Chuhak & Tecson contributes to important issues in honor of Martin Luther King Jr.

On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, more than 80 employees of Chuhak & Tecson, P.C., volunteered their time and efforts to support three different local organizations: Loyola University Health System, Volunteers of America of Illinois and Pacific Garden Mission.

Chuhak & Tecson’s commitment to community service has always been a priority since the firm opened its doors over 30 years ago. In honor of the upcoming 50^th anniversary of Dr. King’s death in April, the firm chose organizations that align with issues he was most concerned with during the last years of his life, including poverty and affordable and safe housing.

“It’s truly inspiring to see so many employees from the firm honoring Dr. King’s life through volunteer work and service, especially with it being the 50^th anniversary of his death,” said Kristen Hudson, a principal and chair of the Diversity & Inclusion Council at Chuhak & Tecson.

Chuhak & Tecson employees gathered to cut, tie and create a variety of fleece blankets that will be given to the men, women and children chemotherapy patients who are part of Loyola University Health System’s Comfort Care Project. The project started nine years ago when Loyola hospital’s pastoral care staff saw an opportunity to fulfill Loyola’s promise to “treat the human spirit” for patients and families in difficult situations.

Meanwhile, another group of volunteers traveled to Volunteers of America of Illinois’ Hope Manor I, a supportive housing unit for veterans that provides an immediate home for up to 50 veterans in need of intensive services as well as rental support for up to 30 veterans who require less intensive services but longer-term rental assistance. Employees worked together to sort contributions and organize the donation closet so that veterans have access to appropriate clothing for job interviewing and employment.

“Our veterans appreciate the help a lot,” said Bridget Hickey, senior development manager for Volunteers of America of Illinois. “Your work today helped veterans who were not able to easily access donations in the past.”

A third group of the firm’s volunteers went to Pacific Garden Mission. Since 1877, the country’s oldest continuously operating gospel rescue mission aims to save and restore the lives of homeless and hurting men, women and children. Volunteers worked side-by-side to prepare bedrolls; set, serve and clear dining room tables for meals; and perform other light housekeeping assignments.

“It is a luxury knowing that you guys faithfully show up,” said Gerald Casey, director of outreach ministries. “Knowing that you’re a reliable group is a great comfort.”

Chuhak & Tecson employs people from diverse backgrounds, creating an environment in which each person feels supported so that everyone is able to do their personal best. Parallel to the firm’s Diversity & Inclusion Council, the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service is an opportunity to demonstrate that lending a hand is a responsibility and a privilege, especially for local communities in need.