LOYAL. LOCAL. COMPLETE.
Doorway to Hope, a Christ-centered nonprofit working to open Edgar County’s first adult homeless shelter, will host a community volunteer work day on Saturday, June 27, and is inviting residents, churches, and local businesses to take part.
The “Hope in Action Community Work Day” will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the organization’s property at 502 to 504 East Jasper Street in Paris. Volunteers will help clean up and beautify the site, with tasks including landscaping, exterior cleanup, scraping and painting, pressure washing, porch and minor repairs, and general beautification. All work will be done at ground level and overseen by experienced leaders, including a general contractor.
The property, which Doorway to Hope purchased earlier this year, will become the future home of the county’s first adult shelter. Organizers say the June work day marks the first community-wide step toward opening the doors.
“For years, our churches have faithfully sent help to mission fields far from home,” said Jonathan Burns, board treasurer of Doorway to Hope. “We believe the mission field is also right here in Edgar County. This work day is a chance for our community to answer that calling together, with our hands and not only our hearts.”
No experience is necessary, and volunteers may come for an hour or stay the entire day. Families are welcome.
Participants are encouraged to bring work gloves, and everyone will sign a brief liability waiver at check-in. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Residents can register in advance through a free online sign-up linked on the Doorway to Hope Facebook page, but registration is not required. Organizers emphasize that anyone may simply arrive the morning of the event and check in.
“We know technology can be a barrier, and we never want that to keep anyone from serving,” Burns said. “You don’t need a hammer or any experience. Just a willing heart and whatever time you can give.”
Those who cannot attend but still wish to help can donate supplies such as paint, lumber, gloves, landscaping and pressure-washing materials, bottled water, and snacks by contacting Brandon Brinkley at 217-251-4065.
Financial gifts toward supplies can be made through the secure donation link on the Doorway to Hope Facebook page or by mail to PO Box 1002, Paris, IL 61944.
The event is weather permitting. In the event of severe weather, updates will be posted on the Doorway to Hope Facebook page.