No Closed Doors is a case-management agency run entirely by student volunteers in New Haven. We provide a welcoming and inclusive environment where clients can receive assistance with job applications, resume writing, public benefits applications, and much more.
We are a group of college students committed to bridging the gap between the insular college community and New Haven at large. We aim to take advantage of the skills we have to provide a welcoming environment and productive case management for low-income and homeless clients. No Closed Doors is run entirely by volunteers, with cooperation from several gracious community partners including New Haven Works, Community Action Agency, and Liberty Community Services.
Until 2009, the volunteers of No Closed Doors worked with National Student Partnerships, a similar organization with branches across the country. When that organization departed New Haven, No Closed Doors became a part of YHHAP (Yale Hunger and Homelessness Action Project) which runs a number of other service projects targeted at low-income and homeless individuals in New Haven.
OUR MISSION
No Closed Doors aims to harness the skills of college students to break down barriers between people and the resources that they need to succeed. We believe that everyone in our community should have access to the services, opportunities and attention they need to achieve personal success.
WHAT MAKES US UNIQUE
Our service is unique in that it has no eligibility requirements for clients. We do not turn anyone away, unless they pose a security threat to themselves, other clients or volunteers. In addition, there is no limit on the services that clients can receive from us. All of our volunteers are passionate and friendly college students, eager to provide flexible and comprehensive assistance that complements the more specialized services provided by other community organizations. Our program is also unique for students, as it provides an outlet for them to make a direct, substantial, and meaningful impact in the community in which they live and study.