Grant Boosts Social Work Services at Downers Grove Library

The Downers Grove Public Library Foundation has secured a grant from the Community Memorial Foundation to enhance its social work program. This initiative, which started in partnership with Aurora University in 2020, has been pivotal in addressing rising community needs. The foundation initially funded the program in 2021 by providing two interns and a clinical supervisor, demonstrating a commitment to support local residents.

In a significant expansion, the library board of trustees approved the addition of a full-time social worker, set to begin in June 2025. Currently, the foundation also funds one part-time social work intern. The latest grant will facilitate an additional 600 hours of social work, aiming to increase the number of patrons served and diversify services by at least 25%.

Impact of Social Work Program

The social work program has shown impressive growth over the past year. According to the foundation, interactions between social work interns and library patrons surged by 541% compared to the previous year, with seniors making up 30% of the individuals served. Additionally, donations to The Cupboard, the library’s food and toiletry pantry for those facing housing or food insecurity, rose by 20%.

“The library’s social work program has proven over the past five years, both statistically and anecdotally, that not only does this program work, it’s growing and evolving to continuously meet community needs,” said Amanda ReCupido, President of the Downers Grove Public Library Foundation. She emphasized the importance of providing a clean, safe, and non-judgmental environment for community members facing hardship.

The program has identified key areas of assistance, including housing, employment, senior services, mental health, and transportation. In addition to individual consultations, the social work team has developed a resource directory and informational handouts available at the library.

Supporting Community Needs

To further support patrons, verified PADS clients can apply for a DGPL-Use library card, which grants access to the library’s extensive digital resources, programs, study rooms, and computers, as well as the ability to check out two items at a time.

The Downers Grove Public Library Foundation is dedicated to advancing services that go beyond taxpayer funding, enhancing the library’s role as a vital community hub. Previous contributions have included public art installations, satellite stacks at senior living centers, Korean language books, and expanded online offerings. The foundation also supports the Youth Services’ Summer Reading Program and various initiatives aimed at increasing community engagement and outreach.

As the library continues to evolve its social work services, it remains committed to addressing the diverse and changing needs of the Downers Grove community, ensuring that all residents have access to essential resources and support. For more information on the social work program, visit dgplfoundation.org/social-work-program.