About Us
Dedicated to offering safe housing, essential resources, and personalized support to individuals and families in Springfield, empowering them to regain stability, independence, and a brighter future.
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Our Story
Fifth Street Renaissance began as Community Energy Systems in 1979, with the purpose of weatherproofing homes for elderly and low-income clients in Springfield, Illinois. As the needs in the Springfield community evolved so did the scope of the organization. In 1986, Fifth Street Renaissance opened the first transitional shelter program to provide housing and comprehensive services to individuals experiencing homelessness, to help them address barriers to independent living.
The mission of the Springfield AIDS Resource Association (SARA Center) was to provide inclusive care, support, housing, and advocacy services for HIV+ individuals and their families. This included education, preventative care, and outreach in high-risk communities.
Fifth Street Renaissance and the SARA Center merged in 2006, the missions combined, and our dedicated staff continue to carry the mission forward under the guidance of our Board of Directors. We continue to provide services based on compassion, empowerment, and respect for the diversity of those living with or affected by HIV/AIDS and those experiencing or at risk of homelessness. While our programs may continue to evolve based on the needs of our those we serve, the overarching goal to support the most vulnerable in our community through difficult times will remain.
Our Sponsors
Our Commitment
Offering comprehensive services and a dedication to uplifting vulnerable individuals
Our Mission
It is our mission at Fifth Street Renaissance to assist individuals and families in difficult situations. We provide resources, transitional housing, opportunities to develop job skills and acquire education, and aid in securing employment. Our aim is to support our clients as they reclaim their self-sufficiency and wellbeing.
We have integrated the mission of the Springfield AIDS Resource Association (SARA Center) to assist those individuals diagnosed with HIV/AIDS, their caregivers, and families by locating affordable housing, medical assistance, counseling, and financial responsibility when necessary. The agency also will work to reduce the spread of HIV/AIDs through education, awareness, and prevention.
Our Vision
We envision a compassionate community where every individual has access to safe housing, support, and opportunities for growth. Our goal is to eliminate homelessness in Springfield and create a future where everyone can thrive.
Our Values
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Compassion: We treat everyone with kindness and understanding.
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Empowerment: We equip individuals with the tools to rebuild their lives.
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Inclusivity: We respect and embrace all, ensuring everyone feels valued.
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Collaboration: We work together with community partners to achieve shared goals.
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Respect: We uphold the dignity of every individual we serve.
3,181
Lives Touched
In FY2024, Fifth Street Renaissance Outreach staff and Case Managers provided 3,181 documented instances of in-person transportation and 1,264 bus passes/token packs for medical and mental health appointments, employment search, substance abuse treatment, housing search, etc.
99%
Success Rate
For FY2024, in just one program of 20, Fifth Street Renaissance (as recommended by Heartland Housed/Heartland Continuum of Care) distributed $186,150 in Springfield/Sangamon County to prevent individuals and families from becoming homeless with a 99% success rate. For FY2025 we will distribute $320,000 in rent, security deposit, mortgage, and utility assistance to prevent homelessness along with case management, inspection, and advocacy to ensure safe, decent, and affordable housing.
37,587
Bed Nights
From May 2023 to May 2024, Fifth Street Renaissance provided 37,587 bed nights of housing across our various programs with case management and various other supportive services provided.
Our Staff
Mustafa Armstrong
HOPWA Case Manager / RIG Outreach Specialist
Board Members
President
Robert Weis
Vice President
Joan Bestudik
Secretary
Anna Hickey
Treasurer
Deborah Williams
Board Member
Robert Croteau
Board Member
Roma Larson
Board Member
Richard Owens
Board Member
Juwanda Burrage
Board Member
Greg Pacelli
Executive Director
Penny Powell
A Place of Remembrance and Reflection
The AIDS Memorial Labyrinth, located in Lincoln Park, honors those whose lives have been impacted by HIV/AIDS. Established with the support of the Coalition of Rainbow Alliances (CORAL), it provides a serene space for reflection, gratitude, and healing. Visitors are invited to walk the labyrinth path, meditate, and commemorate the resilience of our community.
Add a name or inspirational message to the AIDS Memorial Labyrinth to honor and remember loved ones affected by HIV/AIDS
