Chicago HOPES for Kids
Mel Whitehouse is a dedicated professional with extensive experience in program management and community organizing. Currently serving as Program Manager at Chicago HOPES for Kids since January 2017, Mel has developed curricula for after-school programs in homeless shelters and focused on supporting middle school students. Previous roles include Site Coordinator at McGaw YMCA and Community Organizer for the Sierra Club Illinois Chapter, where Mel contributed to political campaigns. Additional experience includes research and program associate work at EARTHWORKS, as well as literacy tutoring and lifeguarding. Mel holds a Master of Education in Youth Development from the University of Illinois at Chicago and dual Bachelor of Arts degrees in French Language and Literature and Environmental Studies from Oberlin College.
Chicago HOPES for Kids
Chicago HOPES for Kids provides educational support for children living in Chicago's homeless shelters. It is our mission to provide our students with the resources and encouragement needed to succeed academically, despite the challenges of homelessness.