On the evening of August 22nd LIFT-Chicago hosted an open house at our headquarters in Uptown. Guests enjoyed appetizers and refreshments as they learned about LIFT’s work to expand opportunity in Chicago; received tours of the office; and got to mingle with LIFT-Chicago staff and volunteer advocates.
For many attendees this was their first visit to a LIFT office. “The most amazing thing about nights like tonight” said Stephenie Lazarus, LIFT-Chicago’s Development Associate “is that everyone gets the chance to become closer to LIFT and meet other like-minded individuals.” Corporate partners were able to meet community partners, advocates met board members and everyone was able to meet LIFT-Chicago’s Executive Director, Ben Reuler.
During his brief remarks Reuler shared his excitement about the trajectory of LIFT-Chicago. “We’re on to something,” he said. He pointed to a 2004 Chicago Tribune cover story featuring the organization; the story spoke of LIFT’s Uptown office serving 10 members per week. “Now this office serves 10 members per hour,” he said, acknowledging the ripples of influence that have allowed LIFT to grow its base of allies and donors in the community. “We are going to help more people LIFT themselves out of poverty for good and influence how this city improves customer service for our neighbors who find themselves’ standing on shaky ground and relying on the safety net.”
LIFT-Chicago Regional Site Coordinator Allison Glaubke shared with guests the inspirational story of a LIFT member who has overcome personal tragedy and shaky financial ground to improve his situation. Glaubke described how LIFT volunteer advocates helped this member improve his confidence, hope and employment outlook by helping him access grief counseling, complete a resume and job applications, and generally lift him with personalized weekly meetings tailored to his specific situation and needs. “He just landed his first interview and is feeling optimistic” said Glaubke.
”Any time we can give people the opportunity to see, feel and touch the magic that happens in our local resource centers is important,” said Lazarus. “We’ll be hosting more of these open houses throughout the year and I encourage people to come break bread with us, connect with our team and see the office. It’s a great way to spend an hour.”
Special thanks to LIFT-Chicago board members Caroline Degenaars and Christopher Skrable for co-hosting the evening and providing refreshments.