Gift of Hope Hosts Community Open House at Historic Jackie D. Lynch Building
The Gift of Hope Organ and Tissue Donor Network, alongside community partners, hosted a "Community Open House" at the Jackie D. Lynch Building, inviting residents to explore the facility and learn about upcoming programs and initiatives.
The event featured several notable speakers, including Congressman Danny Davis (represented by Nikki Harvey), Illinois State Senator Elgie Sims Jr., Alderwoman Michelle Harris, Alderman Will Hall, Chicago State University President Zaldwaynaka "Z" Scott, Kimberly Hobson, President of the South Side Healthy Community Organization, Jackie Burgess, President/CEO of the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois, and Dr. Sonja Feist-Price, Provost and Senior VP of Academic Affairs at Chicago State University.
Marion Shuck, Executive Vice President of Governmental Relations and External Affairs, emceed the event and enthusiastically welcomed attendees, stating, "When we started this project six years ago, there were just four of us with a vision: we needed a home for our community outreach department and a backup call center. As you can see, this space has grown beyond our wildest dreams. I’m thrilled to see you all here on this beautiful day in Chicago!"
The Jackie D. Lynch Building: A Hub for Community Services and Resources
The Jackie D. Lynch Building is home to several key organizations, including Gift of Hope, the Organ and Tissue Donor Network, the Gift of Hope Community Foundation, Chicago State University, the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois, and the South Side Healthy Community Organization. This facility symbolizes a commitment to providing essential services and resources to the community.
Speakers Share Their Stories and Gratitude
Each speaker shared their unique stories and expressed gratitude for the community’s support, particularly acknowledging Alderwoman Michelle Harris for her vision and dedication despite the building being outside her ward.
Dr. Harry Wilkins, CEO of Gift of Hope, reflected on his journey and the organization’s mission. "This month marks my fourth year with Gift of Hope. Just two weeks before I took on this role, I worked as a bedside trauma surgeon. I stepped into this position for one reason: there are over 100,000 people on the waiting list for life-saving organs, many of whom reflect the communities represented in this room. My mission is straightforward: to save and enhance as many lives as possible through organ and tissue donation."
Dr. Nicole Harvey, representing Congressman Davis, delivered a message on his behalf: "I’m delighted and proud to share in this new beginning with you. Saving lives is the most rewarding service one can provide, and it’s the mission of Gift of Hope. Community partnerships are essential as we move forward together. How could anyone not support this effort today?"
A Tour of the Historic Building
The event concluded with a tour of the historic building, which was once Independence Bank, the first Black-owned bank in the area. Food and refreshments were served to attendees.
Conclusion
The Gift of Hope Community Open House at the Jackie D. Lynch Building was a resounding success, bringing together community leaders and organizations to celebrate the facility’s grand opening. The event highlighted the importance of community partnerships and the impact that these collaborations can have on the lives of those they serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the purpose of the Jackie D. Lynch Building?
A: The Jackie D. Lynch Building is a hub for community services and resources, housing several key organizations, including Gift of Hope, the Organ and Tissue Donor Network, the Gift of Hope Community Foundation, Chicago State University, the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois, and the South Side Healthy Community Organization.
Q: What is the mission of Gift of Hope?
A: The mission of Gift of Hope is to save and enhance as many lives as possible through organ and tissue donation.
Q: What are the goals of the Gift of Hope Community Open House?
A: The Gift of Hope Community Open House aimed to bring together community leaders and organizations to celebrate the grand opening of the Jackie D. Lynch Building and to learn about upcoming programs and initiatives.
