Joann Boblick’s journey with BEDS Plus began in 2014 as a volunteer, but her dedication and passion quickly established her as a key figure in the organization’s growth. Over her 10 years, she has impacted the expansion of programs and focused on real solutions to end homelessness.
“Housing is more than just a roof over someone’s head. It’s a prescription for stability. If there was a treatment I could prescribe, it would be housing,” she says. “There’s no better remedy. People deserve a little bit of dignity, a place to shower, sleep, and to feel safe.”
Joann has seen firsthand how housing transforms lives and is committed to dispelling misconceptions about homelessness. “Many people think that those who are homeless are lazy or not trying, but the reality is that most are working hard yet can’t keep up with the soaring housing costs,” she explains. “We greatly lack affordable housing options for families, people with disabilities, and seniors.”
One of Joann's impactful contributions has been her work at the Cicero Avenue Transitional Shelter. Unlike previous models where clients moved from shelter to shelter, transitional shelter is now at one location. “This allows Case Managers to spend more time with clients, really vet their situations, and help them navigate what they need to move forward,” she shares. This deeper engagement has been key in transitioning more families and people into housing and will prevent people from falling back into homelessness as they are matched to diversified programs that meet their needs.
Her influence has also been critical in expanding long-term housing solutions. Joann assisted with BEDS LaGrange Area Transitional Housing (LATH) program, which led to the creation of the Bridge Program. “Taking over LATH was a leap of faith, but it allowed us to grow our services. Without it, we wouldn’t have the Bridge Program, which now helps families and individuals with severe mental illness and high medical needs.”
Joann’s passion for advocacy for homeless prevention is one of her proudest accomplishments. “Prevention work is crucial,” she emphasizes. “It stops the trauma of homelessness, doesn’t overburden the system, and is a far more affordable housing solution.” This work, while challenging, focuses on keeping families in their homes to avoid the spiral that can lead to eviction and homelessness.
Joann reflects on the remarkable growth of BEDS Plus, from a small team of six to over 65 employees making significant impacts, as a testament to the agency’s potential and vision. “When Tina (BEDS Plus CEO), first proposed building a permanent supportive housing site like Ogden Avenue Support Housing, it seemed nearly impossible,” Joann recalls. “Her ability to turn ambitious ideas into reality transformed what we could offer our clients.” The establishment of Ogden Avenue became a defining moment for BEDS Plus, serving as a cornerstone in the agency’s expansion into providing much-needed services to the community. “Whenever Tina talks about taking big leaps of faith, I have complete confidence that the staff and the agency can achieve them,” Joann adds.
Throughout her journey, Joann has remained committed to listening and caring. “When volunteers and community members show up, it proves to our clients that they matter,” she says. “It’s not just a job for us—it’s about doing what’s right, even when it’s hard.”
Joann Boblick’s dedication to housing solutions, prevention work, and dignified care has been integral to BEDS Plus’s evolution ensuring that clients not only find stability but also hope for the future.