Thanks for sharing!

This week, I would like to share links to a couple of interesting things that have come across my desk recently, sent in by volunteers.

Here is a shocking story about H&M and Wal-Mart stores destroying brand-new merchandise, rather than donating it: http://shine.yahoo.com/channel/beauty/h-m-and-wal-mart-destroy-and-trash-unsold-goods-562909/

Are you an LPCS volunteer?  Have you ever wondered where you fit in with other Americans who volunteer?  Check out this fun, interactive graph: http://www.good.is/post/transparency-where-we-volunteer/

Have you seen any interesting article you'd like to share?  Please send them to me at hreynolds@lpcsonline.org.

Happy Anniversary!!

Twenty-five years ago today, the Lincoln Park Community Shelter opened its doors to our homeless neighbors.  Check http://www.lpcsonline.org/ for upcoming events and celebrations!  As part of the celebration, LPCS is very excited to unveil our new logo!  Let us know what you think!

Update on Ryan

In the last issue of Transisitons, LPCS' print newsletter, we spotlighted a guest names Ryan.  Since we printed that article, Ryan has since moved out.  He recently sent an email updating the staff on how things were going.  Here is what he had to say:

"I want you to know I greatly appreciated the opportunity at LPCS. I thank all the volunteers and their efforts. Especially those who helped me prepare my resume. I thank [the staff] and the board members who make this possible for those who struggle in this time of need. I know, nobody was harder on myself than me...Through this experience I learned alot about myself and life. I value this experience and I hope you all reach the success that you strive for in each and every individual you bring there!
I am doing very well, I am an office manager in a doctors office. I left Illinois Masonic Medical Center after they did cutbacks, but because I did a good job as a volunteer, being hired as an employee, my manager referred me to a couple of doctors who were looking for an office manager, and I landed [my current] job. There is hope for everyone. I will be the first to say, I had alot of doubts, but it all worked out...I thank you again!"

Save the Date!

Save the date for this year’s fantastic party! Lincoln Park Community Shelter 25th Anniversary Metamorphosis Party will be held on Friday, April 23rd at the Saddle and Cycle Club from 7pm to midnight. Last year nearly 200 people gathered to support the LPCS on a beautiful June evening, enjoyed fabulous food, drink, and music, and raised more than $70,000 to support our programs! This year promises to be another great event featuring live and silent auctions, food, music, and more! So mark your calendars and come out and support LPCS, celebrating 25 years in the community!  For more information visit: http://www.lpcsonline.org/metamorphosis-party. 

A different kind of resolution

For many, this is the time of year that people stop and take a look at their lives and assess any changes that need to be made, and resolve to make those changes. For the guests at LPCS, this is a daily process. The 35 guests who stay here are all working towards something, for some it's overcoming small challenges like putting together a resume, for others, it's staying sober.

Make it your New Year's resolution to make the difference in the life of someone who's homeless. Start with something as simple as greeting the homeless individual on the corner--most of the time people who are homeless feel invisible.  Education and helping to inform others about the truths and realities of the homeless situation in Chicago is a first, but essential, step in change.  This could include reading up on statistics, finding out what agencies near you are doing to combat homelessness, sending out an email to someone to share your new-found knowledge, etc. If you are able to do something more, consider volunteering or donating to your local shelter.

Like you, many of the guests at LPCS are interested in making change in their lives, including losing weight, getting more organized, and figuring out their finances. One guest, when asked, responded that his New Year's resolution is "to obtain permanent housing, to persevere until this goal is obtained."  Others responded "to quit smoking and workout more."  Help guests make progress on these goals by teaching a class or leading an activity on one of these topics. Or, get to know a few of the guests personally through staying overnight—an opportunity for one on one chats!

Have a happy and safe new year!

Community helps LPCS during the holidays

LPCS would like to thank everyone who has donated a variety of needed items this winter, from hats and gloves to coats and boots, and more. Especially during this tough economy, these gifts are greatly appreciated.

If you would like to make a donation, please call ahead to arrange drop-off. To see what items are needed, take a look at our Wish List.

Happy Holidays!

Taproot Foundation helping Chicago-area non-profits

Earlier in the year, LPCS received a service grant from the Taproot Foundation to produce a new brochure. After only a few months, LPCS now has a brand new brochure which we can use to recruit volunteers. It was a great experience to work with wonderful professionals from some of Chicago's top advertising and marketing agencies. The Taproot team was very professional and on-task. They were open to our input and feedback, but also came with their own great ideas. LPCS would like to offer a big thank you to all of the volunteer professionals who worked on the project. Thank you for taking time out of your busy lives to help LPCS!

For more information on the Taproot Foundation, including how to volunteer or apply for a service grant, visit their website.