Misericordia

From HistoryWiki

Misericordia is the Latin translation of the Hebrew word "hesed" (loving-kindness in English). Misericordia, 6300 N. Ridge Avenue, Chicago. The Misericordia Home] is located on the site of the former Angel Guardian Orphanage. Misericordia was approved for opening by the Archdiocese of Chicago on August 11, 1975.

Included in the 1992-1993 Rogers Park/West Ridge Historical Tour.

Misericordia offers a community of care that maximizes potential for persons with mild to profound developmental disabilities, many of whom are also physically challenged. By serving society’s most vulnerable citizens, Misericordia also serves the families who want the best for them, yet cannot provide it at home.

Through a spectrum of residential options on its 31-acre Chicago campus and in the community, and with a wide variety of programs, Misericordia currently serves more than 600 children and adults from diverse racial, religious and socio-economic backgrounds. Twenty percent of our residents either come from poverty families or have no families and are wards of the State.

Misericordia offers a continuum of care to meet their diverse needs and aspires for each individual to live as independently as possible in the highest level of community integration feasible. Residential settings include:

  • CILAs (Community Integrated Living Arrangements for small groups in neighborhood homes outside Misericordia’s main campus)
  • On-campus apartments
  • Group homes on-campus
  • Skilled nursing residence

Misericordia recognizes that the residential needs of persons with disabilities may change over time with aging and fluctuating health needs. In close cooperation with parents and guardians, the needs of residents are constantly monitored. Through its continuum of care, Misericordia stands ready to provide appropriate services and support for changing needs. Its innovative programs - job training and placement, a full range of therapies, fitness and health guidance, social and recreational activities, and opportunities for spiritual growth - have garnered a national reputation for excellence, as evidenced by more than forty awards given to Sister Rosemary Connelly, who has lead Misericordia since 1969.

Misericordia residents are important citizens of the greater Chicago community. Some residents work regularly at Chicago businesses. Other businesses outsource projects to be performed on-campus by Misericordia residents. Community volunteers bring their expertise to Misericordia. Residents regularly go on community excursions for social and recreational events. Misericordia strives to involve its residents in all feasible aspects of community living.

While Misericordia is operated by the Sisters of Mercy under the auspices of the Catholic Archdiocese of Chicago, which has generously provided the property upon which Misericordia stands, its programs, renovations and new buildings are made possible through private fundraising.

Misericordia receives support for operations from the Illinois Department of Human Services, the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services, the Department of Children and Family Services and the Illinois State Board of Education.

Misericordia is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation providing help for those in need since 1921. With the support of affiliated groups, legislators and volunteers, and through the generosity of corporations, foundations, individuals and families, Misericordia will continue to work toward a bright future where persons with disabilities achieve maximum independence and realize their greatest potential - in an environment of dignity, challenge, respect and spirituality.

Photos

RPWRHS photo L009-0410 shows a "Test Your Strength" concession at Misericordia, 6300 N. Ridge Boulevard, on September 17, 19xx.

RPWRHS photo L009-0415 shows a Lottery for car at Misericordia, 6300 N. Ridge Boulevard, on September 19, 1991.

RPWRHS photo L009-0430 shows Chicago Bears coach Mike Ditka with unidentified kids at Misericordia, 6300 N. Ridge Avenue, on September 3, 19xx.

RPWRHS photo L009-0440 shows Carnival game at Misericordia Family Fest, Misericordia, 6300 N. Ridge Boulevard, on September 17, 1991.