GLOBAL HEROES

How Lost Boyz Inc. is Empowering Chicago’s Youths for a Brighter Future

In Chicago’s South Shore neighborhood, a dynamic force is reshaping the trajectories of young lives. Since 2009, Lost Boyz Inc. has been on a mission to break the cycle of violence and adversity that burdens under-resourced communities.
READ THE ARTICLE: www.globalheroes.com/lost-boyz-inc-empowering-chicago-youth/

A Different Iowa in the Amana Colonies

Upon arriving in the Amana Colonies, you’ll notice a different feel to this midwestern community. It’s reflected in the windows of the simple buildings. It’s highlighted in the beauty of the surrounding hills and waterways. It’s the echo of a simpler life in service to all.
READ MORE AT: globalheroes.com/a-different-iowa-in-amana-colonies/

Dutch History and Family Fun: Visit Pella, Iowa, All Year Long

Looking for a taste of the Netherlands close to home? A trip to Pella, Iowa, is just the ticket. From a vibrant tulip festival in the spring to a Hallmark-worthy Christmas celebration, Pella transforms every season, keeping its Dutch heritage alive throughout the year. History, culture, and modern delights converge, making every trip to Pella one for the books.

Journey Through Time: Exploring the Treasures of Springfield, Illinois

Embark on a captivating adventure through history, architecture, and culinary wonders as you travel the iconic Historic Route 66 to the charming city of Springfield, Illinois. From the intimate insights into the life of Abraham Lincoln to the vibrant cultural scene, Springfield is a destination that invites you to immerse yourself in its unique offerings for more than just a day trip.

Transforming Communities: Zakat Foundation of America’s Mission in Action

Halil Demir, Executive Director and Founder of Zakat Foundation of America, has spent the bulk of his life taking care of others. From witnessing strife in refugee camps to seeing members of his South Side, Chicago community face hunger and homelessness, he has seen that poverty is far-reaching—but he’s never let that notion overshadow his love for helping and giving back. Instead, he’s used it as a motivator, creating Zakat Foundation, a non-profit organization that seeks to enrich the lives of those facing poverty while also aiding them.
The difference between enrichment and aid is that enrichment is the key to lifelong change. It’s the difference between giving a family a meal and equipping them for food-resilient farming. It’s a hand-up instead of a hand-out.
 
© image courtesy of Zakat Foundation of America

SOS Children’s Villages Illinois is Changing Lives

For Professional Foster Parent Fatina Wilson, every match holds meaning. Being a foster parent makes her feel rewarded, full of hope, and deeply fulfilled. But for the children she matches with, the experience is life-changing—a pillar of support they might not have been able to experience otherwise.

Outdoor Pursuits in Canada’s Prettiest Town

Goderich’s natural setting along Ontario’s West Coast provides an incredible number of recreation and leisure choices. Goderich’s three beautiful beaches are a must-see. Come and relax on the sand or meander along the newly installed boardwalk.
Image © Tourism Goderich

Small but Mighty: Savour the Season with Canadian Mushrooms

Packed with flavour and nutrients, mushrooms are bonafide powerhouses for your health. With low calorie, sodium, and fat content, these fungi are a guilt-free enhancement to any dish. Cholesterol-free and rich in selenium and B vitamins, mushrooms are essential for a healthy body and mind. Mushrooms are also the only source of vitamin D found in the produce aisle, a must for any time of year, but especially in the midst of Canadian winter.
Image © Pexels/Engin Akyurt
Slow Cooker Chili with a Mushroom Twist
Ingredients
8 oz fresh crimini mushrooms
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 lb lean ground beef, crumbled
1 green pepper, finely chopped
1 red pepper, finely chopped
1 can of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can diced tomatoes
1 can tomato paste
2 tbsp chili powder
1/2 tsp dried thyme leaves
1/2 tsp dried oregano leaves
1/4 tsp dried minced garlic
1/4 tsp dried minced onion
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp salt
Directions
Place the mushrooms, onion, and garlic in a food processor fitted with a metal blade.
Pulse until finely chopped.
Combine the mushroom mixture, ground beef, green pepper, red pepper, and beans in a slow cooker.
Stir the diced tomatoes with the tomato paste, chili powder, seasoning blend, cumin, and salt until well combined.
Pour the tomato mixture into the slow cooker.
Cook on high for 5 hours or on low for 10 hours.
Garnish and serve!
Mushroom Soup Au Gratin to Warm Your Winter
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil
12 oz sliced assorted fresh mushrooms (white, crimini, portabella, shiitake, oyster)
1 small onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
6 cups chicken broth
1 tsp finely grated lemon rind
1/4 tsp each ground nutmeg and pepper
4 slices French bread (1/2″/2.5 cm thick) toasted
4 oz grated or sliced Swiss cheese
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Directions
In a large heavy saucepan, heat oil over medium-high heat; sauté mushrooms, onions, and garlic for about 3-4 minutes or until lightly browned.
Add chicken broth, lemon rind, nutmeg, and pepper.
Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer, covered for 20 to 30 minutes.
Ladle soup into 4 deep oven-proof bowls.
Float bread on top; sprinkle with Swiss cheese and Parmesan if using.
Place under broiler until bubbly and lightly browned. Serve and enjoy.

Shining a Light on 35 Years of Empowering Dreams: The Impact of Shine Foundation

For the past 35 years, Shine Foundation has helped young people living with severe physical disabilities create a world of possibilities. Our goal is to build their independence and give them the confidence needed to fuel them through life’s challenges so they can achieve a future that shines brighter.
Shine is the only organization in Canada focused on providing individual, customized experiences sparked by the dreams of a young person with severe physical disabilities.
Image © Pexels/RDNE Stock Project

Empowering Independence: Thriving with Vision Loss

BAM!
It’s not the first time you’ve bumped into the shelf or stubbed your toe on the staircase after misjudging the first step. Or perhaps you’ve stopped going for your evening walks after tripping over a curb that was difficult to see in the low light.
When making what seems like minor changes to your lifestyle, such as not taking your dog for a walk at night, it might not occur to you that your vision has changed. While a sudden change in the quality of your central vision would be obvious, seeing a little less at the edges of your vision is more easily ignored. Glaucoma might be the reason; unfortunately, there is no way to repair or reverse the vision loss it causes.
 
Image © Alexander Krivitsky