Mission, Vision, and Values

H.O.M.E. is committed to improving the quality of life for Chicago’s low-income elderly. Our unique set of programs help seniors remain independent & part of their community by offering opportunities for intergenerational living in addition to a variety of citywide support services

Our Mission

Committed to improving the quality of life for Chicago’s low-income elderly, H.O.M.E. helps seniors remain independent and part of their community by offering opportunities for intergenerational living and by providing a variety of citywide support services.

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H.O.M.E. started as an outgrowth of Little Brothers - Friends of the Elderly, whose credo of “flowers before bread” means that all people need social and spiritual connection, even over physical sustenance. Although nonsectarian, to this day a faith-inspired vision of mutuality and interdependence imbues H.O.M.E.’s work.

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Our Vision

H.O.M.E.’s vision is of a Chicago in which people of all ages live together in a way that supports older adults’ connection to the larger community. In addition to housing, H.O.M.E. lives this vision through at-large housing support programs for older people primarily on the South and West Sides: Upkeep and Repair, a Shopping Bus, and the Moving Program.

These programs, combined with H.O.M.E.’s nearly 40-year culture and practice of “great respect” as encapsulated by its founders, give older people a platform to age safely and comfortably in their homes and neighborhoods.

Our Values

  • Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice

    Just as we recognize that living in community is as important a human need as food and shelter, H.O.M.E. is proudly and intentionally inclusive of people of all backgrounds, celebrating individuals of all ages, races, national origins, religions, genders, gender identities, sexual orientations, and abilities.

  • Dignity

    We believe everyone deserves to be treated with great respect, compassion and acceptance.

  • Community

    We are united in our commitment to low-income seniors, and we inspire others to join us in our mission.

  • Centering Older Adults

    We strive to provide outstanding service through intergenerational housing, community programs, and policy advocacy that support Chicago’s low-income seniors while addressing their housing challenges.

  • Trust

    We build and maintain trust with each other, the people we serve, neighbors, and supporters.

  • Teamwork

    Fueled by enthusiasm for our mission, we depend upon each other for collaboration, support and appreciation. 

  • Culture of Respect

    We model the respect and community-building that we aspire to see in the world. We do this by rendering visible the lived experiences of Chicago’s older adults and people with low incomes.

  • Independence and Interdependence

    We believe that community is essential for seniors to maintain their independence and health

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H.O.M.E. stands with the Black community and supports initiatives that promote neighborhood reinvestment, equity and inclusion, and justice for Black Americans.