Matt Burgess, chief operating officer at Home Sweet Home Ministries (HSHM), is a passionate and driven individual, focused on promoting change in our community.
In April 2015, Burgess spearheaded the Forging a Better Way Conference, bring author and social justice activist Robert Lupton to Bloomington. This conference initiated conversations among nonprofit organizations, churches, and businesses, opening up dialogue around how to develop productive community improvement efforts that do not damage the individuals that they intend to help. These conversations have led to multiple collaborative efforts withing the community and created a unifying front, making the community and stronger and healthier. He has also led the follow-up committee meetings to keep the momentum going.
It is through his leadership that Matt has become a role model for the community. He is a valuable expert in the development of programs that promote dignity for participants and collaboration throughout the community. His work has earned him the respect of his colleagues at HSHM, social service providers, church leaders, Bloomington-Normal community members, and beyond Central Illinois. Burgess is a highly sought-after leader and facilitator for his expertise in community collaboration. And he has participated on panels for the Illinois Prairie Community Foundation and the McLean County United Way Collective Impact network.
Burgess also serves on teh National Bridges of Hope Planning Council as a consultant to organizations in other communities. Not only has he spearheaded the Forging a Better Way Conference, he has also developed a partnership with The Hub, a church-operated outreach program that provides Faith and Finances curriculum. In addition, he was instrumental in developing a partnership with the Community Heath Care Clinic to form the Mobile Heath Project, and created the Bread for Life Food Co-op at HSHM.
Burgess’ outstanding service demonstrates his commitment to improving the Bloomington-Normal community. We are pleased to honor Burgess as the 2016 MCLP Community Service Award Recipient.