Neighbors Helping Neighbors Since 1968
For more than five decades, Project NOW has strengthened communities across western Illinois by helping people help themselves and one another.
Every person deserves dignity, opportunity, and hope.
OUR STORY
A Community Responding to Community Need
Project NOW was founded in 1968 as part of America’s Community Action movement, created to fight the root causes of poverty—not simply respond to its symptoms.
What began as a local effort has evolved into one of western Illinois’ largest community action agencies, serving thousands of individuals and families each year throughout
Rock Island, Henry, and Mercer Counties.
While our programs have expanded over the decades, our purpose has never changed.
OUR MISSION
We strengthen our region by helping people help themselves and one another.
We strive to eliminate the causes of poverty through strategic partnerships and alleviate the negative conditions where poor people live.
OUR VISION
We envision the whole community working hand in hand to meet human needs, protect human dignity, and restore hope.
MEET HUMAN NEEDS · PROTECT HUMAN DIGNITY · RESTORE HOPE
OUR APPROACH
More Than Programs
People don’t come to Project NOW because they need a program.
They come because something in life has become difficult.
- A parent needs childcare.
- A senior needs a hot meal.
- A family is worried about losing heat.
- Someone is searching for safe housing.
- A young person needs another chance.
Every story is different. Our job is to meet people where they are and walk beside them toward stability.
Because lasting change happens when people are treated with dignity—not judgment.
How We Serve
Our Community
Poverty doesn’t happen in neat categories—and neither does our work. Project NOW connects people with services that address immediate needs while helping create pathways toward greater stability.
What Community Action
Looks Like in Numbers
Every year, Project NOW helps thousands of neighbors access the resources,
support, and opportunities they need to move forward.
12k+
Served
139k
7k+
Receiving
Energy Assistance
100k+
8k+
$6.5M
Everything in life is connected.
We address multiple needs together – because real stability
happens when every part of life has the support it needs.
OUR VALUES
What Guides Our Work
These principles shape how we serve our neighbors, work with our partners, and steward the resources entrusted to us.
Every person deserves respect, compassion and dignity.
We believe brighter futures are possible.
Communities grow stronger when neighbors work together.
We responsibly manage the resources entrusted to us.
We continually adapt to meet changing community needs.
A safe, stable place to call home.
Good health thrives in stable housing.
Get where you need to go.
Access to work builds confidence and income.
Quality care supports working families.
Learning today creates opportunity tomorrow.
Affordable energy keeps homes safe and healthy.
Lower costs today create stability for tomorrow.
Nutritious food nourishes families.
Good food supports strong bodies and strong communities.
Poverty is rarely caused by a single challenge. That is why Project NOW brings multiple services together under one organization – helping individuals and families navigate complex systems while preserving their dignity every step of the way.
Because strengthening one part of
a person’s life can strengthen
everything around it.
LOOKING AHEAD
Building Stronger Communities for What’s Next
For more than five decades, Project NOW has evolved alongside our communities. As new challenges emerge—from housing shortages and rising utility costs to food insecurity—we continue finding new ways to help people build stronger futures.
Our work isn’t simply about providing services. It’s about creating pathways toward independence, restoring hope, and strengthening the communities we all call home.
COMMUNITY PARTNERS
Strong Communities
Are Built Together
Lasting change happens through collaboration. Project NOW proudly works alongside local governments, nonprofit organizations, healthcare providers, schools, businesses, foundations, faith communities and volunteers who share our commitment to strengthening our region.
Everyone Has a
Role to Play
Whether you need assistance, want to volunteer, become a community partner, or make a charitable gift, there is a place for you in this work.