The weekend of June 18-19, 2026, brought two outstanding groups raising funds to help patients. 

The SM&SF Club works throughout the year to raise money for a handful of non-profit organizations fighting cancer and serving those in hospice care. Established in 1898, the club is a non-profit social club with a membership exceeding 600. On June 18, the Kick-In For Cancer event took place at the SM&SF Club Park located just south of Rockford on the Rock River in Stillman Valley. A live band, great food, raffles, activities, police and fire department demonstrations, and great fun amongst the crowd took place late morning and into late afternoon. Serenity was on hand to hand out many summer items (think frisbees, bug repellent, sunscreen, and parachute guys). The event happens every year and is open to the public. Serenity is so thankful for the love and support from the SM&SF Club! In the past, the club provided funds that allowed us to install fold-down (Murphy beds) in each of our patient suites at the Serenity Home. Don’t miss out when it comes around next year and help support our community.

We were also astounded to have Crafts For A Cause as a vendor at the Hidden Timber Gardens annual event, Bloomfest. On Saturday and Sunday (7/18 and 7/19), Crafts For A Cause sold the most precious and incredible handcrafted items. Proceeds from the sale benefit patient care at Serenity, and these dedicated women gather to make items with love and care and share their talents throughout Northwest Illinois at various outlets.

Both groups provide thousands of dollars in donations to benefit our patients. We are amazed and humbled by the community support for our patients and their families facing their most difficult times. We are incredibly blessed by SM&SF Club, Crafts For A Cause, and so many wonderful groups throughout Northwest Illinois.