Publications & Sites 
Rock the Bank books funds for Bernie’s
Barb Hausheer (from left) of Glenview, Heather Keigher of Highland Park, Leslie Swenson of Bannockburn and Moira Morris of Libertyville. | Photo courtesy of Patrick Fahmer Photography
WHAT: Rock the Bank
BENEFITING: Bernie’s Book Bank, 28101 N. Ballard Drive, Lake Forest
WHEN: June 16
ATTENDED: 400+
RAISED: $35,000+
Article Extras
LAKE FOREST — When one reads a book, it’s often best to sit in a comfortable chair in a quiet atmosphere. But to raise money for that purpose, Bernie’s Book Bank has discovered that the best methods to use are music, drinks and strolling about.
The second annual Rock the Bank on June 16 raised enough money to distribute thousands of books to needy children, something the young nonprofit — which has tripled in growth since last year and distributes 16,000 books a week — has become proficient at.
“We now have relationships with businesses and families in Chicago and nearly every suburb of Chicago either through book collections or book distributions,” said Catherine Driscoll, managing director of Bernie’s. “We were thrilled that so many people from communities throughout Chicagoland came to support us at Rock the Bank.”
Live music by David Hawkins, Daniela Sloan and the Turnstyles entertained the crowd, along with never-ending fabulous food and mai tais. More than half of attendees took the time during the party to tour the warehouse and learn more about Bernie’s mission. A short video played of children receiving books from Bernie’s (it can be viewed at http://youtube/h3m4NnK8PN0).
“We want to thank the many sponsors, underwriters and volunteers who worked so hard to make Rock the Bank a success this year,” said Bernie’s Executive Director Brian Floriani.
Bernie’s now serves every at-risk child aged infant through 12 in Lake County and many in Cook, Kane and DuPage counties as well. About 50,000 children a year receive at least a dozen age-appropriate books to help them on their way to a lifetime of happiness.
As Charles Williams Eliot said, “Books are the quietest and most constant of friends; they are the most accessible and wisest of counselors, and the most patient of teachers.” Thanks to Bernie’s, thousands of kids previously unfamiliar with books can discover the truth of that statement.
