Needham-Schenk Family
Small but mighty. When it comes to making an impact in Chicago’s communities, Tommy (age 6), Tadhg (age 4) and Colin (age 2) are just getting started.
After struggling to find organizations that welcomed young kids as volunteers, Kristen Schenk and Patrick Needham found Honeycomb through word of mouth. They have been so grateful for Honeycomb ever since.
“We love that the boys are able to learn more about their neighbors in our city and work together to address the needs that exist,” says Kristen. As youth, Kristen and Patrick were involved in community service, and they both wanted that to be a part of their children’s upbringing.
“When Tommy turned five in August 2023,” Kristen says, “we went to his first project at theIllinois Medical District to serve breakfast and play board games with families staying at the Guest House. We’ve been participating in monthly projects ever since.”
Some of the family’s favorites include Nourish Your Neighbors at the Ravenswood Food Pantry, Drumming with the Seniors in Bronzeville and creating fresh produce kits at Chicago Grows Food at St. Sabina.
Kristen says, “the food pantry is such a good learning experience and it’s at a level that’s developmentally appropriate.” “It’s the exchange piece---we’ve been there several times and the boys like the interaction and being able to physically hand food to the folks coming to get groceries.”
“There are so many points of engagement at the Lincoln Perry Apartments (senior facility) too. Between shopping for a potluck meal to bring, playing musical instruments and hanging out with the residents…the boys really like that,” she adds.
“There’s this sense of solidarity and connection that Honeycomb provides,” says Kristen. “We have more in common with others than we have different…Patrick and I hope to instill these values with our boys.”
The Needham/Schenk family lives in Jefferson Park. Kristen attends nursing school and Patrick works in nonprofit fundraising. Tommy takes Irish dance lessons and loves music and baseball. Tadhg enjoys art, exploring the outdoors and is a Chipmunk Scout at theOutdoor Service Guides. Littlest brother, Colin, loves playing baseball with his dad and big brothers. The family loves visiting museums, traveling and taking outdoor adventures together.