July 2024

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Pay It Forward!
Funder Spotlight
A Safe Haven's Impact
Celebrating Our Clients and Staff
Community Connections
Quick Hits

Summer’s here, and we are halfway through the year already – can you believe it? We hope you had a wonderful July 4th celebration. As we reflect on the freedoms we enjoy, we continue to work hard on bringing hope and opportunity to individuals in crisis experiencing homelessness and poverty in the Chicagoland area. Through comprehensive treatment, housing, support services, and career pathways – A Safe Haven is here to lift up those who need it most.

This July, we are celebrating Social Wellness Month. It's a great reminder of how important good relationships and a strong community are for healing and growth. We all need each other, right?

Social wellness is about caring for our minds, bodies, and connections. Science shows that hanging out with others can boost our mood, reduce stress, and even help us live longer.

This month, why not make social wellness your thing? Grab coffee with a friend, throw a little get-together, or try a new group activity. Trust us, even small steps can make a big difference.

And while you are at it, why not spread the love? Consider "paying it forward" to help those experiencing homelessness and poverty. Your kindness can start a chain reaction, helping people rebuild their lives and making our whole community a bit more caring. It is not just donating—it is investing in all of us.

Of course, we are always thrilled when our amazing supporters want to get more involved. Whether you are up for volunteering with your company for a “Charity Day” or chipping in some money each month, every bit of help impacts the lives we serve.

Cheers to a July packed with great connections, fun times, and good vibes! We're so glad you are with us on this journey, and we would love for you to join us in paying it forward. Together, we can build a community where everyone feels supported and connected.

Thanks for being awesome!

Veteran and DVNF staff member at a recent event.

We are very thankful to the Disabled Veterans National Foundation (DVNF) for being instrumental in supporting A Safe Haven's RISE (Resources-Information-Support-Empowerment) Suicide Prevention initiative, a program making significant strides in veteran mental health support since 2018.

With DVNF's backing, including a recent $22,000 Capacity Building Grant for the RISE program, A Safe Haven has expanded its 24/7 services for veterans in housing programs, focusing on suicide prevention and comprehensive support. The RISE program takes an innovative approach by integrating mental health professionals into social events and activities, making support more accessible and less stigmatizing for veterans.

Since its inception, RISE has provided trauma-informed mental health care to 12,000 veterans and their family members. The program's success is evident in its ability to increase awareness of suicide risk factors, provide coping skills, and improve access to mental health treatment for veterans in Chicago.

The funds received are leveraged to help cover the costs of the RISE program, the training and hiring of staff dedicated to suicide prevention for the veteran community, and the planning and implementation of veteran outreach events. DVNF's support has been crucial in funding implementation and clinical operations, including psychiatric and counseling services.

A Safe Haven is profoundly grateful for DVNF's incredible support, which has been pivotal in addressing the urgent need for veteran suicide prevention and mental health support in the Chicago area.

Read the press release here!

"Our partnership with A Safe Haven through the RISE program exemplifies DVNF’s commitment to veteran well-being, providing essential support in their journey towards mental health and stability. This collaboration is crucial in expanding accessible, comprehensive services for our veterans, ensuring they receive the care and support they deserve."

Mohammad Farahi — Disabled Veterans National Foundation

We are deeply grateful to the Greater Chicago Food Depository for their invaluable support, without which our efforts to nourish our community would not be possible.

Clients

Scotty's Story

Scotty’s journey from struggle to hope is a powerful testament to resilience and second chances. Born into a large family, he joined the U.S. Marines after high school, seeking purpose. However, upon returning to civilian life, he found himself adrift and resentful. 

This inner turmoil led Scotty to homelessness, a failed marriage, and even incarceration. For two decades, he experienced chronic homelessness, never finding stable ground. The turning point came after a traumatic machete attack that left him injured and unable to work. 

In his darkest hour, Scotty turned to the VA Hospital for help, which referred him to A Safe Haven. There, he encountered a supportive environment that sparked a transformation in his attitude and outlook on life. 

Inspired by the support he received, Scotty made the courageous decision to pursue higher education, enrolling in college to work towards a degree. While he acknowledges that his journey is ongoing, he now faces the future with renewed hope and determination. 

“The road to redemption is rarely straight, but with perseverance and the right support, even the most winding path can lead you home. It's never too late to change your direction and pursue your dreams.”– Scotty

A big "vroom, vroom" thank you to Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois for inviting us to the second annual NASCAR Chicago Street Race! What an incredible two-day spectacle, transforming our city into a thrilling racetrack. From heart-racing moments on the streets to stellar music headliners, it was truly unforgettable. We're grateful to partner with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois, an organization dedicated to improving health and wellness across Illinois. Their commitment to the community and providing access to exciting events like this is truly appreciated!

Exciting

Job Training Opportunities

Available Now!

Do you know someone looking to enhance their skills and jumpstart a new career?

A Safe Haven is thrilled to announce the following training opportunities that could set someone on the path to professional success:

Custodial Engineering: 4 slots open
Welding: 2 slots open
Culinary Arts: The next class runs from October 7 to November 29. (includes support classes and work readiness training)

Remember:

All training components, orientations, and assessments (including O&A sessions) must be completed.
Work readiness is mandatory.
Next Work Readiness class begins on August 5, 2024.

Please note: These programs may have specific eligibility requirements.

CLICK HERE TO FILL OUT JOB TRAINING INQUIRY FORM

Join our

Advisory Board!

We're seeking passionate individuals to join our Advisory Board. You'll contribute to fundraising, community outreach, and strategic guidance as a member. This volunteer role offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact while expanding your professional network.

Ideal candidates for our Advisory Board have diverse backgrounds and a strong commitment to our mission of restoring hope and opportunity to individuals in crisis. If you're interested in making a difference or know someone who would be an excellent fit for this rewarding opportunity, please get in touch with us for more information. Together, we can make a significant impact in our community.

Download the full board position overview here.

"Ready to get in touch? Simply click here to fill out an inquiry form!"

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE!

Hope for

Homes Day 2024

A big thank you shout out for being a part of the inaugural Hope for Homes Day! We were honored to join forces with our community partners in this groundbreaking collaborative effort, working together to end homelessness and create an Illinois where everyone has access to stable housing and transformative social services.