LIFT-Chicago is thrilled to announce that JPMorgan Chase has committed to an upgraded gift to support LIFT-Chicago’s vital services to low-income families throughout the Chicago area. “This signature partnership allows JPMorgan Chase to continue riding shotgun with LIFT-Chicago as we work to support our vulnerable neighbors who are facing those ‘shaky ground’ moments of crisis,” said Ben Reuler, Executive Director of LIFT-Chicago.
“I commend JPMorgan Chase for seeing in LIFT what our clients tell us every day: that LIFT-Chicago resource centers are unique sanctuaries of positivity where dedicated, friendly, tech savvy volunteers truly help people access opportunities and improve their well being in a manner that is void of red tape and full of dignity and respect.”
LIFT-Chicago served 2,500 unique families over the past 12 months, the busiest stretch in its history. During this time of increased client demand the organization is holding itself more accountable than ever to the families coming through its doors. LIFT-Chicago recently went live with a state of the art, customized electronic case management system that will better support long-term goal setting with clients, and tracking of progress against goals; will double the number of workstations at its flagship office in Uptown; and hired a stellar Regional Program Manager in January. In February LIFT was featured in the New York Times as “One of the most innovative organizations working to re-imagine poverty alleviation.” Through this signature partnership, JPMorgan Chase and LIFT-Chicago will work together to ensure that more vulnerable Chicago community members than ever are able to access the resources they need to achieve their full potential.
Operating a national network of resource centers, LIFT engages hundreds of volunteer advocates to work one-on-one with low income community members. Together, they work side by side on their goals. LIFT clients and volunteers work one-on-one to find jobs, secure safe and stable housing, make ends meet through public benefits and tax credits, and obtain quality referrals for services like childcare and healthcare. Simultaneously, the LIFT civic engagement experience pushes volunteers to grapple with Chicago’s most challenging issues related to poverty, race, inequality, and policy.