Open Communities
Category: Park District/Local Government, Housing, Disability-Aware Business
Nearest Transportation Stop: Winnetka, Metra
Open Communities' mission is to educate, advocate and organize to promote just and inclusive communities in north suburban Chicago. Open Communities (formerly Interfaith Housing Center of the Northern Suburbs) is a leading voice for housing, economic and social justice in north suburban Chicago, working to promote inclusive communities that are welcoming to all. We work with current and prospective residents and local groups to promote economically and culturally diverse communities in north suburban Chicago. We provide fair and affordable housing counseling services, community education, advocacy, and organizing for welcoming communities.
Disability Aware Features:
- Adaptive technology
- Braille
- Extra assistance available
- Hires or would like to hire qualified individuals with disabilities
- Offer products or services for people with disabilities
- Physically accessible
- Trained staff
- Volunteer opportunities for people with disabilities
Interfaith works with community groups, religious congregations, North Shore villages, and individuals to prevent discrimination in housing, and promote housing options for all. I read in their current newsletter that they recently helped an elderly African-American woman and her son with a disability living in Highland Park get a reasonable accommodation that prevented them from being evicted.
Interfaith has a home-sharing program that helps match those who want to share their home with those who need housing. This type of arrangement can be a good option for those living with disability.
Disability Awareness: Welcoming, Talked directly to the person/people with disability, Friendly, Gave choices, Gave extra time, Respectful, Helpful with assistance or accommodation, Flexible service, Physically accessible, staff that is eager to please, and willing to think flexibly about programming