At Dream Town, we’re very much about fostering community. So, in honor of National Volunteer Month, DT Supports Small is highlighting local nonprofit organizations where you can volunteer your time and resources to support Chicago’s diverse communities.
My Block. My Hood. My City.
formyblock.org | 47 W Polk St, Chicago
Seeking to provide Chicago’s underprivileged youth with an awareness of opportunities beyond their neighborhood, this one-of-a-kind organization takes students on immersive, experiential explorations focused on diverse fields like STEM, Arts & Culture, Health, and Culinary Arts.
Greater Chicago Food Depository
chicagosfoodbank.org | 4100 W Ann Lurie Place, Chicago
Working with more than 700 smaller food pantries, soup kitchens and shelters across Chicagoland, the Food Depository is a united community effort to bring food, dignity and hope to neighbors in need. Volunteers can work at the Depository’s Archer Heights warehouse or several off-site locations.
Center on Halsted
centeronhalsted.org | 3656 N Halsted St, Chicago
In the heart of Lakeview, this is the Midwest’s most comprehensive community center dedicated to LGBTQ+ residents and visitors. Volunteer opportunities abound and will give you a chance to engage and serve patrons, clients and guests whose rich life experiences may vary greatly from your own.
The Night Ministry
thenightministry.org | 1735 N Ashland Ave, Chicago
You’ve likely seen their specially outfitted Health Outreach Bus in underserved areas of the city. Connecting with youth and adults who struggle with homelessness and poverty, the Ministry’s work also encompasses housing and a range of social services. Individuals and groups are encouraged to volunteer.
Common Pantry
commonpantry.org | 3744 N Damen Ave, Chicago
Since 1967, the generous volunteers of Common Pantry have played a critical role in combatting hunger and food insecurity in economically and racially diverse neighborhoods on Chicago’s northside. In 2020 alone, they logged 5,740 volunteer hours to serve, on average, 750 families every month.
Pillars Community Health
pillarscommunityhealth.org | 23 Calendar Ave, La Grange
Marking its 100th anniversary, Pillars remains on the forefront of meeting the health and social needs of residents in Chicago’s western suburbs. In addition to their 24-hour crisis line, well-trained volunteers help to staff their Domestic Violence Hotline and provide other needed services.
Compass to Care – The Michael & Sandy Ernsdorff Childhood Cancer Foundation
compasstocare.org | 6323 N Avondale Ave, Chicago
Working with families in financial need, this 10-year-old foundation provides free non-emergency medical transportation for children to access life-saving cancer treatment. Volunteer your expertise and passions – whether it’s photography, event planning, or general office work.
Housing Opportunities for Women (HOW)
how-inc.org | 1607 W Howard St, Chicago
Since 1983, HOW has worked to ensure that people experiencing homelessness are housed as quickly as possible – and provided with tools for success and self-sufficiency. Through this Housing First Model, HOW has empowered thousands of individuals and families to break the cycle of poverty and homelessness.
Youth Outlook
youth-outlook.org | 1828 Old Naperville Rd, Naperville
Founded in DuPage County, Youth Outlook is the first suburban social service agency in Illinois dedicated to the support of LBGTQ+ youth. They now work in 6 suburban counties, offering drop-in centers for youth, parent support and community education.
Legal Council for Health Justice
legalcouncil.org | 17 N State St, Chicago
Founded in 1987 as AIDS Legal Council of Chicago, this pioneering agency has broadened its focus and now works across communities to bring health justice to people facing barriers due to illness or disability. Their greatest need is for pro bono legal professionals.
Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly Chicago Chapter
littlebrotherschicago.org | 355 N Ashland Ave, Chicago
Recognizing that nurturing the mind and spirit are as important as feeding the body, the local staff and volunteers of this global organization offer social interaction and important services to alleviate loneliness and isolation among our most vulnerable elders here in Chicago.
National Alliance on Mental Illness – Cook County North Suburban
namiccns.org | 8324 Skokie Blvd, Skokie
NAMI works to improve the lives of individuals with serious mental illness and those who love and care for them. A variety of volunteer opportunities are available – from flyer distribution and administrative support to serving on planning committees and assisting at events.
Housing Opportunities & Maintenance for the Elderly (H.O.M.E.)
homeseniors.org | 1419 W Carroll Ave, Chicago
With an array of programs from home repairs and transport to intergenerational housing, H.O.M.E. fosters joy, independence and connection for low-income older adults. Whether you’re an ongoing or one-time volunteer, you’ll find that their clients have so much to give back to you with their wisdom and experience!
Please note that some volunteer opportunities may be modified or limited during the COVID-19 pandemic.
