By Maureen Callahan | Photos courtesy of Hope’s Front Door

No generalizations. No judgment. No two people are the same, and no two stories are exactly alike. That’s what the Hope’s Front Door (HFD) team sees. An individual person or family with a unique story.

HFD is a million little things. At its heart, it’s a small grassroots organization. But it’s a group that does big things by partnering and pulling together professionals like dentists, bankers, and other community neighbors to help the next person coming through the front door. “Sometimes it’s as simple as asking, ‘What do you need today?’”said Janell Robinson, Executive Director of HFD..

Some are in situational crisis – they have lost a job or a loved one and are struggling not only with the loss but the loss of resources that accompany the event. Needs vary. Maybe it’s just some toiletries and infant care items to help maintain their household. Or a bus pass or a fuel voucher to get to work, which is also available under HFD’s safety net services.
Sometimes it’s bigger things. Many are unemployed or underemployed. If it’s something out of the organization’s wheelhouse, volunteers help clients connect with other local organizations that can meet their needs. For example, DuPagePads, with whom they partner for homelessness, or FISH Pantry for food insecurity. Or a local dentist who can help with a dental emergency.

Other clients are on a longer journey with HFD. Each time they arrive, a volunteer listens closely to the client’s individual progress on their path. Notes are taken and requests recorded, so they won’t need to start from scratch on the next visit. “This way, we know exactly where we are with each individual case,” said Robinson. “The next time we check in, we can ask if they were able to follow up with our suggestions, or if they need any further assistance.”

HFD has several long-term programs to serve the different needs of its clients.

The Pathways to Financial Literacy program began about 14 years ago through partnerships with several local banks. Financial institutions send counselors to meet with clients in a one-on-one setting. They go over the basics. Spending diaries are set up to help identify budgetary leaks. Coaching for creating an overall budget and identifying attainable financial goals are all part of a nine-month program.

Some clients qualify for the Second Chance Savings program, in which HFD helps them open a savings account. As savings goals are met, small bonuses are added as incentives. “Most Americans don’t have $400 for an emergency, so it’s not unusual to be in this situation,” said Robinson. “We’re proud of this program we built with the help of Community Bank of Downers Grove. They have been so helpful in so many ways since we first opened our doors.”

There’s also a job readiness program. It’s a workshop offered several times a year, in which clients are able to get advice from HR professionals who share useful information about prospective employers. Topics such as leveraging entry-level jobs into higher positions, working on teams, and conflict resolution are covered in a comfortable environment. “Our goal is to help clients not only get the job but stay employed and keep following a successful career path,” said Robinson.
The Pathways to Well-Being program began out of a need for prescription medication assistance and medical supplies.

40% of HFD clients have sometype of chronic illness. Among others, Midwestern University helps with oral and visual healthcare. Students present outreach programs such as eating healthfully on a budget and how to exercise in daily life.
HFD staff meets people face to face. They have conversations and get to know people as individuals. “You would be surprised how often people just need someone to talk to,” Robinson said. “We listen.”

The help provided comes in inklings of vast categories. It’s exciting to see all the little pieces come together. Robinson relayed an anecdotal story of a homeless client who had a job interview. He had cut his own hair but needed a razor. HFD volunteers were somehow able to locate a razor that day. She remembered how excited he was for the interview but worried about not being able to shave.

“Honestly, though, it wasn’t about the razor. Getting the job meant getting on a path out of here and the possibility to change his life. All through one small, inexpensive item we were able to help with,” said Robinson.

The next time that client is getting ready for a job interview, he’ll likely be able to buy his own razor. Enabling people to take care of themselves through assistance and encouragement is HFD’s goal. “The idea is to put people in a position in which they won’t need us anymore,” Robinson said, smiling.

For more information or to make a donation, visit HopesFrontDoor.org

Volunteers are dedicated to helping clients achieve long-term stability and self-sufficiency.

Hope’s Front Door annual school supply drive is held every summer to ensure students are prepared.