Virtual magic show raises vital funds to help Hesed House serve the homeless
No matter what life throws at Hesed House - COVID-19, a frigid Chicago winter or creating new ways to serve the community while following pandemic safety guidelines - the organization never wavers from its commitment to ending homeless one person at a time.
As a nonprofit, Hesed House relies on donations and sponsors from local businesses and individuals to continue its important work. Because of the ongoing pandemic, Hesed House could not host its usual in-person fundraising events for the second straight year, but the virtual environment proved helpful, allowing the organization to develop new ways to connect and celebrate the generous contributions of longtime supporters.
On Sunday, March 14, Hesed House hosted "Home is Where the Magic Is," a family-friendly event featuring a virtual magic show with Justin Willman, best known for his Netflix show, "Magic for Humans." Attendees, many of whom typically attend the organization's annual Derby Party each spring, thoroughly enjoyed all the tricks Willman had up his sleeves and were happy to continue supporting an organization that has such a profound impact on the community.
"Ticket sales and sponsorships for this event help us continue to end homelessness - one person, one family at a time," said Lauren Jernigan, division director of development for Hesed House. "Each day people turn to Hesed House, and with our donors' support, we are able to meet their unique needs."
"Home is Where the Magic Is," raised over $200,000 to continue serving those in need. Funds from the event will support Hesed House's Overnight Emergency Shelter, Family Shelter, Permanent Supportive Housing Programs, as well as case management and other services. Jernigan said that even as much of the community's day-to-day life was put on pause through the pandemic, homelessness has continued, and there is an even greater need for Hesed House's services. Through sponsors, Hesed House is able to continue serving hundreds of people who have nowhere else to turn when they're struggling most. Hesed House knows that there is no magic trick that will end homelessness, but with constant dedication to the cause, they know it is possible.
"With the opening of a new shelter space, Hesed House is facing higher operational costs to serve those in need. Donations help us feed the hungry, shelter the homeless, clothe the naked, and give people the chance to hope again," Jernigan said.
Gerald Cares once again joined Hesed House's fundraising efforts as a presenting sponsor for their biggest fundraiser of the year. Jernigan said Hesed House is humbled by Gerald Cares' passion for making a difference in the community and is grateful for their support.
"Gerald Auto Group is proud to be a longtime supporter of Hesed House and the amazing, transformative work they do. They're services are needed now more than ever, and we're honored to be help them provide their vital services to so many in need," said owner of Gerald Auto Group Doug Gerald.
Hesed House provides vital shelter, clothing, food and job search training to hundreds of people each year as well as essential services such as the on-site Comprehensive Resource Center and case management. With the opening of its third shelter space, Hesed House is able to meet the growing need for their services 365 days a year. To learn more, visit http://hesedhouse.org.