HIGHLAND PARK, IL  Sophia Siskel, President and CEO of the Chicago Botanic Garden, recently joined the Community Family Center (CFC) Honorary Board. 

“It is privilege and honor to be able to benefit from Ms. Siskel’s vast experience and knowledge in environmentally responsible facility design and operations of nonprofit organizations.” said Herb Wander, Community Family Center Board President.

Prior to her tenure at the Chicago Botanic Garden, Sophia worked at The Field Museum, most recently serving as vice president of exhibition and education.  She holds an M.B.A. in finance and accounting from the Kellogg Graduate School of Management, Northwestern University, and an M.A. in art history from the University of Chicago. Sophia lives in Highland Park with her husband Jon and their two school-age sons. 

“I am excited to serve on the honorary board because I am deeply committed to the mission of the Community Family Center:  The future health and vibrancy of the nation’s communities depend upon the availability of quality services for children, families and adults.  This is as true in Highland Park as it is in urban communities that receive so much publicity on the evening news.  I know that CFC will support the programs of five agencies and will provide integrated and coordinated services for local families in a facility containing counseling rooms, classrooms, a library, play areas, and administrative offices,” Siskel said.  “I will enthusiastically share any knowledge I might have to the design of the green spaces and environmental sustainability of this new building.”

The Community Family Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing a centrally-located home for five early childhood education and family support programs that are currently housed in scattered makeshift spaces.  The City of Highland Park is partnering with the CFC to re-use the Karger Center, which is functionally obsolescent and in need of substantial capital investment.  The proposed building is estimated to cost $10.5 million plus a fund for operations and maintenance, all of which is to be raised through private donations.  Participating agencies in this project are Family Network, A Family Focus Center; Family Service: Prevention, Education & Counseling; Highland Park-Highwood Home Child Care Association; Highland Park Community Nursery School & Day Care Center; and Tri-Con Child Care Center. 

To make a donation to the capital campaign or to learn more about the Community Family Center go to the website:  www.communityfamilycenter.org