Please join us for an update and information session as United Way transitions into Community Impact. This session will be held on Thursday, October 4 (8:30—10 a.m.) at the Community House, 415 E. Eighth St. in Hinsdale.

United Way is currently in the process of developing a region-wide Plan for Community Impact that will outline broad local and regional community issues. The impact of this exciting new process will have tangible benefits for all our partners. As we develop this plan we will be addressing issues at both a local and regional level, and your involvement is most welcomed. We encourage you to attend one of these sessions.

Here is a roundup of some of the most recent health and human services news affecting the Chicagoland region. News of the week is compiled from various daily, weekly and regional publications.

Special Report: The Toughest Assignment—Part 1: They needed a lifeline and found a teacher

Group aims to inform men on domestic abuse

New foreclosures at a record high

Monthly job report shows first drop in 4 years

Project description: The practice of Micro Lending is helping to lift many families from total poverty to self-sufficiency and better lives. Five million dollars could start 50,000 families on that path. A micro loan as small as $57 allows a family to buy a cow, and have milk to drink and sell. The loan is paid back, 97% of the time, and the profits are used to pay school fees. A second loan pays for improvements to the shop on the side of the family’s small, primitive living quarters. Again, sales improve, the loan is paid back, the family’s standard of living improves. This virtuous cycle has proven itself around the world. Now we who sometimes spend $57 on one dinner can make a lasting difference for 50,000 families.

Edit: The voting has closed. Thank you to all those who participated.