Stories of Impact

What if every day was the same – no problems, ample money, education, and plenty of support for a comfortable life?

While that sounds idyllic, it’s not our reality. Last year, an estimated 37.9 million Americans lived in poverty according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Many also grapple with a lack of resources, unstable home lives, or the devastation of fleeing war-torn countries.

People have always needed help, and nonprofits are here to deliver critical services. Beyond direct aid, they also foster economic growth and strengthen the communities they serve.

We are one of those nonprofits providing expansive services that not only support individuals through difficult times but empower them to lead successful lives.

Take Rolando (name changed for privacy), a refugee from the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

He arrived in the U.S. in his mid-60s and enrolled in our English Language Training programs.

His tutor praised his dedication and persistent efforts despite physical limitations.

Now in his 70s, Rolando recently began our computer literacy classes to enhance his job prospects.

He also attended our Civics/Citizenship classes, practicing mock U.S. naturalization interviews, and has achieved his goal of becoming a U.S. citizenship.

“Finally knowing how to speak English gives you access to all the doors to different areas of life.” -Rolando, HHCS Participant

“Nonprofit” is more than a word; it represents people across the country coming together to lift each other up.

Nonprofits also fuel the economy, contributing $1.4 trillion and hundreds of thousands of jobs in the U.S. in 2024.

Please join us in making a difference in the lives of the 20,000 individuals we serve through dozens of programs and initiatives in areas such as:

Asset Building, Housing, Travelers Aid Chicago,
Refugee & Immigrant Community Services, Workforce Development,
and Child & Youth Welfare.

We will continue to provide the lifesaving services that make all the difference in the lives of those going through difficult times.

Please consider joining us by donating, volunteering, or sharing our stories today. Your support can change lives. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps us continue our mission. Thank you for being a part of our community.


Our participant, Ruby* and her family entered our Building Stable Communities program in June 2022 after experiencing human trafficking. While in the program, she and her husband secured employment.

During this time, Ruby gave birth to their second child. Due to pregnancy complications, she was unable to work, so her husband, Robert*  increased his work hours to support the family and continue their pursuit of permanent housing.

Facing a language barrier, they received assistance from their clinical case manager, who was fluent in their native language and provided translations. She guided them through every step of completing and signing their lease in English.

Ruby and Robert were approved for a housing voucher and both obtained work permits. In July 2024, they successfully moved into their own home and exited the program.

*Names changed to protect privacy.

 


Look Inside: Adriana Gracia, VRS & Opciones Saludables
Family is everything for Adriana Gracia, Director of Violence Recovery Services & Opciones Saludables. It’s…
READ MORE