The Rochelle community is known to lend a hand to another in need.
A recent project is not only a reminder of that, but also the notion that people in small towns really do have big hearts.
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The Rochelle community is known to lend a hand to another in need.
A recent project is not only a reminder of that, but also the notion that people in small towns really do have big hearts.
With paintbrushes, power equipment, shovels, and good old-fashioned hard work, several community members came together last weekend to help Rochelle resident Ellen Chandler.
From power-washing the home’s exterior and giving a fresh coat of paint to planting flowers and new patio furniture, the group helped brighten Chandler’s day to say the least.
“I was flabbergasted…just floored and completely wowed 20 times over,” Chandler beamed. “When I came out of my home to see what was going on and then I saw my classmates putting together the patio furniture, I was completely blown away.”
From a series of events, beginning with surviving a shooting, Chandler is now disabled and cannot complete yard work and necessary maintenance on her home. Through social media Chandler reached out to a friend and classmate in May who contacted Danae White, Rochelle Township High School teacher and Key Club advisor.
Springing into action, White and the Key Club crew volunteered their time to help with the yard cleanup along with planting flowers, weeding, and placing mulch. Kiwanis Golden K member Dennis Swinton took on the job of mowing and still regularly visits each week to do so.
It was not long after when Chandler received a notice with an August 1 deadline that she needed to have her trailer power washed. Not having any alternatives, she contacted White.
Knowing the Key Club students would not be allowed to use power tools, White sent out a request for volunteers to the members of RTHS Class of 1987. (The group will be having their 30-year class reunion this fall; therefore, a Facebook page had already been created).