Elmhurst is full of caring and dedicated individuals working to keep the community strong.  Whether they're helping people through a rough time, making sure people's voices are heard, bringing beautiful music to the public or preserving heritage, these groups are helping keep Elmhurst a wonderful place to live.

While there are countless examples of good deeds worthy of distinction, here are five that caught our attention today:

Elmhurst Walk-In Ministry 125 W. Church St., Elmhurst, 630-782-6006

Located in St. Peter's United Church of Christ, this organization is a cooperative effort of faith communities and service organizations.  No less than 25 churches partner to provide compassionate emergency assistance to people in need within the community.  They serve Elmhurst residents, families with children in Elmhurst schools, members of participating churches.  They also offer connections to other groups that may help over a longer term.

Citizen Advocacy Center 182 N York Street, Elmhurst, 630-833-4080

This organization teaches people to have a voice in their community.  Lawyers and volunteers focus on educating the public on their rights as citizens, encouraging them to participate in civic affairs, building community resources and improving democratic rules. 

The Elmhurst Symphony Association 235 South Kenilworth Avenue, Elmhurst, 630-941-0202

Volunteer community musicians come together to provide quality symphonic music programs that are affordable to everyone. Along with the musicians themselves, an "army of passionate volunteers" helps provide the fund-raising and other work necessary to bring this beautiful art form to the public.

Pan Arcadian Federation of America 880 N. York St., Elmhurst, 630-833-1900

This organization is dedicated to preserving Greek heritage and language, including the principals of democracy founded in ancient Greece.  Its members  descend from the region of Arcadia in the Peloponnese, located in southern Greece.

Lutheran Social Services 590 South Spring Road, Elmhurst, 630-279-6074

Serving people of all ages and faiths, this organization provides myriad services, including but not limited to adoption and pregnancy services, counseling, substance abuse help and nursing assistance.