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"My name is Emily Vazquez and Association House is a huge part of who I am today. My family worked here my entire life and I reaped the benefits of their work here at the House! Since I was a kid, my mom often brought me to the House, and while she worked, I'd spend many hours in the LSE classroom. There, I birthed my love for working with the Intellectual Disabilities population. When I was 18, I immediately worked for AHC as a residential staff, and returned a little over a year ago as a Community Health Instructor! Working as the Healthy Lifestyles and Mental Health First Aid instructor has taught me so much about myself and about the people we serve every day. The most important and enjoyable part about my job is creating connections and relationships with the people we serve. They come here for more than just services, they come to talk to people who CARE about their needs beyond the basics. Families from all over Chicago benefit from the kindness and the work we put in every day. The best part of working at Association House is truly seeing our participants feel like they have a “home” to come to when they need something. I’m grateful for growing up in a community that cares, it played a huge role in my life, and I returned to do the same for others!"

On August 6, Association House held its 16th Annual Back 2 School Fair. There was an incredible turnout of 536 people, with 376 kids who received backpacks filled with school supplies, 25 school-aged children who got haircuts, and 23 school-aged children who got their school physicals! In addition, dozens of families were connected to local resources through our community partners, who helped make this event possible. Thank you for all of your support that made this event a huge success!

Now that school is back in session, student mental health is a top priority for families across the country. Between school stressors, mental healthcare barriers and a global pandemic, student mental health is a cause for major concern. Association House staff shared their advice on supporting student mental health for the upcoming school year. Claudia Loza, School Based Counselor, and Tanya Wade, Clinical Director, led a virtual discussion called “How’s About: Student Mental Health in Schools.” Both of these Association House staff members have been crucial in implementing a school-based counseling grant across three schools here in Chicago, including Association House’s very own high school. These schools serve predominantly black and brown students who need extra support that traditional high schools don’t provide. “Our youth are often steering a boat without a paddle,” Claudia explains. As part of the school-based counseling initiative, counselors support students’ social and emotional development. In addition, counseling provides students with the education and awareness to destigmatize conversations around trauma, mental health, and wellness. “Essentially, we facilitate an ecosystem of care that builds community, creates brave spaces, and models healing,” Claudia says. Another crucial part of school-based counseling is relationship building with staff, teachers, students, and caregivers. These relationships are critical to allow students to become more comfortable, and ultimately switch gears from survival to healing. The conversation continued in a virtual event hosted by WBEZ titled, “Student Mental Health in Chicago Schools.” A panel of local mental health experts, including Association House’s Community Health Supervisor, Myra Rodriguez, answered questions from Chicago parents about student mental health. The panelists discussed several topics ranging from identifying mental health issues to cultural stigmas surrounding mental health. Myra emphasized healthy, nonjudgmental communication between parents and their children as the first step to tackling youth mental health. Myra highlighted the importance of having the knowledge and language to understand mental health. She recommended taking a Mental Health First Aid Training. This is a free resource offered at Association House to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental illness. “When we’re talking about mental health disorders in young people, you want to tackle things early. You don’t want to wait for years to go by and then you’re trying to figure out things later into teenage years or adulthood…Families need to walk away understanding that recovery is possible,” Myra states. Mental health plays a significant role in a student’s happiness, health, and success during the school year. Association House advocates and provides services for mental health in the community. By taking advantage of these mental health resources, anyone can be an advocate for mental health whether that is for loved ones or beyond. **Watch Association House’s “How’s About: Mental Health in Schools” and WBEZ’s “Student Mental Health in Schools” to hear the entire conversation about student mental health and resources.

Hope you're ready to celebrate the end of the summer season with us! Association House's Auxiliary Board of Young Professionals will host Summer Soiree at El Cid Restaurant in Chicago's Logan Square on Wednesday, September 14th from 6-8pm. Our event features Backyard games out on our patio! Live Music by Sofar Sounds A margarita, beer and wine open bar A buffet of delicious Latin handhelds Exciting raffles and giveaways! Summer Soiree welcomes young professionals and guests to wind down, network, and make new friends all while supporting a great cause! All proceeds benefit Association House's mission to advance the full economic, political, social and cultural participation of more than 4,000 individuals and families each year. Get tickets now!

On Wednesday, August 10th at 11AM (CST) we will host How’s About: Mental Health in Schools. During this virtual panel, we will discuss the ins and outs of schools needing critical mental health resources, and what we provide to achieve positive change in the schools we serve. Association House has been providing mental health counseling for more than 30 years. Now, we are integrating our mental health support model in three participating Chicago Public High Schools. We are making big strides to reduce anxiety and stress among students and teachers alike. And we are facilitating an ecosystem of care to build community, create brave spaces, and model that healing is possible among all stakeholders in our schools. This work is funded by the Illinois Children's Healthcare Foundation. Register here to join us.

Juneteenth is not just Black History, it is American History. On January 1, 1863, the Emancipation Proclamation was signed by President Abraham Lincoln for what should have been the day slavery was officially abolished in the United States. For most held in slavery however, the emancipation turned out to be just another day. It took another two and a half years for Union Troops to arrive in the last bastion of slavery, Galveston, Texas, finally ending slavery in the United Sates. This birthed the celebration that we know today as Juneteenth. Last year, Association House announced Juneteenth as an agency-wide holiday and President Biden followed soon thereafter, recognizing Juneteenth as a federal holiday and making it “the youngest federal holiday” in the United States. Amid local, national and even international unrest on behalf of the African American community, the acknowledgement of Juneteenth was a step in the right direction. However, simply acknowledging a holiday is not enough. Since the federal acknowledgement of Juneteenth, the African American community has continued to experience inequities including unnecessary violence, higher levels of hate crimes and abuse from law enforcement, a rise in poverty, and passage of voter suppression measures and other laws that disproportionately impact people of color. Since last year, AHC has continued its commitment to engaging with our participants and our communities. Noting our past communications, we continue with the challenge of increasing the number of African American staff within the agency. We are well underway in our strategic planning surrounding DEI, specifically in our work with inQUEST Consulting which has already begun focus groups within the agency to gather important information that will be used to take meaningful action toward creating a more inclusive Association House community. Juneteenth serves as an observance of the fight for equality, and a celebration of African American life, freedom and resilience. To that end, we celebrate Juneteenth in honor of the contributions of African Americans, and as a reminder that real change, though often frustrating and painful, is possible. The struggle towards racial equity continues. As we have stated in the past - Black Lives Matter today and always, and we at Association House will continue standing together to reject hate and support our Black communities. This weekend, please take the opportunity to learn, connect, and reflect on how we can move forward to achieve permanent and lasting change. For those that are interested, here are a few ideas: Visit one of the 160 African American museums, sites, and cultural centers around the country, including the DuSable Museum of Black History and the A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum right here in Chicago! Shop Black-owned Businesses and don't forget to reference our AHC black owned business virtual index for local businesses to support! Learn, read, listen Take action

This morning, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned its own precedent in Roe v. Wade which had secured 50 years of reproductive choice and freedom for American women. By eliminating the constitutional right to an abortion, the Court has ensured that women today have fewer rights than did their parents or grandparents. Association House of Chicago was founded by women with foresight and compassion, and is today largely operated by women and their allies who believe wholeheartedly in a woman's full agency over her own body, her life and her future. Thankfully in Illinois, abortion access is safe and legal. Association House of Chicago fully supports these protections. And as the dissenting Justices in the case noted, today's ruling is not the last word on reproductive rights. As a place of healing and of belonging, Association House stands with those in the fight to maintain reproductive rights, as well as maintaining rights to contraception, same-sex relationships and same-sex marriage which today are also at risk. In solidarity, The DEI Committee

The path to graduation is often hard-won for Association House graduates. They face obstacles that would seem impossible to others, but with determined spirits and Association House High School's unique model they overcome. We couldn't be more proud of the incredible young people that walked across the stage at Malcolm X College on June 3, 2022. Please help us congratulate the AHHS Class of 2022, and good luck in all of your future endeavors!

On June 9, more than 200 passionate advocates gathered to celebrate the people and spirit that fuel our work. The night was filled with tons of fun, inspiring words, and passionate individuals, and we couldn’t be happier with the outcome. This event raised more than $200,000 to support our programs - from daycare for parenting students, to mental health services for an individual recovering from trauma, to job training for determined adults, Faces of Hope makes it all possible. A huge thank you to each and every individual who helped us pull off such a beautiful event, and an even bigger thank you to the compassionate and generous individuals who attended. We hope to see you all again next year!

We take the time on this Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month to honor, celebrate, and recognize the historical and cultural contributions of individuals and groups of Asian and Pacific Islander) AAPI) descent nationally and here in Chicago. Two significant events established more than 100 years ago mark the commemoration of May for what is now celebrated as AAPI Heritage Month: on May 7, 1843, the first of Japanese immigrants arrived in the country, and on May 10, 1869, predominantly Chinese immigrants constructed and completed the transcontinental railroad. Despite these and so many other contributions to American society and culture, the “destructive foreigner” narrative has for decades incited suspicion, prejudice and hatred of AAPI individuals and communities. And in recent years, Asian American communities have experienced an uptick in violence and hate driven largely by racist and xenophobic rhetoric surrounding the coronavirus pandemic. We at Association House reject these notions of hate and exclusion and recognize that the contributions of our diverse AAPI communities add to American society and identity in immeasurable ways. During AAPI Heritage Month and beyond, we can be allies in actionable ways that go beyond words. AAPI Heritage Month is not only for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders to celebrate, but it is also a time where we can all actively participate in Chicago’s rich Asian-American culture and take actions to educate ourselves. Association House’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI/Anti-Racism) Committee has created a list of ways to support local AAPI Businesses within the Chicagoland Area displayed in the images below. We're proud to partner with a number of these organizations and businesses throughout the year.

As you know, June is Pride Month and a time to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community. Pride Month celebrates LGBTQIA+ culture, achievements, and activism through organized activities, including film festivals, art exhibits, marches, concerts, and other programs. Through these efforts, the LGBTQIA+ community and its allies also aim to increase awareness over ongoing issues of inequality as well as commemorate the lives lost to hate crimes and HIV/AIDS. The month-long celebration is really a call for greater unity, visibility, and equality for the LGBTQIA+ community, and an opportunity to recognize our AHC team and participants that identify as LGBTQIA+ for their contributions to the House and for the important and unique perspective that they bring to our work. That said, while it's a time to look toward a fairer, kinder future, it's also a moment to recognize all the advances- and setbacks- in the last few decades. Although the movement began long before 1969, we recognize that year’s Stonewall uprising in New York City as a catalyst to recognize the rights, the dignity, and the solidarity with our LGBTQIA+ family. Stonewall began when Marsha P. Johnson, a Black transgender woman, and a coalition of gay rights activists spurred an act of rebellion against the laws that oppressed the community. Today, these acts have become an inclusive celebration of LGBTQIA+ visibility. When we think about all they have accomplished, we thank those who marched at Stonewall and in movements throughout the country, for it is their courage and vision that gave birth to the LGBTQIA+ movement. Sincerely, The DEI Committee Kristy Kolzow Juan Carlos Linares Jemina Lyle Nicole Reed Drew Williams Aasta Ziegler

Idalys joined Association House through the Colbert program, helping individuals with mental health conditions transition out of nursing facilities to community-based living. Idalys has had many roadblocks on her way to her independence, but she’s made it through each one. She is motivated and determined in sharing her message of positivity with the world. Through Association House, Idalys is seizing her future, well-being, and becoming independent. Meet Idalys – in her own words: Who is Idalys? Tell me about yourself. Wow! Idalys is a beautiful, special, and grateful person. Idalys was lost for such a long time, so long. I literally was crawling on my knees when I came to Association House. How did you get connected to Association House? When I was in a nursing home, Mr. Darius (nursing home staff), mentioned that I could get an apartment. And by the grace of God [he] showed me to Association House. And I met Aasta. She was really nice. Then I met Rachel and a couple of more girls, and they were scary. (Rachel and Idalys both laugh). Y'all came in with happy faces, and I was like, ‘Oh my God.’ But it is OK and every day that I see these ladies I know it's beautiful. It’s joy; it’s laughter; it’s hope. It's welcoming. What was your experience like with Association House? The first thing Association House did for me was give me all my medication. I told [the staff] I would be a better person next year. I came back the following year, when I started the whole program - healthier with more self-esteem and love. They hooked me up with my link so I can have food; brought me clothes; and gave me love until I could love myself. It was so beautiful. I've been through a lot this year. I lost my home due to a home fire. Association House came the following day and brought me everything. Mr. Henry (our vocational support specialist), who I love so much because [he] is my hero. He took me shopping; bought me an air mattress, shampoo, conditioner, and perfume. I was so grateful. I’m so happy I will be getting my apartment within the next few weeks, but I have to admit, ‘nothing - and I’m serious -nothing would ever happen to me if it wasn't for Association House.’ I’m the most grateful person in the whole wide world. What does it mean to you to have your own apartment? I'm a very spiritual person, and I believe in God. I want my own destiny, home, and life. I don't wanna depend on nobody. It's me; it's my turn. God is giving me a chance. Now it's time for me to shine. I wanna shine. What have you taken away from your experience? There is a lot of things that I have learned. [Association House] has a drop-in center and it’s so fun. The staff is great and teach us about nurturing ourselves - how to live, take care of our personal hygiene. We speak about self-esteem, medications, and more. [They are] like a family. A family that makes me laugh; a family that accepts me for who I am. How has Association House helped you? As soon as you walk in, the receptionists welcome you. Then you go upstairs then there's John, Awilda, and Enrique. Who offer you anything you want. If you don't have personal things, they give it to you. And we all love each other. We do music therapy, which, for me, is a must. And then, on Tuesdays I see Miss Alejandra, my therapist. I have trust issues when it comes to therapists. But they made me feel so comfortable. There's Miss Rachel who keeps up with all my medical things - and throws me under the bus when I forget {All laugh} but she takes care of me. Could you share what would it be like for someone who needs a service like this and could do it, but doesn’t have the opportunity? Wow! That’s very hard. I was the youngest person in the nursing. I looked around every day and I'm like ‘Why am I in this nursing home with so many old people? Why? And it was because there was a lesson to be learned. I was a drug addict. I was getting high for 20 plus years; and Winston saved my life too. It made me safe and sober.’ There are so many people in that nursing home that cannot do most things for themselves. And there are people that keep them there. And they are trapped, want to go home, and want their own apartment. And it could be given; but I find it unfair for [people] to give so much to the nursing homes, and yet not be able to enjoy life, eat a healthy meal, go outside, and see your family members. None of that. As part of your journey, you make your own videos. What is your message to your audience? First of all, I have to say it was all Henry. He inspires me to do things. I was the kind of person that would literally sit in a dark room and cry. I would call Rachel and Darius, ‘I don't wanna cry no more,’ I had no self-esteem. And this year, after the fire; it was like a wakeup call. I have a new life, a new perspective. I decided to start videotaping it. My life journey, you know? Where am I going? What's going on with me? What is Association House doing for me? People here [at AHC], there are so many, and I don't even know their names but everyone... thank you. They gave me my life back, and I videotape it. I’m grateful for the team. Everyone that helps me out. Those are my videos. And they're beautiful, beautiful, beautiful. They're inspiring and they inspire people to go out there and follow your dreams. Because it's been given to you. GIVEN. And it didn’t cost me a thing. I am that one person that you guys are helping that made a change. That made a life. I think you guys are my angels; and I wouldn't ever turn my back to Association House because that is my home.