Fran Sullivan was an inspirational, engaging and dedicated community leader who made a difference in the lives of many individuals. Fran’s recent passing is a moment for reflection on her leadership and on the many ways individuals contribute to the fabric of lives in Oak Park and River Forest.
Fran offered her remarkable ideas for the growth and improvement of community services, her creativity in the development of essential nonprofit systems, her financial support of nonprofit organizations, and a strong work ethic. She was willing to roll up her sleeves and do the work of supporting many nonprofit organizations that serve our communities. She had a seat at the table, including board leadership, program development, annual fundraising and capital campaigns.
I had an opportunity to collaborate with Fran since the 1990s, supporting essential mental health services at Thrive Counseling Center (then Oak Park and River Forest, Family Service and Community Mental Health Service). We shared a dedication and commitment to ensuring the provision of life-saving mental health services to our community.
We started working at a time the agency was on uncertain financial grounds, with concerns about cash flow. Fran, and her husband Moe, were visionaries and believed in the future of the agency and what it would take to restructure, build and ensure a future path. We were partners, collaborators, colleagues and became friends.
I have fond memories of meetings around my dining room tables, fundraising efforts including, in the day, at the Mar Lac Banquet Hall on Marion Street, and working together on community engagement strategies. She was a powerhouse, tireless in her efforts, and dedicated to strategic outcomes.
And Fran was a friend, forever in my heart, delightful and energetic, and our community is a better place because of her.
Jan Pyrce, River Forest