In this issue: New Home for Victims of Human Trafficking,  In Memoriam, New Development Director, Board Update, Volunteer Opportunities, Upcoming Events, Thank Yous

Help, Hope and Healing
Shelter, Inc. plans for a groundbreaking new program to help victims of human trafficking

With the generous support of John and Rita Canning, along with DCFS funding, Shelter, Inc is planning to open Illinois’ first DCFS approved home for child victims of human trafficking.

On Tuesday, July 11, Shelter, Inc. received unanimous support from the Palatine Planning & Zoning Commission to build this first of its kind, 12-bedroom home in Palatine. 

Each year in Illinois, 16,000-24,000 women and children become involved in human trafficking, including many who have walked through the doors of our Jennings Home.

Shelter's unique home will offer a safe and healing environment for victims of commercial sexual exploitation and domestic trafficking. Comprehensive support services will help these young women build the skills, strength and self-esteem they need to develop to their full potential.

The new home will be developed by Housing Opportunity Development Corporation and constructed by Buffalo Grove's SI Container Build, Inc. utilizing shipping containers. This environmentally-friendly construction method is efficient, economical, and will minimize Shelter's carbon footprint. 

Join us in our effort to bring life changing services to the most vulnerable young women in our community and foster positive change that will resonate for generations to come.  

Simone Wheeler brings over fifteen years of fund development and philanthropic innovation, primarily in human services and child welfare. Simone most recently served as VP Development at The Cradle, a recognized leader in infant adoption, where she successfully developed and implemented a fundraising plan to drive sustainable growth.

Since 2017 Simone has held the designation Certified Fundraising Executive (C.F.R.E.) after completing professional practice and performance requirements. C.F.R.E. is the only accredited, globally recognized certification for fundraising professionals.

Originally from London, England, Simone has a bachelor’s degree in German & Russian from Leeds University. She lives with her husband, young family, and rescue dog Molly in the northwest suburbs and is passionate about fitness and triathlon.  Last year Simone finished her first IronMan in Madison, WI swimming 2.4 miles, biking 114 miles and running 26.2 miles on the wettest day of 2022.

If you share our vision that all children grow up in safe and

nurturing homes, please support us today.