On November 7th, Illinois Valley Community College will host ‘A Community Response to Homelessness,’ featuring resource fairs, a documentary screening, and a panel discussion. This event aims to shed light on homelessness, offering solutions and increasing community involvement. The event Hope for Tomorrow is free, but registration is required. Visit https://swiy.co/
“I’d encourage people to take the time to listen and learn what homelessness is and what solutions are and find a way to participate!” invited Carol Alcorn, executive director of Illinois Valley Public Action to Deliver Shelter (IV Pads).
“Stereotypes are really engrained in the word ‘homeless.’ We need to dispel the stereotype and talk about real people with real needs,” Alcorn said. “I want younger people to see this documentary and for the community to understand the networks that are already available so we can build new ones.”
IV PADS’s founding 34 years ago was the Illinois Valley’s first major attempt to address homelessness. It was spearheaded by three local women, including IVCC chemistry professor Sister Margaret Suerth. The organization operates two shelters in Peru and Ottawa. For more information, visit www.ivpads.com.
The expo is made possible by a $7,500 grant from the National Association of Realtors and the Illini Valley Association of Realtors.