Proceeds from sales of the book benefit Elim Christian Services. Questions about the book can be directed to the author, Carol Runge, by clicking here.

 

You can download an order form for the book ($10 a copy). If your order needs to be shipped, please add $3.50 per book to your order. If you are ordering 5 books or more, please add $2 per book for shiping.

 

Runge, who has worked in special education for over 35 years, had written the book, inspired by her oldest, red-haired son Jake, who as a toddler had only two speeds: fast and stop. Griffin, a recent graduate of the American Academy of Art in downtown, Chicago, was excited to partner with Runge on this project. Born with achondroplasia, a type of dwarfism, Griffin quickly learned to face challenges head on, and with God's help, this project was no exception.

 

Over 400 books have been sold and all proceeds will support Elim. The book release event (on November 12) featured opportunities to peek into the creative process with both illustrator and author. Children's games and crafts were also featured, which correlated to pages in the book. Students of Elim's Crossroads program (students 18-21 years of age) sold and served refreshments. One page of the book referenced how Jake would serve cookies to friends from his red baseball cap, so Elim students served cookies from red baseball caps throughout the evening.

 

Current and former students, as well as family and friends attended. One participant said it felt like "an Elim reunion." The most beautiful part of the evening was that staff, friends and students of Elim were volunteering together, side by side. At the end of the evening, the author commented: "So often we talk about serving those with developmental disabilities, but tonight we served our Lord together. To God be the glory!"

 

Approximately $1,200 was raised for Elim's Literacy Center and the money will be matched 100% by a donor. In addition, the Crossroads program raised another $100 in beverages sold. The event was made possible by seed money through Thrivent Financial and their Action Team program. Other donations for the evening came from Sign Express in Oak Park and Country House Restaurant in Palos Heights.