In support of our mission, we operate using the following Core Values to guide our interactions between participants, colleagues, and our community.

Equity and Inclusion
We acknowledge that privilege exists and intentionally promote equitable access to resources and representation in leadership and decision making.
We design solutions with humility and intentionally include voices that have been historically and structurally excluded.

Community
We are more effective in community than in isolation.
We build partnerships through authentic relationships.
We value the expertise of all and use empathy and collaboration to fulfill our mission.

Transparency
We operate with integrity by being forthright, honest and open with participants, staff, volunteers, supporters and our community.
We invite feedback in all relationships, commit to self-reflection and strive for continuous improvement.

Generosity of Spirit
We create spaces that are kind, non-judgmental and affirming of the entirety of every individual’s experience.
We believe that hope, growth and healing take place in a safe, welcoming and respectful environment.

​Resilience
We honor the courage, perseverance and grit of those who deliver, receive and support our services.
We believe individuals are defined by their strengths and they are experts in their own lives.
We persevere through challenges and view setbacks as opportunities to redefine and refocus our work.

Our Core Values in Action

When Donna began seeking services at Connections’ Chicago Avenue drop-in location, she was living out of her car and only staying in emergency shelter on very cold nights. Over time, Donna formed relationships with Connections staff and even volunteered at the drop-in center. Donna faced many twists and turns in her journey to housing, including housing options falling through two times.

Despite the roadblocks, Donna remained optimistic and demonstrated great resilience. This led her to securing a home in the South suburbs, where she has settled in and continues to reflect on the support she got from Connections: “All of these downfalls in my life, Connections has been there. And I’m hoping that I never have to go through that again, but I knew that if I did, Connections will be there.”