United Way Lake County Speaker Series Breakfast set for April 2

United Way of Lake County’s Women United will feature a Speaker Series Breakfast focusing on “Improving Wellness through Creativity.”

The event will take place from 7:30 to 9 a.m. April 2 at the American-Croatian Lodge in Eastlake, at 34900 Lake Shore Blvd.

Guest speaker Ann Marie Raddell, coordinator of creative arts therapies for The Fine Arts Association, will share how creativity can be used to improve one’s overall well-being.

The topic will focus on ways art and music therapy can be used to reduce stress and anxiety; alleviate symptoms of depression; improve communication skills and concentration; reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation: and build self-esteem, confidence and self-awareness. Women United works to positively impact the lives of women and girls through the philanthropic efforts of advocating, educating, giving and volunteering.

Its Speaker Series is designed to help educate and empower others to drive the type of change that uplifts the community and creates a better life for Lake County residents.

Over the past five years, Women United has awarded grants totaling over $115,000 to nonprofit organizations for programs that closely align with their mission of uplifting girls and women. Last June, nearly $30,000 was awarded.

Grants are funded from money raised at their annual Women’s Winterfest & Holiday Food Tasting Fundraiser. Last year’s event raised $41,200.

The Speaker Series is open to both men and women with advance registration. The registration fee is $35 per person and $15 for United Way of Lake County Women United and Emerging Leaders members.

Raddell