Rainbow House: Reflecting on What We Built And What Comes Next
At CarrCARE, the Rainbow House was never just about housing, it was about creating a space where young people could feel safe, supported, and seen. Our Logan Square project at 2622 N Central Park Ave, Chicago was our very first step in bringing that dream to life.
What We Were Able to Do
When we first got the house, it had a lot of personality, but it needed love. The inside was dated, the windows let in more cold air than light, and the floors and pipes had definitely seen better days. But we saw the potential and rolled up our sleeves.
Here’s what we got done:
Carried out a full gut clean-out of the old infrastructure
Reinforced and supported the structure for safe, long-term use
Updated the exterior and landscaping to create a more welcoming and functional outdoor space
We also hosted some of our Sunday virtual meets here while watching the work that was being done.
Before the CarrCARE Renovation
After the CarrCARE Renovation
Why We Let Go
After a successful pilot, we made the tough but thoughtful decision to sell the Logan Square house. It was a bittersweet moment for us. But the truth is, letting it go meant we could invest in a bigger vision one that includes:
A brand-new Rainbow House, designed from the ground up
Features and support services shaped by what young people actually need
A model we can scale to other communities
Selling the house was not the end of Rainbow House. It was a stepping stone to something even greater.
““The Logan Square house helped us prove that healing and housing can go hand in hand. We saw firsthand how much a warm, stable space can change someone’s outlook and now we want to take that even further. The next Rainbow House is already on the horizon. And it’s going to be everything we’ve dreamed of and more.””
What’s Coming Next
We’re now in the early stages of designing the next Rainbow House. And this time, we’re building with even more intention.
Here’s what we’re dreaming up:
Affordable, beautiful housing for low-income youth ages 18–35
On-site support services like mental health check-ins, career mentoring, and life skills workshops
A sustainable, welcoming design that reflects the culture and needs of the community
Spaces where people can heal, learn, and grow together
We’re still fundraising and planning, and we’re inviting other architects, donors, advocates, and young people to join us in shaping what’s next.
Want to Be Part of the Next Chapter?
Whether it’s your time, your skills, or a financial gift, you can help us bring the next Rainbow House to life.
🟡 Make a donation
Every dollar brings us closer to a home built on compassion, equity, and possibility. Donate here →
