Capital Campaign

TLP Youth Move into Brand-new Residence!

At the May 1, 2008 groundbreaking ceremony for the new Belfort House, a sign shows fundraising progress made toward TLP’s Capital Campaign goal of $3.9 million.

TLP staff and youth celebrate the new Belfort House groundbreaking

In the first stage of construction, a concrete foundation was put in place for the new Belfort House

By June 2008, the new Belfort House had its exterior walls and roof, and workers moved inside to establish the interior structural, plumbing and electrical systems

The new Belfort House reduces operational costs and increases the number of youth served by 20%.

The new community room and kitchen provide ample space for meeting and eating.

With one kitchen instead of seven, youth can gather and enjoy meals together.

Staff offices are interspersed throughout each floor making it easier for them to work with youth.

The new Belfort House boasts 24 private bedrooms.

It is thanks to a tremendous show of support that the new Teen Living Programs residences and offices are open!

In April 2009, TLP youth packed boxes and moved to their new home – the brand-new youth residence directly south of the former Belfort House.

Everything has been designed with efficiency in mind – one kitchen instead of seven, washers and dryers on each floor, better windows, improved ventilation – and it’s much easier to maintain because of enhanced materials.

The design was crafted pro bono by Hartshorne Plunkard Architecture and is the physical representation of TLP’s philosophy, providing safety, privacy, and independence, while also fostering community. Features include an all-purpose community room, teaching kitchen, computer lab, library, 24 private bedrooms, and emergency shelter for minors. Staff offices are interspersed throughout each floor —an arrangement that more effectively integrates clinical staff into the residential program.

Belfort House programs and services far surpass the basics of food, shelter, and safety, helping youth become independent, educated, employed, and living healthy, satisfying lives. The former Belfort House edifice was in a state of rapid deterioration: systems were failing and the general condition was on life support. In response, TLP embarked upon a $3,900,000 capital campaign and has raised 90% of that goal. The new house reduces operational costs and increases the number of youth served by 20%.

In Fall 2009, the old Belfort House will be razed, revitalized as a green space. Plans include a working garden where youth can plant flowers, fruits, and vegetables. Please continue to check back here for updates and information on how you can get involved.

Special thanks to the community, corporate, foundation, and individual leaders whose generosity made this new home a reality. You can still contribute to this the new building and its new garden by clicking here to Donate Now! Naming opportunities are also still available. Find out more by calling Nia Tavoularis, director of development and communications, at 312-568-5700, ext. 228.