LCBH History

40 Years of Growth and Innovation

Housing is a human right.

This belief has informed LCBH’s work since our founding in 1980. The same commitment to partnering with community groups, engaging volunteers, and reforming eviction court remain central to our work. We haven’t forgotten where we came from and invite you join us in advocating for housing justice for years to come.

80

1980

LCBH founded in Rogers Park by 10 pro bono attorneys

83

1983

LCBH has three full-time employees and a $150,000 budget

86

1986

Residential Landlord Tenant Ordinance passed

90

1990

First LCBH Renter’s Resource Guide published

96

1996

Time to Move study of eviction data released

98

1998

Inaugural Barbara Grau Housing Advocate Award

02

2002

LCBH hires first-ever social worker to serve clients

04

2004

Four attorneys staff LCBH programs

08

2008

Opening the Door study of eviction court data released

10

2010

LCBH serves 1,200 households throughout Chicago

18

2018

Volunteers donate 10,400 hours of service

22

2022

LCBH announces it will change its name to Law Center for Better Housing