GoFundMe raises $58,000 for Hawthorn Woods family whose home burned down, dog went missing

More than $58,000 has been raised for a Hawthorn Woods family whose home was destroyed by fire and dog went missing last week.

Kathy Lindstrom, a resident of Acorn Acres, started the GoFundMe fundraiser for the Vanderbilt family in her neighborhood.

"The generosity and hearts of our community are extraordinary," Lindstrom said. "The family lost everything, and every contribution will help them get on their feet again."

The Vanderbilts' two-story home on Robin Crest Road caught fire Oct. 17 when the family wasn't home, said Lake Zurich Fire Chief David Pilgard.

The house, valued around $600,000, was deemed a total loss. Pilgard said the family's dog went missing and hasn't been accounted for yet.

A Hawthorn Woods police officer spotted the fire and reported it. When fire crews arrived shortly after 4 p.m. the fire already had reached the home's roof, which was starting to collapse, Pilgard said.

Pilgard said investigators believe the fire began near the home's rear.

"Most likely we are not going to be able to determine the exact cause because of how far along the fire was when we arrived," Pilgard said.

Lindstrom said Lake Zurich's Life Time athletic country club and the Lululemon store in Deer Park are collaborating to raise money for the Vanderbilts by hosting two workout classes Thursday. For more information on the classes, visit gofund.me/3f05bc84.

"All of you who have donated so far have given them hope they can move past this tragedy, knowing they have the support of this wonderful community," Lindstrom said.