The UP House Illinois

The Heartbeat of Change: Volunteers and Vision at The UP House

Have you ever wondered what really powers a non-profit like The UP House? It’s not just funds or programs—it’s people. Especially volunteers. These are folks from all walks of life who give something super valuable: their time.

The Role of Volunteers in Nonprofits: Volunteers are the unsung heroes in the non-profit world. They do everything from feeding programs to paperwork, bringing energy, skills, and passion. Without them, many organizations wouldn’t be able to meet their goals or extend their reach nearly as far.

Tangela Thornton’s Vision and Leadership: Let’s talk about Tangela Thornton—she’s the powerhouse behind The UP House. With a big heart and an even bigger vision, Tangela has woven the spirit of volunteerism deeply into the fabric of the organization. She believes that every volunteer brings a unique spark that can ignite hope and change in countless lives. Curious about her journey? Check out her story here.

Impact Stories from The UP House: From young professionals to retirees, our volunteers bring their A-game to make a difference. Like Sarah, a college student who tutors kids at The UP House, helping them ace their classes and build confidence. Or Mr. James, who retired from teaching but spends two days a week helping out because he believes in giving back. These stories aren’t just inspiring; they’re a testament to the incredible impact of lending a hand.

The Mutual Benefits of Volunteering: Guess what? When you volunteer, it’s not just the organization that benefits—you do too! Volunteers often talk about the personal satisfaction that comes from helping others. It’s a way to learn new skills, build networks, and even boost your mental health. Feeling part of a community can truly be a game-changer.

How to Get Involved: Ready to jump in? Whether you’ve got a few hours a month or a day each week, there’s a place for you here at The UP House. We’re always on the lookout for passionate individuals ready to make a difference. Head over to our volunteer page to find out how you can join our vibrant community.

Volunteers truly are the heartbeat of The UP House. With every hour they dedicate, they breathe life into our mission and help us pave the path to a better tomorrow. Tangela Thornton says it best: “Our volunteers don’t just bring their time, they bring their hearts. And that’s what changes everything.”

Join us, share your spirit, and let’s make magic happen together. Because when we unite for a cause, there’s nothing we can’t accomplish.

For more information, volunteer opportunities, or just to chat about how you can get involved, don’t hesitate to reach out. Follow us on Facebook and Instragram to stay updated with the latest at The UP House and see real stories of impact unfold every day.

From Foster Care to Future Leaders: The UP House’s Mission to Empower

Every year, over 23,000 young adults face the daunting challenge of aging out of the U.S. foster care system. As they transition into independence without the traditional family support system, many struggle with fundamental aspects of adult life such as securing stable housing, achieving educational goals, and maintaining employment. At Unlimited Potential NFP, known affectionately as The UP House, we are dedicated to changing these statistics by empowering young women who are aging out of foster care.

The Challenge of Aging Out
Statistics paint a grim picture for many foster care alumni: within four years of aging out, 50% encounter unemployment, and 25% experience homelessness, according to the National Foster Youth Institute. These numbers underscore the critical gaps in support that many young adults face as they leave the foster care system.

The UP House’s Impactful Approach
vAt The UP House, we believe in transforming these challenges into opportunities for growth and success. Founded by Tangela Thornton, or “Mama T,” our organization provides a comprehensive support system that goes beyond basic needs. Through mentorship, educational workshops, and personal development sessions, we equip young women with the skills necessary to thrive in society.

Programs and Successes
Our programs are designed to address the multifaceted needs of our residents. From life skills training that covers financial literacy and job readiness to mental health support and community building activities, we ensure that every woman has the tools to build a stable and prosperous future. The success of our approach is evident: 85% of our program participants transition into stable employment or higher education within a year of completion, significantly beating the national averages for foster care alumni.

The Future and How You Can Help
The journey doesn’t end here. The UP House is committed to expanding its reach and continuing to break the cycles of disadvantage. By fostering an environment of growth and empowerment, we not only change individual lives but also enrich the entire community.

Aging out of foster care doesn’t have to mean facing the future alone. At The UP House, we’re more than a community; we’re a family dedicated to lifting each other up, one step at a time. Join us in this mission—whether through volunteering, donations, or spreading the word, your support makes a difference.

Interested in making an impact? Subscribe to our newsletter for updates on our programs, success stories, and ways you can get involved in changing lives. Together, we can turn challenges into stepping stones for success.

Celebrating Excellence: Apostle Kenneth Franklin’s Nomination for the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award

Dear UP House Community,

It is with immense pride and great excitement that we share the news of an upcoming event that holds special significance for our organization. Our esteemed COO, Apostle Kenneth Franklin, has been nominated for the distinguished President’s Lifetime Achievement Awards Gala, slated for May 4th, 2024.

The President’s Lifetime Achievement Award is a testament to an individual’s unwavering commitment to the betterment of society through prolonged service and leadership. Apostle Franklin’s dedication to serving others has not only been instrumental in the growth of UP House but has also radiated throughout the community, touching lives and inspiring hearts.

A Leader’s Impact
As a beacon of guidance and an exemplar of virtue, Apostle Franklin’s work aligns seamlessly with the core values we uphold at UP House. His visionary leadership has steered us toward countless successes and has been pivotal in reinforcing our mission to unlock the unlimited potential within our community.

Gala of Gratitude
The gala, which will be held at an exclusive private location, will commence with a Red Carpet event at 5 PM, and we are all invited to revel in this prestigious recognition. Hosted by Prophetess Shari Hoffman and co-hosted by Prophetess Kendria Moore, the evening is set to be a magnificent celebration of achievements and aspirations.

A Community’s Celebration This honor reflects not only on Apostle Franklin but on each member of the UP House family. It serves as a reminder of the impact that each one of us can make through dedication, passion, and collective effort. As we eagerly anticipate this gala, we also recognize the contributions of each member of our team, volunteers, and supporters, for it is your commitment that propels our leaders and our organization to new heights.

Save the Date!
Please mark your calendars for May 4th and prepare to join us in celebrating this momentous occasion. Additional details regarding the event will be shared as the date approaches, and we encourage the entire UP House community to partake in this celebration.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Apostle Kenneth Franklin. His nomination is a milestone for UP House, and we are confident that his exemplary service will continue to inspire us all.

Stay Connected
Stay tuned to our website and social media channels for further updates on the awards gala, and join us in expressing our support and pride for our COO’s remarkable achievement.

Together, let’s celebrate the power of potential realized and the beauty of service recognized.

Yours in service and celebration,
The UP House Team

Stay informed with UP-dates!

Subscribe To Our Monthly Newsletter

Join our monthly newsletter to get all the latest updates from Unlimited Potential. From inspiring stories to upcoming events and important announcements, we bring everything directly to your inbox.