Get involved with Breakthrough during the ongoing COVID-19 crisis
We have made additional adjustments to our volunteer guidelines under the guidance of state and local health officials. We will continue to keep our centers open, but to reduce potential exposure to the vulnerable guests, we are requesting alternative ways for donors and volunteers to support our programs.
Volunteer at Breakthrough in the following ways:
Provide a meal for 35 guests at our Men’s or Women’s Centers. Meals can be prepared in your home and dropped off or catered by a local restaurant. If you drop off a meal, we ask that you please hand it off at the door and not come into the building.
If you are interested in this opportunity and want to get involved please email manna@breakthrough.org or look for an available date below.
Donate Supplies
Donate or organize a drive to provide items for our Fresh Market food pantry or Men's and Women's Centers such as food, toiletries, cleaning products, disposable face masks, school supplies, & Chromebooks.
Please contact volunteer@breakthrough.org for a complete list and for more details.
Breakthrough’s Veterans Volunteer Initiative provides opportunities for veterans to engage in the East Garfield Park community as local leaders and mentors to youth. By providing meaningful volunteer opportunities that utilize veterans’ skills, the initiative visibly impacts the community and more than 15,000 residents each year.
For more information visit our Veterans Volunteer Initiative page
Volunteer at GCFD
The Greater Chicago Food Depository (GCFD), our partner who provides food for the shelters and the Fresh Market, has an urgent need for volunteers to pack food. Sign up as an individual or organize a group of 10 or less to volunteer. Volunteers can earn credit for Breakthrough.
For more information and to get involved go to chicagosfoodbank.
E-Learning Volunteers
Provide assistance and tech support to Breakthrough's youth. Volunteers are needed Monday-Friday from 8:00-2:00 PM. Prior experience in education, Google Classroom, technology, and/or working with youth preferred.
Contact volunteer@breakthrough.org to get involved.
The Emergency Fund has been created to help East Garfield Park residents bridge the gap where disparities have shown up the most, including housing, utilities, medical care, food, and childcare.
Donate with "Emergency Fund" in the memo line
Please check this page regularly for additional ways to get involved and contact us if you have any questions about the above opportunities.