Grove Express

Grove Express Downers Grove’s Thanksgiving 5K Race. Proceeds benefit education, youth programs & scholarships. The Downers Grove Thanksgiving Day 5K is Thursday November 24th!

The Education Foundation of Downers Grove District 58, Downers Grove Rotary Club, and the Roadrunners Soccer Club invite the public to participate in the Grove Express 5K Run/Walk and continue the Thanksgiving Day tradition of the Bonfield Express. The direct donations and proceeds from the Grove Express 5K will uphold the mission to invest in education, youth programs and scholarships.

Congratulations to Dave Humphreys, our past honorary race starter! You deserve all the best! ❤️
03/06/2026

Congratulations to Dave Humphreys, our past honorary race starter! You deserve all the best! ❤️

Hey High School Seniors, Class of 2026, this one is for you! This is your chance to win a different kind of 5K!The Grove...
03/03/2026

Hey High School Seniors, Class of 2026, this one is for you! This is your chance to win a different kind of 5K!

The Grove Express Foundation Scholarship is officially OPEN, and we are awarding up to 10 scholarships of $5,000 each!

If you attend school at Downers Grove North High School or Downers Grove South High School, or even attend a neighboring high school and live within D99 boundaries, see if you live nearby and qualify here at: https://www.csd99.org/about-us/maps-and-boundaries

Scholarship Details
* Award Amount: $5,000 per high school senior
* Maximum Awards: Up to 10 recipients
* Deadline: Sunday, March 22, 2026
* Incomplete or late applications will not be considered, so fill it out as complete as you can!

Receiving the Grove Express 5K Scholarship is more than just an award. It is an opportunity to join a vibrant community of driven students dedicated to creating meaningful change. Connect with past winners, broaden your personal and professional networks, and gain valuable insights to help achieve your future ambitions.

Tag a Class of 2026 senior who should apply and apply HERE:
https://bit.ly/3N0S438

Let’s continue building a tradition that supports the future of Downers Grove’s youth!

Downers Grove South 2025 Grove Express Scholarship Winners: Joe Grippo, Isabel Okuku, Holly Johnson with Grove Express Board President, Jonathan Twitty

Congratulations to Philip Cupial!! Wishing you continued success and even bigger milestones ahead!
02/27/2026

Congratulations to Philip Cupial!! Wishing you continued success and even bigger milestones ahead!

BY JEFF VORVA

We are beyond honored to announce that Grove Express Foundation has been named an award recipient of the Illinois Princi...
02/10/2026

We are beyond honored to announce that Grove Express Foundation has been named an award recipient of the Illinois Principal’s Award for the IPA BUILDING BRIDGES AWARD!

This prestigious recognition celebrates organizations that strengthen connections, and that’s exactly what we strive to do every day. The foundation is proud to grow awareness and increase student and community participation across District 99’s Downers Grove North and Downers Grove South schools.

We put the GE Junior Board to work and had them proudly accept this incredible award on the Foundation’s behalf, because empowering students to lead, serve, and connect is at the heart of everything we do.

We extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who supports the foundation, and especially to those who nominated the Grove Express Foundation and took the time to write such meaningful, heartfelt testimonials about the work we do. Your belief in the mission truly means the world.

The Grove Express Foundation is deeply honored to be recognized for building bridges between students, schools, and our community. Thank you to the supporters, partners, and the incredible District 99 community for standing and supporting students, youth programs and education.

Here’s to connection, collaboration, and continuing to build bridges together! 💙💜

01/27/2026
She’s one of our junior board members! 😍 Congratulations for being named Athlete of the Month at Downers Grove South Hig...
01/09/2026

She’s one of our junior board members! 😍 Congratulations for being named Athlete of the Month at Downers Grove South High School!

DGS Athletics

🏆 ATHLETE OF THE MONTH: 💃 Fillies Dance Team – Ingrid Baker

Ingrid Baker has made an immediate impact in her first year with the Fillies, quickly catching the attention of the coaching staff. A former rhythmic gymnast, Ingrid spent the past two seasons training with the Pintos JV team and has seamlessly transitioned into her role as a varsity member.
Ingrid’s dedication is evident in her relentless work ethic—she is constantly practicing, even during breaks, to ensure her skills continue to improve. Her commitment to growth and excellence speaks volumes, and her future with the Fillies is incredibly bright. We are excited to watch Ingrid continue to shine! 💙🤍

As we reflect on this past year, one thing is very clear: the Grove Express 5K continues to thrive because of your suppo...
12/31/2025

As we reflect on this past year, one thing is very clear: the Grove Express 5K continues to thrive because of your support!

This year was truly record-breaking, with nearly 7,000 registered supporters coming together in support of our students! We could not have asked for a better turnout, stronger energy, or a more generous community. Your enthusiasm, commitment, and belief in this mission made all the difference.

Because of your continued support, the Grove Express 5K continues to strongly benefit Downers Grove Grade School District 58 and Community High School District 99 High Schools (Downers Grove South High School and Downers Grove North High School) helping us advocate for students at every stage of their educational journey.

From elementary school, through high school, and even into the beginning of college through our high school senior scholarships, your impact reaches far beyond race day.

Thanks to you, the Foundation isn't just celebrating a successful year, we are positioned for an even stronger 2026. The momentum you’ve helped build allows us to dream bigger, serve more students, and continue creating opportunities where they matter most.

We’re not far away. We’re right here, committed, connected, and dedicated to supporting our students and schools. We invite you to stay in touch with us throughout the year and consider continuing your support of the Grove Express Foundation as we work together to make an even greater difference.

From all of us, thank you for running alongside us, believing in our students, and being part of something truly special.

Wishing everyone a very safe and happy new year! Cheers to 2026!

--The Grove Express Foundation - www.groveexpress.com

Happy Holidays Downers Grove!As we wrap up another wonderful year, the Board Officers and Operations Team of the Grove E...
12/22/2025

Happy Holidays Downers Grove!

As we wrap up another wonderful year, the Board Officers and Operations Team of the Grove Express Foundation would like to extend the warmest holiday wishes to you and your families!

We are incredibly grateful and humbled by the outpouring of support we receive from this amazing community throughout the year, especially as we all celebrated the 5th Anniversary of the Thanksgiving Day 5K. The DG community's enthusiasm, generosity, and continued commitment have helped turn this event into a cherished community tradition and a meaningful source of support for students.

Because of your support, we are proud to help students at Downers Grove Grade School District 58 and Community High School District 99 (Downers Grove North High School and Downers Grove South High School), and to help our soon-to-be graduating seniors by awarding scholarships that give them a strong and confident start to their college careers. Your willingness to believe in our students makes a lasting impact far beyond race day.

Thank you for standing with Grove Express year after year and for helping it grow over the past five years into something truly special!

We wish you a joyful holiday season filled with health, happiness, and time with loved ones. See you in 2026!

With heartfelt thanks and holiday cheer,

The Board Officers & Operations Team
Grove Express Foundation

DGN students were featured this morning on ABC 7 Chicago News with Tracy Butler!! Great job, Trojans!! 💜
12/12/2025

DGN students were featured this morning on ABC 7 Chicago News with Tracy Butler!! Great job, Trojans!! 💜

Keeping the Spirit of Gratitude Going! As we move into the holiday season, we’re continuing to celebrate the generosity ...
12/09/2025

Keeping the Spirit of Gratitude Going!

As we move into the holiday season, we’re continuing to celebrate the generosity that makes the Grove Express 5K such a meaningful community tradition. Today, we proudly recognize another group of incredible sponsors whose support directly benefits the students of District 58 and District 99.

A heartfelt thank-you to:

Lyons Law Group: https://www.facebook.com/lyonslawgroupllc and https://www.kllawfirm.com/

Lyons Law Group provides comprehensive transactional and litigation services to businesses, their owners, and individuals. With strengths in both negotiating complex agreements and litigating high-stakes disputes, the firm combines big-picture strategy with meticulous attention to detail. Their diverse client base ranges from start-ups and family-owned companies to estates, trusts, and international corporations, all benefiting from personalized service and long-term relationships. Lyons Law Group offers flexible, competitive fee structures and prioritizes responsive communication, ensuring clients receive exceptional value and support whenever they need it.

Kindly Social by Signs & Love - official “Decor” expert of the Grove Express Apres Run Party: https://www.facebook.com/kindlysocial and https://kindlysocialevents.com/

Kindly Social, founded by Downers Grove resident Kirsten Swanson, brings celebrations to life with personalized balloon décor, photo booths, rental décor, yard signs, and a bright, welcoming event space. What began as “Signs & Love” during the pandemic has grown into a heartfelt business inspired by Kirsten’s mother and rooted in making others feel special. From intimate gatherings to milestone events, Kindly Social creates meaningful, stress-free celebrations filled with joy, creativity, and kindness. As a proud local business, they’re dedicated to uplifting the community through thoughtful events, partnerships, and opportunities for connection.

The Goddard School – Darien - https://www.facebook.com/GoddardSchoolDarienIL and https://www.goddardschool.com/schools/il/darien/darien

At The Goddard School of Darien, they believe that the start of your child's journey matters. They are dedicated to providing the very best preschool experience possible in which they are committed to cultivating the unique nature and potential of every child. Children will be encouraged to explore and learn with hands-on activity based learning. They will strive to develop a lifelong love of learning in every child to help make them school-ready, career-ready, and life-ready.

Clark Chiropractic - https://www.facebook.com/clarkchirodarien and https://www.chiroclark.com/

Clark Chiropractic in Darien, IL is a family-owned clinic led by Dr. Kevin Clark, a fourth-generation chiropractor, and his wife, Genevieve. The practice is dedicated to helping patients of all ages feel and heal better through personalized chiropractic care. As a leading chiropractor in the western suburbs, Dr. Clark takes the time to understand each patient’s concerns and health goals, providing targeted adjustments that address the root cause of pain. From back and neck pain to migraines, sciatica, sports injuries, and ongoing wellness care, Clark Chiropractic offers a natural approach to improving mobility, health, and overall well-being.

Essingler Design Company - https://www.facebook.com/EsslingerDesignCompany and https://www.esslingerdesigncompany.com/

Esslinger Design Company is an award-winning, full-service interior design studio offering decorating, product sourcing, renovation guidance, and new construction consulting. Led by owner and principal designer Chad Esslinger—who brings over 25 years of experience and a design degree from the University of Illinois—the firm creates spaces that are beautiful, functional, and timeless. Based in Downers Grove, Esslinger Design partners with homeowners across Chicagoland and nationwide to deliver thoughtful, enduring design solutions.

Fastener Superstore - https://www.fastenersuperstore.com/ and https://www.facebook.com/fastenersuperstore

Fastener SuperStore is a leading online distributor of bulk fasteners, offering over 45,000 screws, bolts, nuts, rivets, and related hardware to help make projects easier and faster. With a focus on simplicity and time-saving service, they provide fast, hassle-free ordering, expert support, and same-day shipping on most orders. If you’re a contractor, business, or DIY enthusiast, Fastener SuperStore aims to make fastener buying quick, affordable, and reliable.

Your contributions help enrich educational opportunities, support student programs, and strengthen the connection between our schools and community.

We are grateful for your commitment, your partnership, and your holiday-season generosity! Stay tuned for more sponsor spotlight gratitude posts this week!

Consider The Grove Express Foundation this Giving Tuesday!What IS Giving Tuesday?Giving Tuesday is a global day of gener...
12/02/2025

Consider The Grove Express Foundation this Giving Tuesday!

What IS Giving Tuesday?
Giving Tuesday is a global day of generosity that takes place each year on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving in the United States. It follows Black Friday and Cyber Monday as a way to shift the focus from holiday shopping to charitable giving, kindness, and community support.

The Grove Express Foundation works to support more than 10,000 students at Downers Grove Grade School District 58 and Community High School District 99 Downers Grove North High School and Downers Grove South High School, and you can continue to be part of that ongoing support!

When you contribute to the Grove Express Foundation, you help expand resources, opportunities, and programs that make a real difference for our students. Your generosity also strengthens our annual Grove Express Foundation Scholarships, awarded each spring to deserving graduating seniors. Each recipient receives $5,000 to begin their college journey with confidence and financial support.

Consider donating today at https://runsignup.com/GroveExpress/donate

Address

5216 Main Street
Downers Grove, IL

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Grove Express posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to Grove Express:

Share

Category