The view from the windows of Hephzibah Home is a typical Oak Park view from the tree-lined street just north of the elevated train tracks. You can see the occasional El train whizzing by, the treetops from the south side of the tracks, and a blue sky on a clear day. You will also see creative mini murals painted in the sections of the stone wall that lines the tracks. The Village of Oak Park has long commissioned local artists to treat the walls as canvases to brighten up the industrial, weathered look of the surfaces.
The sections of wall across the street of Hephzibah Home have long been decorated with unique murals — scenes of whimsical imagery that have brightened the faces of the children living at the home for years, as they peered out the windows. Until recently, that is. Camille Lilly, Illinois State Representative, area resident and long supporter of Hephzibah, noticed one of the murals opposite the home had been destroyed by graffiti. Rep. Lilly took swift action, contacting the original artist, Jonathan Franklin, who had painted not only the outdoor mural but some of the interior murals at the home as well, over 20 years ago, and asked for his help restoring the original.
Jonathan was more than happy to help. He fondly recalls his time painting inside and out at Hephzibah Home and his playful interactions with the curious children. The children of the home left a lasting impression on him, and when asked to help repair his original work, he leapt at the chance – just like the figures in his mural!
Stories like this warm our hearts, the same way generous and thoughtful community members do when they give their time and resources to make sure that the children and families we serve are happy, and know that the world cares for them.