What LPCS means to me...

LPCS is a place where homeless people can feel safe, comfortable and secure. With the compassionate support of their case managers and other staff, they have the opportunity to change their lives around in a dramatic way so they can walk out of here to live in permanent housing, as fully integrated members of society. LPCS acts as a catalyst for change, which is ultimately directed by the guests, who are responsible for making all the important decisions of their lives. LPCS gives people their lives back.
--Murray Manus, LPCS Case Manager

What LPCS means to me...

It means that even in these "most uncertain times" there are still people (places) that have caring, understanding, and concern for those who are in need, and are willing to step up and take action.
--Cheryl Lifschultz, LPCS receptionist

Guests Speak Out

Did you know that each month, LPCS features artwork and poetry from its guests on the website? The website showcases the creative expressions of the individuals here at the Lincoln Park Community Shelter. Guests have submitted art ranging from poetry to drawings, creative-nonfiction to photography. Guests have chosen to share this work with the larger LPCS community as a way of expressing their unique and diverse perspectives. Above is a sample from last month's featured work. To view all of this month's Guests Speak Out work, visit http://www.lpcsonline.org/art.

What LPCS means to me...

To me, LPCS is a place where I can engage with the community. I am privileged to listen to many unique stories, from those of guests and community clients, to the stories of my fellow staff and our volunteers. Each story gives me hope and motivation to overcome the big and small trials that life throws at me.

LPCS also provides me an opportunity to work in a place where I feel like my efforts make a difference: whether it is providing an ear to listen, giving a friendly smile first thing in the morning, or helping someone find employment and housing.
--Abby Lane, Interim Housing Manager

Working with LPCS Volunteers

I think that I am one of the luckiest people I know. I get to go to work every day and know that I am making a difference in someone's life. And on top of that, I get to work with volunteers! LPCS volunteers are some of the most dedicated people I have had the chance to work with. Everyone is so passionate and committed to helping out. In the past few months, we have had more and more people come to us and want to volunteer. They all have different reasons, but many of them have said that they want to volunteer because they feel lucky that they still have thier jobs and want to help out those who have been affected by the bad economy. It has been moving to see the outpouring of support. People may not be able to support us financially, but they are more than willing to spend some of thier time with our guests.

--Heather Reynolds, Volunteer & Community Relations Coordinator

Join us for some fun next week!

Don't forget to join us at our first family-friendly Happy Hour event coming up on Thursday, February 26th at Minnies, from 6:30pm-9:30pm! Minnies is located at 1969 N Halsted St (Halsted and Armitage). Everything is "mini" in proportions at Minnies! Join us for a minature evening of cheeseburgers, pulled pork, and veggie pizzas, and more! Ticket prices are $20 for kids 15 and younger and $30 for everyone else. Ticket price includes food, beer, wine, soda, and fun! Tickets can be purchased at the door. Party-goers will have the chance to win $25 gift cards for Minnie's and the Gap. LPCS will recieve a portion of each ticket sold.

We aren't the only ones who love Minnies! The First Lady brought Sasha and Malia to Minnies shortly before the election--it was even mentioned in People Magazine! For more information on Minnies, take a look at thier website: http://www.minnies.com/obama/

Can't join us at Minnies? Then join us on Tuesday, February 24th at Wendy's in Lincoln Park for a Community Night in support of the LPCS! LPCS will recieve 15% of the profits between 5pm and 8pm. So stop on by, bring your family, and enjoy a Frosty! Wendy's is located at 2312 N. Ashland St.

What does LPCS mean to me?

LPCS means a wonderful opportunity to those in need of re-establishing their lives for the better. Through the support and guidance of the staff at LPCS, individuals are able to better their goals, seek outside professional help, greater their self-esteem, make their future more promising, and build a cohort of peers along the way.

--Emily Klauder, Case Management Intern