Fellowship Housing celebrates successes at Make Joyful Noise gala

Fellowship Housing, a nonprofit organization, raised $100,000 at their sixth annual gala, "Make a Joyful Noise." The event was held at the Marriott Northwest in Hoffman Estates, Saturday, Feb. 8.

The mission of the organization is to transform the lives of homeless or at-risk single moms and their children by providing safe, affordable housing and holistic mentoring and to guide them from crisis to long-term stability and independence.

"The hardest job on Earth is being a single mom," said Brooke Bartlow, executive director. "What courage our moms have to want to change their lives and their circumstances for themselves as well as for their children. I stand here tonight as I do each day fighting for the fatherless, speaking up for the moms and kids in our program who want to make a change in their stories."

With a full room of over 200 guests the honorary chairman, Shawn Christopher, shared with guests how the Fellowship Housing program prepares families for independent living and financial stability upon graduation. Christopher's musical credits include achieving No. 1 billboard status and touring worldwide with Chaka Khan, being featured with Melissa Morgan, Vesta Williams, and Gavin Christopher on recordings and in live stage shows.

Christopher shared how hard it was for her to be a single mom at a young age and how many difficulties she had to overcome. Christopher said that knowing there is a program helping transform the lives of families makes her proud to contribute and to encourage others to support it.

Guests were also inspired by the life story of a current Fellowship Housing mom Roz, who told her heartbreaking story of how Fellowship Housing was able to provide the life changing environment she needed.

"I am grateful for Fellowship Housing and all the supporters who donate in many ways to bring joy," she told the audience. "It is empowering to know that others are cheering you on!"

Before the night came to a close, Make a Joyful Noise resonated with all in attendance and enough money had been raised to bring many new families into the program. These families will now have access to case management, subsidized rent, and other assistance that Fellowship Housing has to offer.

For more information on Fellowship Housing, visit www.fhcmoms.org or call (847) 882-2511.