A Legacy of Hope
Since 1975, each year thousands of lives have been impacted by the vision on Don Schroeder, though many today have never heard his name. In 1973, Don was a student counselor at Arlington High School, with a life-long commitment to helping children. He, with a small group of peers, recognized the need for children in crisis to have a safe community-based place to stay. Previously, when it was unsafe for a child to remain at home, they waited long hours in a police station or emergency room until they were driven far way, compounding their trauma.
Don and his fellow advocates for children knew a change was needed, and dedicated themselves to making that change happen. In November of 1973, they held the first Shelter, Inc. board of directors’ meeting, of which Don was elected vice president.
Sadly, Don passed away on March 13, 2019 in Bella Vista, Arkansas, where he and his family moved in 1986 after Don retired after his 26-year career in District 214 as Director of Fine & Performing Arts at Prospect High and Director of Pupil Personnel Services at Arlington. But Don’s legacy lives on in Arlington Heights.
Three foster care programs, three group homes, and a child abuse prevention program have grown out of that vision in 1973, helping thousands of children in the past, present, and future who have been abused and neglected and their families find hope and a brighter future. Our gratitude to Don and the other founders of Shelter go beyond words.
There will be a Celebration of Life Ceremony for Don on Saturday, August 3 from 11 am – 1 pm in the library of the former Arlington High School at 502 Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Shelter, Inc., 1616 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, IL 60004, or online at www.shelter-inc.org