.png)
HEAR IT FROM
PAST MEMBERS

Chris would normally have a quiet, sullen face as he consistently would decline to share anything about how he was doing when it came his turn in the morning group. Hurt and broken were apt descriptions. Having felt the frustration of personal failure and the loneliness of being an outcast because of his prison experience, Chris had retreated into a self made bondage of anger, unforgiveness and despair. Those links in the chain of pain in his life seemed unbreakable. But that is where the structure of the program at Hand N Hand was able to chisel away at those links and eventually changed his life. The program was able to help Chris gain consistent employment, plugged him into treatment that helped him overcome challenge areas in his life and put a smile on his face as he was able to save and afford to move into an apartment. All of this after only six months of exiting prison and landing on his feet at Hand N Hand.
Richard J. carried his own personal rain cloud with him. He would often admit to the struggles he felt as a brilliant and intellectually gifted person haunted by the memories of childhood traumas including issues with weight, bullying and racism. Always desiring to see the brighter side of the situation but frequently bowing under the pressure of his sense of disappointment at his own self sabotaging of success, it seemed Richard was adept at grasping defeat from the jaws of victory. Hand N Hand did not let go of its grasp on Richard and the possibility of success. Richard was chosen to assist in facilitating some aspects in the twelve step recovery portions of the Hand N Hand program. He also became a role model in how he persistently maintained an excellent work ethic that not only rapidly gained him a permanent position with a company where he was working a temporary assignment, but his application of the principles and guidance provided at Hand N Hand assisted him in moving into his own apartment and having the company he now permanently worked for.
Joe T. Came to Hand to Hand on a Journey to reunite with loved ones. An experienced US Navy Veteran, Joe was looking for a new opportunity after incarceration. Joe plugged into all that the Hand N Hand program offered. within 9 months Joe was gainfully employed, in a place of his own with a vehicle and a bright future ahead of him. Joe mentions that the Program reminded him of the best parts of his Navy experience.
Our Birth Certificate Acquisition service is dedicated to assisting individuals in obtaining their birth certificates—regardless of whether they reside in Cook County or other counties. We recognize that navigating the process of acquiring a birth certificate can often be complex and time-consuming. Our team is committed to simplifying the journey for you, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience from start to finish.
Obtain Birth Certificate


Our Residence Verification Letter service provides tailored assistance for individuals seeking to secure essential state identification (State ID), state benefits, and Social Security cards. Understanding the importance of having necessary documentation for accessing vital services, our team is dedicated to simplifying the verification process and ensuring that our clients receive the support they need.
Residence Verification Letters
Our Resume Assistance service is dedicated to helping individuals create professional and impactful resumes that effectively highlight their skills, experiences, and accomplishments. In today’s competitive job market, having a well-crafted resume is essential for making a strong first impression and standing out to potential employers. We provide the guidance and resources you need to develop a resume that reflects your unique strengths and qualifications.
Assistance With Resumes


Our GED and Vocational Certification Assistance service is designed to support individuals looking to enhance their skills and educational qualifications, particularly after reentering the community. By connecting you with reputable service providers, we help you achieve your educational goals and open doors to specialized vocational certifications, including forklift operation, construction, and maintenance.
GED
By utilizing a structured itinerary, individuals can effectively manage their time, engage in meaningful activities, and navigate their daily responsibilities with greater confidence. Additionally, we provide information about potential independent living locations upon completing the program, as well as recommendations for trusted banking, phone, and other essential services for clients who are not familiar with the area.
Time Management


Our Employment Search Assistance service is dedicated to equipping you with the tools, guidance, and support necessary to streamline your job search process. We understand that navigating the job market can be challenging, and our goal is to empower you with the resources and knowledge needed to secure your next role with confidence and ease.
Assistance With Employment
Our Seasonal Healthcare Provider Visits service is designed to offer personalized medical consultations and care specifically tailored to address common seasonal health issues. As each season brings its own set of health challenges—such as allergies in spring, heat-related illnesses in summer, colds and flu in winter, and other seasonal concerns—our dedicated healthcare professionals are here to provide timely and effective care.
Healthcare Visits


Our Personal Encouragement and Counseling service offers tailored mentorship from our Program Director and CEO to clients who demonstrate leadership potential. This program aims to nurture and develop the skills, confidence, and vision of emerging leaders, providing them with personalized guidance and support that fosters personal growth and professional development.
Personal Encouragement and Counseling
Our Coin-Operated Laundry Facility Assistance service is designed to provide residents with convenient access to on-site laundry facilities equipped with coin-operated machines. This service enables residents to efficiently manage their laundry needs with ease and comfort, all while maintaining responsibility for providing the necessary coins for operation. We aim to create a seamless laundry experience that caters to your needs.
Provision Of Coin


Our Morning Group Sessions provide an empowering and supportive environment for residents to start their day positively. Held Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM, these sessions focus on inspiration, life skills development, and supportive community connections modeled after NA/AA meeting formats. In addition, we offer weekend pass opportunities for residents to engage in shopping, recreation, and dining, helping to build life skills and foster a sense of independence.
Morning Group Sessions
Our Temporary Food Provision service is designed to support residents during the early part of their program by offering nutritious food options to meet immediate dietary needs. Alongside access to temporary food supplies, we provide essential information and resources on budgeting to effectively manage food benefits. Our aim is to ensure residents have the support they need to establish healthy eating habits while learning how to make the most of their food assistance resources.
Provision Of Food

