Hi I’m Kyle I’m a representative for lifestyle journey ministry inc in Baytown Texas I was wanting to see if you all want to partner up with lifestyle journey to expand and reach individuals who are facing homelessness an low income families in different states and make a true and positive change in our country for more information you can contact the president Mrs Tabitha caballero at email nicole2020lsj@gmail.com thanks and god bless and keep up the good work you all are doing
Chicago Coalition for the Homeless is doing excellent work in advocating for individuals and families experiencing homelessness through community organizing, story telling and advocating for good policy. CCH is working towards putting an END to homelessness. CCH listens to people with lived experience.
Yesterday I reached 1000 miles on the Pacific Crest Trail. As one can imagine, 1000 miles of hiking through remote wilderness yields many thoughts, as the mind tends to wander with the body. I’d like to share an anecdote from my trek and hopefully use it toward something beneficial.
As a thruhiker, the standards of my everyday life such as doing laundry, taking showers, having good meals, and having a comfortable bed protected from the elements become luxuries enjoyed at most once a week when I hitch to a town off-trail. In these towns, I’m (understandably) often mistaken for being homeless. I’ve experienced societal shunning (someone said “I don’t have anything” when I approached him to ask for directions to a grocery store) as well as avoidance and rudeness from cafe staff. I’m not particularly upset or offended by these actions, because they go with the reality of being a PCT thruhiker. Also, part of the benefit of the hike from a personal development standpoint is the many layers of humility that it instills. To be clear, I’m not relating my experience as comparable to the struggles of truly homeless people, but on some minute level it has made me empathetic to their challenging way of life.
Last week in Mammoth Lakes, an upscale California ski town with similarly upscale and often condescending locals, someone made a simple gesture that made a strong impression on me. I was sitting in a grocery store parking lot sorting through snacks when a man approached me from behind. Putting his hand on my shoulder, he placed beside me a 1.5 liter Crystal Spring water that he evidently just purchased from the gas station clerk. “I’ve been homeless before too, brother. Keep your head up and things will get better,” he said as he walked toward his car. I was so taken aback by the gesture that I didn’t care to identify myself as a hiker. Instead I just said “thank you,” thinking that this was the first time someone misidentified me as homeless and did something kind and inviting instead of the usual avoidance behaviors of others.
The 130 miles that I’ve hiked since that experience have been mostly alone, and many overlapping thoughts and emotions have crept into my head as a result. The usual “why am I doing this?,” a common thematic struggle for all thruhikers as they go through physical pain and existential dread, repeated in my mind as I endured a cold night by a lake over a Sierra mountain pass. I thought a lot about the comforts of home in Chicago, and also about the homeless people who collect in rudimentary tents under a bridge about 2 miles from my apartment. The struggles that I voluntarily face on this hike, from cold/rain/snow to societal avoidance, are a tiny microcosm of what those homeless experience every day of their lives.
At the end of the day, I am committed to completing as much of this 2650-mile hike as I can. But as I alluded to before, there are times when I struggle with morale. My hike is admittedly a selfish endeavor despite its difficulties. It worries my mom, leaves my girlfriend lonely, and ultimately serves no purpose outside of the self-aggrandizing pursuit of personal glory and fulfillment.
At risk of sounding pretentious, Gandhi once said “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” It occurred to me that, through the support of friends, family, and well-wishers, I could turn my hike into a charity fundraiser for the Chicago homeless. This would serve the dual purpose of motivating me through my hike, thereby reducing the moments of existential dread, as well as helping a good cause that has been recurring in my recent experience as though given to me as an ethereal sign.
I’m asking for people (meaning YOU) to commit $5 toward Chicago Coalition for the Homeless for every 100 miles that I complete from now to Canada. For those keeping track, that would amount to a maximum of $80 commitment on your end if I am successful in reaching Canada. Obviously if you can offer more, great. I will for my part commit to posting 100-mile updates on Facebook (every time I get cell service) sharing photos, stories, memories, fears, etc. I simply ask for your continued $5 commitment toward the charity for each post update that I provide. If I can get just 10 people to commit, I can potentially raise $800 toward a worthy and personally meaningful cause. If you are interested and able, please simply respond “I’m in,” either on this post or in my DMs.
I chose this charity because it is the most reputable and locally relevant among the homeless support charities that I researched. Your donations are tax-deductible, if that’s of concern to you.
I really appreciate everyone taking the time to read this and considering donating toward Chicago Coalition for
the Homeless. I truly means a lot to me, as I believe it will give me a stimulus to carry on through the challenges of my hike, giving it meaning and purpose. It also will help an underserved population get the care that they need to survive the harsh Chicago weather and streets.
We hosted two volunteers from the Speaker's Bureau to speak to my Civic Engagement class in the College of Business at UIC. They did an excellent job both sharing their first-hand experience with homelessness, and in educating my students on what they can do to get engaged. This is a terrific resource!
Chicago Coalition for the Homeless' Speakers Bureau does incredible work in humanizing homelessness and igniting advocacy and political engagement.
Karl Nass
CCH is a great organization. They actually care about and help the homeless population which are often forgotten about .
The people at Chicago Coalition for the Homeless have more passion and care for their mission than any other group of people I have ever met. I had the privilege of working with them for a summer during college, and what I witnessed there was a true coming together of people for a shared cause. Their passion and hard work both educated me on the issue of homelessness in Chicago and beyond, as well as deeply inspired me to become a strong advocate for their cause.
What made the strongest impact was the people that worked there and how they took a variety of different life experiences, some of them incredibly difficult, and channeled it into helping others. They did this with incredible kindness and empathy, but also with such skill and knowledge of the issues faced by those experiencing homelessness. CCH is brimming with talented community organizers, strong policy advocates, skilled attorneys, and a plethora of passionate individuals and who use their energy for good every day. To me, they are truly the most exemplary nonprofit in the world.
My husband and I have been donors for some time. They do the gritty work helping ensure people who are homeless get the advocacy and respect they deserve despite their circumstances.
I know whenever I able to donate to this nonprofit that my money is going to an incredible organization with a smart and dedicated staff. I love to read the personal stories of individuals who have benefitted from the coalitions work. Everything they do- advocacy, education, fund raising and so much more is all needed to end homelessness.
I have never seen a more focused and dedicated group. Their innovative ways to bring homelessness awareness to Chicago is inspiring.
Much needed champions of equity, dignity and kindness in the Chicago community. Excellent organization. Keep up the great and important work.
CCH is an organization committed to the dignity and respect everyone deserves. They work hard to provide services for the underserved and are exceptional in their fundraising events.
CCH is an organization doing amazing work in the fight to end homelessness! My family was introduced to this organization while experiencing homelessness ourselves. One of the organizers did outreach at the shelter we were staying and we have been involved with their worthy cause ever since!
CCH is an amazing organization that fights both in courts and on the ground itself for the people who are homeless in Chicago. They not only fight in Chicago but also in Springfield. When I interned there as a law student I met so many amazing people who both worked there and who were receiving services and assistance from CCH. It was a great experience.
I recently joined CCH's Associate Board and am so excited about the group's enthusiasm, creativity, and dedication. I joined because of what a fantastic organization CCH is. Having worked in homeless services for nearly five years, I am so inspired and moved by their work -- the way they center people experiencing homelessness and their expertise, their understanding of how homelessness connects to systemic racism, sexism, and other forms of oppression, and their dedicated, talented staff.
Great organization…I’ve had the opportunity to intern with CCH. The experience was impactful. I learned about community organizing and was introduced to strategic planning. The staff is diverse & welcoming. CCH is doing great things to bring awareness and help put an end to homelessness. Keep up the great work everyone.
I have volunteered with this organization for a little less than a year. Given the current pandemic limiting how we can raise funds, I’m constantly impressed with the creativity and energy from our associate board of volunteers to reach our fundraising goals and to stay active in our community. Truly a top tier organization.
I want to share my story with you.
Am called Mwesigwa Moses Raymond I was born in a family of two children, same father but different moms. Am the youngest with my elder sister. My mother was a pure Muganda, a daughter of the Late Hajji Ssali who was staying behind Ndejje Mosque and that was his place even now. My mother was a Moslem who got married to my father who was Adventist. He was a member of Najjanakumbi Adventisty church during 80s and 90s. My father's name was The late Kiyondi Isaac, he was a Kenyan youth who came to Uganda in 70s to finish up his studies at makerere university. He was staying in a home of the late #Kibirige #Samuel the amumbowa of the kabaka, so my father grown from there. He was so loved by that man because he even gave him a Ngeye clan name calling him Ssekitto Isaac, I and my sister we grown knowing that this Man Mr #Kibirige is our grand Jajja. Our hide this to us even when he died. He even hided it to our moms. Remember I and my sister we share same daddy. Our father got a holy marriage with my mom in 1996 June, I was one of the witness on their wedding. Briefly in 2000s our father fall sick with AIDs, I knew it after his death, how??? I will explain it. A fellow day before knowing that he was sick, my father wait to mulago hospital for treatment because he had a cough, but he was unable to reach there because of being unconsciousness, they picked him at mulago taxi park. A bodaboda man drove him back home at our resident, it was 10pm, it was unbelievable because my father was running mad, he was unable to walk and he talked the all time. In morning, my mother told to go to our grand Jajja to tell him what happened to his some, though I was young to go through road sides, but to save my father's life at was only my effort to stand has a man. My sister was in boarding section and in form four. She was going for mocks exams. I went looking for my grand father but after reaching home when he was not there, they told me to go at the king's palace in Mengo or at Banda because by that time he was the head of Abamboowa. I reached there, and I found their a old lady who was also his sister. I explain every but the lady told the thing which I understand after 10year when a man. She told me, the person you're explaining to me that he is the son of my brother, I don't know him. In our clan am the one who name every a new born child but I have never named that one you have explained to me. May be I will ask him when I see him. I decide to go back home to explain my mom. When I reach there, I found that my mom got a solution and board a taxi to take my father to mulago hospital for treatment. They decide to took me there to follow them.
Tears starting coming out of my eyes, because when I reached at mulago 3B, I thought my father was only sick, but what amazed me, also my mother was also in bad conditions (pleasure). So, I was only one person to look after them at the age of 13yrs. Only God was the only my answers, we got some help from individuals, with in three weeks my father was discharge, I kept my secret without tell him that my mother was also in the same hospital with him. I went with him back home but the bad thing he became lame walking with the stick, he asked me that, where is your mom, I replied, she went to her aunt to get something which will help us. But in all, I was lying because all relatives of my mom, they hated and ignored her, they sent her out of their #Nkima clan because she convert from Moslem to Advertisit. Satan was working hard because the day they discharge my mom from hospital is the day my father falling sick again, this time it was terrible, because he started passing out some small parts of intestines, this time we took him at Taso in Entebbe and in the evening they took us at Entebbe main hospital. I was left there by my mom. In her condition, she decide to go back home to prepare where they are going to bury her husband because she knew that but she didn't want to tell me. She decide to hide it. I spent there a night with know food and drink. My father was in coma. That day was November 23rd was a IDD, I cried to God in my heart, I said lord, I know you can hear me, save me out of this, at least to here a word from my father. Please feed us. Unfortunately it was a lunch time, I had no any single coin to get something to eat, but I was walking out of the hospital I saw Moslems coming from out side with plenty of food, they gave every person who was in the hospital and after serving our ward, they move to the next, I decided to sit down and eat but this time around, I was unable because I hard a voice calling me, and this was my father's voice, he said, let me tell you this son before those people behind you take me, I looked behind but there was nothing. He said son, I promised you and your sister to fulfill your dreams to study, but am sorry, I have not make it. If you get any Chance for school, please use it and make sure that you be bosses for others not others to be your bosses. There was a born again lady who was passing by, she said can I pray for you, I was like say no to her but my father said, you leave her, its my chance not yours. You have the way to go son, but this is my end. I closed my eyes for a pray, it was a short prayer of repenting, after a prayer I was left with my father while his eyes was still opened wide. I didn't knew that he was already gone, I sleeped on his bed because I thought he will come back to me. The nurse found me there, she looked at me and said, your father is no more, he has gone. I have this 1 thousand shillings, go back and tell others. I board a taxi while crying, a taxi conductor, a driver and all passengers hard my voice and asked, what happened kid, I explained, they all feel sympathy to me. They ask, do you know where you're going I said yes, I went to Kajjansi at my father's workshop, you know he was a senior expect in batteries, repair and charging. Those who know the place called kayembe Kajjansi, there is a workshop with a post call #Mandela senior expect in Batteries, that was one of my father's business but landlord took it that it was belong to him.
After reaching that place I decide to go at my mother's relatives to announce the death of my father. I reached there atthe Ndejje Mosque, they fought I came for IDD but I explained to them. They didn't feel pity to me, they started blaming my mother. They did feel sorry to me. I left and went to Mutundwe at the one we call our grand. I found him there, but it was too late to walk at that night, I stay there for that night but I was sweating. In the morning the chairman of our village came also there to announce but he found me there, we went back home too, they bring the body back, at the time of speeches, the one we called our grandfather made his speech and that was the day, I notice that, he was not our grandfather but a closed friends to his sons and daughters. After the burial, I was confused, I was unable to continue my studies though it was a government school. Because we even manage to buy a 32 budget exercise book for 100/= shillings. Remember my mother was hated by all family members, businesses of my late daddy was taken by his friends, my sister was in UNEB exams final for form four. She didn't even know that our father was buried, she was in boarding section at Najja Christianity school.
In this situation I decide to leave my mom in a small old house and went on street.
My Father never shown us our relatives
MY Life On Street
I spent on street for more than for years, I was in gangs, using cocaine, marijuana and other drugs, I was arrested by police and they took me to one of Catholic orphan homes, but I spent there three days and came back on street, I used to go to mulago hospital to get some food to eat for the patients, by that time they where cooking phoso and beans. Sometimes I used to sleep there where they admits patients at night, sometimes I used to sleep near the mortuary, I also used to stay in kisenyi, kiwunya, Lubya, kasubi, namungoona, nansana, kikoni and other places, one day I decide to go back home, but I didn't reach there, I stay at a near by Mountain call Prayer Mountain Seguku, I sleeped on trees at nights, it was evening, and I was wet, two men were going down at the shops, they were all pastor, they at me, and one pointed at the view of the lake, he asked, do you know that place, I said yes I know that place, it is called Kitiiko, so they moved on. On there returning, they meet the second time and asked, where do you, I said in the bush, Do you have family, I said no, I don't have any relative, one of the man said, from today you're going to be my son. He lifted me up, he get for me something to eat and said, tomorrow we are leaving this place, I want to change your life. Briefly we can in Kampala, at first things we good, the money had everything in his life, but things started to charge, he started to lose everything, money and businesses, I know that I was the cause, in humble I decide to him that let me leave according to what am seeing. Am the cause, he cried and said no my son, God will provide, I decide to leave him, and I went to a near by Church that was called UCC for Bishop Steven Ssefuma, I stayed out side, I used to buy a popcorn for 100/= and water to stay. 200 shillings was enough. I stayed out side at the Church, winter, rain, mosquitoes those were the causes to me. I got deliverance and God rescue me. There was a man with the same story like me, we because friends and decided to take at his home, I fine there other street kids like me but also in bad situation. They have two old mattresses in the small house but staying like eight people, we use to take on one meal, no breakfast, no lunch on supper, sometimes we used to kasubi market pick up some starch food from lorries and we bring them home to cook. Life was so hard there. But what we did, you prayed to God in the morning, non and evening. Life charged, this man got a job on Capital radio, he was reading the Luganda news, some of you, you know this guy was called Joseph Lubega. This is where I got a chance to go back to school by this man. God replied us and we all went to school. We shifted at namungoona in a self contained house were we expanded has family, we got sponsors, we were large in number of 70 children boys and girls with talents, others liked soccer, music, dance, others spreading the word of God. We became family, brothers and Sisters,
In 2006, the devil used me, I left home going for clubbing, and my life was in danger, God punished me with a stoke on my testacles and kidney, by that time I used used to compete with others in dancing, unfortunately I damaged my testacles, I went back home and kept quite for two days but I started bleeding from nose, and vomiting blood, I used to urinate blood, this man gave money to go to Orthodox hospital namungoona but I didn't find any doctor, I spent there the all day, at 7pm, the doctor came back, he took some operations to check me, but it was too late, in his words he said, son I have two options, which two hospital do you likely to go, mulago and Mengo. Because I had the memories of Mulago I decide this time to go in Mengo. I asked him that doctor, am I going there right now, he said yes.... I replied, what if I go there tomorrow will I die, he says of course you're in danger. I came home in tears, I didn't say anything I just fall down in the compound. Three months passed when I was on life support, I didn't knew that they operated. After discharge me from the hospital. I sat for my exams for UNEB the good thing the lord was at my side. I passed. I decide to leave the orphanage home because by that time, God gave the orphanage a big large land in Matugga. Its now call #Bulamu #Village.
My Journey Up to Where I Am..
I decide to return back to my home land I thought my mother was still there, I just meet her grave, she died lonely, she left a message behind which says that, even if my son you left me, I have forgiven you. Please return back home and unity with your sister, I know you will not find me but I will be with you that was my mother's last words. I came home with disrespect of people. They didn't like me anymore, only for ladies who replaced has to be my moms. At that time I decide to work while doing my course of MDD/arts which I finished it up in 2010. I started my Gospel music Carrier though others they disliked it. I started to do community work, gathering youths, it took more than two years people to trust me, because of my looks with long hair on my head. By that time I was in church but later on I decide to leave gospel music and started world music secular. I thank God I wasni a drug addict but I was against ladies. I was renting in makindye in 2012 because I decide to leave my home land. Because of being adultery this cause me much that, my rental house was burnt down with a gang of ladies whom I dumped, I knew this later from one of my ex's, when its too late. I lost every in my life and hope!! I tried to go in some relationships but they didn't work. I decide to go back to Church, after staying there for months, in my life I feeled so sorry in the presence of God, I ask God, at least give one chance, a lady who love me, the reason I prayed like that, many ladies came to me because they just need a company from me, I hate many of them because they abort and killed my babies, others they were pregnant at my place why the biological fathers of their pregnancy is not me.
So, there was a woman who left a baby behide at my house, the good thing the baby was six month and she was able to be feed on feeding bottle, I spent with a baby for about two weeks knowing that he was my daughter, unfortunately the girl came back with her two family members and keep the baby away from me, ever since now I don't know where they are!
From that day on wards I ask God to give me strength to work hard and start charity projects not in front of camera,!!!
Friends I will be story for the previous posts, if someone put on my shoes, you will feel the way am feeling. I have been with kids, I love your kids than any thing. I started doing farming, getting some contracts of buildings, laying bricks and other activities, not because they benefit me, (NO), I have been collecting money from these resources to all help the Africa child, I was helped by the Hello World technology system project to sell them online through my social media platforms with free internet in my community. So Hello World made my work easier in 2016 and 2017.
I was once helped by others during my child age.
I was trying to pay back, I have more than 80 kids am supporting around Uganda. Buying them books, uniforms, fees, and other things. I do this not in front of cameras like others do. Am not a politician like others, I need peace for these kids, that why some of you, you abused me of working in poor government, but according to situation I was protecting these kids. Those who will understand me, you get me. Am still in pain and stressed that in one week, I lost two kids, the closed one, a girl and a boy. They died while operating them . #Waswa Christopher died in kisubi hospital at night while #Nalubega Sylvia died in Nsambya hospital. These kids where closed to me. I promised Waswa to buy for him a Football, Shoes and other things, I promised to teach him dance because he has been a minister in Sunday schools....
But we lost him... To cut my story short, am looking for that person who can at least change one child's life in Africa. Many children in Africa most expecially girls, marry under age due to poor families they are coming from. Due too broken home, some of them are on streets fighting with future, I need some one who can work with me in christ Jesus to rescue them. I need old clothes, food, shoes from you to share it with them. I know we can make it. Those who can pay them shelter and school fees. May the Lord bless you.
I've been a member of the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless Associate Board for a little over a year now and I am still in awe of the dedication that everyone I have encountered has for the cause of ending homelessness in Chicago. The members of the Board have been welcoming to new members and are constantly coming up with new ideas to spread the word about the mission of this organization.
I am proud to serve on the CCH associates board! CCH is an amazing organization dedicated to making housing a right in Chicago. They advocate at the state level for initiatives that help to support those who are housing insecure. As a board member I’ve been able to help by phone and text banking and it’s been great to help support CCH in that way. I highly recommend them!
I have been on the CCH Associate Board for a little over a year now and I have been so impressed with organization and their tireless commitment to raise awareness, effect policy changes across the state of Illinois, and reach the lives of so many impacted by homelessness. Their dedicated staff ensures that every dollar we raise is well spent and moves this important cause forward. I am proud to be a small part of an organization that has such a positive impact on our community.
I've been working on their volunteer Associate Board for the past few months and have been very impressed by everything about CCH. The staff is friendly and compassionate, and everyone's focus is on tangibly improving the lives of Chicago residents who are unhoused or in an unstable housing environment. Housing is a human right, and every action CCH takes is in pursuit of this belief. I'm very honored to be a part of this organization!
Chicago Coalition for the Homeless is a superior nonprofit serving the homeless community in Chicago through advocacy, outreach, and direct service.
I have been connected with Chicago Coalition for the Homeless for several years, working with their Reentry Committee focused on helping people with criminal backgrounds who have experienced homelessness, and more recently serving on their Board. This organization is unique in its focus on advocacy and working to bring about policy and practice reforms in the Chicago area and throughout the state of Illinois. Their work with this most oppressed population has been consistent and stellar, effecting important policy changes and bringing attention to the significant challenges folks have struggling with homelessness. They engage homeless and formerly homeless people in their work, bringing passion and credibility to their efforts.
Hi have been a part of CCH for the past year and was a participant in many of their advocacy events and fundraisers for the past 3 years. I'm continuously impressed with the amount of passion and dedication the organization has. CCH has worked tirelessly to to make sure ending homelessness is a priority.
I started working with CCH as a Grassroots Leader 4 years ago to help alleviate barriers to homelessness. In return I regained my Power and My Rights as a citizen. I also, joined CCH Board, CCH Mutual Aid Fund, and CCH Speakers Bureau. I’m very proud to be involved in CCH’s activities because of the dedication, hard work,compassion, love, and family atmosphere at CCH. CCH works very hard to help the homeless , alleviate barriers to homelessness, and place the homeless at the table to make decisions on the barriers and issues of being homeless and the decisions on how to change the policies that lead to homelessness.
The CCH team has an unrelenting focus on their mission of ending homelessness in Chicago. Truly dedicated group of professionals that have achieved amazing results with limited resources. I am proud to be associated with such a great group of people!!
I have been on the board for several years and am always impressed with the fierce dedication of the management and staff of CCH in their work to end homelessness in Chicago. From advocacy to organizing to the Law Project, the organization has helped thousands over its 40 year tenure in the fight against homelessness.
When I donate to this organization I am confident that my donation is used for positive change to end homelessness. This organization is staffed with intelligent, compassionate change makers who understand the importance of this cause. I
Chicago Coalition for the Homeless wants to end homelessness. I share that vision and I count on them to do the hard work of making it a reality. I trust their dedication and commitment to this cause. That is why I've been a donor for several years.
Chicago Coalition for the Homeless is an amazing non-profit organization. They advocate for so many and help through a number of different means, including college scholarships. If you're looking for a great cause to support, highly recommend supporting CCH!
The staff and volunteers do a exceptional job with advocating for
homeless and the underserved community in Chicago.
The CCH does incredible work. They make a difference every day, through their policy work, advocacy and direct legal outreach to people experiencing homelessness. The fact they don't accept government funding puts CCH in a unique position to enact real change. CCH is a focused and visionary group that I'm proud to support.
I've been a big supporter of the Coalition since the late 1990's when I was working in direct service with homeless youth. I currently serve on the board, and am amazed at the way they consistently and effectively advocate for the homeless population in Chicago and in Illinois. They have a remarkable policy expertise, and they use it to advance huge changes that impact thousands of people. I'm proud to be a small part of the work that happens at the Coalition.
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For years CCH has served as an advocate for the homeless population in Illinois. As leaders in the homeless services field, they have helped win battles (legislative, personal, and otherwise) for many families and individuals impacted by homelessness. For me, CCH served as my "true north" when I started working on youth homelessness in the late 90's. They brought along this neophyte in the field to help ensure I had the information and capacity I needed to serve the homeless youth in my agency and in the surrounding communities. I love that they are not beholden to anyone but the communities they serve. They do amazing work. Amazing.
I've been part of the CCH Associates Board for about 1.5 years. It is a great organization with passionate people that truly care about people affected by homelessness. The events that are put on for fundraising are fun and make a significant contribution to the cause!
The important mission of CCH inspired me to join the Associates Board in 2019. During my time volunteering with the organization, I have been continuously impressed by the dedication of the CCH team and their advocacy and community organizing efforts even amidst the constant string of political challenges that often accompanies their attempts to push forward equitable policies and programs.
I became involved in CCH about two years ago and I am on the associate board. I could not be more happy that I got involved with CCH. Everyone at CCH truly cares and is devoted to helping individuals facing homelessness. As a government independent organization, they never align themselves with a political party but work with everyone, no matter was side of the aisle, that have good ideas and want to try to help end homelessness. I cannot say enough good things about CCH's mission or the people behind it.
I joined the CCH Associate Board last year, and have been consistently impressed with the initiatives and goals of the organization. Advocating from a macro level ensures homelessness remains top of mind for politicians and community members and helps ensure real change can be enacted.
CCH is an incredible organization. From those running it, to the volunteers, and all of the Chicagoans its supports, the people are infallibly amazing. Everyone, and I truly mean everyone, is passionate and supportive of the mission. It's not about egos or recognition - it is all about helping our neighbors in this great city. It's not an experience I have had with all nonprofits, which is, in part, why I will continue to support CCH with my time, efforts, and resources.
Chicago Coalition for the Homeless is a bulldog of an organization that means what it says and does what it means. Their only goal is to prevent and end homelessness forever and every day they take active steps towards making that goal a reality, while protecting and advocating for the rights of the 80,000 Chicagoans experiencing homelessness right now.
As a member of the Associate Board, I've had a lot of opportunities to interact with the compassionate and competent staff of CCH, and seen first hand the good they do. They fight the meaningful and good fights, and make a positive impact in the Chicago community as a whole.
CCH is dedicated to full institutional change. They're not just applying band aids on top of the problem, they're actively working to fix and revitalize the entire system as a whole. This is the type of real change that Chicago and the world needs.
I have been on the Associate Board of CCH for about 6 months, and I am impressed with the coalition's actions. They do not accept any funding from the government, and it gives them the ability to be a voice against governmental action without the fear of losing funding. This is so important, and they use this voice to help other service providers who do not have that flexibility. This is what stands out the most to me, but all the work they do really impacts the homeless in Chicago; it's not just noise, it's action.
As a volunteer development intern last summer, I can confidently say that my experience working at the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless was one of the best and most profound service experiences I've ever had. The passion/drive that each staff member has for the issue at hand is inspiring; everyone on staff is fully committed in the fight to eradicate homelessness in Chicago, no matter the particular role they fill at CCH. I am very grateful for the volunteer opportunity I had at CCH and look forward to seeing what great things this wonderful organization can accomplish in the future.
I have been connected with CCH as an Associate Board member for 1.5 years and joining this organization is one of the best decisions I have ever made. Everyone from staff to volunteers are incredibly dedicated to helping the homeless population in the Chicagoland area. The goal of this organization is to create long-lasting change in the city (and beyond) to help individuals experiencing homelessness improve their situation and find housing/living-stability. I was drawn to CCH because I believe in their mission, their compassion and believe that everyone involved in the organization wants to advocate for opportunities that could change the life trajectory of people that belong to one of the most vulnerable populations in our nation.
I've volunteered for CCH's Associate Board for the past 3 years. Their staff is a well-oiled machine - hardworking, resourceful, professional and committed to fighting homelessness in Chicago. Through activities like advocating for the rights of the homeless, providing legal aid to the homeless, and making sure homeless kids have access to education, they make a positive impact on the lives of homeless people in and around Chicago. It's a privilege to be able to help fundraise for their important work!
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I first learned about the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless when my company was looking for a way to give back to the community. I work for a local apartment advertising website, so CCH's mission to end homelessness in Chicago dovetailed nicely with what our company does. Since then, I've become involved in the Associate Board, a group of volunteers who fundraises for CCH.
Their staff is a well-oiled machine - hardworking, resourceful, professional and committed to their cause. CCH's team is great at motivating volunteers to help in carrying out its mission. This organization has much to be proud of!
I joined CCH associate board almost a year ago and am highly impressed with non profit organization who does great job advocating for policies and laws that impact people experiencing homelessness. I love the energy that the associate board brings and how everyone is passionate about making a change.
I volunteered at the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless this past summer. Everyone there was very nice to work with. It was great to meet the leaders and learn about all of the work they do.
CCH does very important work advocating for policies and laws that will help alleviate the problem of homelessness, and they do a good job keeping the associate board up to date with what the organization is working on. It's been a great experience helping support such a great NFP through volunteering on the associate board.
Chicago Coalition for the Homeless has a top notch staff that tirelessly advocates for the rights of people who are Homeless. They are exceptionally efficient and effective. I am proud to support such a vital organization!
I've loved being a part of CCH by volunteering on the Associate Board. The people are top-notch, and there are lots of hands-on opportunities to make a difference by raising money for a worthy cause. If anyone's looking for a nonprofit to get involved with or donate to - look no further than CCH!
I've been a part of CCH for the past 3 years and couldn't be more impressed with their dedication to an amazing cause that affects all areas of life. Each year I've been involved with CCH has deepened my commitment to CCH and has inspired me to brainstorm ways to continue moving close to ending homelessness. Love this group!
An amazing organization focused on the rights of those who are homeless as well as legislation that better helps those who are homeless.
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I've been on the associated board since earlier this year, and want to commend them on what a terrific job they've been doing. So much of the issues that those who are homeless face are challenges with bureaucracies and the logistical legal issues that arise from not having a place of resident. CCH really helps address the core of some of these problems, focusing on legal help and advocacy for those who need it most and are often left behind.
Interning with CCH was rewarding and I learned so much. I was exposed to dedicated and passionate individuals who advocate for and with individuals experiencing homelessness. Through all the work that CCH does, the leaders from the community are always involved and included with the work they do. A mission-driven organization, it was such a great atmosphere to learn and grow.
I am an intern this year with the Coalition and have been extremely impressed by the work that they do! It is very unique to see so many departments working collaboratively to create social change and to advocate for and with people experiencing homelessness. The staff are dedicated to their work and it is clear that leaders from the community are involved every step of the way! It is an awesome organization!
I interned with CCH and saw the impactful work they do firsthand. I saw their collaborative approach lead to the passage of 4 bills in a span of 10 months that will directly impact families and individuals experiencing homelessness. It’s an amazing organization that has been doing great work to end homelessness in Chicago from its very beginnings.
I joined the Associate Board for the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless earlier this year and have been extremely impressed with the organization and its mission. Their focus on making systemic changes that benefit the homeless population is effective and strategic. The team is well-run and passionate about what they do, and their dedication is impressive. Helping CCH gives me a way to make a real impact in my community and for my neighbors.
CCH does a particularly impressive job of involving a wide range of demographics in the organization's events and social justice initiatives. CCH has led the charge on policy changes at a local and state level to the benefit of people across Illinois. The core staff I have met are knowledgeable and the associates board members are committed to the issues. CCH will put your support to excellent use within our communities.
CCH works tirelessly to make sure ending homelessness remains a priority in the city of Chicago. I have had the pleasure of serving as an Associate Board member since 2016 and look forward to many more years of service.
I have been on the Associate Board of CCH for the past 6 months, and I am consistently inspired by this organization's work. Their advocacy work has made real impacts on the lives of people experiencing homelessness. Since I've been involved, CCH has advocated for people to have fee-free access to birth records, expanded access to counseling services, and fought for students experiencing hunger to have access to assistance. The legal team has worked to defend people being treated unfairly or expelled from where they reside in the city. CCH is affecting real change to improve lives in Chicago, and they have earned their reputation as a great nonprofit.
I've been involved with this organization for two years, and have been incredibly impressed by all of the great advocacy/policy that they do.
My first year volunteering with this organization and I had an awesome time. Michael is very motivating and supportive with not only the organization but with the volunteers making sure the event is a success and you enjoy yourself while you're helping the cause. This is an event I will look forward to every year.
I volunteered to be a charity bartender for their Halloween event. Fundraising has been remarkable bc they already have such a good reputation as an organization that goes above and beyond for the less fortunate in Chicago. It's been an honor to support them in this campaign.
I love being a part of the amazing organization. I don't think I have ever meet a group that is more passionate and dedicated to a cause like these good people are. The are relentless in their efforts to fight for the rights of people that society has otherwise turned their backs on.
And besides the good work they do, volunteering for the group is just a blast! This I always look forward to the Cheers for Change - a great way to raise money while getting the chance to pretend I am a bartender again! :)
Thank you for all that you do!
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I recently joined the associate board for this organization because I was so impressed by the passion that the organization has for ending homelessness. They are truly dedicated to helping those who have lost their voice, or had no voice to begin with. Plus they are all great people to hang around. The events those host are fun and engaging, and they come up with lots of innovative and fun ways to increase awareness as well as raise money!
I'm actually an intern here, to be clear; however, working here has been incredibly fulfilling even in this first month. They actively engage with building policy and work together in an un-siloed environment very well in order to further push their cause of ending homelessness in Chicago and nationwide. It's been educational and very powerful, working with them!
I am a high school teacher and have been hosting speakers from CCH for close to 10 years. Their Speakers Bureau is excellent. My students gain a better understanding about what it means to be unstably housed. The speakers also do a great job of putting a face and story to the issue, which is so important for the students, because they often have misperceptions about what it means to be poor.
Through my experience on the CCH Associate Board over the past few years, I've had an up-close view of a well-run organization working hard for an incredible mission, pursuing justice and rights for men and women who are homeless. I'm proud to be a part of this exceptional nonprofit.
Chicago Coalition for the Homeless (CCH) is a truly incredible nonprofit. I have been on the Associate Board for about 3 years now, and through my involvement in fundraising events I have had the opportunity to meet a lot of great people and learn about the organization. Through advocacy, CCH fights to give a voice to a people whose challenges to simply survive make it difficult to speak for themselves. That's a pretty special, rare thing.
I’m selective in how I spend my time and money and I’ve found that CCH is a wonderful investment for both. CCH recognizes that homelessness is a complex issue and takes a systemic approach to addressing it—something that is much needed. The staff is passionate, committed, and thoughtful. The organization is very interested in working with others—those they’re trying to help, lawmakers, others focused on the issue of homelessness, as well as their donors—to make lasting change happen. CCH is an outstanding organization I’m proud to support.
I recently became more involved with Chicago Coalition for the Homeless Associate Boad as a way to give back to my community. Their advocacy and organization work is impactful and my volunteer experience has been very positive. The staff is dedicated to the mission and finding innovative ways to advance their efforts.
CCH is a great organization that helps provide a voice in Chicago for people who wouldn't have a way to exercise their voice. By combining policy, law and community organizing, CCH has a unique blend of services that give power to the people most impacted by political change while also providing well researched and fiscally sound policy advice. CCH does a great job of listening to the homeless members of our community, helping them find their voice and empowering them to fight for positive change in Chicago and throughout Illinois.
As an associate board member of this organization, I am proud to be a part of such a unique and fortright organization. They are unafraid to take a stand against injustice, and are an active and positive part of the City of Chicago. They are entirely privately funded, and are not beholden to government funders, yet they help assist many homeless service nonprofits that are, and aren't afraid to do advocacy that is needed.
Chicago Coalition for the Homeless is an amazing organization. I have been so honored to be a part of the army of volunteers, board members and supporters helping to end homelessness in our city.
CCH is a great organization to be involved with. They are very passionate about what they do and organized in doing it. The work that they are doing in the community is fantastic and essential. I volunteered with the organization to run the Ravenswood 5k to assist in raising money. They helped me out every step of the way and I was able to feel like part of their team from the beginning. I would recommend getting involved with this organization any way that you can. Their work is truly making a difference and their team is made up of great individuals who are fully committed to the cause,
I am on the Associate Board and I am EXTREMELY impressed with this organization. Everyone is so dedicated to the work they do. They are making a tremendous impact on Chicago, and creating meaningful change for so many individuals.
I randomly found Chicago Coalition for the Homeless when looking for some volunteer opportunities. Boy was I lucky. The dedication of the Coalition's staff and volunteers is amazing. The people sincerely care about the people they help and the fundamental problems with homelessness. I have been to many events where those individuals who have been helped by the Coalition share their stories. It is touching and rewarding knowing that I have worked with an organization that helps so many. Plus, added benefit, many of the fundraising events are fun and full of all sorts of people who want to help.
I wholeheartedly believe in the mission of Chicago Coalition for the Homeless (CCH) and I've volunteered and been a member of the Associate Board for 3 years and counting. CCH has a stellar track record for Advocacy, Fundraising, Organizing and providing resources for the Homeless. I encourage you to get involved!
CCH is an amazing organization that really works to help people in a variety of ways. As a teacher, I have had speakers from CCH come out to speak with my students many times over the years. CCH works to empower people who are or have been homeless to be able to find safe and affordable housing and to share their unique story so that together we can all work towards a society with decent housing for all. My students are able to develop true empathy and understanding of issues surrounding homelessness because of this terrific organization. I am grateful for all that they do for so many!
Decided to volunteer for the CCH Halloween event in memory of my late uncle Dennis who was homeless for many years. The organization has been very supportive and helpful in my small effort to give a greater voice to a truly worthy cause.
I'm a recent volunteer for the annual Halloween fundraiser and have been blown away by this organization. They provide constant updates and do great things for the community.
I joined the CCH Associate Board at the beginning of this year because the CCH mission to end homelessness is something I care deeply about. As I continue to support this work, I am constantly impressed with the passion and focus CCH staff and volunteers bring to the table. I am proud to be part of this organization and look forward to seeing the great work CCH will continue to take on in the future!
I have been involved with CCH as an Associate Board member for a little over two years. I love this organization because it seeks to END homelessness - with long term goals and strategies as opposed to short term. Advocacy through CCH serves as a voice for a population of citizens in our city who might otherwise be voiceless.
CCH does such important work to help the homeless people of Chicago. They advocate for the rights of the homeless - whether that means lobbying for laws that would improve their quality of life, or lobbying against ones that would diminish the quality of their lives. They help make sure homeless children are not denied education, too, and they do this all without accepting any donations that would tie their hands from always doing what is right for the lives of Chicago's homeless.
I was so happy to have the opportunity to intern at CCH over the summer. It is an amazing and organized not-for-profit that benefits so many people in need in the Chicago area. Through the organization, I gained a better understanding of the issue of homelessness and how critical of a role CCH plays in advocating for the needs of the homeless. I am grateful to CCH for providing me with insights into the issue as well as an idea of how an organization is run effectively. The staff and volunteers are all so friendly and committed to the cause. They balance the different facets from fundraising to advocating for public policies very well. I am so impressed with the CCH team and am honored that I got to be a part of it!
CCH has helped me gain a better understanding of homelessness and the importance of advocacy. Working there as an intern has helped shape me as a social justice advocate and as a person in general.
I have been a donor to Chicago Coalition for the Homeless for many years. However, recently, after a screening that they sponsored of the film The Homestretch, I decided that I wanted to be active in their fund-raising as a way to better support the work that they do. They are doing such important work in Chicago for youth who are homeless and the need is beyond comprehension. They are truly an important Chicago non-profit.
CCH is a wonderful and well run organization. I have watched them do some remarkable things in their quest to end homelessness and advocate for homeless rights. They are great at organizing people and aligned organizations to take action to fulfill their mission. The staff is all committed and passionate which is why they have been able to accomplish so much.
http://greatnonprofits.org/reviews/write/chicago-coalition-for-the-homeless#
I have long been a supporter of Chicago Coalition for the Homeless. I have seen the effects and successes CCH has brought about in working tirelessly for those who have great needs. Because of
their dedicated work, it is rewarding to contribute time and money to support CCH since I know how
effectively they spend the money.
Mary Plunkett
I was blessed to work with the Coalition this past summer. They do profound work advocating for homeless rights. They match with advocacy with outreach services to truly serve the whole community. What a welcoming and inspiring organization!
I have never had the privilege of being a part of such an amazing organization, and team. It isn't just the significance of CCH's mission, but the creative and courageous way that the organization achieves real and tangible results that make a difference. CCH is run with strong leadership, that assures the responsible management of all of its resources, human, as well as financial. CCH is a truly blessed group that continues to grow in size, strength and impact. I can't wait to see what the future brings!!!
I have been volunteering with CCH for 10 years and I have always found it to be a wonderful nonprofit. Their advocacy work is vital to protecting homeless and at risk people in Chicago and Illinois. Their staff are great to work with and I am always glad to help the organization. I would recommend helping this group to anyone who wants to work towards lasting solutions to urban homelessness.
The Chicago Coalition for the Homeless is a fantastic organization. They are genuinely passionate about raising awareness for a cause that affects so many. I got involved by raising money through their guest bartending program which is a clever and fun way to get people involved in donating to a worthy cause. I would highly recommend getting involved in any way that you can. I cannot imagine not having a warm bed on our cold winter nights.
My experience at the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless has been extremely fulfilling. In addition to the skills and knowledge I've acquired while tending to organizing needs, I've gained a more thorough understanding of the political and activist process. This will be infinitely helpful in future endeavors that require organizing principles.
Without the time I've spent learning the ropes at CCH, I wouldn't be nearly as prepared for professional positions as I am now.
I first got involved with Chicago Coalition for the Homeless as a Policy Intern in the fall of 2012. They are doing such incredible work to fight with people who are homeless for their rights. The people who work there are great, and the work they do in their community organizing, policy, and law departments is so effective that I decided to stay involved by joining their Associate Board. It is a great organization, worthy of your time and money!
I chose to do my internship with CCH because I want to be a change agent for Homelessness. I believe change agents assists in altering the capabilities of human beings and organizations. I am only interested in positive changes that will improve the lives of individuals. My life experiences (being literally homeless for ten years) has given me insight and understanding of what it feels like to be on the receiving end of services and good counsel of social workers. I believe that the coupling of my experience, passion, academic knowledge and tools of social work are a perfect blend for becoming an intern and team member at the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless. I believe that my involvement in CCH will teach and mold me into the agitator I was meant to be, help me reach my goals of becoming a good advocate for marginalized communities, and become an excellent policy maker.
Chicago Coalition for the Homeless. Believe me I have made the right decision in joining CCH!
The Chicago Coalition for the Homeless was established in 1980. The mission statement is,
“We organize and advocate to prevent and end homelessness, because we believe housing is a human right in a just society.”
There are three main programs/campaigns:
COMMUNITY ORGANIZING ADVOCACY & PUBLIC POLICY LAW PROJECT
Outreach Programs Sweet Home Chicago Legal Aid
Speakers Bureau No Youth Alone Resources for youth
Women’s Empowerment Budget Advocacy Resources for Students
Reentry Project Prostitution Alternatives College Scholarships
Jobs Project Round Table & SAGE Healthcare enrollment
Horizons Creative Writing Plan to end Homelessness in Chicago
Writing Outreach
The Community Organizing Department has many branches of organizing. The outreach program endeavors to provide outreach at over 30 facilities, with four field organizers, Dollie Brewer, Rachel Ramirez, Wayne Richards, and Dasia Skinner leading the way. The different branches of Community Organizing are, Outreach program, Speakers Bureau, Women’s Empowerment Project, Reentry Project, Job s Project, and the Horizons Creative Writing Outreach. CCH has a statewide program headed by Jim Picchetti which organizes service providers in nine suburbs. The Community Organizing department of CCH also operates a Speakers Bureau, which goes out in the community to talk at churches, schools, and civic organizations, about homelessness and their experiences while homeless. CCH has a mobile legal aide clinic run by Beth Cunningham, which goes out in neighborhoods to serve unaccompanied youth. CCH effectively offers information that lets parents know about the rights that their homeless children have, dealing with the Chicago Public Schools. Their outreach allows parents, families, and children become involved in the campaign to end homelessness and advocacy.
The Advocacy and Public Policy department includes the Sweet Home Chicago Campaign, No Youth Alone, Budget Advocacy, Prostitution Alternatives Round Table (P.A.R.T), SAGE, and the Plan to End Homelessness in Chicago. The Sweet Home Chicago campaign works with the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), and nine other community organizations including Jane Addams Senior Caucus, Community Renewal Society, Albany Park Neighborhood Council, CCH, Bickerdike Redevelopment, Kenwood Oakland Community Organization (KOCO) and Action NOW works towards affordable housing, more SRO’s, making TIF funds available in low income neighborhoods to rehab apartment buildings and restoring vacant property.
The Advocacy and Public Policy department has the No Youth Alone program. This program advocates for unaccompanied children. An unaccompanied youth is a youth living without a family or guardian. A state wide youth committee was organized in 1983, which helps the No Youth Alone program work towards programs and policies that will help unaccompanied youth.
The CCH Law Project helps homeless youth and children. Over 250 children and youth are helped a year by four lawyers. These lawyers represent youth in Chicago, Suburbs, and downstate Illinois. In 2014 the Law Project closed over 298 cases. The law project works with the CCH community organizers by doing outreach at shelters.
Some significant victories of CCH are the enactment of the Illinois Homeless Bill of Rights. This bill of rights provides information about the legal rights of homeless individuals and how they are protected by this bill of rights. It makes it illegal to discriminate based on a person’s housing status. In the spring of 2014 with help from the media, community and legal pressure, CCH was able to stop the closure of two cubicle hotels that the city of Chicago was trying to close. Through CCH advocacy in Springfield over the past few years, SAGE (Survivor Advocacy Group Empowered) working with End Demand Illinois has developed support for new legislature that will end felony charges for prostitution in Illinois. They had already worked to pass three laws over the past three years that focused on traffickers and customers, but also had restorative step for the females who are prostituted and often homeless.
CCH continues to advocate in Springfield and with state legislators to maintain state funding for shelters, and homeless prevention grants, and homeless youth funding.
Current campaigns of the Community Organizing Department are the Reentry Pilot which is designed by CCH, CHA, the Safer Foundation and former incarcerated men and women. This pilot can improve how CHA addresses and helps house ex-offenders. Another campaign CCH is currently involved in is Homestretch. After the screening of a documentary entitled ‘Homestretch” about the lives of three unaccompanied youth in Chicago, CCH launched a campaign to raise $59,112 for work with homeless youth. 59,112 is the number of students identified as homeless by Illinois public schools last year. A continuing campaign is the college scholarship program. CCH awards renewable scholarships to seniors who have been homeless, a client of the law project, or a youth leader for CCH
I've been volunteering with the Coalition for almost 2 years and really value all of the great relationships I've made over that time. The Coalition is really skilled at bringing people together to fight homelessness and have great skill empowering people without homes to speak and fight for themselves. CCH has a long list of significant accomplishments in getting policies through on affordable housing, reentry, services for homeless youth, and preserving/increasing state budgets. It is a great group of people with a real positive attitude to the work they do. Go CCH!
Chicago Coalition is a great, well-run organization with a lot of passionate people. They consistently organized a lot of great events to help the homeless. All the staff and volunteers are committed to the cause and go above and beyond. Highly recommend for anyone looking for an organization to donate to or to volunteer at!
I've been to several events hosted by CCH. A great group of people with common purpose: to provide resources and social mobility for the homeless in Chicago and a common belief that housing is a human right. From Cheers for Change as an effective fundraiser to their awesome college scholarships programs, CCH is the flagship 501c3 if you share their belief that ending homelessness is a critical goal for the Chicago community. I do and that's why I support and will continue to support.
I recently had the opportunity to volunteer at a CCH Cheers for Change event, and I was blown away by the organization's ability to attract such a dedicated crowd of people who were all committed to serving an, unfortunately, oft forgotten population. CCH is a truly phenomenal organization that is steadfast in its goal to end extreme poverty for the hardest hit Chicagoans, and through their continued efforts I have no doubt that they will achieve this.
I was involved with CCH almost 20 years before becoming a Board member. The work the Coalition does truly makes a difference in the lives of homeless people and has ensured that no homeless person is invisible. I know this well because I was homeless in my youth.
CCH is an amazing organization that on the one hand is an incredible resource and support to folks who are suffering from the crushing social issue of homelessness, but is also at the forefront of creating policy changes to ensure that the basic human right of housing is available to all. The staff is an extremely dedicated and caring group of individuals. I am proud to be a board member.
Chicago Coalition for the Homeless is a wonderful organization that is actively working to improve people's lives. They attack their mission of ending homelessness in our city with zeal, efficiency, and class. I recommend to anyone living in the city of Chicago who cares about the plight of its homeless citizens to get involved in this great organization.
The Chicago Coalition for the Homeless is an amazing organization that makes peoples' lives better. The Coalition's three-pronged approach to ending homelessness--lobbying, community organizing, and providing legal services--combats the problem broadly and on many simultaneous fronts. As a result, the Coalition has accomplished--and will continue to accomplish-- great things.
The work of the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless touches more than the individuals sleeping on the streets or in shelters but also the staff and volunteers from various organizations who work everyday to put an end to the cycle of homelessness. Through their advocacy and strategic media efforts CCH is informing the Chicago community about the daily hardship, challenges and injustices that these homeless individuals and families face. I am proud to be a board member and supporter.
CCH is a voice and vehicle to end homeless in our city. My time with the organization has made me a better and more compassionate advocate.
10years ago,I meet a organizer from cch , she invited me out with her to see what they were doing,
I was so impressed about the campaign, that I began to take their leadership and organizing so
that I could be of help to her, the bill got passed and I was hooked,I began to tell people about my
first experience in changing laws ,rallying and being a voice for those who could not get help for
themselves,resulting in more people becoming involved with one mission in mind to one day
put and end to homelessness, I have seen them have many sucess stories in their fight for the
homeless and their rights, I will always support them
The CCH is an outstanding organization. I have been honored to be at number of events where their work has supported young people in need to get an education and graduate. As just one aspect of their work, their legal aid program serves more than 200 homeless clients a year-many of them homeless students in need of support. The CCH does not accept government funding to preserve their independent voice so I gladly support their work and encourage other to do the same.
I have volunteered and attended several CCH fundraising events. The events appear to be a great method to raise money for the organizations charity efforts. The volunteering event was enjoyable as well as the other events I have attended.
Chicago Coalition for the Homeless is a wonderful organization. As a board member, I am constantly impressed by the sophistication and enthusiasm of the staff and by the many ways that CCH makes a true impact on the homeless population of Illinois. The organization is efficient, well-run and inspiring.
I came to learn of the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless about 10 years ago, and my involvement with the Coalition has been escalating since. The more I know about the mission and work of the Coalition, the more I like, and what began as attendance at a few events and various small contributions grew into larger contributions, an invitation to join the board and an immense respect for the work done by this amazing organization (on a relatively modest budget). The staff is incredibly competent and both appreciative of and responsible with the funds the Coalition receives. (The Coalition receives no government money so as to be able to fight all fights that need to be fought without conflicts of interest.) Much of my time, energy and money goes to the Coalition, and I only regret that I do not have more of each to give.
CCH's mission is to end homelessness is Chicago. The staff has a relentless enthusiasm to improve the lives of so many people, men, women and children alike. The organization is well run and fiscally responsible.
Chicago Coalition for the Homeless is, by far, one of most exceptional organizations I have ever had the honor to be affiliated with. Through the partnership of a very dedicated/qualified staff and a committed board of directors, Chicago Coalition for the Homeless is able to work daily advocating and winning victories on the issues of homelessness from City Hall to the state Capitol.
It is awesome to be able to work for a charity and see noticeable, measurable results regarding the charity's impact on the community. I LOVE that they keep us posted on what they are doing within the community. It makes me feel like my contribution, no matter how great or small matters on a bigger level.
This organization has impacted my life in a forever way. They are making changes at the root of the problem instead of simply providing a band-aide, even though they do that too because they love and care. I am humbled an honored to serve for such a noteworthy and remarkable organization, fighting daily for humanity.
They go where few care to go. CCH brings dignity to the lives that others ignore. They deserve support and a high ranking.
Seeing the way the coalition for the homeless brings the community together in an effort to help others less fortunate is inspirational. I am proud to have had the opportunity to work with such a meaningful organization.
My experience with CCH is all about helping put on fundraisers and events. Something I love to do. I was pulled in by my neighbor 5 years ago and haven't even thought of stopping or saying no.
CCH gives people an opening to help. People need it these days and the thoughtful, caring and always encouraging way the team makes it possible is THUMBS UP.
Helping them raise money is easy and super fun. What they do for people in the city of Chicago is amazing.
They are truly a grass roots group; no government funding. They advocate for policies that help the homeless. Everyone with whom I've come in contact at CCH is dedicated to their mission to help bring an end to homelessness. It's a joy to work with the CCH staff!
What I see at CCH is a collection of people who genuinely care about empowering others to change their lives. Who want to tackle social issues at root cause locations and not look for temporary solutions. Who have had their lives changed by this organization and want to take what they've been given and pass it on to others. It's my privilege to work with and help shape the mission of this organization.
I am proud to say I have served on the Board of the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless for the past 9 years. I got started with the organization when I was looking for a way to help the homeless in Chicago. I can't think of a better organization to do that work than CCH. They are the only organization in Chicago that works to make systemic change to eliminate homelessness altogether. Their staff is incredibly dedicated, committed and passionate, and accomplishes a huge amount with little resources. A very efficient and well run organization!
CCH is a great organization dedicated to helping the homeless. I have attended many of their events and their mission is always clear and driven by passion and integrity.
I have been involved with the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless since 2004. it is an organization with a great mission to end homelessness. I became involved because a friend who was on their board asked me to help their staff out with the loss of their founder and long time Executive Director. At that meeting I met a staff of professionals who were passionate, dedicated and caring. That experience lead to my being asked to join the Board and I have been there ever since.
To me, it is a "no-brainer". End homelessness, work with people dedicated to helping end it and in the meantime, provide support and hope. Finally, the organization is run very efficiently and effectively. How can you not support this effort and organization?
I've been on the board for a little over a year now, and even though I knew it was going to be an incredible way of helping people who are in depserate need of love and protection, there was no way I could've been prepared for the level of raw passion and talent that I am surrounded with inside of the organization. I am honored, and blessed, to be a part of a team that gives me so much, by giving of themselves for other, so purely.
I am one of the membership co-chairs for Chicago Coalition for the Homeless' associate board. We help CCH raise funds and spread the word about their great work by organizing fun events throughout the year. It is truly a blast raising money for them.
My introduction to CCH was through my graduate school internship there. I loved working with such great people striving to improve lives, and I began loving policy advocacy, which I continue to do today, while I was an intern. Solving problems by addressing the root cause, which CCH does, and breaking down stereotypes about people's life situations is the best way to make a large, sustainable impact.
I've been a donor & volunteer with CCH for years. The important work they are doing to help end homelessness is visible in Chicago. Every board member, volunteer and staff member I've interacted with are tireless workers for the cause. I've been helping out with the Cheers For Change campaign. So many new folks have become empowered to become part of the solution to homelessness in Chicago. They are by far the best run nonprofit I've had the privelege to work with.
The Chicago Coalition for the Homeless (CCH) is a great nonprofit. The organization isn't just the immediate board and staff, but also includes the volunteers that make the meaningful and successful fundraising efforts and the donors who care about the tangible change that CCH makes in Chicago through advocacy, ambassadorship, political activism, and direct assistance. CCH organizes and advocates to prevent and end homelessness.
I was introduced to this wonderful organization when I first met my wife. She has been active with CCH for a few years and she finally was able to get me involved. About a month ago I guest bartended at the OWL in Logan Square for a fund raising event - it was a blast (although a bit nerve wracking as I had never bartended before in my life). I'm excited in continuing my involvement with CCH into the future.
I've been apart of the Coalition since 2009 and I participate in as many events as I can! They work hard to end homelessness and its such an important topic, I feel the need to stay active in volunteering and fundraising.
Chicago Coalition for the Homesless provides more resources for the homeless in Chicago than I ever would have expected from one organization. I was suprised I'd never heard of them before this year, as I've resided here my whole life - and they've accomplished so much already.
Chicago Coalition for the Homeless is one of the most active and reliably successful organizations advocating for basic human rights and equality in Chicago. Their approach of providing direct advocacy, community organizing, and pushing for vital changes in the law makes them especially powerful in advocating for the homeless.
I have had the pleasure of participation in there activism and awareness projects. They actually sponsor events that has multiple benefits including enriching homeless youth's lives. Way to go!
See their video. They sent some of these young people to Springfield to talk with appropriation members.
http: bit.ly/ypeIVJ
I have been working with Hannah Willage and the CCH Speakers Bureau for several years. As a staff person for the Civic Education Project at Northwestern University, I help coordinate service-learning, urban immersion programs ranging from one to three weeks long for students in grades 7 through 12; we have partnered with CCH to provide our students the opportunity to hear and become inspired by the personal stories and the many perspectives of the speakers involved in the program. Time and time again, our students have written about how the speakers deeply impacted their understanding of homelessness and humanity. The experience has proven to be very significant to their motivation to make a change in the world.
I have served on the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless Associate Board for the past couple of years. The Associate Board works to raise money for CCH and supports CCH as a source of volunteers for larger events. The most impressive aspect of my experience with CCH is the dedication of its staff and volunteers to the organization and their continued willingness to give up their time and effort to fight for the cause. In a way any supporter of CCH has it easy since fighting homelessness is not a controversial stance but like everything in life there is another side to the equation. The other side of the equation is that the problem is so enormous that it can be overwhelming, especially when there are strong political and economic forces working against you. In my time working with CCH, the continued resolve in the face of adversity and the consistent results that are produced by this organization have been truly inspiring.
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I work with the Coalition as part of the Associate Board. I never fail to be impressed and amazed with all the different things the coalition does and how dedicated everyone is to the cause. CCH doesn't take government funding and channels every penny that comes in towards fighting for an end to homelessness.
I had the pleasure of working for Chicago Coalition for the Homeless while in graduate school. The passion of the staff for their work alongside of and on behalf of the homeless people of Chicago is inspiring. They focus on creative and policy solutions to the problems affecting individuals facing a barrier of multitudes to housing, employment and self sufficiency. As I begin my career in the nonprofit sector I am constantly looking to CCH as a model organization.
I am a student at Loyola University Chicago, and I first learned of the Coalition as a first year student when they sent two formerly homeless individuals to speak during an Urban Immersion retreat I was attending. I was deeply struck by the stories of these individuals. I heard similar stories during my third year at Loyola at a campus speakers' bureau sponsored by the Coalition, and that event drove me to join the Loyola Coalition for the Homeless as a student activist. We work directly with the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless as a sort of student branch, and the Coalition has given us training in community organizing and encourages our efforts to attend City Council meetings, call and meet with local aldermen, and visit shelters to collect letters of support for the Sweet Home Chicago measure. I have learned so much about political activism and getting involved in democracy. I have also had an incredible experience meeting formerly and currently homeless individuals. Employees of the Coalition have been nothing short of generous and kind to me and other students.
I learned a great deal about homelessness from CCH. My preception on the issue of homelessness are completey different. What they do for their communities is very inspirational and brings joy to the lives of many people. I enjoy volunteering at CCH because I learn new things every time. The people that work for this organization are dedicated 100% to their work and it encourages me to become more involved.
The CCH is a special program because it is an agency that unbuttons its sleeves, gets its hands dirty, and does whatever it takes to effect the perniciousness of homelessness. CCH is a program that also directly involves the voices and experiences of those affected by homelessness and the lack of affordable housing to actually DO something to effect change. CCH organizes and does advocacy work in rich and poor communities and uses its resources effectively.
I am a teacher at Tilden High School, and had the opportunity to work with Hannah Willage this February. She and her co-workers did an excellent job working with my students to help them earn service learning hours while they learned about homelessness. Hannah made many trips to our school, where seh presented a well -thought out Power Point presentation, supplied students with handouts of important information, and helped the students write letters for their aldermen. My students particularly enjoyed meeting with former homeless people who came with her as guest speakers. She accompanied us on our field trip to City Hall, even riding in our bus! She worked with a smaller group of students to help them have the chance to meet with the aldermen, as well. Her work, and that of her co-workers, was above and beyond what I expected. It was a pleasure working with her and I plan to do so again in the future.
I am a Chicago Public School teacher and have worked with the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless for the last two years. My sophomore law class at Mather High School have, with the support of Hannah Willage, been able to experience the issues of homlessness and use their knowledge to form activist positions.
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CCH facilitated a Community Organizing Training for a group of our student leaders in January that was both eye-opening, informative, and inspirational. I truly appreciated that a number of their staff shared in the facilitation, bringing with them a diverse wealth of experiences, perspectives, and practical skills. Thank you CCH!
I worked with CCH as a summer intern with Development. I assisted in the development of CCH's first casino night fundraiser, Decks and the City and the Annual Golf Outing. I also witnessed and participated in city campaigns dealing with state tax, education, and development policies that aided the homeless. Many people working at CCH experienced homelessness firsthand in their lives so they were able to provide their insights in order to help.
I LOVE EVERYTHING ABOUT THE CHICAGO COALITION FOR THE HOMELESS. I HAVE BEEN A PART OF THE COALITION FOR THE PAST 3 YEARS AS A VOLUNTEER AND I HAVE NEVER BEEN MORE PROUD TO BE A PART OF A GROUP OF PEOPLE THAT ARE SO AWESOME AND PROUD TO BE WORKING ON THE BEHALF OF HOMELESS PEOPLE.
In my summer at the coalition I saw a community working tirelessly everyday on multiple levels to gain opportunities and help for those in need. While the organization battles homeless on many fronts, everyone unites together as one. The dedication I saw that summer was unmatched to anything I have ever seen. The work they do affects an uncountable number lives, and they are truly making a difference.
I heard about the Coalition through a Speakers Bureau event on my college campus. I checked off a box to be apart of a core group and volunteer because at that night I realized that my cousin and several family members had experienced homelessness and I didn't even know it. I had made it up in my mind that night, that if I could do something to prevent someone from becoming homeless, I would do it whole heartedly. And so, for a year I volunteered at the Coalition and soon after that became an intern. Interning at the Coalition changed my life. I was able to be apart of a movement that not only changed the lives of local Chicagoans but in the end, impact the nation at large. While I was interning, "I thought to myself- "Is this organization real? Am I in reality?" The dynamics of the people and the office are seamless. From the organizers to the directors, to the volunteers - everyone works hard with purpose but remains civil and friendly. If I could work/volunteer for the Coalition more, I would. Without a shadow of a doubt, they are impacting lives and changing the face of homelessness in Chicago.
I was formerly homeless several years ago and thanks to the Coalition, I have a home now. I have worked with the Chicago Coalition for almost 4 years now and they are family to me. The work they do is critical and affects the lives of many through their activism, advocacy, and organizing. I became a Certified Community Organizer through them and have worked on many campaigns doing lobbying, testifying before legislators, speaking before community, religious, and educational groups as well as the press. This organization deserves all the praise and support possible to ensure that their work can continue.
I've volunteered for several events over the past few years. Their staff is compassionate and knowledgeable. They always seem very well organized, punctual and responsible.
I spent a summer as a Development Intern for CCH and worked to plan two of their annual fundraisers. Though I worked mostly with the Development staff, I had the opportunity to meet almost everyone in the office. I found them to be some of the most dedicated and hardworking people I have ever met. They were incredibly positive and determined in the face of the difficult tasks ahead of them, as evidenced by how the entire office rallied together to drum up support when state budget cuts threatened CCH's past year of advocacy work.
I could not have asked for a better organization to work with as a community organizing intern and then as a volunteer. Chicago Coalition for the Homeless does incredible work advocating for the rights of a population that is too often ignored and taken for granted. The individuals that work and volunteer at CCH--in the policy, organizing, and law departments--are incredibly passionate about their work and are sincerely committed to social justice. I've remained in contact with CCH and continue to support their cause in any way possible.
My role as a volunteer for CCH has been assisting the Development department with fund raising. A key fact about CCH is that they ask for and receive NO government funding. I have seen that CCH seeks the involvment of Anyone, on any side of the aisle(s), that has the common goal of addressing and correcting the root causes of Homelessness and Under-Housing. I am currently the secretary for the CCH Associates Board and have been on the board since its inception. In the past, when I attended events and was a donor, i learned a great deal about the vast array of work that CCH does. The Homeless and Under-Housed need assistance from many different approaches. Everyone that i've worked with at CCH and the organizations included in the Coalition certainly strive to end the causes of Under-Housing and Homelessness in any way possible. It continues to be an eye-opening experience to see the work that it takes to make payroll, rent, etc for CCH and continue to fund all of their outreach programs and (when possible) to contribute to the resources of the many other organizations here in Chicago and throughout the state.
The Chicago Coalition for the Homeless truly makes a positive impact in Chicago. Through the tireless efforts of its staff and volunteers, the CCH is able to provide a voice of conscience to the legislators of Illinois in advocating for affordable housing. I have recently joined the Associate Board of the CCH, and am already impressed with the organization's fundraising efforts, its connection to the community, and its ability to educate others on vital issues concerning homelessness. The CCH is not only an advocate for change, it has produced specific results, both on personal and structural levels.
CCH attempts to address the roots causes of homelessness in Chicago through its advocacy, and fundraising, and legal efforts. The CCH has changed made tangible contributions in the lives of those they serve and made affordable housing a realistic goal.
The Chicago Coalition for the Homeless is an organization that is truly making a difference in the fight against poverty. Through organizing, advocating, and fundraising, CCH has changed the lives of many and made fair and affordable housing a matter of conscience.
I have been a volunteer for the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless for over 5 years where I fell in love with the work of the coalition and the mission that keeps them going. Their annual fundraiser, HOPEFEST, is one of the most fun fundraising events I have ever been a part of - and as an event producer, that is saying a lot! I have seen my share. I look forward to volunteering for that event every year and am impressed each year with the dedication and faith that the volunteers and staff, and friends of the coalition give to serving. I am currently serving as President of the Chicago Coalition of the Associate Board, which a group of us are building in order to raise awareness of the coalition and the good work that they are doing amongst the "young professionals' of Chicago. It is an honor to be able to spend my free time in the company of individuals with such a heart for the homeless and acting as the voice of our Chicago neighbors who struggle to find shelter. A HUMAN RIGHT.
I am Treasurer of the Associate's Board of CCH and I have helped out at many different fundraising events the organization has held. I moved to Chicago 3 years ago and reached out to CCH as a volunteer. I quickly befriended Michael Nameche, the Director of Development of CCH, and I became as involved with the organization as I could be. CCH does advocacy work to fight off homelessness in Illinois. They go beyond just helping individuals on a base level. They go to Springfield and push for the necessary legislation to attack the core of the issues leading to homelessness in Illinois.
I clerked with the law department at CCH a few years ago and upon my graduation was eagerly welcomed back to the CCH family as a volunteer. I have worked with both staff and CCH's leaders on a variety of projects and events ranging from casino-style fundrasing events to protests at the Daley Center. It is so refreshing to be around this relatively young group of non-profit professionals because I can see, first-hand, that passion and zeal for community development and general good still exist in the world. I hope to stay connected to CCH both as a volunteer and as a member for years to come.
My experience with CCH has been extremely rewarding. I’ve been a volunteer here for about ten months, helping out with fundraising. I generally assist in organizing fundraising events, usually specializing in one area per event, such as silent auctions, raffles, or drinks. The events have always been successful and hugely entertaining to work at. The people that I’ve met have been the most big-hearted, inspirational, and tireless folks that I’ve ever come across. The work that the coalition does is so important, and I feel honored to be a part of it. Most importantly, I feel like CCH isn’t just spinning its wheels. There are plenty of tangible successes that the organization can point to, most notably the recent inclusion of $130 million for affordable housing in the Illinois capital budget.