You are invited!

If you’ve received grant funds from the Lloyd K. Johnson Foundation in Duluth, or enjoyed the benefits of the many programs the Johnson Foundation has funded, or if you know and appreciate the foundation’s retiring executive director Joan Gardner Goodno:

Please join Friends of Joan in thanking her for her great service to our county and celebrating her retirement.

We will be gathering from 2-4 p.m., Thursday, June 1, in the Blue Building, North House Folk School.

There will be cookies!

Over her long stewardship as executive director of the Johnson Foundation, Joan has demonstrated again and again her care and concern for Cook County and its people, especially its children.

Under Joan’s guidance, the Johnson Foundation provided generous aid: so that young people could explore the world of writing and publishing; to ensure Cook County youth might afford post-secondary education; so every Cook County child has access to good dental care no matter the family income; to help fund the playhouse so adults and children have a chance to engage their theatric passion by performing on stage; to help North House Folk School offer crafting and educational opportunities for local residents. The list is much, much longer, but you get the idea: Joan and the Johnson Foundation have been very good to the people of Cook County.

Now it is our turn to express to Joan our gratitude and affection as she retires.

We would very much appreciate your attendance at the June 1 celebration in Joan’s honor.

You can help us greatly by sending an RSVP before May 10 to friendsofjoangg@gmail.com Please include the names of those attending.

If you have questions, please contact Jetty St. John at 612-619-0620 or Pat Campanaro at 651-336-2964.

Thanks, and hope to see you June 1, 2-4 p.m.

Friends of Joan