Hope For Families

Pastor Rick Duncan and a team of thirty volunteers from Hope for Families served a Christmas meal to CCIL residents Sunday, December 21, 2008. The meal was scrumptious and consisted of salad, steak, spiraled ham, mashed potatoes, green beans, macaroni and cheese, corn bread, and cake. An energetic band from Kenosha, Wisconsin invigorated everyone with live music performances. They played a variety of Christmas tunes and opened the microphone to CCIL residents who read poetry and sang their own favorites. The children received gifts that included winter clothing, coloring books and bubbles.

“This was a special night for the residents. The kids, especially, had a wonderful time. They lead songs, played games and ended up giving a real gift of youthful happiness back to the volunteers. It was incredible to sit back and witness,” said Chris Wiens, CCIL Volunteer Coordinator.

CCIL Landscape Services Appreciation Ceremony

Under the direction of Eric Hage, managers Beau Barnett, Alex Hurd, Kris Sokol and Matt Stickels honored trainees and crew leaders at CCIL’s Annual Landscape Appreciation Ceremony Friday, December 5, 2008. Distinguished guests included CCIL board members, city officials and a variety of loyal vendors.

Thirty-three trainees received certificates for completing one year of hands-on training and 8 trainees graduated from the two-year landscape training program. Kenneth Brooks, George Brown and John Lamb were recognized as the Most Improved Groundskeepers. Gary Wetter, Carl Lee and Selester Mims were awarded Groundskeepers of the Year. Ceremony attendees enjoyed a delicious meal and were dazzled upon hearing compelling, heartfelt testimonials from two of the graduates - Geoffrey McKnight and Carl Lee.

CCIL, in partnership with the City of Chicago and ARAMARK, created a Landscape Services program more than 15 years ago. Through this on-the-job training program participants are placed in a paid work environment and are trained to do landscaping and grounds maintenance. For two consecutive seasons of eight months each, trainees are provided with technical skills and experience in grounds care, equipment use and safety standards.

Key CCIL Landscape Clients:
Chicago Department of Transportation
Chicago Department of General Services
Chicago Park District
Chicago Housing Authority
Chicago Gateway Green
Mayslake Village

CCIL Landscaping Services has become an integral part of the beautification of the city, providing maintenance services to a large portion of the downtown-area medians, sidewalk planters, malls and plazas, and numerous green spaces throughout Chicago. This program enables more than 1,000 formerly homeless men and women to gain skills and employment in landscaping and related industries.

Call Eric Hage at 773-435-8393 today for a FREE estimate on your landscaping needs.

Thanksgiving Day at CCIL

CCIL, located at 2750 W. Roosevelt, was humming with holiday activities on Thanksgiving Day as Governor Blagojevich and the First Family, Congressman Danny Davis and the Talk of Chicago’s Richard Pegue all gathered for a celebration of giving and being thankful. Volunteers served more than 400 people heaping helpings of turkey, stuffing, vegetables, rolls, pastries and beverages throughout the morning.

“We were able to provide a safe, relaxing environment and plenty of food for people who otherwise would have had absolutely nothing. It was heartwarming for me to see Governor Blagojevich and his family along with Congressman Danny Davis take time out of their busy schedules to visit with our residents and our neighbors in the North Lawndale community,” said Mary Shaver, CCIL Interim Executive Director.

The Talk of Chicago’s Richard Pegue and his crew broadcasted live during the meal while promoting a food drive sponsored by WVON 1690AM.

CCIL receives coats and cash from Northbrook and Deerfield Rotaries

The Northbrook and Deerfield Rotaries helped make the 43rd Annual Coat Off Your Back campaign a huge success. A generous supply of coats, clothing and more than $2,000 cash was donated to help support CCIL, the non-profit organization dedicated to helping homeless families and individuals rebuild their lives.

Representatives Jimmie Beck, CCIL alum, and Patti Blagojevich, CCIL Development Director, attended the November 25, 2008 Rotary meeting in Northbrook where the items collected were presented to the organization. Blagojevich spoke about CCIL’s programs and Beck received a standing ovation from the Rotarians and their guests after sharing his compelling testimony.

Patti Blagojevich comments, “The philanthropic efforts of rotaries all over the world, especially in Northbrook and Deerfield, are admirable. CCIL is fortunate to benefit from such sincerity and generosity from friends in neighboring communities.”

Art Wolter from Deerfield and Chet Bloden from Northbrook originally started the Coat Off Your Back campaign 43 years ago. Both were Rotarians and directors of CCIL. The campaign really started to gain momentum the past 10 years under the direction of the late Rotarian Ken Thiel. Thiel set up a number of collection places in various communities and was integral in spreading the word about CCIL. Lorraine Clark, CCIL Board Member, her husband Barry Clark, Deerfield Rotary and Ronald Bernardi, Northbrook Rotary are now the driving forces behind
the campaign.

Victor Herbert Elementary School children volunteer at CCIL

Thirty five fourth through eighth grade students from the Victor Herbert Elementary School, located at 2131 W. Madison, volunteered at CCIL on Tuesday, November 25, 2008. The children, along with sponsors from the school, the James Jordan Foundation and Nike Town Chicago made more than 300 bags of food to be distributed at CCIL’s Community Food Pantry.

Other volunteer activities included learning about transitional housing for the homeless, hearing from former CCIL resident Jimmie Beck, a tour of CCIL and a breakout session of singing and dancing by the students.

CCIL Volunteer Coordinator Chris Wiens comments, “It was great to have kids from the community giving back. They were an amazing group to work alongside. Every single student was enthusiastic about their work and asked questions I would expect from high school and college students – not elementary aged students. I was extremely impressed!”

The James Jordan Foundation is committed to strengthening families, motivating youth and ensuring high quality academic opportunities for children.

Abbott Executive Kathryn Nattier McFarland joins CCIL Board of Directors

Graciously contributing your time, talents and treasures are the foundation of philanthropy and for Kathryn Nattier McFarland, Ph.D. Divisional Vice President, Life Cycle Management at Abbott, the global health care company based in north suburban Chicago. McFarland has gone above and beyond in offering her resources throughout the years to CCIL, a non-profit organization leading the way in empowering homeless individuals and families. Her efforts are soaring to an even higher level as she recently joined the Board of Directors for the organization.

“Kathy McFarland is a very insightful woman with great integrity. I’m honored to know her and that she chose CCIL as a primary agency to devote her time for at least three years. Kathy has already been proactive in spearheading a Presbyterian Outreach day at our main campus highlighting CCIL’s 100 years of service to Chicago’s homeless - I’m quite confident she’ll do exceptionally well as a CCIL board member and getting people more involved with our mission,” said Mary Shaver, CCIL Interim Executive Director.

Kathy McFarland of Lake Forest, Illinois, Ph.D. joined Abbott March 3, 1980 and has held a variety of positions. During her tenure in Chemical Development she led the development, manufacturing, scale-up, and regulatory filings for more than 30 drugs and was named Divisional Vice President in 1999. In particular, she was pivotal in heading up the reformulation task force that successfully addressed Ritonavir Crystal Form 2, continuing to make NORVIR available to AIDS patients around the world. She headed the TriCor (a lipid lowering drug) project team leading to the successful launch of the next generation product in November 2004. As Program Head for Synthroid, she spearheaded a successful strategy integrating technical and commercial elements and culminating in the approval of New Drug Application keeping this key drug available to patients. She became Divisional Vice President of Life Cycle Management in Global Pharmaceutical Research and Development in 2002. In this role she has responsibility to assure that every drug at Abbott has a lifecycle management plan for product improvement incorporated into its business strategy. She is a member of the Executive Committee for the Abbott women’s leadership initiative “Women Leaders in Action.” She is Chair of the Development Board of the University of Missouri-Columbia. Dr. McFarland received her Ph.D. in Physical Organic Chemistry from the University of Missouri-Columbia.

CCIL Receives Grant From Jewel-Osco

Jewel-Osco, a corporate entity committed to increasing access to nutritious food for people with limited economic resources, awarded CCIL more than $2,000 in a Hunger Relief Grant. More than 30 agencies gathered to be recognized at an award presentation ceremony hosted by the Greater Chicago Food Depository on Wednesday, November 12, 2008. Award Ceremony Speakers included: Kate Maehr, Executive Director, Greater Chicago Food Depository; LaToya Dixon, Community Affairs Manager, Jewel-Osco; Tim O’Connor, Hunger Action Month Coordinator; Jamie Stanesa, Director of Agency Relations, Greater Chicago Food Depository and Angel LaLuz Jr., Director of Agency Programs and Services, Greater Chicago Food Depository.

Accepting the grant on behalf of CCIL was Interim Executive Director Mary Shaver. “It’s an honor to be recognized by such a reputable company like Jewel-Osco, and to be mentioned in the same category as the many fine organizations here today that are also working so hard to help those less fortunate,” said Shaver.

Jewel-Osco understands that many financially struggling households visit emergency food assistance sites, they are pleased to be able to support your efforts in our communities.

About CCIL’s Community Food Pantry…
With help from the Greater Chicago Food Depository, CCIL’s Community Food Pantry serves more than 250 families every week. The Community Food Pantry is open every Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Contact Chris Wiens at 773-435-8385 for more information.

CCIL Foodservice Trainees Receive Awards and Accolades

CCIL, the non-profit organization dedicated to teaching self-reliance, continued on its path of transforming lives by honoring nine foodservice training program graduates. On Tuesday, November 11, 2008, Tanya Strong, Trina Rogers, Katrina Chapman, Douglas Flannigan, Fontaine Black, Darren Oliphant, Maurice Shelton, Morris Johnson Jr, and Michael Hughs Jr., received diplomas and sanitation certificates at an inspiring graduation ceremony in CCIL’s assembly hall.

Foodservice graduate Maurice Shelton comments, “I want to give special thanks to a friend who told me about CCIL, otherwise I wouldn’t have known about the program. It has been one heck of an experience.”

CCIL, Aramark and the Mayor’s Office of Workforce Development (MOWD) have found the recipe for successfully helping individuals turn their lives around – a foodservice training program targeting non-violent ex-felons. In partnership with Aramark, CCIL created a nine week foodservice training class. Since its inception in February 2006, the foodservice training program has been stirring up excellent results by helping people secure jobs in the foodservice industry.

“Congratulations! This is just the beginning. Doors will open and opportunities will come to you. Aramark is proud of all the graduates,” said Ginger Knowles, Aramark General Manager.

After the graduation ceremony, family, friends, volunteers and staff all gathered in the cafeteria to enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by Darren Love, Assistant Foodservice Director at CCIL and former Foodservice Training Program alum.

Operation Warm Visits CCIL

City Provides Winter Coats for 1,000 Homeless Youth

As the winter chill descends upon Chicago, 1,000 homeless children will receive brand new winter coats courtesy of the Chicago Department of Human Services and Operation Warm. The polyester parkas will be distributed to youth currently residing in 36 homeless shelters for families.

“Winter coats are a necessity that few homeless families can afford,” said Eileen Donnersberger, Acting Commissioner for the Chicago Department of Human Services. “The provision of free jackets allows children to travel to school warm and safe. And, the attractive, popular styles help boost the self-esteem of kids who face multiple challenges.”

This year, the City of Chicago has partnered with Operation Warm to ensure homeless and
low-income children have proper outerwear to survive the cold winter months. Through private donations and relationships with manufacturers, Operation Warm makes new coats available at reduced costs. In addition to the 1,000 committed for homeless youth, the CHA has joined with Operation Warm to provide jackets to 4,000 young residents.

“Through this program we ARE able to provide jackets to every child currently residing in a City-funded family shelter,” said Donnersberger.

CCIL was one of the shelters whose families benefited from coats. “We run an intensive program to get our clients into permanent housing within four months of arriving at our shelter. The dollars families save on purchasing winter wear can be put toward a security deposit and first month’s rent,” says Mary Shaver, Interim Executive Director.

There are approximately 100 homeless shelters in the City of Chicago. With 5,000 shelter beds available this winter, no one needs to spend the night on the street. Citizens who see people that appear to be in need of shelter are urged to call 311. The Department of Human Services will send an outreach team to offer assistance.

CCIL participates in TREEcago

Chicago Gateway Green has been a pioneer in urban-greening solutions for the past 25 years and the TREEcago initiative is another example of that leadership. Trees provide a variety of benefits to urban areas by removing carbon dioxide and harmful particulates from the air and producing oxygen. They provide shade, reducing cooling costs and storm water run-off and also add to the quality of daily life in the neighborhoods. Originally established to beautify and "green" gateways into Chicago along expressways, TREEcago will allow Gateway Green to expand its efforts into Chicago's neighborhoods.

TREEcago is an effort to address the problem of urban-heat islands along transportation corridors and will serve as an opportunity for people from all over the Chicagoland region to directly invest in their communities and engage in the fight to combat climate change. These improvements are greening our economy for the future and are creating the jobs of tomorrow. For instance, CCIL's Landscape Services will be filling many of TREEcago's staffing needs going forward.

"CCIL is dedicated to providing structure, support and a sense of purpose in the lives of the homeless men and women who come to us. Green jobs, like the ones required to make TREEcago a success, are the backbone of the new economy and we're excited to be helping workers transition into that new workforce," said Eric Hage, Director of Landscape Services at CCIL.

Take Me Out to the Ballgame!

The CCIL Sluggers, an all-staff squad, competed in Haymarket Center's Charity Challenge 16" Softball Tournament Saturday, October 18, 2008 at Garfield Park. Initially, eight teams comprised of all non-profit organizations filled the brackets in hopes of capturing the tournament title and bragging rights. However, due to poor weather conditions, schedule conflicts and field permit discrepancies, many teams had no other alternative but to forfeit. Luckily, the CCIL Sluggers, under the direction of their fearless captains Mary Shaver and Patrick Taylor, were able to rally and play in the final championship game against a strong Haymarket Center team. After a hard fought batting and fielding battle, the CCIL Sluggers came up short despite Mary Shaver's triple and RBI. Haymarket Center clinched the title with an impressive 11-9 victory as the CCIL Sluggers took 2nd place. A special thank you to Haymarket Center for organizing this fun, worthwhile event and thank you to ALL the CCIL Sluggers who participated in the game(s)!

*NOTE: The image above is from the Sunday, September 21, 2008 game

CCIL Hosts Presbyterian Outreach Day

100 Years Rich in Presbyterian Heritage…

Representatives from Oak Lawn Community Church, Berkeley-Hillside Presbyterian Church, Northminster Presbyterian and 1st Presbyterian Church in Waukegan congregated at CCIL earlier this week for a special Presbyterian Outreach Day. CCIL, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering Chicago’s homeless, was founded in the Presbyterian faith by Reverend George Kilbey in 1909. CCIL’s focus was on helping men who were down and out – the mission has since evolved.

“There’s been a strong relationship between Chicago area Presbyterian churches and CCIL throughout the last 100 years. We very much want to continue strengthening our bond with the Presbyterian communities and hope this special Presbyterian Outreach Day was a true testament of the great work being done at CCIL,” said Patti Blagojevich, CCIL Development Director.

Distinguished Presbyterian Outreach Day guests, consisting of reverends, clergy and CCIL board members, experienced today’s CCIL while touring the new eco-friendly, $25,000,000 facility, hearing compelling resident success stories and enjoying a delicious lunch prepared by CCIL’s Foodservice Training program trainees.

Housing Information Fair

How do I know if my landlord is in foreclosure? How can I purchase a new home? Get answers to these questions and many more at the Housing Information Fair hosted by the Lawndale Christian Development Corporation and Lawndale Christian Residential Services, LLC. The Housing Information Fair will be held at CCIL's main campus located at 2750 W. Roosevelt Road on Saturday, November 1, 2008 from 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.

Participants can receive help from trusted sources on:
Available Affordable Rental Units
Foreclosure Prevention
Creating and Protecting your financial future
Lease to Purchase
HUD Tenants - Preserving your home
Legal Rights of Tenants and Owners
Home Ownership Preservation Initiative (HOPI)
Resource Vendors
Lender Options

For more information or to confirm your attendance, contact Atneada at 773-762-8889 x10.

Lawndale Fitness Center hosts 5K

Misprint in “Mission Not Impossible…” Wednesday, October 1, 2008

The 1st Annual Lawndale 5k Walk/Run was planned, organized and hosted by Lawndale Fitness Center. Mission Year, a partner of both CCIL and Lawndale Fitness Center, supplied volunteers and helped register runners for the race. Participants were allowed to make pledges to Mission Year as part of the event and CCIL’s Volunteer Coordinator, Chris Wiens, received more than $250 in pledges, all to be donated to Mission Year.

Holidays for the Homeless

Holiday Meals at CCIL
CCIL will be hosting meals and entertainment to those less fortunate on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Guests are invited to enjoy a holiday meal of turkey, dressing, sweet potatoes, fresh steamed vegetables, biscuits, cranberry sauce, milk and fresh fruit. Entertainment will be provided.

Meal Details:
Thanksgiving Day - Thursday, November 27, 2008
Christmas Day - Thursday, December 25, 2008
CCIL Cafeteria
2750 W. Roosevelt Road, Chicago, IL (California/Roosevelt)
9:30 a.m. – Noon
The public is welcome to attend

CCIL is always in need of volunteers, but especially during the holiday season. Volunteers are essential to the development and growth of the organization. Individuals and groups are welcome. Below are some volunteer opportunities to consider:

• Adult Education


• Foodservice


• Community Food Pantry


• Youth Mentor/Tutor


• Greater Chicago Food Depository


• Help at a Special Event


• Birthday Party Give Backs


• Coordinate an Educational/Special Outing


• Holiday Volunteering


• Organize a Drive or Fundraising Event


• Host a Third-Party Fundraiser for CCIL

Contact Chris Wiens at cwiens@ccilworks.org for holiday and other volunteer opportunity information.

Mission Not Impossible…

Chris Wiens, CCIL Employee and Loyola Graduate, Runs for Mission Year

The 1st Annual Lawndale 5K Walk/Run hosted by Mission Year and Christian Health Center was a huge hit this past weekend. Spectators lined the North Lawndale streets and Douglas Park paths to cheer on the many runners who raised money and awareness for Mission Year, a year long urban ministry program focused on Christian service and leadership.

Chris Wiens, CCIL Volunteer Coordinator and recent Loyola graduate, was one of many runners who went above and beyond. He finished in the top 100 with a time of 23:48 – meeting and beating his own personal goal. Wiens raised more than $250 in pledge support, all of which will be donated to Mission Year.

“Everything about the day was great! The weather, the crowd, the entertainment – it was all so invigorating. Mission Year is such a worthwhile cause and I’m honored I was able to contribute, especially since CCIL has been blessed with amazing Mission Year volunteers for the past three years,” said Chris Wiens.

Leroy Barber, Mission Year President, also ran in the race. A youth drum line and Shawn Casselberry, Chicago City Director for Mission Year, provided entertainment and energized a crowd of more than 500 people.

In the fall of 2008 through the summer of 2009, Kristin Lundquist and Stephen Baker will be the third pair of volunteers from Mission Year to work in CCIL’s Community Food Pantry.

Mission Year is a year long program where Christian young people live in an urban neighborhood volunteering, worshiping, and loving their neighbors. By partnering with a local church, volunteering at a service site, and spending time with neighbors, Mission Year Team Members effectively impact their communities while catching a deeper vision for what the Kingdom of God is like. Visit www.missionyear.org for more information.

Lights, Camera, Action

CCIL’s Fall 2008 Premier Season on CAN TV

CCIL will appear on Chicago Access Network Television (CAN TV) every Thursday at 4:00 p.m. beginning October 2, 2008 through December 18, 2008. Tune in to Chicago’s local cable station on channel 21 and see a variety of guests hosted by CCIL each week. Visit http://www.ccilworks.org/ for CCIL's CAN TV Fall 2008 schedule postings and updates.

Chicago Access Network Television (CAN TV)
Channel 21
322 S. Green Street
Chicago, IL 60607
312-738-1400
cantv.org

Making a Racket at McFetridge…

YPB Host Tennis Tournament – Proceeds Benefit CCIL Homeless Families

CCIL’s Young Professionals Board (YPB), a group of dynamic professionals who share a passion for helping others, made a racket at the McFetridge Sports Center Saturday, September 13th and Sunday, September 14th by hosting a men’s and women’s tennis tournament in a gallant effort to raise awareness and funds for CCIL, a non-profit organization dedicated to restoring families affected by poverty and homelessness. More than 30 people participated in the event which brought in at least $1,500.

“I’m very grateful to everyone who participated in this event and to the McFetridge Sports Center for providing such a wonderful venue! As CCIL approaches its Centennial in 2009, events like this are key in helping educate people about our mission. I want to especially thank YPB member Aaron Green for his drive and making this event possible,” said CCIL Executive Director Judy McIntyre, who was integral in launching the YPB in February 2006.

1st place trophies were awarded in the following categories:
*Women’s Open Singles – Deepa Popuri
*Women’s Open Doubles – Bridgit Maile and Hilerie Sher
*Men’s Open Singles – Dan Menchik
*Men’s Open Doubles – Robert Kallen and Larry Mann
*Mixed Open Doubles – Deepa Popuri and Cesar Uribe

The YPB is empowered to increase awareness, encourage involvement and financial support, advance program initiatives and amplify the success of CCIL. Contact ypbinfo@ccilworks.org to learn more about becoming a member of the YPB

A Better Place - Geoffrey McKnight

CCIL Landscape Trainee Geoffrey McKnight will be featured on the CHA show "A Better Place" throughout the month of September. "A Better Place" is affiliated with the Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) and can be viewed on Chicago municipal channels 23 and 49. Air times are scheduled for 8:30 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. Suburban viewers have access to view this program as well. Check your local cable programming schedules for details.

About CCIL's Landscape Training Program...

CCIL, in conjunction with the City of Chicago and ARAMARK, created a Landscape Services program more than 16 years ago. Based in the Center for Workforce Development, this program generated earned revenue in excess of $4,000,000 in 2008. These funds are essential to the agency’s financial stability, and more importantly, ensures that more than 1,000 formerly homeless men and women are employed and have gained work skills and are able to find employment in landscaping and related industries.

All participants attend a series of rigorous classes designed to result in job ready applicants. Job interviews are conducted by the operations team, and throughout their participation in this job training program, participants are assigned an on site job coach and are offered case management services. Financial literacy classes are mandatory and the landscape program has a match component for participants who manage to save part of their salary throughout the growing season. Through this on-the-job training program participants are placed in a paid work environment and are trained to do landscaping and grounds maintenance. For two consecutive seasons of eight months each, trainees are provided with technical skills and experience in grounds care, equipment use and safety standards. Trainees beautify Chicago by planting more than 160,000 tulip bulbs in medians and boulevards during the spring season every year, and maintain Chicago’s boulevards, planter boxes and medians throughout the central business district.

CCIL’s landscaping services have become an integral part of the beautification of the city, providing maintenance services to a large portion of the downtown-area medians, sidewalk planters, malls and plazas, and numerous green spaces throughout Chicago. High profile service areas include:Michigan Avenue, Wacker Drive, LaSalle Street, State Street, Dearborn Street , Congress Expressway and City Hall’s Rooftop Garden. Landscaping clients include the Chicago Department of Transportation, Chicago Park District, Chicago Housing Authority, Chicago Department of General Services, Chicago Public Schools, Chicago Gateway Green, Interstate Realty, Mayslake Village and commercial customers throughout metropolitan Chicago. CCIL aggressively seeks new business and bids competitively in all possible areas, with a goal of exceeding last year’s revenues.

CCIL assists in Mayor Daley’s beautification efforts for the landscape of Chicago while the job trainees are improving the landscape of their lives. “Changing landscapes, changing lives is tremendously rewarding work,” says Eric Hage, landscape general manager.

Outside the Walls

The public is welcome to join CCIL's Center for Workforce Development department in participating at the upcoming North Lawndale "Outside the Walls" picnic. Details are below.

What: Celebration of Freedom and Recovery
When: Saturday, September 6, 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Where: Douglas Park, Chicago, IL
Who: All are welcome
Why: Educate and reconcile communities

This community initiative is geared to celebrate the lives and new found freedom of people who have paid their debt to society and to promote the reconnection of families once broken due to incarceration. The event will engage everyone involved in a spiritual atmosphere emphasizing the importance of faith-based consciousness in productive re-entry and in sustaining the effort to remain free, clean, sober and serene. The ultimate goal is to eradicate recidivism, restore self-esteem, reintroduce the individual back into society, reassemble families and reconcile communities.

Preparations are underway to welcome more than 800 people to the event. Guests can enjoy the following...

• Prepared food donated by Chicago area restaurants;
• Musical entertainment by various Gospel artists - invited guests include The Church Boys, The Douglas Singers, Pastor DeAndre Patterson and Destiny Worship Center, Hope House Men's Choir, Pastor Reggie Royale and JUDAH, Pastor Steve Nelson and The Christian Love Church Choir and The Serenity Drum Corps;
• Invited speakers include the Honorable Congressman Danny K. Davis, Mack McGhee of Transforming Lives International, Cook County Commissioner Robert Steele, Tio Hardiman and Tim White of Cease Fire;
• Men and women from the recovery community will share their stories;
• Entertainment and special activities will be available for children, including a Christian mime artist;
• Awards will be given in recognition of appreciation to contributors and field professionals;
• Free gift bags will be given to the first 500 guests

September is National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month. This is a great opportunity to make a positive impact in the North Lawndale community.

"When I came out, I felt like a little baby. I had to learn everything all over again. How to act. How to make the right choices. How to live. I needed help. Thank you for being there." Quote from a Sheridan Correctional Center Parolee/2005

Contact Reverend Tommie Johnson at 773-454-1545 or Bblest2@yahoo.com for more event information.

Love/Love - CCIL Tennis Tournament

CCIL's Young Professionals Board (YPB) will be hosting a men's and women's tennis tournament. All proceeds go directly to benefit homeless families at CCIL.

Tournament Details:

• Friday, September 12 - Sunday, September 14, 2008
• Time TBA
• McFetridge Sports Center - 3843 N. California, Chicago, IL

Visit http://www.aarong007.8m.net/ or call 312-806-0087 for detailed information.

Awards will be given for 1st and 2nd place. $50 entrance fee. All entries must be received by September 5, 2008.

A special thank you to Aaron Green for organizing this event and to the McFetridge Sports Center for their support in making this event possible.

CCIL Connections 2008

Bricolage Dedication a Huge Success
CCIL and the Chicago Public Art Group (CPAG) welcomed board members, young professionals, volunteers and community members to its dedication highlighting the visually stunning mural circling the exterior wall at 2750 W. Roosevelt Road. Heartfelt comments were provided from a variety of speakers including CCIL Executive Director Judy McIntyre, CCIL Board Member Michael Frigo, CPAG Program Manager Brenda Vega, CPAG Artists Damon Lamar Reed and Max Sansing, CCIL residents Johnathan Williams and Kevin Hill. Guests enjoyed delicious refrehsments while mixing and mingling and posing for pictures by the vibrant mural. This bricolage project was a collaboration of CCIL, CPAG, North Lawndale citizens and CCIL residents. Funding was made possible by the Guthman Fund. A very special thank you to Albert Tanquero for his vision and follow through - this beautiful creation wouldn't be possible without his diligence and determination. Please stop by and see the mural for yourself as it truly is a work of art, one to be admired and experienced in person! CCIL is located at 2750 W. Roosevelt Road, Chicago, IL (California/Roosevelt).

CCIL marches in Billiken Parade

“Go CCIL!” was one of many encouraging shouts we heard from the crowd while marching by with our CCIL banner and signs during the 79th Annual Bud Billiken Parade. This well-known parade has touched more than 50 million children and their families throughout the years.

Our group of parade walkers was applauded and well received. I’ve always been proud to work at CCIL and support this mission, but even more so after hearing, “CCIL – you give people second chances” and “There goes CCIL, there goes my family” as we walked along the parade route.

Thanks to everyone who supported CCIL at the parade or in spirit…we appreciate it!

Please know we’re all making a positive difference and are touching lives…even when we least expect it. Contributed by Jenny Brandhorst

CCIL & the DASA Cuts

The Division of Alcohol Abuse and Substance Abuse (DASA) of the Illinois Department of Human Services recently sent letters to at least 150 agencies cutting program funds. CCIL doesn't receive DASA money, however, the Resident Recovery Program (RRP) housed on CCIL's premises directly suffered from the cuts. Simply put, approximately 16 CCIL residents participating in the RRP program found themselves homeless. It's disheartening to think that agencies, like CCIL, dedicated to helping transform lives are being stripped of much needed funding. Worse yet, the individuals and families seeking assistance have little to no resources. CCIL sympathizes with its sister agencies during this difficult time. Let us know your thoughts on this crisis - we want to hear from you!

Mural, Mural on the Wall…

CCIL’s beautiful bricolage dedication scheduled for August 14, 2008

CCIL and the Chicago Public Art Group (CPAG) welcome the public to attend a dedication highlighting the creative genius and hard work that went into completing a visually stunning mural in the North Lawndale community. The presentation will include statements from CCIL and CPAG Executive Directors Judy McIntyre and Jon Pounds, CPAG artists and CCIL residents. Guests are welcome to tour CCIL’s state-of-the-art facility, light refreshments will be served. The bricolage project was a collaboration of CCIL, CPAG, North Lawndale citizens and CCIL residents. Funding was made possible by the Guthman Fund.

“The mural is so colorful and full of life. It’s almost impossible for me to try and describe it with words, it’s a creation people need to see and experience for themselves. Random onlookers have stopped me on the sidewalk expressing their excitement about the mural’s vibrancy. We’re most grateful to the Guthman Fund, CPAG, Damon Reed, Max Sansing and the many volunteers who contributed in helping to beautify and make a positive impact on the North Lawndale community,” comments Judy McIntyre, CCIL Executive Director.

Dedication Details…
Who: Public is welcome
What: Dedication of the CCIL & CPAG Bricolage
Where: CCIL Main Campus – 2750 W. Roosevelt Road
When: Thursday, August 14, 2008 at 5:30 p.m.

CPAG Executive Director Jon Pounds adds, “The bricolage project at CCIL is an instant classic. It includes a beautiful building, a wall that wraps a corner inviting the eye to follow, and an inspirational mural full of color.”

Contact Chris Wiens at cwiens@ccilworks.org for more information.

Taste of North Lawndale

CCIL, along with other community supporters, will be participating in the Taste of North Lawndale Family Festival on Saturday, August 2, 2008.

Celebrating its seventh year, A Taste of North Lawndale Family Festival 2008 is quickly earning its reputation as a popular neighborhood festival. This community event is a spin off the famous Taste of Chicago, and is intended to give residents a taste of the many resources available to them inside and outside North Lawndale, while letting them enjoy the community’s many other diverse features including music, art, and other forms of entertainment. North Lawndale Community News is the proud sponsor of this event.

Taste of North Lawndale

Saturday, August 2, 2008

11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Douglas Park Pavilion - 1401 S. Sacramento (Ogden/Sacramento)

There will be food vending, face painting, t-shirt making, magicians and a Jumping Jumboree throughout the day. A tentative event schedule is listed below.

11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. - Choir Performances

1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. - Taste of North Lawndale Talent Show

4:30 p.m. - 5:15 p.m. - Jazz performance by Ray Silkman

6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. - Stage performances by Twista and Speedknot Mobstaz

Come out and join in on all the fun!

Sizzling with Success...

CCIL Foodservice Training Program Gives Hope to Three Ex-Offenders

CCIL honored three foodservice graduates on Monday, July 7, 2008. Tesa Brown, Tyrone Simmons and Andrew Murphy all successfully completed an intense nine-week training program preparing them for jobs in the food industry.

Foodservice Training Program graduate Andrew Murphy comments, "I was really bad off before I started this program. I could barely read. CCIL has helped me readjust and reposition my life. I appreciate the people at CCIL and am grateful for the Foodservice Training Program."

In partnership with Aramark and the Mayor's Office of Workforce Development (MOWD), CCIL's foodservice training program has been sizzling with success since its inception in February 2006. With a focus on work ethic and structure, non-violent ex-offenders 21 years and older get a jump start on their career path.

"The training program is challenging. We cover a great deal of material in just nine weeks, including hands-on and in-the-field experience. Tesa, Tyrone and Andrew are to be commended on their gallant efforts. I'm so proud of them for making a commitment and seeing this training program through," said Bob Joens, CCIL Foodservice Director.

Family members of the trainees gathered with CCIL staff and Aramark General Manager Ginger Knowles to celebrate this accomplishment.

CCIL participates in 23rd Annual Hunger Walk

CCIL staff, volunteers, residents and more than 5,000 others joined in the march against hunger on Saturday, June 14, 2008. The 23rd Annual Hunger Walk will directly benefit participating food pantries that are member agencies of the Greater Chicago Food Depository, including CCIL.

Many agencies recently have experienced increasing demand while food supplies from the federal government have dwindled. The Greater Chicago Food Depository's Annual Hunger Walk is a unique fundraiser that helps agencies support their food programs.

Thank you to everyone who participated in the Hunger Walk this year!

About CCIL's Community Food Pantry...
CCIL proudly announced the grand opening of a new service in November 2006 – a Community Food Pantry. CCIL, in partnership with the Greater Chicago Food Depository (GCFD), opened its doors to the public and is providing emergency food to the community in North Lawndale. Between 200-250 families (averaging 6 people per family) visit CCIL's Community Food Pantry every week. Every year at least 9,500 families are served and more than 10,000 pounds of food is distributed monthly from the Greater Chicago Food Depository.

CCIL Recognized By Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois For Its Community Service

CCIL announced today that it has been recognized by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois for its success in expanding access to health care and improving the well being of the community, and has been awarded a $5,000 grant to continue its important efforts. This is the first time CCIL has been awarded funding for the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois Health grant.

“Many of Chicago’s impoverished and homeless have not had access or utilized health services. CCIL’s health resources provide needed, onsite healthcare to ensure the physical wellness of clients. We’re excited to receive this grant and look forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois,” said Judy McIntyre, CCIL Executive Director.

CCIL is one of 185 organizations to receive a grant or donation this year from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois, which focuses its giving in three key areas: health services for the uninsured and underserved, human services and education. Additional information about Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois’ charitable giving program is available at www.bcbsil.com/about_us/involvement.htm.

1st Presbytery of Deerfield Visits CCIL

The exterior brick wall circling CCIL's campus is coming to life as the Chicago Public Art Group, members of the neighborhood and CCIL residents work side-by-side in creating a bright, colorful mural capturing the energy and essence of the community. CCIL is thankful for the continued support of the 1st Presbytery of Deerfield.

Photo: Executive Director Judy McIntyre poses in front of the mural with members of the 1st Presbytery of Deerfield.

Celebrate Success - CCIL's Landscape Program

For more than 16 years, CCIL's Landscape Program has provided successful job training and employment for homeless individuals. You can help support this endeavor by attending CCIL's 5th Annual Celebration of Success event Thursday, June 19, 2008. CCIL is pleased to honor Jesse White, Illinois Secretary of State, at the event.

"I am indeed honored to be recognized by an organization that does such wonderful work in helping, training and employing homeless individuals," said White.

This event is a tribute to the beautiful flora lining the Magnificent Mile, Lake Shore Drive, LaSalle Street and other city boulevards stemming from CCIL's award-winning Landscape Program. Past events have allowed auction-goers to bid on a brilliant display of celebrity-autographed painted terra cotta planters. The terra cotta planters have evolved and now auction-goers can bid on original works of art created by CCIL residents and some of Chicago's most promising artists.

Celebration of Success details...

• Who: The public is welcome to attend


• What: Celebration of Success event honoring Jesse White, Illinois Secretary of State. Live and silent auctions, music, refreshments and gourmet hors d' oeuvres. Tickets are $150/person or $1,400/group of 10.


• When: Thursday, June 19, 2008 from 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.


• Where: Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington, Chicago, IL

Contact Chris Wiens at 773-435-8358 for more information.

Founded in 1909, CCIL empowers Chicago families to overcome poverty and homelessness by teaching self-reliance. CCIL provides comprehensive basic human services - including housing, meals and healthcare - so families can concentrate on rebuilding their lives. Families referred to CCIL are prepared to help themselves, and CCIL's unique emphasis on employment readiness enables families to build financial security. Ongoing assistance ensures families enjoy continuing success, strengthening our community with every household reached.

Friendly Reminder: Hunger Walk 2008

Support CCIL by walking in the Greater Chicago Food Depository's Hunger Walk

CCIL staff, volunteers, residents and more than 4,500 others will join the march against hunger on Saturday, June 14, 2008. Funds raised during the Greater Chicago Food Depository's 23rd Annual Hunger Walk directly benefit CCIL's Community Food Pantry. Registration is at 8am, step off is at 9:30am.

In addition to the 2.5 mile walk, this event features an array of fun activities for the whole family. Festivities include entertainment by the Jesse White Tumblers and choral groups. Face painting, caricature artists, jugglers and stilt walkers will also be in the area. Hunger Walk participants receive an event t-shirt, goodie bag, beverages and snacks.

CCIL is going with a red theme this year. So if you’re joining us and have a red t-shirt to wear that would be wonderful. Look for CCIL’s banner, CCIL signs and red shirts in the morning before step off time.

Cross your fingers for sunshine and we hope to see you there!

Call Bob Joens at 773-435-8331 to pledge your support.

Women's Program at CCIL

CCIL recently received funding from Access to Recovery (ATR), a program of the Illinois Department of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse (DASA), to launch a single women’s program. This program is in its infancy and at this time only single women who are recovering from substance abuse issues have funding clearance. The women have case management support and are assisted with job training, job placement and permanent housing needs, identical to services provided single men entering CCIL.

Single women are one of the most rapidly expanding homeless populations. According to the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless, there are approximately 73,656 homeless individuals in Chicago. Thirty five percent of that number is single homeless women. CCIL plans to build on its ATR launch in serving single, homeless women.

Contact Mary Shaver at mshaver@ccilworks.org for CCIL program information.

Half in Ten: From Poverty to Prosperity

Senator John Edwards is chairing a campaign to cut poverty in half in the US over the next decade in coordination with the Coalition on Human Needs, The Center for American Progress Action Fund, the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights and Association of Community Organization for Reform Now. Half in Ten will seek federal and state solutions to cut poverty in half within ten years. Read more about the campaign at: http://www.halfinten.org/index.html and sign up to learn more.

Additionally, Edwards has been in touch with the three major presidential candidates about making commitments to the half in ten goal. You can read about their poverty positions at the Spotlight on Poverty and Opportunity website http://www.spotlightonpoverty.org/.

The state of Illinois has its own campaign to cut extreme poverty in half by the year 2015.

From Poverty to Opportunity Campaign
Freedom from poverty is a human right, and the realization of this freedom requires a comprehensive vision and plan. To that end, Heartland Alliance has created the From Poverty to Opportunity Campaign: Realizing Human Rights in Illinois, an initiative of the Illinois Poverty Summit. This initiative works to bring together a broad range of residents from the most affected communities throughout the state as well as advocates and policy leaders to develop and advocate for a poverty elimination strategy anchored to human rights standards that will reduce extreme poverty in Illinois by half by the year 2015. CCIL endorses this campaign and has been an active participant in working on making this human right a reality.

Read more about the campaign at: http://www.heartlandalliance.org/maip/FromPovertytoOpportunityCampaignRealizingHumanRightsinIllinois.html
or talk about it: http://povertytoopportunity.blogspot.com/

In the Media...

Violence Against Homeless People

Last week, USA Today published an article highlighting how a rise in attacks against homeless people in 2007 has led many states to consider harsher penalties for perpetrators. "Hate, Violence and Death on Main Street USA 2007," released last week by the National Coalition for the Homeless and the National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty, shows that attacks have increased from 142 in 2006 to 160 in 2007. Twenty-eight of the attacks in 2007 were murders. So far, Maine is the only state that has passed tougher penalties that allow judges to consider the victim's status as a homeless person as a reason to impose longer sentences. Legislation to increase penalties is pending in Ohio, Massachusetts, and Alaska. Congress is also considering two bills to address this issue: one that would require the FBI to track attacks on homeless people and another that would protect them under federal hate crime laws.

Florida's Associated Press also highlighted the trend of increased violence against homeless people. In 2007, Florida led the nation in attacks against homeless people, with 31 incidents recorded, according to the study "Hate, Violence and Death on Main Street USA 2007." 2007 is the third consecutive year that Florida has topped the list, with 32 attacks reported in the state in 2005 and 48 in 2006. Maria Foscarinis, the Executive Director of the National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty, speculated that the criminalization of homelessness, including bans on sleeping in certain places and on food assistance, may be promoting the message that homeless people are sub-human and contributing to the increases in attacks in Florida.
Daily Updates of Local and National Press Coverage

HUD McKinney-Vento Reauthorization

Congress is working on its first major change to the country’s largest homeless assistance program in more than 10 years. There are currently two versions of legislation being considered to reauthorize the HUD McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act.

Homeless Emergency Assistance and Rapid Transition to Housing Act (HEARTH Act)
This act would expand the definition of homelessness and allow more funds to be used for prevention. It has no provisions regarding resources and support given to rural areas, incentives for permanent housing or programs that serve families.

Summary of the HEARTH Act
http://www.endhomelessness.org/content/article/detail/1983

Community Partnership to End Homelessness Act (CPEHA)
This act would significantly improve the McKinney program through rewarding proven strategies, continuing a focus on permanent housing, increasing the resources devoted to prevention, better serving families with children, shifting the permanent housing renewal burden to the Section 8 account, increasing the capacity of rural communities to respond to homelessness, and in a number of other ways

Summary of the CPEHA
http://www.endhomelessness.org/content/article/detail/1807

Information taken from the National Alliance to End Homelessness website. Visit www.endhomeless.org for more information.

Armor of Education and Experience…

CCIL graduates six foodservice trainees on April 28, 2008

CCIL honored six foodservice graduates on Monday, April 28, 2008. Jamal Lucas, Tina McBryde, Patricia Pitre, Russell Reiter, Sonya Rodriguez and Taron Williams all successfully completed an intense nine week training program preparing them for jobs in the food industry.

In partnership with Aramark and the Mayor’s Office of Workforce Development (MOWD), CCIL’s kitchen training program has been stirring up excellent results by helping people secure jobs. Since its inception in February 2006, the program is geared toward assisting non-violent, ex-felons who are 21 and older.

“This is a nine week training program and this was our ninth group to graduate. What’s most impressive is everyone in this class passed their sanitation exam on the first try giving them certification with the State of Illinois and the City of Chicago Health Departments! Their eagerness, willingness to learn and teamwork was energizing. Our program is demanding and these trainees went above and beyond. Mentoring them was a pleasure,” said Bob Joens, CCIL Foodservice Director.

Contact Lisa Dieterle, Manager for CCIL's Center for Workforce Development, at 773-435-8336 for more information about the foodservice training program.

True Housing Affordability

Neighborhood-Level Data

The Center for Neighborhood Technology recently unveiled a new interactive web mapping tool which provides neighborhood-level data on the affordability of housing in the 52 largest metropolitan areas. In an attempt to measure the "true affordability" of housing, this tool accounts for both housing and transportation costs as a percent of income, called the Housing and Transportation Affordability Index. Often housing alone is more affordable outside of city centers, in the suburbs or exurbs, but when factoring in transportation costs it becomes less affordable. This site is designed to help individuals, planners, housing advocates, and policy-makers identify the true affordability of housing at the neighborhood level, and thus make better housing-related decisions.

Investigate the housing affordability in the 52 largest metropolitan areas in the country.
http://htaindex.cnt.org/

Emergency Fund

The Emergency Fund provides immediate financial assistance to low-income Chicago area individuals and families in needs. Including CCIL, more than 60 agencies are part of this collaborative network.

CCIL is proud to host the Annual Meeting of the Emergency Fund Board of Directors on Tuesday, May 6, 2008 from 11:15 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. At least 100 guests are expected to attend this luncheon where they'll have an opportunity to hear more about the Homelessness Prevention Call Center, the integration of state funds for homelessness prevention in the city of Chicago and other special projects. Tours of CCIL's state-of-the-art facility will also be available to those interested.

Wall of Fame

Soon the exterior brick wall circling CCIL’s 2750 W. Roosevelt Road campus will come to life as the Chicago Public Art Group, members of North Lawndale and CCIL residents work side-by-side in creating a bright, colorful mural capturing the energy and essence of the community. The Chicago Public Art Group unites communities and artists in creating high quality works of art that can be seen throughout the city. This incredible opportunity wouldn’t be possible without the receipt of a $30,000 grant from the Guthman Fund.

Shriver Center 2007 Poverty Report Card

Rating Members of Congress

The 2007 Poverty Scorecard: Rating Members of Congress assigns letter grades to each member of the United States Senate and House of Representatives according to their voting records on the most important poverty-related issues that came to a vote in 2007, including legislation on affordable housing, health care, education, labor, tax policy and immigrants' rights. With the help of a national advisory board and other anti-poverty experts, the Shriver Center identified and analyzed fourteen critical Senate votes and fifteen critical House votes. In general, states whose Congressional delegations generally opposed anti-poverty measures are clustered in the south and western parts of the country. States whose delegations had the worst voting records and highest poverty rates were South Carolina, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, Oklahoma, Kentucky and Arizona.

Press Release:
http://www.povertylaw.org/advocacy/publications/2007-scorecard

Just What the Doctor Ordered

Health Fairs - Just What the Doctor Ordered…

No medical insurance results in people putting off health care until a small problem turns urgent. For many in the United States, healthcare is secondary to keeping a roof over their heads and food on the table.

CCIL, in conjunction with Rush University Medical Center, will be hosting a city-wide health fair on Saturday, May 17, 2008 from 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m at CCIL's main campus at 2750 W. Roosevelt Road (California/Roosevelt).

The focus of the health fair is to provide better access to healthcare including free health screenings, physicals and immunizations for underserved individuals and families across the city of Chicago. More than 400 doctors will be on hand providing complimentary services.

Call 773-435-8363 for more information. To schedule group arrival times contact Ms. Sharon Gates at 312-942-3670.

CCIL Roots - Reverend William Seath

Does Anyone Know Descendants of Reverend William Seath?

In preparation for CCIL's upcoming Centennial Celebration in 2009, we are searching for descendants and friends of Reverend William Seath. Below is a brief bio about Reverend Seath...

Reverend William Seath was on the staff of the Union City Mission of Minneapolis, Minnesota, from 1920 to 1931 when he became Executive Director of the Chicago Christian Industrial League. After retiring in 1963 he served as an interim pastor, supplied pulpits, spoke before a variety of civic groups at many churches and Bible conferences. Reverend Seath is the author of "Challenge of the Impossible" (1967), "Handbook of Rescue" (1961), "Study of Rescue Missions" (1954), and numerous booklets and magazine articles.

If you have information about Reverend William Seath's descendants please contact Jenny Brandhorst at jbrandhorst@theleague.org.

Lights, Camera, Action

CCIL’s Spring 2008 Premier Television Season on CAN TV

Beginning April 3, 2008 CCIL will appear on Chicago Access Network Television (CAN TV) every Thursday at 4:30 p.m. through June 26, 2008.

Tune in to Chicago’s local cable station on channel 21 and see a variety of guests every week. Channel 21 is a live, interactive, call-in show. Viewers are encouraged to call 312-738-1060 during the segment and ask questions or offer comments regarding the discussion topic for each show.

Overview of Administration’s FY 2009 Budget

The President’s budget proposal was released on February 4, 2008 for fiscal year 2009. Although this budget reflects the Administration’s funding priorities, Congress will make decisions on actual funding levels later this year. This budget is meant to guide the House and Senate as they decide on funding levels for programs during the appropriations process. Most of the work being done to influence these funding levels is on securing support from Congress as they approve appropriation bills to make them into laws along with the Administration.

Some key points to note as they relate to people CCIL serves:

The budget proposes increased funding for the Department of Defense, cuts to health care programs, and about $2.4 billion less for domestic discretionary programs outside of Homeland Security. These programs include most of the housing, human service, veterans, education, and infrastructure programs that help low-income people. Taking inflation into account, these programs would be cut by 4 percent from last year.

The Administration’s budget proposed increasing funding for HUD’s homeless assistance programs (McKinney Vento Homeless Assistance Grants) by $50 million to $1.636 billion. This is an inadequate funding level as permanent housing renewal programs alone will increase by approximately $95 million. This proposal does not include a prisoner reentry initiative or a rapid rehousing initiative for families. $1.8 billion is needed to make progress toward national goal of ending chronic homelessness by 2012.

The Emergency Food and Shelter Program was suggested to receive a $53 million cut in funding, leaving it with $100 million. This grant funds overnight and transitional shelters as well as supportive services.

**Statistics taken from the National Alliance to End Homelessness website. For more information on advocacy efforts being done to influence appropriations made on housing and homelessness issues, sign up for advocacy updates at their website: www.endhomelessness.org **

Brunch, Baskets and Brushes…

CCIL hosts Easter meal for homeless families

CCIL hosted a complimentary Easter brunch for its residents and citizens in the North Lawndale community on Sunday, March 23, 2008. More than 40 volunteers served a delicious meal of egg bake, turkey, ham, dressing, vegetables, biscuits and gravy, fruit, pastries and assorted beverages to at least 250 disadvantaged families. Easter baskets overflowing with treats were distributed to children of all ages. Volunteers also collected and distributed kits of toothpaste, floss and toothbrushes throughout the day.

CCIL Executive Director Judy McIntyre said, “Great progress is being made in assisting those facing unbearable challenges and obstacles. CCIL is thankful to be a in a position where we can provide much needed services to our residents and the community. We couldn’t do the work we do without the help of our dedicated volunteers and staff.”

Second Chance Act

Reentry Bill Awaits President’s Signature

On March 11, after months of delay, the Senate passed the Second Chance Act of 2007, S. 1060, by unanimous consent. The Second Chance Act is designed to help ex-offenders reenter their communities successfully. The House passed its bill, H.R. 1593, which is identical to the Senate bill, last November with overwhelming bipartisan support, 347 to 62. The bill has been sent to the President’s desk and is expected to be signed into law. The lead sponsors of the bill are Representative Danny Davis (D-IL) and Senator Joseph Biden (D-DE).

According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, more than 2.25 million Americans were incarcerated at the end of 2006. Of those incarcerated, 95 percent will at some point be released and will reenter their communities. Additionally, nearly two-thirds of the 650,000 prisoners released annually are re-arrested within three years of their release. The Second Chance Act aims to stem these alarming trends by providing people leaving corrections with more adequate support. The bill authorizes $362 million over fiscal years 2008 and 2009 for Justice Department inmate treatment and reentry programs, plus an additional $20 million over the same time period for initiatives at the Bureau of Prisons to better prepare prisoners for reentry into the community.

The Second Chance Act takes a comprehensive approach to reduce recidivism by providing states and localities with grants to implement successful strategies to ensure safe and successful reentry. States can use the funding to offer various support services, including job training, education, and substance abuse and mental health services. Housing activities are also considered eligible uses of program funds. Advocates consider this an essential provision given the high rate of homelessness among people released from jails. The bill also establishes a national resource center for research on reentry; commissions reentry-related research; and authorizes grants to nonprofit organizations for mentoring and transitional programs.

Hungry and Homeless to Honorable and Heroic…

Alderman JoAnn Thompson joins CCIL Board of Directors

CCIL is proud to announce a new member to the Board of Directors. Former CCIL resident and now elected official, Alderman JoAnn Thompson is the newest addition to CCIL’s 16-member Board of Directors.

CCIL Executive Director Judy McIntyre comments, “This is a notable moment for CCIL. Our mission is geared toward working with homeless individuals and families, helping them reintegrate into society as self-sufficient, confident people. Having someone on our board that has experienced homelessness is powerful. JoAnn is an inspiration – we’re truly fortunate to have her as an advocate and representative for our organization.”

Chicago’s 16th Ward Alderman JoAnn Thompson is a prime example of someone who is giving back to her community. She credits CCIL as a constructive catalyst in her journey to recovery.

Opportunity Clicks

City of Chicago and CCIL provide online career resources
Opportunities for job seekers are one click away as the Chicago Christian Industrial League (CCIL) extends its bank of resources to include free online access to CAREERS, the city's new online application system. Chicago Automated Recruiting Evaluation Employment Reporting System uses the latest technology to make applying for City of Chicago jobs easy and efficient. CCIL is one of the designated locations where candidates can search for city job opportunities and apply for multiple positions using an online profile and without using a single sheet of paper.

"Our new online system gives potential applicants greater access to available job postings within the City of Chicago and allows them to apply for positions with greater easee and efficiency," said Michelle Y. Burton, Acting Commissioner of the Department of Human Resources. "Partnering with the Chicago Christian Industrial League in our outreach efforts will ensure that our CAREERS website is accessible to more people than ever before."

The CAREERS website, www.cityofchicago.org/CAREERS, can be accessed anytime and anywhere. Candidates create a User ID and password allowing ongoing site use and the ability of searching for jobs; completing a candidate application; receiving automatic updated job postings and creating a candidate profile.

CCIL Executive Director Judy McIntyre reiterates, "This is a great resource. CCIL prides itself on assisting our residents and the community in finding jobs. People are welcome to utilize our facility for employment research. Our Center for Workforce Development staff is trained in helping new internet users navigate the city's online application system."

Feinstein Challenge 2008

$1,000,000 Giveaway to Fight Hunger
Alan Feinstein, one of the country's leading philanthropists, has issued a challenge to all agencies dealing with homelessness and hunger - he is giving away $1,000,000 to anti-hunger agencies across the country. Donations sent to CCIL in March and April qualifies our organization for additional funding from this challenge. Visit http://www.feinsteinfoundation.org/ for more information.

Jewel Shop & Share Program!

CCIL is joining Jewel’s Shop & Share 2008 Program and you can help!. CCIL’s Shop & Share Days are: February 18-20 & 25-27 & March 3-5, 2008. On these designated Shop & Share days, 5% of your purchase will go directly to CCIL’s programs. Simply present an identification slip while checking out. For more information, contact Volunteer Coordinator Albert Tanquero at atanquero@theleague.org.

Driving Away Hunger & Poverty…

Canned goods collected at Chicago Auto Show to benefit homeless families

Chicago, IL – February 1, 2008 – In conjunction with Chrysler’s sponsorship, the Chicago Christian Industrial League (CCIL) will be collecting canned goods and non-perishable items at the Chicago Auto Show from 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. Wednesday, February 13, 2008 through Friday, February 15, 2008. Participants are encouraged to bring in three or more non-perishable items and receive half price show admission. Food drive booths will be conveniently stationed next to ticket booths.

CCIL Executive Director Judy McIntyre comments, “CCIL’s participation in the Chicago Auto Show is one of my favorite events and I’m especially grateful for Chrysler’s generous sponsorship. Auto show attendees have an opportunity to view a wide variety of cars all while giving to a worthwhile cause. Each year we’re blessed to receive large amounts of food all of which is put to good use in our Community Food Pantry where more than 200 disadvantaged families are served each week.”

Founded in 1909, CCIL is one of the largest non-profit organizations empowering homeless individuals and families in rebuilding their lives by providing the highest quality employment, housing, counseling and health services. If you’re interested in being a CCIL volunteer at the Chicago Auto Show, please contact Albert Tanquero at atanquero@theleague.org. Please visit ccilworks.org for more information about the Chicago Christian Industrial League’s mission, programs, partnerships and people served or join the discussion at www.ccil-2750.blogspot.com.

Career Fair at CCIL!

CCIL will be hosting a career fair at 2750 W. Roosevelt Road on February 13 from 9 - 12. We are partnering with Lawndale Christian Development Corporation and others in this initiative. 7 - 10 employers will be in attendance, as well as organizations in the lawndale community. Hope to see you there!

The Face of Homelessness

What do Halle Berry, singer Jewel, Actor Jim Carrey, William Shatner, Kelly Clarkson and Tyler Perry have in common? They have all been homeless at some point in their lives.

The image of an old man pushing a cart down an alley is what comes to mind when thinking of homelessness. However, the reality is that the homeless population looks a lot more like you and me. Homelessness is affecting families across every color line, every city and every state. It is affecting men, women and innocent children.

The causes of homelessness are varied. Homelessness can be caused by a variety of problems. The main cause is a lack of affordable housing. Secondary causes include mental illness, physical illnesses, substance abuse, lack of incentives to work, poor work ethics, and a lack of a decent education.

The National Law Center for Homelessness and Poverty reports that more than three million men, women, and children were homeless during the past year – about 30% of them were chronically homeless and the others temporarily. In many cases people are in and out of the homeless system, which includes shelters, hospitals, the streets, and prisons.

On top of the three million who were homeless or marginally homeless, there are an additional five million people who spend more than half of their incomes on housing, leaving them on the verge of homelessness. A missed paycheck, a health crisis, or an unpaid bill can easily spiral into homelessness.

Reports indicate that the types of assistance homeless adults feel they need most are help finding a job, help finding affordable housing, and help paying for housing. This is where CCIL is a beacon of hope. CCIL is one of the few agencies helping clients find decent jobs, affordable homes and providing an array of comprehensive, rehabilitative programs.

Other reports show that incomes for the poorest Americans have not nearly kept pace with rising housing costs leaving millions of hard workers shut out of the private housing market. Job training, education, and supportive services make CCIL such a unique place. Our organization is here to change the lives of Chicago’s neediest citizens. This can only be done with your help and financial support. Please consider making an investment in helping to rebuild lives.

Albert Tanquero