When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Mercy Home For Boys & Girls
Why Mercy Home For Boys & Girls is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Mercy Home for Boys & Girls is a deeply impactful childcare and residential facility located in Chicago, dedicated to supporting abused, homeless, and neglected children. Established in 1887, this organization has evolved into a safe haven offering comprehensive residential care for both boys and girls across two distinct campuses in the city. What makes Mercy Home exceptional as a meeting place is its profound commitment to nurturing not just the basic needs—such as shelter, food, and clothing—but also emotional healing through love, laughter, and belonging. The home offers a stable, supportive community where children can recover from trauma, develop independence, and pursue educational opportunities. The campuses include enriching amenities like basketball courts, music rooms, and exercise facilities, along with programs that promote arts and community service, fostering holistic growth and self-expression. With 24/7 care, counseling, education, healthcare, and provisions for extracurricular activities, Mercy Home creates an environment where children feel truly seen and heard. It also provides mentoring and aftercare, extending its support beyond the residential experience. As a faith-rooted institution, Mercy Home embraces a mission of compassion and healing rooted in the Gospels, making it a unique and inspiring place for children to thrive and a meaningful spot to meet and support the community.
Here's what people think of Mercy Home For Boys & Girls
As of recent, Mercy Home For Boys & Girls holds a 4.6-star rating based on 128 reviews.
Reviews of Mercy Home for Boys & Girls overwhelmingly reflect appreciation for its vital role in transforming the lives of children facing severe adversity. Many reviewers commend the organization's long-standing commitment since 1887 to providing a safe, nurturing environment that feels like a true home—offering not only physical safety but also emotional support and growth opportunities. Positive reviews frequently highlight the caring and dedicated staff, the quality of programming that addresses both educational and therapeutic needs, and the tangible outcomes such as high graduation rates and successful transitions into independent living. They praise the personalized attention children receive and the broad range of services covered by the home's philanthropic model, which removes financial barriers for families. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention challenges typical of large residential institutions, such as occasional communication gaps or difficulties adapting to the structured environment. A few note concerns about resources being spread thin due to the volume of children served. Despite these critiques, the overall impression remains strongly positive, with many reviewers recognizing Mercy Home as a beacon of hope and a crucial resource for Chicago's vulnerable youth. The blend of faith-based dedication, comprehensive care, and measurable impact contributes to the organization's stellar reputation and a high rating of 4.6 from over 128 reviews, underlining its success in fulfilling its mission.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Dianne Blackburn
Wonderful non-profit for the kids/young adults. Offers a "home" to kids who've grown up rough- they now know they'll have food to eat - 3 times a day - every day and a bed to sleep on. Kids who've been neglected, abused or in violent situations. They have chores daily. A therapist to meet with weekly or more and family therapy. They provide an opportunity for the kids to become successful and be a light. Which, hopefully, upon returning home their light brings more light to their family and then their family to the community.
Noelle Bryant
I was a youth who lived here during my last two years of high school . I was always a hardworking and respectful youth, but I also would stand up for myself and other youth when we were mistreated poorly. There is a high degree of favoritism by staff and they don’t know how to care for those with disabilities or mental illness, which is the whole program bc most of these kids come from tragic situations. Gewanda Monroe the Couderc program manager, especially is a problem. I was told I was going to be unsuccessful in life by my youth advocate in a letter for a scholarship application. (By the end of that school year I was student body president, had two internships, I also had straight A’s before and after this.) I was genuinely a good kid, and never understood why they were always mean to us. Us as youth became a family surviving it together. Gewanda Monroe would body shame youth as well. I wanted to apply for Mercy Home’s scholarship, I was told by Gewanda and other staff I didn’t qualify and shouldn’t apply. I applied anyway, and received the scholarship. (Same one) One time, I expressed I felt really depressed (had just moved to mercy, my main caregiver my grandmother had just passed) and I felt like I needed to go to the hospital, I was told I was lying, being dramatic, and they refused to take me or offer additional in support care. This is just a little bit of how life is here for those kids. As a scholar, although I am grateful to have a degree of support, usually the help they provide is minimal, and for things like paying school expenses or rent, they usually either do it passed the deadline and delay it for 6+ months, say they support something then won’t, or just not end up doing it.
Ashley Lynette
HORRENDOUS. NEVER SEND ME ANOTHER PIECE OF MAIL. I will have my lawyer investigate you all if I do as I've never been associated with this place, and having my address is suspicious. Stop forcing your stuff on people.
JxSlayz666 (JMo1775USMC)
The best group home in the country! I lived here from age 12-17, years 2004-2009. From an angry troubled youth to reaching my potential. The memories are priceless. The staff CARE, the therapists were extraordinary. The fact that they often found the best schools for kids, in my case, De La Salle Institute. God bless this place!
Eddy Davis
Really good people that really want to help the offer a wide range of help services they do alot of events they offer in house services such as career counsel home and well-being checks Laundry computers a free cafe gym feild house and plenty for kids to do i love going every week to do drop ins
How to reach Mercy Home For Boys & Girls
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Why Mercy Home For Boys & Girls may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Mercy Home for Boys & Girls with your friends? Because this place offers more than just a location — it embodies a meaningful experience where community, compassion, and connection converge. Mercy Home has a long-standing history of providing a nurturing and safe environment for children who have faced immense hardships, such as abuse, homelessness, and neglect. Rallying here with your friends isn’t just about gathering; it’s about supporting and standing alongside a mission that transforms lives. Being part of Mercy Home’s community means engaging with a place that has cared for over 30,000 kids since 1887, making it a profound setting to create shared memories that matter. In addition to the emotional and social significance, Mercy Home’s campuses in Chicago offer a welcoming atmosphere with spaces primed for gatherings, events, and group meetups. Organizing a meetup here is a way to strengthen bonds among your friends or family while contributing to a greater cause, fostering a sense of solidarity that extends well beyond the event itself.
What activities can you engage in at Mercy Home for Boys & Girls that make it ideal for group meetups? Mercy Home’s environment supports a variety of activities that promote fun, learning, and community involvement. Visitors and groups can participate in tours of the two campuses—the Boys’ Campus located in Chicago’s bustling West Loop and the Girls’ Campus situated in the Morgan Park community on the south side—getting a closer look at the place’s historic and inspiring foundations. These tours not only foster a deep understanding of Mercy Home’s mission but also inspire group discussions about social impact and philanthropy. In addition, Mercy Home hosts community service opportunities, where groups can join hands in volunteering, helping with organized events, or supporting educational and recreational programs for the youth. The spacious and safe outdoor and indoor areas facilitate team-building games, casual hangouts, and mentoring sessions, making it versatile for both informal gatherings and structured group activities. The presence of a caring staff and active mentors creates an engaging atmosphere for meaningful interactions, whether it’s through shared meals, story exchanges, or collaborative projects.
Why is Mercy Home perfect for hosting a group meetup with friends or family? Beyond the organization’s noble cause, Mercy Home offers an inviting and supportive setting that nurtures connection. Its dual campuses provide flexible spaces that can accommodate different group sizes and activity types. For families and friends looking to spend quality time together in a space that encourages giving back, Mercy Home strikes a balance between social enjoyment and meaningful engagement. The home-like atmosphere, combined with structured programs that educate and empower, assures that your meetup experience is not only enjoyable but also enriching. The children and young adults living there bring an inspiring energy, and any visitor group has the chance to interact positively through organized activities and celebrations. This environment fosters empathy and camaraderie, further strengthening the bond within your group. Moreover, taking part in or supporting Mercy Home’s events offers lasting memories centered around kindness and community spirit, making your get-together truly special.
What makes the Mercy Home campuses unique and suitable for various group activities? Mercy Home for Boys & Girls has two distinct but equally accommodating locations in Chicago, each tailored to meet the needs of the children they serve and the community around them. The Boys’ Campus at 1140 W. Jackson Boulevard is nestled in the vibrant West Loop, surrounded by the energy and resources of downtown Chicago, yet providing a safe retreat for the kids and visitors alike. The Girls’ Campus, located at 11600 S Longwood Drive in the Morgan Park neighborhood, offers a serene and welcoming environment away from the city's hustle, ideal for reflection, growth, and group interactions. Both campuses provide full-time residential care, but they also host programs that can involve external visitors, including mentoring, educational workshops, and community outreach events. The physical facilities include open spaces, cozy common rooms, and recreational areas that make the venues suitable for team-building exercises, educational group sessions, and informal social gatherings. This dual-campus setup allows flexibility for groups based on their preference for urban buzz or a quieter setting, making Mercy Home adaptable to diverse meetup needs.
How does the mission and history of Mercy Home enhance the experience of visiting or rallying there? Mercy Home’s rich history, dating back to 1887, deeply enriches the experience of anyone who rallies at this place. Rooted in a mission to care for the most vulnerable children in Chicago—those who are homeless, abused, or neglected—the Home instills a powerful sense of purpose in its surroundings. Founded by Fr. Louis Campbell and guided by dedicated Church leadership over the decades, Mercy Home evolved from a small boys’ shelter into a comprehensive care provider for both boys and girls, reflecting progressive growth in response to community needs. Visiting Mercy Home means stepping into a legacy of compassion, resilience, and hope. This historic relevance elevates any group gathering here beyond a routine meetup—it becomes a moment to engage in a community-driven life-changing movement. Through stories of survivors, ongoing mentorship programs, and continuous outreach, attendees feel connected to a larger cause that transcends their own social circles, providing a profound, shared sense of fulfillment.
What opportunities for volunteerism and support can groups leverage when meeting at Mercy Home? Participating in volunteer activities at Mercy Home enhances group dynamics and the overall meetup experience, making it more impactful. The organization actively welcomes volunteers to aid in various capacities such as mentoring young residents, assisting with educational programs, or helping organize special events, including fundraising marathons and community celebrations. These activities offer groups a chance to give back collectively, strengthening team spirit while making tangible differences in young lives. Moreover, the Home’s after-care programs and referral services mean that volunteer impact extends far beyond direct residential care, often connecting volunteers with broader advocacy and support efforts. Groups can plan their meetups around these volunteer opportunities, turning a social event into a meaningful contribution to children’s welfare. This inclusive volunteer culture fosters empathy, understanding, and shared pride among friends or family, making your meetup at Mercy Home both enjoyable and deeply rewarding.
Why does Mercy Home have such a strong reputation and a 4.6-star rating from over 120 reviews? Mercy Home’s strong community reputation stems from its unwavering dedication to transforming children’s lives for well over a century. The organization's high 4.6 rating, based on 128 reviews, highlights the quality of care, the professionalism of its staff, and the positive impact perceived by residents, volunteers, and donors alike. Reviewers frequently commend the Home for creating a safe haven filled with hope, guidance, and opportunity. This reputation indicates the organization’s successful balance between providing residential care and fostering educational, emotional, and social development. For groups considering a meetup, this high rating and positive feedback provide confidence that Mercy Home is a trustworthy and inspiring place to connect. The recognition also reflects the welcoming environment that visitors experience, ensuring that groups feel valued and engaged when rallying to support or learn from Mercy Home’s mission.
How does Mercy Home foster educational and personal growth through its programs? Mercy Home places strong emphasis on education and personal development, making it an uplifting venue for meetups focused on learning or inspiration. The organization supports youth with fourteen residential programs designed to offer stability, educational opportunities, and mentorship. These programs provide children with access to schools, tutoring, and extracurricular activities, all housed within the supportive environment of Mercy Home’s campuses. Groups visiting can witness this commitment firsthand or get involved in specific learning events or scholar retreats that Mercy Home hosts. The educational focus ensures that meetups can incorporate meaningful discussions, workshops, or celebration of academic achievements. Through these programs, the Home not only provides shelter but equips its residents with the skills and confidence needed for future success, making every gathering there a chance to appreciate the power of growth and hope.
What are the social and emotional benefits of hosting a meetup at Mercy Home? Holding a group event at Mercy Home facilitates social bonding on a deeper level, anchored by the setting’s inspirational and compassionate ethos. Visitors experience firsthand the warm camaraderie that Mercy Home creates among children and staff, encouraging empathy, generosity, and mutual support. For friends and families, this environment increases emotional intelligence, as sharing space with young people who have overcome hardship broadens perspectives and fosters gratitude. The Home also offers structured activities that support positive social interactions, such as group discussions, storytelling circles, and collaborative service projects. These help visitors build enduring emotional connections within their own group while extending kindness beyond it. Such social enrichment is rare in typical meetup venues, making Mercy Home an exceptional choice for those looking to blend joy with meaningful human connection.
How can your group maximize the experience when meeting at Mercy Home? To get the most from a meetup at Mercy Home, groups should engage actively with the Home’s programs and community. Planning a visit to include a guided tour of the campuses helps ground attendees in the history and current mission. Participating in volunteer work or attending scheduled events, such as Scholar Retreats, enhances involvement and leaves a lasting impact. Encouraging open conversations about the cause during the gathering builds deeper understanding and commitment among group members. Groups might also consider fundraising or support drives as part of their visit, directly contributing to Mercy Home’s ongoing mission. By combining social activities with purposeful action, groups transform a simple meet-and-greet into a powerful experience of connection, learning, and shared goodwill. This approach ensures that your visit to Mercy Home is both enjoyable and profoundly meaningful.