Mayor Roger Claar Spends Birthday Volunteering at Bolingbrook McDonald's

Bolingbrook Mayor Roger Claar spent his birthday Monday taking orders at McDonald's.

Claar was behind one register, his daughter, Lindsey, at the other. During the fundraiser, 20 percent of proceeds went to the Bolingbrook non-profit Heart Haven OutReach. Lindsey "Claar" Smith founded the organization about a decade ago. 

Heart Haven OutReach officials said the McDonald's at Bolingbrook Drive and Briarcliff Road reached out to the non-profit as a way to give back. Heart Haven, or H2O, wanted both Lindsey and Roger Claar to be present, and the day that worked out was Roger Claar's birthday. 

Several Bolingbrook officials attended the fundraiser, including Village Attorney James Boan, Valley View School District 365U Superintendent James Mitchem, Valley View school board members Rich Gougis, Elizabeth Campbell and Steven Quigley and Bolingbrook police and fire officials. 

Heart Haven OutReach serves teens and families in both Romeoville and Bolingbrook. The faith-based organization works mainly with students at Valley View. H2O offers regular programming, including support groups, counseling and community service projects. 

H2O provides transportation to Bolingbrook residents, and teens who participate do not pay for the services except for trips and activities. 

Angelique Harris, a Bolingbrook High School junior, said H2O helped her get a job at McDonald's. Its programming also has helped her address school and home problems. 

"I didn't think it was too cool before, but they do a lot of good," Harris said. 

More than 180 students are registered to participate in H2O programs, but 20 to 30 students usually show up for regular meetings, staff said. 

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