Our Story
The Inspiration for our Mission
24 O.U.R House began with Richard Blackwell wanting to give back to others what was given to him (a second chance). While in treatment, he did not want to be homeless but instead in a clean and sober environment. Once he realized he wanted to run his own business; the obvious choice was recovery homes. He shared his idea with his friend George, and they put together a concept, completed a marketing class on business start-ups, and began to see the dream of having a positive impact on veterans and all recovering addicts unfold.
The concept of the company name was inspired by combining the 12 Steps and 12 Traditions of recovery. There are 24 hours in a day and this new recovered way of living takes 24 hours. This would not be possible without the participants and the community: hence, the O.U.R (Our Unity in Recovery). Welcome to 24 O.U.R. House.
The Beginning
These homes were established in the Cook & Lake County areas
for veterans to recover and gain support.
These homes were lost during the 2008 Market Crash.
Since that detrimental loss, 24 O.U.R House has been raising awareness and donations to rebuild recovery homes for the displaced veterans in need.
Today
24 O.U.R House is in the process of developing plans to build a recovery home.
If you would like to support our mission to provide for veterans & individuals in need of recovery and support, please reach out to us to volunteer,or share resources.
In the meantime, 24 O.U.R House hosts an annual banquet to honor veterans and raise proceeds for the organization's mission. Join our fundraiser in Mccook, IL, this year.
You can directly donate to our organization here:
24 O.U.R House thanks you for your contribution!
Our Mission is to provide a safe, stable living environment & access to support services for the homeless, disabled, and displaced veterans.
About Us
Our Mission
24 O.U.R. House, Inc. aims to provide a clean and sober environment for veterans recovering from alcohol and substance abuse. 24 O.U.R. House’s program will prepare these individuals for re-entry into society and begin to live healthy and productive lives. By being an integral part of a group setting at 24 O.U.R. House, residents will interact with one another, have independence, and help individuals become more responsible for their new way of life by seeking and gaining employment.
The Vision of 24 O.U.R House is to ensure all veterans live healthy & productive lives.
My Story
Greetings,
After 28 years of working as a Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) operator, I retired and became a broker and wholesaler for my company GTH Ventures. I find private-sector lenders for individuals looking to rehab properties. Therefore, I enjoy articulating the concept and purpose behind transitional home sites. My company, GTH Ventures, has allowed me to understand the importance of transitional housing, which inspired me to build my friend's vision, Richard Blackwell's passion for housing recovering addicts,
I am often asked why I invest and open transitional housing for men and women.
I will admit I have not personally suffered from the consequences of addiction, yet I have witnessed loved ones around me struggle with the sickness of drug abuse. My beloved father struggled with alcoholism for many years. As a result of his alcoholism, he ultimately suffered from several ailments associated with the disease. I lost my father, and I miss him terribly. I have had the unfortunate experience of watching the ravaging effects of my brother's drug use and how addiction conquers an individual's mind, body, and soul. In both cases, losing these men was devastating for me.
My goal is to purposefully bring about change in our communities, even if it's starting with a few people at a time. I what to provide individuals with a keen sense of hope by guiding them toward self-empowerment. Self-empowerment starts with the necessities, such as a roof over their head. Then I shall provide the tools to create a new life and make a positive, healthy path for a brighter future. I sincerely thank my relatives, friends, and sponsors for all their support and many strong efforts.
Sincerely,
George T. Heard, Sr.
We serve veterans 18 yrs. & older located in the Cook & Lake Country areas.
Meet The Team
The Board Members
Elvis Townsend
Reggie Hicks
