Glen Ellyn resident recognized for work with homeless

GLEN ELLYN – A Wheaton realtor and Glen Ellyn resident has been recognized for his volunteer work with the homeless.

Richard Dunn, who works for Coldwell Banker Real Estate, recently received the Mainstreet Organization of Realtors 2014 Community Service Award for his involvement with the Welcome Center, which is part of First United Methodist Church in Glen Ellyn.

The Welcome Center operates as a shelter for homeless people during the winter months.

"There was some concern about where the homeless were staying in town and whether they would have a place to stay on Sunday afternoon," Dunn said.

The shelter has been up and running for 10 years. It opened Nov. 2 for the winter, and will remain open until the last Sunday in March. Hours are 1 to 6:30 p.m.

Dunn said volunteers with the shelter provide soup, water and clothes for anyone who comes in. People are welcome to stay the entire day. The shelter has mats for those who want to lie down and televisions for entertainment.

"We don't really do much, but we provide a warm place. That's probably the most important thing," Dunn said.

Dunn first thought about the program after hearing attendees at a village board meeting wonder what homeless people did in the winter. He brought the idea of a welcome center to members of the church, and they loved it.

Dunn said religion has played a big part in his desire to volunteer and give back.

"I feel like we're called to by God to protect … and shelter the … poorest among us," he said.

The Rev. Kristen Larsen, who is the pastor at First United Methodist, said Dunn is an inspiring leader who always puts others before himself and is sincere and full of integrity.

"He's been a very active leader of the church," she said. "He's actually quite passionate about his faith and the community of faith."

According to a news release from the Mainstreet Organization of Realtors, Dunn pays the annual rent to the church for the center.

“Through his 10 years of dedication to the Welcome Center, Dunn has set an example for others to aspire to,” said Mainstreet Board of Directors President Michael Parent in the release. “We are proud to honor Dunn for his dedication and service to the community.”

Dunn said he appreciated the award, but felt the recognition belonged with the about 70 volunteers who work at the shelter.

Dunn serves on the boards of the Glen Ellyn Park District and the Chamber of Commerce, and is a member of the Kiwanis Club of Central DuPage County.

He also takes mission trips both in country and abroad, and was on a mission trip when the Mainstreet Organization of Realtors held a presentation for the award.