Our History
“I have begun my work. I have two boys, ages six and seven.”
This message—written by Oak Park’s Mary Wessels on a postcard addressed to a friend in 1897—is one of the few remaining records of Hephzibah’s beginnings more than a century ago.
Not long after Wessels sent this postcard, a local orphanage was destroyed by fire and she opened her home and her heart to a dozen more children. She named her fledgling children’s home “Hephzibah,” after her own mother.
Learn More about Hephzibah
Read the latest news and stories about Hephzibah.
Hephzibah’s 2020 HeartPrint Award Recipients are Zack Zubkus and Nina Petrosino
Foster Families are Hephzibah Heroes
The 20th Annual Hoof It for Hephzibah is a Winner! #howihoofit
Hephzibah Staff Stays Strong During Shelter in Place
Virtual Quarantine Olympics Wins Gold for Hephzibah
April is National Volunteer Month: Spotlight on Samantha Benson
Celebrating Every Hephzibah Home Child
Heart of Gold Ball 2022: A Record-breaking Celebration
Senator Don Harmon and Ken and Patty Hunt to receive Heart of Gold Awards
Your Donation Will Impact a Child's Life.
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