Our History

First Decade

Touch My Heart was founded in 2010, to serve our neighbors with disabilities in Chicagoland, centered in the Western Suburbs. For a decade, Touch My Heart has provided live theater, baseball games, carnivals, dances, and holiday parties several times each year. Each of these events were attended by 300 to 1,000 people! Many of them are residents of Group Homes who have limited funds, so having special events (free of charge) was something to look forward to!

As we got to know our neighbors living in Group Homes, we learned more about their lives and what they need. So, we began to meet those needs. Through generous donors and partnerships with local companies, Touch My Heart was able to augment Group Homes’ households with additional furniture, freezers, groceries, and other household supplies. This enabled the Group Homes to stretch their budgets further. And so, our Fresh Market program was launched! See the “Fresh Market” page for more information.

Fresh Market

COVID-19

Sadly, many of our neighbors with disabilities are at higher risk for COVID-19. For their safety, many have been quarantined in their Group Homes far longer than the general public! Mental health and social skills are challenged by isolation. The pandemic has been difficult for everyone, but especially for those with developmental disabilities. The large special events for socialization and recreation we used to offer are not a safe option anymore.

The Farm

How can we offer outings safely? Introducing The Farm! Touch My Heart is building an outdoor space where smaller groups can enjoy getting out of the house, interacting with animals and nature, and learning something new. See “The Farm” page for more information!