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Nonprofit Assistance Directory
Nonprofit Guides › Illinois
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Illinois Nonprofit Resource Guide
"State Sovereignty, National Union" — The Prairie State
13 Area Agencies on Aging102 Counties18 Resource CategoriesRobert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center (NCI)Jesse Brown VA · Hines VA
About This Guide
This guide was created to help individuals and families in Illinois navigate long-term care with more clarity and confidence. Whether you're planning ahead or facing an immediate care need, finding the right support can feel overwhelming.
Inside, you'll find a curated list of nonprofit organizations across Illinois, including caregiver support services, disease-specific foundations, veteran resources, and community-based programs. Each listing includes verified contact information and a brief description to help you quickly understand what's available.
Our goal is to make it easier for you to explore your options, connect with trusted long-term care resources in Illinois, and take the next step with confidence.
💡 Quick Tip: Dial 2-1-1 anywhere in Illinois for immediate referrals to local nonprofits, social services, food assistance, and more.
We strive to keep this directory accurate and up-to-date. However, nonprofit organizations change, merge, or close over time, and web addresses can change without notice. Always verify contact details directly with each organization. If you find an outdated listing or are a nonprofit that isn't listed and would like to be included, please reach out to us at hello@LTCareNav.com.
All 18 Resource Categories — Click to Expand
Alzheimer's Association — Greater Illinois Chapter (Chicago)
Type: Disease-Specific Nonprofit (National Chapter — FOUNDED IN CHICAGO 1980)
Region: Statewide Illinois — all 102 counties (HQ Chicago: 8430 W. B…
24/7 helpline, care consultations, 200+ support groups statewide, Walk to End Alzheimer's events in Chicago, Bloomington, Champaign, Peoria, Quad Cities, Rockford, Springfield, and 15+ other communities, professional training, advocacy at the Illinois General Assembly, and research funding. Also note: the Alzheimer's Association NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS is in Chicago — Illinois is the global center of Alzheimer's advocacy and research funding.
1-800-272-3900 | (312) 335-5700 | 8430 W. Bryn Mawr Ave #800, Chicago, IL 60631https://www.alz.org/illinois
Rush Alzheimer's Disease Center (Chicago)State Unique
Type: NIA-Designated Alzheimer's Disease Research Center (Illinois-Unique)
Region: Chicago / Greater Midwest and national research impact (Rush…
One of the nation's premier NIA-designated Alzheimer's Disease Research Centers and home to the landmark Religious Orders Study (ROS) and Memory and Aging Project (MAP) — longitudinal studies following thousands of Chicago clergy and older adults that have produced hundreds of landmark dementia research publications. Clinical evaluations, biomarker studies, and clinical trial enrollment. Produces data foundational to understanding Alzheimer's globally.
(312) 942-3350 | rush.edu/services/alzheimershttps://www.rushu.rush.edu/research-rush-university/departmental-research/rush-alzheimers-disease-center
Northwestern University Cognitive Neurology & Alzheimer's Disease Center (CNADC)State Unique
Type: NIA-Designated Alzheimer's Disease Research Center (Illinois-Unique)
Region: Chicago / Statewide referrals (Northwestern Memorial Hospita…
One of only 37 NIA-designated Alzheimer's Disease Research Centers in the US. Home to the Mesulam Center for Cognitive Neurology and Alzheimer's Disease. Conducts leading research in primary progressive aphasia, frontotemporal dementia, Alzheimer's, and cognitive aging. Clinical evaluations and clinical trial enrollment for Illinois patients.
(312) 908-9339 | brain.northwestern.eduhttps://brain.northwestern.edu
Parkinson's Foundation — Illinois / Chicago
Type: Disease-Specific Nonprofit (National)
Region: Statewide Illinois (Moving Day Chicago, Peoria, and other ci…
Parkinson's Foundation Helpline, Moving Day walk events (Chicago, Peoria, Rockford, and more), PF Gymnasium wellness programs, caregiver resources, research funding, and referrals to the Northwestern PD Comprehensive Care Center and Rush Movement Disorders Program.
1-800-473-4636 | parkinson.orghttps://parkinson.org
American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) — Illinois Chapter
Type: Disease-Specific Nonprofit
Region: Statewide Illinois (Chicago-based coordination; 40+ support …
Free APDA helpline, 40+ support groups across Illinois (Chicago metro, Rockford, Peoria, Springfield, Bloomington, Champaign, Quad Cities, Southern Illinois), exercise programs, caregiver support groups, and educational seminars.
1-800-223-2732 | apdaparkinson.org/illinoishttps://apdaparkinson.org/illinois
Northwestern University Parkinson's Disease & Movement Disorders CenterState Unique
Type: Parkinson's Foundation Comprehensive Care Center (Illinois-Unique)
Region: Chicago / Statewide referrals (Northwestern Memorial Hospita…
A Parkinson's Foundation Comprehensive Care Center and one of the nation's premier Parkinson's programs. Expert movement disorder neurologists, deep brain stimulation (DBS), focused ultrasound, clinical trials, and research. Accepts patients from across Illinois and the Midwest.
(312) 695-7950 | nm.org/movement-disordershttps://nm.org/movement-disorders
Les Turner ALS Foundation (Chicago)State Unique
Type: Dedicated ALS Nonprofit (Illinois-Unique — Founded 1977)
Region: Chicago metro and statewide Illinois (and national research …
Founded 1977 in Chicago — one of the nation's oldest and most respected ALS-dedicated nonprofits. Named for Les Turner, a Chicago-area businessman who died of ALS in 1978. Provides comprehensive support services (financial assistance, equipment loans, social work, home visits), free ALS Clinic at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, caregiver support groups, the Buddy program (peer support), and research funding. Has funded over $36 million in ALS research.
(847) 679-3311 | 5907 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, IL 60646https://lesturnerals.org
ALS Association — Illinois Chapter
Type: Disease-Specific Nonprofit (National Chapter)
Region: Statewide Illinois (Lisle/Chicago area; statewide outreach)
Free Care Manager support, equipment loans, financial assistance, Walk to Defeat ALS Chicago event, research funding through Answer ALS, and connection to ALS multidisciplinary clinics at Northwestern, University of Chicago, University of Illinois at Chicago, and Rush.
(224) 858-5050 | als.org/illinoishttps://als.org/illinois
American Cancer Society — Illinois
Type: Disease-Specific Nonprofit
Region: Statewide Illinois (Chicago headquarters; offices statewide;…
Patient navigation, Road to Recovery transportation, Hope Lodge Chicago (60 rooms), Look Good Feel Better, Relay for Life events across Illinois (100+ events), 24/7 helpline, and research funding.
1-800-227-2345 | cancer.org/illinoishttps://cancer.org/illinois
Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center — Northwestern UniversityState Unique
Type: NCI-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center — NCI 'Exceptional' Rating (Illinois-Unique)
Region: Chicago / Statewide and national referrals (303 E. Superior …
One of only 57 NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers nationwide — and one of only a handful to receive the NCI's highest 'exceptional' rating on its center support grant. Founded 1974, comprehensive designation 1997. 300+ researchers in 8 research programs, 16 shared resource facilities, 16,000 new cancer patients annually, clinical trials across all cancer types including NCI SPOREs in brain and prostate cancer, and the OncoSET precision medicine program.
(312) 695-0990 | Toll-free: (866) LURIE-CC | 303 E. Superior St., Chicago, IL 60611https://cancer.northwestern.edu
University of Chicago Medicine Comprehensive Cancer CenterState Unique
Type: NCI-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center (Illinois-Unique)
Region: Chicago / South Side and statewide referrals (5841 S. Maryla…
The second NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center in Illinois. Renowned for cancer genetics and hereditary cancer risk, bone marrow transplantation (one of the nation's largest programs), immunotherapy clinical trials, and cancer health equity research serving Chicago's South Side communities. UChicago is where Enrico Fermi achieved the first nuclear reactor — scientific excellence runs deep.
(855) 702-8222 | 5841 S. Maryland Ave., Chicago, IL 60637https://uchicagomedicine.org/cancer
University of Illinois Cancer Center (UI Health — UIC)State Unique
Type: NCI-Designated Cancer Center (Illinois-Unique)
Region: Chicago (UIC West Side / Near West Side — 1740 W. Taylor St.…
Illinois's third NCI-designated cancer center, dedicated to reducing cancer health disparities and serving Chicago's diverse West Side communities. Cancer research, clinical trials, and comprehensive oncology for all cancer types. Special focus on cancer in underserved urban and rural Illinois populations.
(312) 996-6666 | 1740 W. Taylor St., Chicago, IL 60612https://cancer.uillinois.edu/
Leukemia & Lymphoma Society — Illinois Chapter
Type: Disease-Specific Nonprofit
Region: Statewide Illinois (Chicago-based; statewide outreach)
Financial assistance for blood cancer patients, Light the Night Chicago event, First Connection peer support, educational resources, and research funding.
1-800-955-4572 | lls.org/illinoishttps://www.bloodcancerunited.org
The Mesothelioma Center at Asbestos.com — IllinoisState Unique
Type: Disease-Specific Nonprofit Resource
Region: Statewide Illinois
Free directory of mesothelioma and asbestos-cancer treatment centers, specialists, and clinical trials in Illinois; patient advocate support, VA claims assistance for veterans exposed to asbestos, and free informational guides for patients and families.
1-800-615-2270 | asbestos.comhttps://www.asbestos.com/treatment/states/illinois/
American Heart Association — Illinois
Type: Disease-Specific Nonprofit
Region: Statewide Illinois (Chicago headquarters; Heart Walk events …
Heart disease and stroke education, CPR/AED training, Go Red for Women, Heart Walk Chicago (one of the nation's largest — 20,000+ participants), advocacy at the Illinois General Assembly, and research funding.
1-800-242-8721 | heart.org/illinoishttps://heart.org/illinois
Shirley Ryan AbilityLab (Chicago)State Unique
Type: World-Leading Rehabilitation Hospital (Illinois-Unique)
Region: Chicago / Statewide and national referrals (355 E. Erie St.,…
Ranked #1 in the US for rehabilitation medicine by U.S. News & World Report for 30+ consecutive years. Provides world-class rehabilitation for stroke, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, Parkinson's disease, and complex neurological conditions. Research laboratories are embedded on the same floor as patient care — translating discoveries directly to patient treatment.
(312) 238-1000 | 355 E. Erie St., Chicago, IL 60611https://sralab.org
National MS Society — Illinois Chapter (Chicago)
Type: Disease-Specific Nonprofit
Region: Statewide Illinois (Chicago headquarters; statewide programs…
MS Navigator helpline, support groups across Illinois (Chicago metro, Rockford, Peoria, Springfield, Champaign, Quad Cities, Southern Illinois), Walk MS Chicago (one of the nation's largest), financial assistance, educational programs, and referrals to MS specialists.
1-800-344-4867 | nationalmssociety.org/chapters/nichttps://www.nationalmssociety.org/resources/get-connected/in-your-area/nic
American Diabetes Association — Illinois
Type: Disease-Specific Nonprofit
Region: Statewide Illinois (Chicago headquarters; statewide outreach…
Diabetes education, advocacy, Tour de Cure Illinois cycling event, research, and connection to accredited diabetes education programs at Northwestern, UChicago, Rush, UI Health, and community health centers statewide.
1-800-342-2383 | diabetes.org/illinoishttps://diabetes.org/local/chicago-illinois
Kovler Diabetes Center — University of ChicagoState Unique
Type: Academic Diabetes Research Center (Illinois-Unique)
Region: Chicago / South Side (5758 S. Maryland Ave., Chicago, IL 606…
One of the nation's leading Type 1 diabetes research and clinical care programs. Conducts landmark islet transplantation, autoimmunity, and T1D clinical trials. Partners with JDRF on research funding and clinical trial enrollment for Type 1 diabetes.
(773) 702-1000 | kovlerdiabetescenter.uchicago.eduhttps://kovlerdiabetescenter.uchicago.edu
Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of ChicagoState Unique
Type: Pediatric Specialty and Rare Disease Center (Illinois-Unique)
Region: Chicago / Statewide and regional referrals (225 E. Chicago A…
One of the nation's top pediatric hospitals (ranked top 10 nationally by U.S. News). Provides specialty care for children with rare diseases, genetic disorders, hematology (including sickle cell disease — one of the largest pediatric SCD programs in the Midwest), cancer, neurology, and complex conditions. Home to the Feinberg School of Medicine's pediatric programs.
(312) 227-4000 | 225 E. Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL 60611https://luriechildrens.org
Sickle Cell Disease Association of IllinoisState Unique
Type: Disease-Specific Nonprofit (Illinois-Unique)
Region: Chicago metro and statewide Illinois
Education, advocacy, support services, and resource navigation for Illinoisans living with sickle cell disease. Partners with Lurie Children's, University of Illinois at Chicago, and University of Chicago Medicine hematology programs.
Contact via sicklecell.us or dial 2-1-1https://sicklecell.us
Cystic Fibrosis Foundation — Illinois Chapter
Type: Disease-Specific Nonprofit
Region: Statewide Illinois (CF care centers at Northwestern, Lurie C…
Access to accredited CF care centers statewide, Compass Navigator for benefits assistance, financial assistance, and research funding.
1-800-344-4823 | cff.org/illinoishttps://www.cff.org
Epilepsy Foundation of Greater ChicagoState Unique
Type: Disease-Specific Nonprofit (Illinois-Unique)
Region: Chicago metro / Northern Illinois
Education, support groups, Seizure Smart school and first responder programs, advocacy, and resource referrals for people living with epilepsy and their families in the Chicago area and northern Illinois.
(312) 939-8622 | efgc.orghttps://efgc.org
NAMI Illinois (Statewide)
Type: Mental Health Nonprofit
Region: Statewide Illinois (Springfield headquarters; 40+ local affi…
Advocacy, free programs (Family-to-Family, Peer-to-Peer, NAMI Basics, In Our Own Voice), HelpLine, support groups, and public policy work at the Illinois General Assembly. NAMI Illinois has been a leader in mental health parity legislation and crisis response reform.
(217) 522-1403 | namiillinois.orghttps://namiillinois.org
Trilogy Behavioral Healthcare (Chicago)State Unique
Type: Community Behavioral Health Nonprofit (Illinois-Unique)
Region: Chicago (North Side, Rogers Park, Uptown, Edgewater — 2 N. R…
One of Chicago's leading community mental health nonprofits, providing comprehensive outpatient mental health, psychiatric rehabilitation, housing, employment, and peer support for adults with serious mental illness. Pioneer in psychosocial rehabilitation and clubhouse model. Serves Chicago's diverse North Side communities.
(773) 276-6300 | trilogyinc.orghttps://trilogyinc.org
Thresholds (Chicago)State Unique
Type: Mental Health / Housing Nonprofit (Illinois-Unique)
Region: Chicago and Suburban Cook County (multiple Chicago offices; …
One of Illinois's oldest and largest mental health nonprofits (est. 1959). Provides housing, employment, health care, and community support for adults with serious mental illness. Serves 10,000+ Chicagoans annually through assertive community treatment, supportive housing, and integrated health programs.
(773) 572-5500 | thresholds.orghttps://thresholds.org
Disability Rights Illinois (DRI)
Type: Disability Rights / Legal Advocacy
Region: Statewide Illinois (Chicago and Springfield offices; Protect…
Free legal advocacy for Illinoisans with disabilities including mental health conditions, developmental disabilities, and physical disabilities. Investigates abuse and rights violations in hospitals, group homes, and state institutions statewide.
(312) 341-0022 | 1-800-537-2632 | disabilityrightsil.orghttps://disabilityrightsil.org
Haymarket Center (Chicago)State Unique
Type: Substance Use Treatment Nonprofit (Illinois-Unique)
Region: Chicago and Cook County (932 W. Washington Blvd., Chicago, I…
Chicago's largest and most comprehensive nonprofit substance use treatment organization. Medical detox, residential treatment, outpatient programs, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), co-occurring mental health treatment, women's programs, and supported housing. Serves 7,000+ Chicagoans annually, with a priority on serving uninsured and under-insured residents.
(312) 226-7984 | 932 W. Washington Blvd., Chicago, IL 60607https://hcenter.org
TASC (Treatment Alternatives for Safe Communities) — IllinoisState Unique
Type: Substance Use / Justice Reform Nonprofit (Illinois-Unique — Founded 1976)
Region: Statewide Illinois (Chicago headquarters; programs in Cook C…
Founded in Illinois in 1976, TASC pioneered the nationally replicated model of diverting people with substance use disorders from the criminal justice system to treatment. Provides case management, MAT navigation, re-entry support, and behavioral health coordination for Illinois residents in the justice system or in recovery.
(312) 280-3600 | tasc.orghttps://tasc.org
Salvation Army — Adult Rehabilitation Centers (Illinois)
Type: Faith-Based (Christian) Recovery | Open to All
Region: Statewide Illinois (ARCs in Chicago North, Chicago South/Wes…
Illinois's Salvation Army ARC network provides residential substance use rehabilitation, work therapy programs, transitional housing, and recovery support at no cost to participants across the state.
1-800-SAL-ARMY | Chicago ARC: (312) 738-3703https://salvationarmyusa.org
SAMHSA National Helpline (Illinois)
Type: Federal Substance Use Helpline
Region: Statewide Illinois (24/7)
Free 24/7 treatment referral and information for substance use disorders. Connects Illinoisans to local treatment programs, support groups, and community-based organizations in all 102 counties.
1-800-662-HELP (4357) | samhsa.govhttps://samhsa.gov
| Agency | Address / Phone | Counties Served |
|---|---|---|
| NW Illinois AAA (nwilaaa.org) | Boone, Carroll, DeKalb, Jo Daviess, Lee, Ogle, Stephenson, Whiteside, Winnebago (815) 226-4901 TF: 1-800-542-8402 | 1111 S. Alpine Rd #600 Rockford, IL 61108 |
| AgeGuide NE Illinois (ageguide.org) | Bureau, Henderson, Henry, Knox, LaSalle, McDonough, Mercer, Putnam, Rock Island, Warren (630) 293-5990 TF: 1-800-528-2000 | 1910 S. Highland Ave #100 Lombard, IL 60148 |
| Western IL AAA (wiaaa.org) | Bureau, Henderson, Henry, Knox, LaSalle, McDonough, Mercer, Putnam, Rock Island, Warren (Note: see PSA 2 for Lombard; PSA 3 is Rock Island-area) (309) 793-6800 TF: 1-800-322-1051 | 729 34th Ave Rock Island, IL 61201 |
| Central IL AAA (ciaoa.net) | Fulton, Marshall, Peoria, Stark, Tazewell, Woodford (309) 674-2071 TF: 1-877-777-2422 | 700 Hamilton Blvd Peoria, IL 61603 |
| East Central IL AAA (eciaaa.org) | Champaign, Clark, Coles, Cumberland, DeWitt, Douglas, Edgar, Ford, Iroquois, Livingston, Macon, McLean, Moultrie, Piatt, Shelby, Vermilion (16 counties) (309) 829-2065 TF: 1-800-888-4456 | 1003 Maple Hill Rd Bloomington, IL 61704 |
| West Central IL AAA (wcian.org) | Adams, Brown, Calhoun, Hancock, Pike, Schuyler (217) 223-7904 TF: 1-800-252-9027 | 639 York St, Room 333 Quincy, IL 62301 |
| AgeLinc / Central IL (agelinc.org) | Cass, Christian, Greene, Jersey, Logan, Macoupin, Mason, Menard, Montgomery, Morgan, Sangamon, Scott (Springfield area — 12 counties) (217) 787-9234 TF: 1-800-252-2918 | 2731 S. MacArthur Blvd Springfield, IL 62704 |
| AgeSmart (SW Metro-East) (agesmart.org) | Bond, Clinton, Madison, Monroe, Randolph, St. Clair, Washington (Metro East / Belleville-Collinsville area) (618) 222-2561 | 7 Bronze Pointe S, Suite B Swansea, IL 62226 |
| Midland AAA (midlandaaa.org) | Clay, Effingham, Fayette, Marion, Washington (south-central IL) (618) 532-1853 TF: 1-877-532-1853 | 434 S. Poplar Centralia, IL 62801 |
| SE Illinois AAA (seiaoa.org) | Crawford, Edwards, Hamilton, Jasper, Lawrence, Richland, Wabash, Wayne, White (618) 262-2306 TF: 1-800-635-8544 | 516 Market St Carmi, IL 62863 |
| Egyptian AAA (egyptianaaa.org) | Alexander, Franklin, Gallatin, Hardin, Jackson, Johnson, Massac, Perry, Pope, Pulaski, Saline, Union, Williamson (13 deep-south IL counties) (618) 985-8311 TF: 1-888-895-3306 | 200 E. Plaza Dr Carterville, IL 62918 |
| City of Chicago (DFSS) (cityofchicago.org/aging) | City of Chicago — all 77 community areas (2.7M residents; separate from suburban Cook) (312) 746-5682 TTY: 312-744-6777 | 1615 W. Chicago Ave, 3rd Fl Chicago, IL 60622 |
| AgeOptions (Suburban Cook) (ageoptions.org) | Suburban Cook County (all municipalities outside Chicago city limits — 1.2M+ residents 60+) (708) 383-0258 TF: 1-800-699-9043 | 1048 Lake St #300 Oak Park, IL 60301 |
Illinois Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
Type: State Advocacy Program
Region: Statewide Illinois (administered through Illinois Department…
Investigates complaints from nursing home and assisted living residents across Illinois's 1,200+ long-term care facilities. Advocates for resident rights and quality of care. Illinois has among the nation's most active LTC ombudsman programs.
1-800-252-8966 | aging.illinois.gov/ombudsmanhttps://aging.illinois.gov
CJE SeniorLife (Chicago)State Unique
Type: Jewish Elder Services Nonprofit (Illinois-Unique — Est. 1972)
Region: Chicago and suburban Cook County (3003 W. Touhy Ave., Chicag…
One of Chicago's most comprehensive elder services organizations. Provides adult day services (including specialized dementia day programs), in-home care, transportation, social work, meals, mental health counseling, and a continuum of residential care options. Partners with the Jewish community and serves all regardless of faith.
(773) 508-1000 | 3003 W. Touhy Ave., Chicago, IL 60645https://cje.net
AARP Illinois — Caregiver Resources
Type: Nonprofit Advocacy & Support (50+)
Region: Statewide Illinois (Chicago state office)
Family caregiver resource guides, AARP Caregiving Resource Line, driver safety, AARP Tax-Aide, advocacy for Illinois aging and caregiver legislation, and the AARP Foundation.
1-866-448-3613 (IL State Office) | states.aarp.org/illinoishttps://states.aarp.org/illinois
Illinois Legal Aid Online / Prairie State Legal Services
Type: Legal Aid Nonprofit Network
Region: Statewide Illinois (Prairie State Legal Services covers Nort…
Free civil legal assistance for low-income Illinoisans including seniors 60+. Elder law, housing, benefits, domestic violence, healthcare directives, and consumer issues through a statewide network of legal aid providers.
(312) 341-1070 (Legal Aid Chicago) | www.illinoislegalaid.org/https://www.illinoislegalaid.org/
Illinois Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (ILHPCO)
Type: Nonprofit Hospice Network
Region: Statewide Illinois (multiple nonprofit hospice providers; Mi…
Multiple nonprofit hospice providers serve different Illinois regions. The Midwest Palliative & Hospice CareCenter (Glenview) is one of the Midwest's largest nonprofit hospice programs. Contact your regional AAA or dial 2-1-1 for the nonprofit hospice nearest you.
Dial 2-1-1 | ilhpco.orghttps://ilhpco.org
Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs (IDVA)
Type: State Government Agency
Region: Statewide Illinois (Springfield headquarters; Veterans Servi…
Free VA benefits claims assistance through VSOs in every county, the Veterans Benefits Guide, 4 Illinois Veterans' Homes (skilled nursing care at Manteno, Quincy, LaSalle, and Anna), the Veterans' Home Preference Program (state job preference), and the Illinois Veterans Grant (IVG — full tuition waiver at public universities for qualifying veterans). IDVA is one of the nation's most comprehensive state veteran agencies.
1-800-437-9824 | 833 S. Spring St., Springfield, IL 62704https://veterans.illinois.gov
Jesse Brown VA Medical Center (Chicago)
Type: Federal VA Medical Center
Region: Chicago / Northern Illinois (820 S. Damen Ave., Chicago, IL …
Full-service VA healthcare in Chicago. Affiliated with University of Illinois College of Medicine (one of the most productive VA research partnerships). Provides primary care, mental health, oncology, surgery, and specialty services for Chicago-area veterans. Jesse Brown is a hub for VA social work and veteran homelessness programs.
(312) 569-8387 | 820 S. Damen Ave., Chicago, IL 60612https://www.va.gov/jesse-brown-health-care/
Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital
Type: Federal VA Medical Center (One of Nation's Largest)
Region: Western Suburbs / Greater Chicago (5000 S. 5th Ave., Hines, …
One of the nation's largest VA medical centers. Comprehensive VA healthcare, major surgical programs, PTSD treatment, blind rehabilitation center, and specialty services for greater Chicago metro veterans. Affiliated with Loyola University Medical Center.
(708) 202-8387 | 5000 S. 5th Ave., Hines, IL 60141https://www.va.gov/hines-health-care/
American Legion — Department of Illinois
Type: Veterans Service Organization
Region: Statewide Illinois (1,000+ posts statewide; Springfield head…
Veterans benefits assistance via Service Officers in all 102 counties, Boys/Girls State programs, scholarships, emergency financial assistance, and advocacy at the Illinois General Assembly.
(217) 522-5491 | illegion.orghttps://illegion.org
Illinois Warriors' Assistance Program (IWAP) / Veterans Support Organizations
Type: Veterans Peer Support
Region: Statewide Illinois (coordinated through IDVA and veteran-ser…
Peer support and community for Illinois veterans and their families, coordinated through IDVA's comprehensive benefits network. Dial 2-1-1 or contact IDVA (1-800-437-9824) for local veteran peer support programs.
1-800-437-9824 | veterans.illinois.govhttps://veterans.illinois.gov
JCFS Chicago (Jewish Child & Family Services)
Type: Faith-Based (Jewish) | Open to All — Founded 1859
Region: Chicago and Chicagoland (10+ locations; 216 W. Jackson Blvd.…
One of America's oldest Jewish social service organizations, founded 1859 as the United Hebrew Relief Association. Over 30 programs: mental health counseling (licensed therapists for all ages and issues), special education K-12, services for people with disabilities (residential, employment, day programs for 700+ individuals), adoption services, foster care, refugee assistance and immigration, Holocaust survivor services, Jewish community programs, and the JCFS BASIC food pantry. 150+ year history of serving Chicago's Jewish and broader communities.
(855) 275-5237 (855-ASK-JCFS) | 216 W. Jackson Blvd. #700, Chicago, IL 60606https://jcfs.org
Jewish United Fund / Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago
Type: Jewish Community Organization
Region: Chicago metro (30 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60602)
Funds JCFS, CJE SeniorLife, and 70+ local Jewish community agencies and programs. Mobilizes $200M+ in resources annually. Funds the Holocaust Museum Chicago, community education, Israel connections, and the JUF News magazine.
(312) 346-6700 | juf.orghttps://juf.org
Jewish Family Service of Champaign-Urbana
Type: Faith-Based (Jewish) | Open to All
Region: Central Illinois (Champaign-Urbana region)
Counseling, elder services, caregiver support, and community programs for Champaign-Urbana area residents of all backgrounds.
(217) 367-9872 | jfschampaign.orghttps://jfschampaign.org
Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago
Type: Faith-Based (Catholic) | Open to All — One of the Nation's Largest
Region: Cook and Lake Counties (160+ programs at 165+ locations; 721…
One of the nation's largest Catholic Charities organizations. Comprehensive services: emergency food and financial assistance, immigration and refugee services (one of the nation's leading refugee resettlement programs), counseling and behavioral health, housing and homeless services, elder care, domestic violence services, foster care, and adoption. Serves 1 million+ Cook and Lake County residents annually, 90% non-Catholic. Open to all.
(312) 655-7000 | 721 N. LaSalle St., Chicago, IL 60654https://catholiccharities.net
Catholic Charities — Diocese of Rockford (Northern Illinois)
Type: Faith-Based (Catholic) | Open to All
Region: Northern Illinois outside Cook/Lake (Diocese of Rockford — B…
Emergency food and financial assistance, immigration legal services, counseling, elder services, and family support for Northern Illinois communities.
(815) 399-8887 | catholiccharitiesdor.orghttps://catholiccharitiesdor.org
Catholic Charities — Diocese of Springfield (Central/Southern Illinois)
Type: Faith-Based (Catholic) | Open to All
Region: Central and Southern Illinois (Diocese of Springfield covers…
Emergency assistance, counseling, family support, elder services, and immigration programs across 28 Central and Southern Illinois counties.
(217) 523-4551 | ccdos.orghttps://ccdos.org
Lutheran Social Services of Illinois (LSSI)
Type: Faith-Based (Lutheran) | Open to All — Founded 1867
Region: Statewide Illinois — 60+ communities (Itasca headquarters: 1…
One of the nation's largest Lutheran social service agencies, serving Illinois since 1867. 40,000+ people served annually. Programs: refugee resettlement and integration (one of Illinois's largest refugee programs), foster care and adoption, mental health and counseling, residential services for adults with disabilities, older adult services, domestic violence, substance use treatment, and homeless family services. Non-sectarian — serves all regardless of faith.
(630) 960-1700 | 1001 E. Touhy Ave. #50, Des Plaines, IL 60018https://lssi.org
The Salvation Army — Illinois
Type: Faith-Based (Christian) | Open to All
Region: Statewide Illinois (Chicago Metro, Rockford, Peoria, Springf…
Emergency financial assistance, food pantries, homeless shelters (Chicago's Salvation Army operates one of the city's largest shelter networks), disaster relief, Angel Tree holiday programs, 8+ Adult Rehabilitation Centers for addiction recovery, and senior services.
Chicago: (312) 738-3703 | salvationarmyusa.org/illinoishttps://salvationarmyusa.org
Greater Chicago Food DepositoryState Unique
Type: Nonprofit Food Security (Illinois-Unique)
Region: Chicago and suburban Cook County (4100 W. Ann Lurie Place, C…
Chicago's primary Feeding America food bank — one of the nation's largest. Distributes 70+ million pounds of food annually to 700+ partner agencies including food pantries, community kitchens, homeless shelters, and senior meal programs across Cook County. Served 1 in 6 Cook County residents during COVID-19.
(773) 247-3663 | 4100 W. Ann Lurie Place, Chicago, IL 60632https://gcfd.org
Northern Illinois Food Bank
Type: Nonprofit Food Security
Region: Northern Illinois — 13 counties (Geneva / Chicagoland NW sub…
Feeding America food bank serving 13 northern Illinois counties (outside Cook), distributing 40+ million pounds of food annually through 700+ partner agencies in the northern Illinois region.
(630) 443-6910 | solvehungertoday.orghttps://solvehungertoday.org
United Way of Metropolitan Chicago / Illinois 2-1-1
Type: Community Nonprofit Network | Open to All
Region: Statewide Illinois (Chicago headquarters; statewide 2-1-1 co…
2-1-1 Illinois provides 24/7 referrals to food, housing, health care, caregiver support, mental health, substance use, disaster assistance, and more across all 102 counties. United Way of Metro Chicago funds education, health, and income programs in the greater Chicago area.
Dial 2-1-1 | illinoisunitedinway.org | unitedwaychi.orghttps://illinoisunitedinway.org
The Arc of Illinois
Type: Disability Services Nonprofit
Region: Statewide Illinois (Elmhurst headquarters; chapters in all m…
Advocacy, support, and resources for individuals with I/DD and their families. Supports the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) Division of Developmental Disabilities system serving 55,000+ Illinoisans through Medicaid waiver programs.
(630) 458-0370 | thearcofil.orghttps://thearcofil.org
Autism Society of Illinois
Type: Disability / Autism Nonprofit
Region: Statewide Illinois (Chicago headquarters; chapters in Chicag…
Education, advocacy, support groups, and resource navigation for Illinoisans with autism and their families. Partners with IDHS, Lurie Children's, and the Illinois Autism Task Force.
(630) 691-1270 | autismillinois.orghttps://autismillinois.org
Access Living (Chicago)State Unique
Type: Center for Independent Living / Disability Justice (Illinois-Unique)
Region: Chicago (115 W. Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL 60654 — serves Chi…
One of the nation's leading Centers for Independent Living, founded in 1980 by disability rights advocates. Provides peer support, housing advocacy, personal assistant services referrals, legal advocacy, community integration, and disability justice organizing for Chicagoans with any disability.
(312) 640-2100 | 115 W. Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL 60654https://accessliving.org
Illinois 2-1-1 (United Way / statewide)
Type: Social Services Referral
Region: Statewide Illinois — all 102 counties
Free 24/7 referral service for food, housing, health care, caregiver resources, mental health, substance use, and emergency assistance across all 102 Illinois counties in multiple languages.
Dial 2-1-1 | illinoisunitedinway.orghttps://illinoisunitedinway.org
Rush University Medical Center — Community Health EquityState Unique
Type: Academic Health Equity Programs (Illinois-Unique)
Region: Chicago West Side and broader Illinois (1653 W. Congress Pkw…
Rush's anchor institution strategy embeds health equity programs in Chicago's Austin community and beyond — addressing the social determinants of health including employment, housing, food access, and mental health. Rush's health equity work is nationally recognized as a model for how academic medical centers can reduce health disparities.
(312) 942-5000 | rush.edu/communityhttps://rush.edu/community
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