This episode of The Nonprofit Report features Deborah’s Place, a Chicago-based organization dedicated to supporting women experiencing homelessness.
Guests:
Kathy Booton Wilson, Chief Executive Officer;
Rosie Drumgoole, Board Vice President of Deborah’s Place & CEO of Chicago CARES.
Interview by: Mark Oppenheim
Key Points:
- Deborah’s Place has served Chicago’s women for over 40 years.
- Deborah’s Place is one of only two organizations in Chicago dedicated to serving unaccompanied adult women experiencing homelessness. Unlike shelters catering to families or women with children, this nonprofit provides essential support for women without dependents—an often overlooked and underserved group.
- In addition to housing, Deborah’s Place provides case management, health services, job readiness support, and mental health assistance.
- Their philosophy is to serve people regardless of their challenges. Rather than turning away individuals struggling with addiction or chronic illness, they welcome them with the resources needed to rebuild their lives.
- The organization includes individuals with lived experiences of homelessness on its board, recognizing that their insights are invaluable in shaping programs and policies. “We modify our expectations (of board membership),” Wilson explained, noting that while some board members may not bring financial resources, their lived expertise provides a balance. “They tell us what they need, not the other way around.”
Other Points on Homelessness in Chicago and Nationally:
The discussion also touched on the broader housing crisis in Chicago. Both Wilson and Drumgoole expressed concern that housing development isn’t keeping up with demand. They called for innovative solutions, such as repurposing unused buildings or rethinking traditional housing models.
Drumgoole underscored the societal responsibility to address homelessness: “We are responsible for each other, whether we want to be or not.”
These leaders agree that addressing homelessness requires an ongoing effort – one that involves listening, adapting, and innovating together. As Wilson put it, “Housing is a human right. Every single human being deserves a roof over their head.”
Deborah’s Place continues to lead by example, demonstrating that with compassion, inclusion, and commitment, real change is possible.