Community Corner
Elmhurst Walk-In Ministry Appoints Executive Director
The Elmhurst Walk-in Ministry (EWIM) welcomed Jackie Crnkovich as its new Executive Director on January 2, 2014.
Crnkovich comes to the job with a background in teaching and community involvement. She is past President of the Friends of the Elmhurst Public Library, has been a mentor in Daybreak Transitional Housing, and chaired Immaculate Conception Church’s work with DuPage Habitat for Humanity. She also served on the Referendum Committee for the new library as well as the IC Pastoral Council and IC Grade School Board.
When asked about her new position Crnkovich said, “I am thrilled to be a part of such a good and important organization. In my first two weeks I have seen the wide variety of circumstances that bring people in for help. Elmhurst should be proud that it so generously supports this work.”
Find out what's happening in Elmhurstwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
The organization has grown in its 17 years of operation, and the EWIM Board recognized that the job of President had gotten too big and overwhelming for a volunteer. The Executive Director will take on duties in fundraising and community outreach as well as help with daily operations.
Located in the lower level of St. Peters Church, EWIM’s mission is to provide compassionate emergency aid to those seeking help with utilities, rent, food, prescriptions, car repairs, referrals to local food pantries, or help with other critical needs. It serves Elmhurst residents, members of Elmhurst churches or families with children in any Elmhurst school. The EWIM site is open Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 12 noon.
Find out what's happening in Elmhurstwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
EWIM got it’s start 17 years ago, when three church staff members recognized the need to more effectively help people who came to their doors seeking assistance. In its first year it gave assistance to 327 families and disbursed just over $12,000 in aid. In 2013, it assisted 1,000 families and disbursed over $75,000 in aid.
Initially funded by Elmhurst churches who remain critical to EWIM’s operations, it now also counts numerous businesses, service organizations, and individuals among its many supporters.
For more information on how to offer financial assistance or volunteer with EWIM visit its website at www.elmhurstwalkinministry.org.
