LLN Reports on Chris Smith of HandsOn Chicago

Chris joined Handson Chicago as the COO in July, 2007 after a 21 yr career at the Chicago Tribune Co. HandsOn Suburban Chicago (HOSC) is committed to mobilizing the compassion of individuals in order to bring about positive change in our community. 

Our mission is "to improve lives by advancing, promoting, and developing community volunteer initiatives." HandsOn Chicago started in a box. In the 1960’s, local activist Lois Moore began filling 

a recipe box with the names of friends and neighbors who were interested in volunteering but unsure of where to go. As that box began to overflow, Lois worked with the Arlington Heights Clergy Fellowship to found the Volunteer Service Bureau of Northwest Cook County, a clearinghouse for volunteer opportunities. From humble beginnings, The Volunteer Center of Northwest Suburban Chicago -- as we’ve been called since 1987-- has grown into a force for change, referring over 10,000 volunteers annually and serving over 140  social service agencies, nonprofits and schools. 

At HandsOn Suburban Chicago, they work closely with volunteers, nonprofits and other community partners to help them make a difference and improve the lives of their neighbors -- 

not to mention their own lives -- through meaningful service experiences.