Social Networking--the LPCS version

The concept of Social Networking as a means of communication is nothing new to the Lincoln Park Community Shelter. . . but, not necessarily by its 21st century definition. As I reflect on my years of involvement with LPCS, much of our support has come from the “old fashioned” networking of friend to friend, family member to family member, work colleague to work colleague and so on and so on. Through these interactions, hundreds of people have learned about the LPCS’ efforts face-to-face in the way people might share information today via social media such as Facebook, MySpace, LinkedIn and Twitter.

The benefit of this storytelling, be it “live” or electronic, has been immeasurable and it needs to continue. But, we also believe there are even bigger, better and more in-depth stories to tell our supporters and potential supporters. To this end, the Marketing and Communications Committee has developed a comprehensive communications plan that we have started to implement.

Among the highlights of this integrated plan is the refinement of our key messages, revamping of our website (look for our new site in the coming months!) and printed brochure as well as added participation in community events. In addition, if you haven’t noticed, LPCS is on Facebook, MySpace, and LinkedIn. We even have an LPCS group on LinkedIn. We also have an e-newsletter (to sign up to recieve the e-news visit http://www.lpcsonline.org/)

Keeping you well-informed about our activities is very important to us. We would welcome your comments on what and how you see “news” about the LPCS in the time ahead.

--Peg Wander, VP LPCS Board of Directors

Guest and Graduate Photo Show!

The Lincoln Park Community Shelter is fortunate enough to have the support of many other organizations within the Lincoln Park area. One of those organizations is the Chicago Photography Center. The Chicago Photography Center (CPC) is a volunteer driven organization that holds classes that teach people a variety of photography skills. They also have an outreach program which LPCS has been lucky to be a part of. Twice a month, volunteers from CPC take guests out in Chicago and shares their expertise about getting the perfect photo. The photography class is a favorite among our guests with several of them continuing to participate even after they graduate from our program.

Several months ago, CPC decided to give our guests a once in a lifetime opportunity by helping them put on a gallery opening, where our guests are able to display the work they have produced while in the class. For the last three months, LPCS guests and graduates have been editing their photos, mounting them for display, and learning the ins and outs of a gallery opening. This Friday, July 25th, at 6:30pm the Chicago Photography Center will open the Satellite Show featuring their outreach efforts to LPCS and Deborah’s Place, a women’s shelter on north side of Chicago. The exhibit will be on display through the month of August. We encourage you to stop by the Center to see all the hard work and effort our guests have put into their work! The Chicago Photography Center is located at 3301 N. Lincoln Ave. If you have any questions email Suzanne Powers at lpcsinfo@lpcsonline.org.

My enlightening experience at LPCS

My perception of the homeless and homeless shelters has changed dramatically since I started volunteering at LPCS in August. It was kind of a revelation to meet such a wide range of people classified as "homeless." There are history buffs, yoga fanatics -- people with whom I can easily relate. Before stepping into LPCS, I thought shelters looked kind of like POW camps, with dark, vast sleeping areas full of creaky twin beds. I'd never heard of extended-stay shelters, in which guests take a wide range of classes to get their lives back on track.

As a front-desk volunteer, there is a lot of sitting around and talking to guests/employees/cooks. For me, it's a nice way to wind down after a day of work. I've made some good friends during my time at LPCS, and I'm hoping to get more involved as long as my schedule allows it.

-- Emile Dawisha

Chicago Cubs visit LPCS

Cubs closing pitcher, Kevin Gregg serving dinner to LPCS guests.

Last night, guests of the LPCS recieved a special treat: Chicago Cubs closing pitcher Kevin Gregg. Gregg and his wife Nicole, Christina Lee, wife of Cubs first baseman Derrek Lee, and several Cubs staffers served dinner to the guests of LPCS. Gregg stayed after dinner to sign t-shirts that the Cubs provided for all of the guests. A great time was had by all!

LPCS in the Community

Each summer, Chicago neighborhood associations host a variety of street festivals and Lincoln Park has some of the best! Proceeds from most of these festivals go back into the community. The LPCS has been the lucky beneficiary of some of these funds. To thank them for their support, LPCS likes to provide volunteers for the festivals. This summer, LPCS will be helping out at four festivals.

Come help LPCS bring the community together by volunteering for one of these fabulous festivals! LPCS has offered to provide a certain number of volunteers for each of these festivals. We are currently looking for volunteers for:

Sheffield Gard Walk:

Saturday 7/18: 2:00-4:00 (3 volunteers)
Sunday 7/19: 2:00-4:00 (3 volunteers)

The Taste of Lincoln:

Saturday 7/25: 6:30-9:30pm (3 volunteers)

Sunday 7/26: 11:45am-3:30pm (3 volunteers)

New! Lincoln Park Arts & Music Festival:

Saturday 8/8: 6:30-10pm (10 volunteers)

Sunday 8/9: 5:45-9pm (10 volunteers)

If these times don't work for you, there are other shifts available. To sign up for these, or any other shifts, please contact Suzanne Powers at lpcsinfo@lpcsonline.org.