At Northside Community Resources, our mission comes home through the stories of individuals and families in our community. We strive to honor each unique journey—experiences that inspire our commitment to build and strengthen communities among the diverse populations of Chicago’s North Side.
The SARFS program repaired flooring throughout the two-story home of Mabel, an 85-year-old who has lived in Rogers Park since the 1950s. As Mabel is 80 percent blind, she was having trouble navigating from room to room of the house. The old floor was uneven and badly worn, and Mabel could easily have tripped and fallen, ending up with a broken hip or worse. This program also replaced both outer access doors to Mabel’s home, and thanks to these sturdy new doors, Mabel feels much safer at night.
Anne and Sarah, tenants in a 4 + 1-style apartment, sought help from our Housing Program one evening this spring. The next day, our staff inspected their apartment, finding severe ceiling damage in the kitchen, bedrooms, and bathroom caused by leaking pipes and radiators. Despite initial complaints, the landlord had only performed a cursory clean-up.
We assisted the roommates in drafting a formal repair request letter. After receiving no response from the landlord, we contacted him directly. Though initially reluctant, he agreed to send a maintenance crew, who promptly began repairs. By the following week, all work was completed, and the unit had been freshly painted.
Dorothy, an independent 83-year-old, has lived in the same Edgewater home for most of her life. Despite concern from her grandniece and neighbors, she consistently declined heavy-duty chore services. When NCR intervened, we built a foundation of trust with Dorothy, running errands and surprising her with treats.
As grocery shopping became more difficult for her, we connected Dorothy with Heart to Heart, a nonprofit assisting seniors. Initially hesitant, she agreed to a needs assessment with our support. She was then matched with a retired nurse who helps with shopping and appointments.
Eventually, Dorothy allowed a cleaning service to create clear walkways and remove unsanitary debris, trusting us to respect her wishes. We continue to support Dorothy, making small but meaningful improvements to her quality of life.
At NCR’s first North Side Immigrant College Forum, we met Arianna, an 11th grader from the Chicago Math and Science Academy. While reading a Northwestern University brochure, Arianna expressed doubts about her college prospects due to family issues and her undocumented parents.
We reassured her that working part-time is a valuable extracurricular activity, demonstrating self-sufficiency and maturity. Inspired by a panelist from the Immigrant Youth Justice League, Arianna felt empowered to pursue higher education despite her challenges. Encouraged by the forum, she is now applying to several local colleges.
Frank, immobilized by a chronic muscular condition and balance issues, was limited to sponge baths at home. Longing for a real shower but fearing a fall, he needed assistance.
The SARFS program administrator visited Frank, assessed his needs, and quickly arranged for contractors to update his bathroom. They installed a hand-held shower, transfer bench, and grab bars, allowing Frank to shower safely while seated.
Delighted with the results and the respectful workers, Frank enthusiastically recommended SARFS and NCR to friends and neighbors.
