Edgar J. Helms

Edgar J. Helms was a pioneering American social reformer and philanthropist known for developing community-based programs to help impoverished families. In the 1930s, during the Great Depression, he created the Neighborhood House movement, which focused on providing practical education, support services, and foster care to improve living conditions and promote self-sufficiency. His approach emphasized collaboration with local residents and tailored solutions that addressed specific community needs, setting a foundation for modern social work and community development efforts. Helms's work has had a lasting impact on how social services are delivered today.