Last year, seven-year-old Ethan Frazier released a butterfly in honor of his aunt, 15-year-old Ryan Maldonado released one in memory of his grandparents and 10-year-old Addie Logue honored her “Pappou.”
Hospice of the Calumet Area will, once again, host their second Butterflies in the Park event from 12-4 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 27 at Cloister in the Woods/Heritage Park, 1101 Park Avenue Drive, Munster. The event is intended to honor and celebrate the lives of loved ones beginning with a butterfly release followed by a butterfly hunt.
“It was awesome to see families searching for 25 hand-crafted butterflies valued from $50-1000,” said Joan McInerney, HCA development director. “We are so grateful to be back to celebrate our loved ones and pay tribute to the beautiful legacies they leave behind. Once again, someone is going to find a $1000 butterfly and last year's winner was so elated to find hers.”
HCA RN Tammy VanVleet originally suggested the idea of the release after a co-worker passed in 2020. After discussions and planning, the creation of Butterflies in the Park began.
“We build such strong relationships with our patients and families that it's really nice to celebrate the legacy of their loved ones with them,” said Tammy VanVleet, HCA RN. “Our jobs are so inspiring because we create bonds with the most amazing patients and families. We do not take that for granted and feel extremely humbled to serve.”
The day will also be filled with music, food and activities for the entire family. Tickets for the event and butterflies for the release can be purchased online at HospiceCalumet.org/butterflies. Last year's event sponsors included The Times Media Co., Peoples Bank and Calumet Electric Supply Corporation and there are several sponsorship opportunities available this year.
“My father [Marion “Red” Fulte] was always a strong supporter of Hospice of the Calumet Area and proudly gave his time and talents as a board member for years before his passing in 2018,” said Janet Fulte Papesh, Calumet Electric Supply. Corp. president. “My father cared for his mother at the age of 12 and I believe that is what fueled his passion for the Hospice of the Calumet Area mission. This Butterfly event is an inspiring way to celebrate his legacy.”
Tickets for Butterflies in the Park are $35 for adults and $15 for children (under 12) and can be purchased online at HospiceCalumet.org/butterflies. For more information, please call 219.922.2732.
Hospice of the Calumet Area is a non-profit specializing in end-of-life care and serves all of Lake and Porter County, parts of LaPorte County and surrounding Illinois communities, regardless of ability to pay. In 2022, HCA provide $3 million in charity, discounted or uncompensated care to those in need.