Leadership
Jacqueline C. Hayes
Jacqueline is Founder and President Emerita of The Chicago Help Initiative. For more than two decades, she has unselfishly donated thousands of hours to help those less fortunate than herself. Jacqueline is a Chicago real estate broker specializing in retail leasing along the Magnificent Mile and Oak Street and a community activist.
Douglas B. Fraser
“The Chicago Help Initiative is an amazing and unique organization. It is two communities – the guests we serve, whom we try to connect to the best resources and opportunities and the most caring and committed volunteers that I can imagine. I like to think that whether someone is with us for one meal or for fifty and whether they are dining with us or serving with us, that they will leave with something positive. It is truly a privilege to be here.”
Board of Directors - Officers
Chris Stathopoulos
Chris has been a board member of Chicago Help Initiative since its inception. He is a father, a husband and a lawyer. He feels strongly about his responsibility to help others.
“I think we often forget how truly lucky we are. Chicago Help Initiative reminds me that many of the things I often take for granted – a warm home, food, a loving family and friends – are things that many don’t have. And the perspective and gratification that I get from being a member of CHI makes me feel like I benefit as least as much as our guests do.”
Thomas Morrisey
“I was attracted to working with The Chicago Help Initiative because it serves a core need for disadvantaged individuals. In addition to providing free meals CHI also offers educational, personal improvement, and healthcare options to its guests.”
Marge Sondler
“I am a retired social worker, having worked at Northwestern Memorial Hospital for many years as a manager of mental health services. Many of the clients we served were, or had been, homeless. Some years ago, I learned of Jacqueline Hayes’ effort to bring together the local business community, religious organizations, and social service providers, to address the needs of homeless individuals in the Near North area. I thought this was a unique approach, participated in the planning discussions, and ended up on the board of directors of what eventually became the Chicago HELP Initiative. I have remained involved because of the organization’s commitment to providing not only weekly dinners to the guests, but also information and resources that help change lives.”
Robert E. Thomas
Rob was introduced to the organization in 2002 when he was seeking community service opportunities for his children. As his children moved on, he remained involved. A life-long Near North Side resident, he observes first hand the good that CHI does in the community it serves. Rob is an active real estate practitioner providing project management and brokerage services.
Board Members
Claude Battat
“Number one in retail furniture sales/design in the Chicago area until I recently retired and discovered an entirely new work ethic…Helping the needy.
I started volunteering for CHI many years ago and was drawn to make it part of my life after experiencing a compassionate yet enthusiastic group that truly pushes to make a difference.”
Paul Bryant
Andie Dobbleaere
Andie Dobbleaere
Jean S. Eisenman
“Until 2002 I served as Director of Library and Learning Resources at the University of Missouri-Rolla (now Missouri University of Science and Technology.) During a 25 year career in academia, I came to appreciate that helping others to better themselves is also a path to a more fulfilling life for me.”
Jeff Forman
Jeff Forman
Joyce Gallagher
Joyce Gallagher
Dale Ginsburg
Mickie Gordon
Jacquelyn Jenke
Jacquelyn Jenke
Sabrina R. Kendrick, MD, FACP
“Several years ago when I first started with CHI, I approached it as ‘something to do to keep me busy.’ I like giving back to the community because that’s just who I am. I like to help people.
“However, the more I kept returning to volunteer, my feelings started to change. I wanted to keep volunteering because the guests are so appreciative and friendly. When I would meet them again, it was like seeing a friend, almost like family. Even though I give my time, I’ve received so much more in return, and for that I am truly grateful.
“I think CHI is a great organization, putting hope back in the lives of so many people.”
Mark Knight
Mark Knight
Justyna Kucinska
Justyna Kucinska
Fresh Lake-Burrage
Michael D. Prost
“I was introduced to the Chicago Help Initiative by the late Father Damian Charbonneau. This was a special organization to Father and I soon realized why. It is my pleasure to work with such a vital and necessary organization. It truly makes a difference.”
Did you know?
30% of Chicago’s homeless population suffers from mental illness.
“They help us with food, social services. Nothing but love, that’s how I feel about the Chicago Help Initiative.”
Andre