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By Theresa Puskar
“At Infinity Foundation we provide energetic connection, which in turn raises one’s vibration. It is a beacon of light that continues to get brighter.” – President and CFO, Frank Scaletta
During my early days at Nightingale-Conant Corporation, I held the position of Director of Coaching Programs. At that time, I had the pleasure of touching base with the founder and Executive Director of Infinity Foundation, Nancy Grace Marder. I recently had the pleasure and privilege of meeting Nancy once again at a ribbon-cutting ceremony at their new building in Highland Park.
The ceremony was a wonderful celebration and a testament to the strength and commitment of the Infinity Foundation community. After a dedication and welcoming statement from Frank Scaletta, shamanic practitioner Kathleen Rude opened sacred space with a Calling in the Seven Directions Ceremony. This practice is an earth-honoring tradition that creates a safe and sacred space that is supported by Mother Earth and her powerful animal spirits. Kathleen’s pure spirit is felt the moment you lay eyes on her. The rites and drumming that she shared were powerful and really set the stage for the rest of the evening’s events. Local intuitive and metaphysical teacher Mel Doerr followed by sharing a delightful Hawaiian Blessing for Sacredness with the group.
“This community provides me with sustenance. I have developed right relationships here. My heart reaches out to new people so that all can experience it as I have.” – Savita
For those of you who may not be familiar with the Infinity Foundation, Nancy Grace Marder founded it 20 years ago. Providing Courses For Life℠, it is a “not-for-profit nonsectarian educational organization dedicated to assisting in the evolvement of human expression through its offerings of classes, workshops, retreats, conferences, services, and research.” Throughout the years the foundation has hosted a plethora of exceptional workshops, led by many of the most sought-after spiritual authors and metaphysical teachers of our time. While I was aware of the exceptional lineup of inspirational speakers and teachers that were featured at the foundation, I had no idea of the depth of community connection that it offers Chicagoland spiritual seekers as well.
“Here at Infinity Foundation, I experience a grounding of heaven on earth.” – Paula
At one point in the ceremony, attendees were asked to introduce themselves and share their connection to Infinity Foundation. One by one, they described what the foundation meant to them. I soon realized that this was no ordinary community. I was deeply moved by the stories members of the community shared as they spoke about their feelings of acceptance and belonging. While the spiritual rites shared by Kathleen and Mel rooted us all, the sharing that each participant expressed raised the energy of the room through the roof! Here are just a few of the things that community members shared about Infinity Foundation:
“A place to review, grow and learn more about yourself.” – Anonymous
“Infinity Foundation broadens one’s view of our culture and our world.” – Anonymous
“A community where I feel free to talk about things I cannot talk about anywhere else.” – Anonymous
“…I found things I never knew were missing!” – Anonymous
“This community offers concrete validation for exploring everything and anything.” – Anonymous
“Walking through Nancy’s door, I thought to myself, ‘I’m home!’” – Anonymous
“I found this place when my dad was going through an illness. It has been a supportive refuge, a safe place for me to come and not worry about being judged.” – Anonymous
In my opinion, the highlight of the evening came when Nancy Grace’s mother, Lyla Marder, spoke. Her words were a powerful testament to the work that Nancy Grace has done. With great grace, dignity, and an opened heart, she stated, “It is a joy having my daughter as my mother. My consciousness has become enormous. I can become a child again. I am so grateful!” At that point in the evening, I felt my heart open wide (and it was already pretty wide open with the previous testimonials and rituals). The deep love, admiration, and respect that Lyla expressed towards her daughter and the center that she created was awe inspiring. I will never forget her words or the sentiment behind them. I can only hope that my mother, and all mothers, can at some point in their lives share such rich and heartfelt sentiments towards each and every child of the world – old and young. In fact, as a mother, I do not want to wait until my daughter is so very accomplished. Why not join me in sharing our pride in our children now? Doing so will help to forge a path towards their future sense of self and spiritual expansion.
“The Infinity Foundation is a magical place to explore and celebrate.” – Anonymous
The night’s celebration ended with a lovely ballad that was sung by vocalist Anitra Griffin, accompanied by violinist Stephanie Meis. This truly was a night full of celebration, inspiration, and merriment. Speaking with many members of the community as the event came to a close, I was again struck by their enthusiasm. I was reminded that creating such sacred space not only elevates the energy of those within the community, but it also raises the energy frequency of the surrounding community, and the world as a whole. To embrace the Infinity Foundation community, be sure to attend their upcoming 2nd Annual Infinity Family Fest, one of many joyful annual community outreach events that encourage healthy lifestyle choices and community connection.
To learn more about the Infinity Foundation courses and events, log onto infinityfoundation.org, or call 847-831-8828.
Theresa Puskar, our All About Town contributor, is a writer, trainer, speaker, minister, and inspirational audiobook producer. She is the author of the Terri series, seven children’s books that focus on bullying, honoring diversity, celebrating creativity, non-judgment of emotions, finding alternatives to technology-based entertainment, discovering a non-judgmental God, and overcoming fears. She has also recorded a powerful experiential audio program, How to De-Clutter Your Mind and Live a Heart-Centered Life. To place an order or learn more, you can log onto her website, theresapuskar.com.
