What we believe:
Interfaith Open Communities is founded on the conviction that individuals of various faiths share deeply held beliefs. These beliefs include:

• An equality of all people before the Divine regardless of economic or social standing
• A responsibility for people who are vulnerable and oppressed
• A realization that injustice is found in the racial and economic barriers to resources such as adequate and affordable housing in the Chicago area
• An understanding that living for others and responding to injustice are fundamental characteristics of authentic human existence

Interfaith Open Communities affirms that human fulfillment is achieved, not in isolation from others, but rather in a context of a mutually affirming community that promotes the economic, social, cultural, and political conditions for the flourishing of all people.

Interfaith Open Communities believes that, after a half-century of expensive but often misconceived housing and welfare policy, the Chicago metropolitan region – like the nation – has a new chance to right the wrongs of community exclusion, reduce the isolation of the poor, strengthen the flexibility, efficiency, and economic health of our many city and suburban communities and – for the faith communities – better reconcile the character of their respective communities with their visions of the good and faithful life.

What we do:
Interfaith Open Communities brings individuals and representatives of congregations and social service missions together to promote communities that welcome all people regardless of race, religion or economic status. This is ultimately achieved when all communities have a range of housing options affordable to all people. Interfaith Open Communities facilitates the creation of clusters – located throughout metropolitan Chicago – who work on issues of housing, diversity and justice through education, advocacy and local projects.