Name/Title
A Home for EveryoneDescription
Glessner House
Chicago, IL
The decision to open our beautiful courtyard to the public in April had unexpected consequences. The initial idea was to open the space to our neighbors so they could enjoy its beautiful, peaceful atmosphere. But we quickly learned that local businesses and organizations were seeking outdoor spaces to continue their operations, when their physical locations were forced to shut down.
We first partnered with Tiny Tunes Studio, a wonderful organization that provides music and movement classes to pre-school children. How wonderful it was to hear the music and watch the little ones respond. John and Frances Glessner, who built the house in 1887, were founders of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, so would no doubt be pleased!
Later in the summer, we were asked to host Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services by Rabbi Gershon of Chabad South Loop. It was a special time welcoming members of the Jewish community to the house and learning more about their traditions. The sound of the shofar being blown from the dramatic brick and stone curved porch was especially poignant.
Additional uses have included outdoor yoga classes, Fit4Mom classes, and a special event for the local chapter of the Rotary Club. We look forward to continuing this tradition of making Glessner "house" a "home" for everyone even once the pandemic has faded into our collective past.
