It all started with a few friends looking for a project. Wanting to blend their experience in project management, communications, and nonprofits, they created an event that utilizes their skills, and creates a fun event for the community. The Western Springs Witches Ride is a charity bike parade through the streets of town, followed by a Witching Hour after party to celebrate the season, community, and charity.  The route will include streets in Old Town, Field Park, and Forest Hills, with a bonus of riding by all D101 elementary schools, and provide wicked fun for witches and little monsters alike.

It is not the first event of its kind, but Suzanne Reicher, Casey Sparks, and Jillian Altenau were the first to bring it to Western Springs. They added a key component to the event – charitable giving. “We wanted a fun night out, but also wanted to do something great while bringing people in our community together.” In the first 4 years, these ladies have raised more than $52,000 for the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana (RMHC-CNI).

It was important for Casey, Jillian, and Suzanne to find a cause that would help children. “At Halloween, it is easy to focus on costumes, parties and candy, but there are families really struggling and kids fighting monsters of their own. Western Springs is notoriously generous, and we love that about our town.” Providing a much-needed night out for many women in the neighborhood, while also offering an opportunity to give back, quickly became a recipe for success. The ride keeps growing in numbers, neighborhoods, and donations.

In addition to RMHC-CNI, 2024’s donations will be split evenly with the Little Heroes League, a nonprofit that focuses on providing care coordination for families of medically complex babies in NICUs. “The goals of both organizations are totally aligned. They even support some of the same families. Bringing awareness to both amazing nonprofits will help even more kids and families.” adds Casey.

As the event has grown over the last 4 years, it was clear additional hands were needed to help organize and prepare for the ride.  The WS Witches team brought on the amazing Lisa Easley to add creativity and an network of neighbors into the mix.  “We were so lucky to have Lisa join the team!  She has so many great ideas, knows completely different neighborhoods, and is such a pleasure to work with!” Suzanne gushed.

This year marks the 5th annual Western Springs Witches’ Ride.  These witches home the magic can continue with another successful and fun event!

There are many ways to participate and get involved!  You can ride, donate, or even volunteer.  Please contact us at [email protected] to find the best fit for you!