Who says you need a fortune to be kind?

The mission of this website is to provide citizens of Chicago, particularly young adults, with practical and budget-friendly strategies to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the those in our community who are struggling with homelessness

“All you can take with you is that which you’ve given away”

— Peter Bailey, It’s a Wonderful Life

Approach

  • 1. Define Objectives

    1. Provide immediate relief and support for the felt needs of the homeless in Chicago

    2. Promoting dignity, empowerment, and self-sufficiency among homeless individuals

    3. Fostering empathy, awareness, and community engagement around issues of homelessness

  • 2. Consider Strategies

    Maximizing Resource Efficiency

    Optimiizing the resources one currently possess (e.g., time, money, skills) to generate the greatest impact for those in need. It focuses on leveraging assets efficiently and effectively to provide support and assistance to the poor

    Maximizing Resource Supply

    Emphasizing the strategic management of one’s resources by adopting frugal practices, budgeting wisely, and consciously reducing discretionary expenses. By prioritizing savings and minimizing unnecessary expenditures, individuals aim to increase their capacity to give generously to the poor and support charitable causes of their choosing

  • 3. Apply Tactics

    Maximizing Resource Efficiency

    1. Give away items that are bought either in bulk or at discount prices

    2. Donate resources to organizations that are experts in a particular service

    3. Contact service organizations for support and / or share helpful resources with a person in need

    4. Lend your smile, time, and attention

    Maximizing Resource Supply

    1. Reduce unnecessary, discretionary expenses (e.g., food delivery, alcohol, apparel)

    2. Fundraise / ask for resources

What to Give

  • Food, beverages, entertainment, and smile / greeting / attention

  • Clothing, hygiene and health products, paid Ventra cards, housing items (e.g., tents, sleeping bag)

  • Volunteer, donate, call for help, delegation to the experts

Homelessness in Chicago

Learning about homelessness in Chicago shows just how tough it is out there for so many folks, and it’s clear there is a big problem that needs fixing

Potential for Improved Giving Among Chicagoans

In Chicago, especially among young adults, there is ample room for growth in charitable involvement and supporting the underprivileged, signaling a promising opportunity for increased empathy and community impact

Submit Ideas / Feedback

If you have any feedback or ideas to share, it’d be great to hear from you! Don't hesitate to share feedback on the Google Form here