What is Wellness House?
We’re not a hospital. We’re not a clinic. We’re a warm, welcoming nonprofit with people and programs that are here to help. Everything we do is to prepare and empower people to fully live life with cancer and beyond. Our experts, specialists and programs focus on the individual needs of people through every step of cancer — before, during and after treatment. We use a psychosocial approach based on research, addressing the whole person — socially, emotionally, physically, spiritually and psychologically. With support groups, classes, stress management and much, much more, Wellness House was built to give back the strength, community and control that cancer can take away.
How much do services cost?
Because you can’t put a price on what Wellness House provides, we don’t. There’s absolutely no charge for any of the programs at Wellness House.
Are you affiliated with any medical system?
No. Wellness House maintains good relationships with oncology practices and medical centers throughout Chicagoland. We often collaborate with hospitals to bring quality cancer programming to a larger audience.
Do you offer individual counseling?
Yes, our licensed clinical mental health professionals are available for short-term, cancer-related counseling.
Do you have a medical library?
Yes. Our library includes a free lending library filled with books, tapes, DVDs and other literature that addresses cancer. This is currently closed due to COVID-19.
Are you affiliated with any area wellness/fitness centers?
No. Wellness House is an independent organization.
How are you funded?
Wellness House is an Illinois not-for-profit tax-exempt organization under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. As a community-based organization, we rely on financial support from individual contributors, corporations, grants and foundations.
Do you accept insurance?
Because Wellness House programs and services are free of charge, there is no need to involve insurance coverage.
How did Wellness House start?
Three local women, two of whom were cancer survivors, initiated the forming of Wellness House in the winter of 1988. Wellness House officially came into existence when a group of 20 local residents, most of whom were survivors, came together to form a planning commission. Wellness House began providing services in 1990.
My mom has cancer, but she lives out of state. May I still come to Wellness House?
Yes. We know that cancer often affects all members of a family, not just the person diagnosed. Family members, friends and caregivers are welcome to participate in Wellness House programs and services at no charge.
I don’t have cancer, but I have MS. May I come to Wellness House?
No, our mission is solely directed to people whose lives have been affected by cancer.
Does Wellness House use volunteers?
It takes many, many volunteers to help Wellness House run smoothly, and we always welcome more volunteers to share their time, talent and resources. Work assignments vary widely. Volunteers may follow a regular schedule of activities; other opportunities and special events may require a short-term commitment.
How do I get started at Wellness House?
The best way to get started is to attend Welcome to Wellness House or just give us a call at 630.323.5150 to speak with a program expert. See our calendar for current dates and times.