Discover Howard & Evanston Community Center: Your Guide To Support & Resources

07 May, 2025

Can a community truly flourish without accessible resources and unwavering support? Howard & Evanston Community Center (HECC) stands as a testament to the power of collective action, proving that with the right tools, individuals and families can not only survive, but thrive.

For over five decades, HECC has been a beacon of hope in the Rogers Park area and Evanston, offering a wide array of services designed to uplift and empower community members. Launched in 1967 as a humble food pantry, the organization has steadily evolved to meet the ever-changing needs of the community, becoming a hub for education, employment assistance, health programs, and youth development. The story of HECC is one of resilience, adaptability, and a steadfast commitment to building a brighter future for all.

At the heart of HECC's mission is the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential. They provide affordable and free programs spanning early learning, youth development, reentry support, and employment services. Their approach is comprehensive, addressing not only immediate needs but also fostering long-term independence and success. In a world where systemic inequalities often create barriers to opportunity, HECC serves as a vital bridge, connecting individuals with the resources they need to navigate challenges and achieve their goals. Their dedication to serving a racially and ethnically diverse group of students and families is a reflection of their commitment to inclusive practices. The center is committed to train childcare professionals to be culturally informed and support the childs home culture and language.

Category	Details
Full Name	Jason Kaiser
Current Position	Executive Director, Howard & Evanston Community Center (HECC)
Tenure at HECC	Since November 2021
Previous Role at HECC	Director of Adult Support Services (5 years), including programs for education, employment, health, and human services.
Area of Expertise	Social Services, Community Development, Program Management
Educational Background	Information Not Available
Key Achievements	Leading HECC in providing affordable and free education, employment, and health assistance programs; overseeing the organization's evolution and expansion of services.
Leadership Philosophy	Information Not Available
Website Reference	Howard & Evanston Community Center LinkedIn Page

The Howard & Evanston Community Center (HECC) officially joined MFS on July 1, 2023. This merger is expected to help in scaling up their operations and allow them to extend its reach to more people in need. In the heart of Rogers Park, at 7648 N. Paulina Street, Chicago, IL 60626, the main center bustles with activity, offering a wide array of programs and services. Another important center of the HECC is the Sheila Reynolds Berner Family Center at 7510 North Ashland Avenue, Chicago, IL 60626.

One of the core tenets of HECC's work is their unwavering focus on youth. They understand that young people are the future of the community, and they deserve every opportunity to thrive. HECC provides opportunity youth with the tools and support they need to develop their interests. They offer programs designed to help young people discover their passions, build valuable skills, and create a stable foundation for their futures. It is a safe and supportive environment where young people can explore their interests, learn new skills, and connect with positive role models. HECC addresses all young people's needs in the classroom, but also provide home assessments and support. HECC understands the importance of supporting the whole child and works closely with families to ensure that their children have the resources they need to succeed.

Adults and families also benefit from HECC's comprehensive approach. The center provides tools to help adults and families change their lives and gain the skills they need to flourish. HECC understands that adults face unique challenges and offers programs designed to help them overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. HECC provides the tools, resources and services enabling the independence of all ages. Programs include adult education, employment resource centers, and health and human services. These programs empower individuals to take control of their lives, whether they are seeking educational advancement, job training, or assistance with health and human services.

HECC's commitment extends beyond direct service provision. The community boards play a vital role in ensuring that the center's programs are responsive to the needs of the community. These boards provide valuable input and guidance, ensuring that HECC remains a relevant and effective resource. HECC's team consists of social service professionals, including youth, education, employment, and health experts. This diverse and dedicated team works collaboratively to provide high-quality services and support to the community. The howard area community center (HACC) our clubhouse is proudly hosted by the howard area community center!

The organization has achieved remarkable successes in Rogers Park and beyond this past year, and this wouldn't be possible without the generous donors and supporters of Howard and Evanston Community Center, they show their commitment to helping people, and help them to change their lives. From its humble beginnings as a food pantry in 1967, the Howard & Evanston Community Center has grown into a multifaceted organization, a testament to its responsiveness to community needs. In 1967, neighbors came together to provide food and clothing, they lend a helping hand to their fellows, and these hands built HECC.

The food services of the Howard & Evanston Community Center are an essential aspect of their mission, addressing the immediate needs of individuals and families facing food insecurity. Emergency needs are also addressed. HECC offers a lifeline to those struggling to put food on the table. These services go beyond simply providing sustenance; they provide dignity and hope to those who need it most. HECC main center health and human services adult education employment resource center 7648 N. Paulina street chicago, il 60626 773.262.6622 fax: They provide not only basic needs but also guidance and support, including education, employment assistance, and access to healthcare. These services are delivered by dedicated staff and volunteers who understand the importance of compassion and cultural sensitivity, creating a welcoming environment for all.

HECC's commitment to education, employment, and health assistance is a reflection of its holistic approach to community well-being. They provide the tools and resources to empower individuals, enabling their independence and offering a better chance for a brighter tomorrow. In a society where systemic barriers often hinder progress, HECC serves as a powerful advocate, dismantling obstacles and promoting equity. The center is a place of hope, offering a hand up to those striving to build better lives. This project was made possible by a grant.

The "HECC Program Showcase" is a celebration of their achievements, highlighting the diverse programs and services offered at Howard & Evanston Community Center, and an opportunity for the community to come together and recognize the impact of HECC. This event serves as a testament to the collective efforts of staff, volunteers, and community members, demonstrating the power of partnership in creating positive change.

HECC is an agency that provides affordable and free education, employment, and health assistance programs for the greater rogers park area. The center's story is one of unwavering dedication to its mission and an unwavering commitment to the people it serves. This journey is marked by countless acts of kindness, compassion, and resilience.

The center serves a racially and ethnically diverse group of students and families and trains childcare professionals to be culturally informed to support the child\u2019s home culture and language.

HECC's impact extends far beyond the programs and services they offer; they create a sense of belonging and foster a spirit of collaboration. Their work shows the transformative power of community, where compassion, understanding, and mutual support create a space where everyone can thrive.

Howard & Evanston Metropolitan Family Services

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