Morton Arboretum Trio Honored For Their Philanthropy And Volunteerism

Board Of Trustees Member and Two Volunteers Feted

LISLE, IL (May 25, 2006) – Three members of The Morton Arboretum’s “family” have been recognized for their generous contributions of time, leadership, and financial support in Chicago’s western suburbs.

Cleve E. Carney, Arboretum trustee and co-chair of the $18-million capital campaign, was presented with the “2006 Philanthropist of the Year Award” at the 4th annual West Suburban Philanthropic Network Awards luncheon ceremony in Glen Ellyn Wednesday.

The DuPage native has a long history of leadership and support for numerous not-for-profit organizations, such as the Arboretum, DuPage Community Foundation, Elmhurst Art Museum, College of DuPage Foundation, Central DuPage Hospital, the Wheaton Lions Club, the B.R. Ryall YMCA.

“Cleve has and continues to play a vital role in ensuring the long-term health and vitality of our community and its residents,” said Michael R. Sitrick, Manager of Development for The DuPage Community Foundation.

The Morton Arboretum’s Chuck Henning and Janice Sommer received “Outstanding Volunteer Recognition” honors at the WSPNA banquet.

Sommer, of Downers Grove, has volunteered at the Arboretum since 1989, graciously working over 1,000 hours in numerous capacities. Recently, she has participated in a project to map and catalog the plant life around Meadow Lake.

Henning, of Glen Ellyn, became an Arboretum volunteer after his retirement in 2003, and has already contributed over 850 hours of volunteer service. He has mostly assisted in projects to study and improve the natural areas at the Arboretum.

“We depend so much on our large group of volunteers,” said Sally Kenaston, Arboretum Volunteer and Internship Coordinator. “It’s a great joy seeing the community bestow these honors,” Kenaston said.

The Morton Arboretum is an internationally recognized 1,700-acre outdoor museum with collections of more than 3,700 kinds of trees, shrubs, and other plants from around the world. The Arboretum's beautiful natural landscapes, gardens, research and education programs, and year-round family activities support its mission – the planting and conservation of trees and other plants for a greener, healthier, and more beautiful world. Conveniently located at I-88 and Rte. 53 in Lisle, Illinois, the Arboretum is open 7 days a week, 365 days a year, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. (CDT) and 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. (CST). The Children's Garden is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. (CDT) and 9:30 to 4 p.m. (CST). Visit www.mortonarb.org or call 630/968-0074 to learn more.

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