Women along with their children, many having domestic violence or substance abuse in their background, come to the program by way of referrals from various agencies.

The intake process, for women interested in entering Home of the Sparrow's program consists of one telephone interview, two personal interviews, and proof of motivation. Women who then enter the program are placed at one of Home of the Sparrow's two shelters McHenry or Crystal Lake.

Based in the McHenry shelter, the Ascent Training Center provides a place for women to receive life skills training, participate in computer and internet training and GED classes, and develop skills through topical events.

Volunteers, the backbone of Home of the Sparrow, supply the agency with skills and energies needed to successfully carry out the mission. Educational assistance, fund-raising, event support, childcare, thrift store support, and transportation are ways volunteers devote themselves to Home of the Sparrow. Sparrow's nest Thrift Stores in McHenry, Cary, and Palatine, utilize a large majority of agency volunteers and work to support Home of the Sparrow by collecting and selling in-kind donations.