families and children. Their commitment to filling the gaps in mental health care is a testament to their dedication to community well-being. Thank you to Sheila Strutz for joining us to share the work and wonderful programs offered by this incredible organization.

To connect with Bridges to a New Day

To connect with Sterk Family Law Group,P.C.: ⁠sterkfamilylaw.com⁠ or call 815-600-8950 to Empower Yourself With Options.

*********** 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 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.

Our latest Non-Profit Hero is Give Something Back (Giveback) and we had the pleasure of speaking with Shameco Moore about this inspirational organization.  Founded in 2003 by Bob Carr, the organization was born out of gratitude for a $250 college scholarship he received unexpectedly as a senior at Lockport Township High School in Illinois, forty years prior.

Today, the organization extends its support to youth in middle school and high school, aiding them with the tools to pursue secondary education and post-education career guidance. They are dedicated to empowering young individuals to achieve their fullest potential!

To learn more or to get involved, visit www.giveback.ngo

To connect with Sterk Family Law Group, P.C.: sterkfamilylaw.com or call 815-600-8950 to Empower Yourself With Options.

*********** 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 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.