Course
1660 N. 2501st Rd. Ottawa, IL 61350
Welcome to the William E. Heisler Center for Kindness!
We can’t wait for you to come and see us. The Center exists as a safe space for gathering, for learning, and for growing. It is a space to find answers, and to meet new friends. Our beginnings are small and mighty, and we will continue to grow with the needs of those that enter our doors. At The Center, you will always feel at home. Gay, straight, pan, young, old, Veteran, Christian–the only requirement here is that you are Kind.
Welcome home!
Meet Our Ambassador!
This beautifully quirky, hand-crafted art piece was a silent auction donation from local artist, Rebecca Reed (her stuff is AMAZING). We were fortunate to have actually ended up being the owners of this piece, and it could not have been more perfect. This eclectic piece spoke to the Founder from the moment he saw it–birds symbolize so many things throughout different cultures. They represent protection, wisdom, and love. They represent spiritual guidance and good fortune. They can even be a lost loved one looking over you. Which is why she is the perfect Ambassador for The Center. She will greet you as you enter and symbolize whatever you need at that moment, because that is what The Center embodies. We are so many different things to so many people.
It is my pleasure to introduce to you: Penelope Rebecca Iris Dorothy Eckstein
Penelope because it popped in my head right away. She just looks like a Penelope.
Rebecca because artist Rebecca Ann Reed crafted her, and she should honor her creator
Iris, the Greek Goddess of the Rainbow
Dorothy, as in “Friend of Dorothy”
And Eckstein, as in Ernestine Eckstein, early activist of the 1970’s and leader of the first lesbian Civil and political rights organization.
P.R.I.D.E. (but you can just call her Penny). 
FAQ
Check below for some of the most frequently asked questions we have had so far.
When is the Center open?
The Center hours are:
Monday & Tuesday: Closed
Wednesdays: Open for Support Group Attendees Only
Thursday: 5:00pm-9:00pm
Friday: 5:00pm-10:00pm
Saturday: 12:oopm-9pm
Sunday: 10:00am-3:00pm
Does it cost anything to visit the Center?
You can always visit the Center for free during regular business hours. Some events/activities will have registration fees, and those will be listed when the event/activities are posted. These fees only pertain to that specific event/activity.
Is the Center closed to general visitors during scheduled events?
The main room is open for visitors to hang out and play games during regular business hours, even when a scheduled event is taking place. There is one important exception to this rule: Wednesday evenings are only open for those attending Support Groups (for the sake of privacy). We appreciate your understanding and cooperation!
Can I volunteer at the Center?
Absolutely! We are always grateful for volunteer help, and we always have plenty of opportunities to sign up (for young and old). We will have a volunteer sign up soon!