OUR
CORE
VALUES
PROGRAMS & SERVICES
We provide a wide range of services, including shelter/housing programs, medical and housing case management, employment and education support, and community outreach.
Better Living Initiative Shelter/Housing Program
Better Living Initiative offers holistic, affirming support to LGBTQ individuals through a range of housing, health, education, and outreach programs. Grounded in lived experience and community leadership, our services are designed to empower, uplift, and create pathways to stability and independence.
Medical & Housing Case Management
Our 6–12 month Shelter/Housing Program provides safe, dorm-style accommodations, meals, and peer-led education to support personal growth and reintegration. Our Medical & Housing Case Management team offers assessments, referrals, HIV care coordination, vocational training, and life skills development.
S.A.F.E. BUS
(Smart Answers for Everyone)
The S.A.F.E. BUS brings critical resources—food, hygiene kits, showers, clothing, and transportation vouchers—directly to underserved neighborhoods in a mobile, judgment-free space.
Drop-In Center
(Ages 18–25)
Our 24-hour Drop-In Center (ages 18–25) offers meals, health services, cultural programming, and transportation from the CTA Red Line.
Street & Community Outreach
Our peer-led Street & Community Outreach engages hard-to-reach individuals with housing and healthcare support, HIV testing, and safer sex resources. The Transgender Leadership Initiative builds a strong network of trans leaders to shape policy, strengthen HIV service delivery, and drive advocacy.
Employment & Education Support
Includes GED mentoring in a supportive setting tailored to LGBTQ needs. Individualized counseling addresses barriers such as childcare and transportation.
Housing Assistance
Our Housing & Rental Program provides units at income-based rates—from low and no-income options to market rate—ensuring accessible housing options for all.
Youth Outreach (HOCOI Young Adults)
Through Youth Outreach (HOCOI Young Adults), we partner with charter schools to deliver inclusive STI education and advocate for the rights and needs of at-risk LGBTQ youth.
Transgender Leadership Initiative
This initiative develops leadership among transgender individuals to: Improve HIV service delivery Increase policy involvement Create a connected leadership cohort By investing in trans-led solutions, we strengthen advocacy, visibility, and health outcomes within the community.
