Habitat for Humanity is an organization that helps provide affordable housing for families of certain income levels. The homes are sold at no profit and with an interest-free loan. Habitat is always looking for volunteers to assist in rebuilding and improving homes.
The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, AFSCME, is an employee assistance program for union members.
The Habitat for Humanity ReStore is a small warehouse stocked full of donated items and fixtures for your home-improvement needs. There are rows of shelves with sinks, lighting fixtures and toilets. But you don't just have to buy there, you can donate as well, in exchange for a tax write-off. Proceeds from the store benefit the Habitat for Humanity organization that provides low income families with homes, while requiring these new homeowners to assist with the home rebuilding process.
The Ronald McDonald House located near Advocate Hope Children's Hospital provides a caring, homelike atmosphere for parents and siblings undergoing treatment at the hospital.
The home is designed with "a house in the woods" theme, with ample community rooms where families can seek support from others undergoing similar experiences.
Included are 16 bedrooms with private baths, and four extended-stay suites; most bedrooms can accommodate three to four people. There is a handicapped-accessible "tree house," game room and playroom, a large kitchen, laundry facility, library, outdoor patios and Internet access.
The house is open to families with pediatric patients at Hope or other surrounding hospitals. Families must live farther than 10 miles away, and referrals from social workers are required.
Families are asked to pitch in to keep their rooms and house tidy and to wash their own towels.
Availability is on a first-come, first-served basis. A suggested donation of $10 per night is suggested, but no one is turned away for inability to pay.
The home is operated by Ronald McDonald Children's Charities, which strives to create, find and support programs that directly improve the health and well-being of children.
The Volunteer Center is a resource for North Shore and metro Chicago area residents who seek volunteer opportunities. It is part of a state-wide network of volunteer centers, all dedicated to the same cause. The Volunteer Center's website has postings for volunteer opportunities and openings with local charities, community organizations and nonprofits. Users can search for opportunities based on their interests, from education and animals to seniors and nature. Organizations can also use the Volunteer Center's site to post openings and find volunteers.The center refers more than 15,000 potential volunteers to more than 100 nonprofit partners.