Community House Winnetka — Attraction in New Trier Township

The Winnetka Community House would normally get a 5 star rating. The Staff is excellent, courteous and very knowledgeable.

However...

Ever since last summer when the new Director took over, things have gone downhill. Previously, when you walked in the building, there was a happy vibe. Employees were happy to see you, treated you like you were family. Some staff members even knew our names and remembered our children! It was genuine and sincere. Now, when you walk into the building there seems to be a forced smile, forced cheerfulness. When I ask employees how things are, they just smile and say "great" with halfhearted enthusiasm. There is definitely a palpable sense of dread in the building.

The previous Directors would be seen at multiple events, helping out the staff and various functions as needed. Always with a smile on their faces and willing to help out any guests as needed. This new Director cannot be seen at any event, nor willing to help to make sure everything goes smoothly. I guess he does not wish to be bothered with petty fundraising events?

Furthermore, one of the biggest dance rooms in the building has been converted into an office space. Thus the feeling is more sterile and dare I say "Corporate". This is a Community House, FOR THE COMMUNITY, not a Fortune 500 Corporation.

Then I come to find out that the new Director also gave himself the title of President? President of what, the Community House? Really? How about worrying about the Community House as a whole, instead of worrying about himself first, then the Community House. On top of that, he calls himself a Deacon of a Church. Not sure which Church, but I've never once heard a Priest or Deacon berate his staff with such venom and disrespect! Especially towards women! Dropping F-bombs in public to his staff shows the level of ignorance, incompetence and lack of true leadership skills needed to lead this great Community House towards the future.

I sincerely hope that things change for the better, or this once great Community House will fail. That would truly be sad considering this House's history and existence for...

I had a very unpleasant experience today at the Red Cross donation site at Winnetka Community House.

It was not easy to find the room once inside the community center. There were no signs or directions posted anywhere. Then, once I found the Red Cross room, everyone I talked with, (especially the lady apparently in-charged in the Red Cross) in the room was far from being polite.

The event was very poorly planned, in my opinion. People at the site need to be trained how to greet donors and explain them the waiting procedure in a polite manner. Also, it helps to hear the words "Good Morning" and "Please".

Very disappointed!!!

This review is for the Red Cross, however, Winnetka Community House must demand politeness and good planning from every organization...

My husband and I highly recommend choosing Community House Winnetka for your wedding! Sahra was extremely helpful during the wedding planning process. I had many questions throughout the year and she was quickly responsive and helpful. She provided her own advice and suggestions but went out her way to make sure our requests were answered. She’s extremely knowledgeable about the grounds. The historic gardens are beyond beautiful and the area was perfect for my wedding size of 90 people. I do suggest hiring a planner or day of coordinator to help with the actual wedding day and rehearsal. Thank you so much Sahra for all...