About the Organization
When establishing goals for Hyacinths--who to serve as clients, what to charge, how we could best help--we couldn't avoid factoring in the difficult times we are all trying to cope with. So how to best deal with the loss of benefits and the inability of greater numbers of people to manage on the incomes they have? The best way to deal with a lack of adequate community resources is to build and strengthen the community itself. A helping community is a strong community. So Hyacinths is here to help. Our seniors are one of the most vulnerable and constrained groups when it comes to financial stability, often suffering a severe lack of resources with which to lead a rewarding and stress-free life. We pledge to you, our community, to serve the indigent and independent elderly, the veterans, the elderly in nursing facilities. At least 50% of clients served will receive services at no cost. All other clients will receive services on a sliding fee scale. And we encourage you to join us in this effort. There are many volunteer roles available, and most require little more than an hour a week. Many hands make light work. And a robust community.
Who we are. . . .
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Personal Resource Assistants
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Your neighbors and friends
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Individuals committed to community
Our Personal Resource Assistants are trained and committed community residents. They strengthen our community by helping its most vulnerable citizens lead richer, fuller lives.
Where we are. . . .
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Virtual & In-Person: Will County, IL
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Virtual & In-Person: Southern Cook County, IL
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Virtual Only: Anywhere in the U. S.
Located in northeast Illinois, we currently are available for both virtual and in-person services to Will County and southern Cook County. We provide virtual services to anyone living anywhere within the U. S.
My Story
Hello! My name is Alexis Leslie and I live in Lockport. I am the Director of Hyacinths, and have an undergraduate degree in Family Studies, a graduate degree in Human Services Management, and have been certified as a Child Welfare Specialist. I really love working with families and totally get how challenging it can be to balance everything in today's ever changing world.​ For 35 years, I worked in Chicago's most resource-poor communities as a social services program manager and caseworker. Most of my focus has been on family programs, from managing Tot Lots to senior women's programs, home care, family support, parenting, and even counseling for domestic violence. I've also helped folks find housing, jobs, training, and other essential resources—they're all part of making a real difference, which is what I'm all about. Support makes families stronger, and stronger families are the building blocks for healthy, successful communities.​ Growing up in an intergenerational family with a stay-at-home mom taught me how valuable it is to have healthy support systems and time for family. When families aren't overwhelmed and stressed, they can invest in their communities—and that benefits us all.​
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There were many events that imprinted on me the importance of community; many times when people showed up for me and extended a hand when I needed it. These acts of kindness also influenced my choice of career and my decision to start Hyacinths. I can't solve most of the problems in today's world, but I must do what I can.
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​​I intend, with the help of others, to create better lives for our elderly poor, elderly veterans, and those who reside in nursing homes. Join me.