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Small classes. Engaging content. Individualized instruction. Classes are designed for students to meet core standards and equip students with tools for success. Curriculum What We Teach Association House is known for small classes with engaging, individualized instruction. Our classes meet core learning standards, while providing additional academic supports to ensure students are well-equipped for success. Technology is integrated in all classes. Multimedia Literature Ms. Myerscough In this class, reading comes to life through sound, video, art, and storytelling. You’ll explore books, movies, podcasts, and digital stories to see how messages change across different media. This class is about creativity, expression, and finding your voice in today’s digital world. Meet The Teacher Social Development Mr. Santiago Social Development focuses on understanding yourself and building healthy relationships with others. You’ll learn skills in self-awareness, communication, empathy, and managing emotions—both in and out of the classroom. Through activities and reflection, we’ll explore how to handle stress, resolve conflict, and set personal goals. This class helps you strengthen your confidence, make positive choices, and build the emotional tools you need for life, school, and work. Meet The Teacher Workforce Development & Field Experience Ms. Kendra & Ms. Danielle Get ready to step into the working world. In this class, you’ll learn how to build a strong resume, practice for interviews, and explore what makes a great first impression on the job. We’ll cover workplace basics like communication, teamwork, and conflict resolution, so you feel confident in any professional setting. You’ll also connect what you learn to real job experiences, with opportunities in IT, marketing, DCFS support roles and more. By the end, you’ll be ready to take the next step toward a career that fits your goals and strengths. Meet The Teacher Algebra Ms. Metz Algebra helps you understand patterns and solve real-life problems using numbers and symbols. You’ll learn how to work with equations, graph lines, and use formulas to make sense of everyday situations—like budgeting or measuring. Step by step, you’ll build confidence with problem-solving and start to see math as a language you can use anywhere. Meet The Teacher Biology Ms. Sabrina Biology is the study of life—and in this class, you’ll explore how living things grow, change, and survive. You’ll learn about cells, genetics, evolution, the human body, and the environment. Through labs and hands-on activities, you’ll see how biology connects to health, nature, and everyday life. This class helps you look at the world through a scientist’s eyes. Meet The Teacher Ancient History Mr. Noack Travel back in time to explore the first great civilizations—like Egypt, Greece, Rome, and early empires in Asia and the Americas. You’ll learn how people built their societies, made art, created laws, and developed ideas that still influence us today. Expect interactive projects, debates, and creative ways to connect ancient life to the modern world. Meet The Teacher Women's Literature Ms. Myerscough Discover powerful stories written by women from many times and places. Together we’ll read books, poems, and essays that explore identity, strength, and change. You’ll learn about women who challenged expectations and used their voices to inspire others. Through discussion and creative projects, you’ll see how their stories connect to your own life and the world today. Meet The Teacher Culinary Arts Ms. D In Culinary Arts, you’ll learn how to cook, bake, and work safely in the kitchen. You’ll explore recipes from different cultures, plan meals, and learn about nutrition and food safety. You’ll also get creative—designing your own dishes and cooking for others. Whether you want to cook at home or work in a kitchen someday, this class gives you real skills you can use for life. Meet The Teacher Psychology Ms. Sabrina Why do people think, feel, and act the way they do? In Psychology, you’ll explore how the brain, emotions, and environment shape our behavior. We’ll talk about topics like memory, motivation, personality, and mental health. You’ll take part in small experiments and group projects to better understand yourself and others around you. Meet The Teacher Integrated Math Ms. Metz Integrated Math mixes topics from algebra, geometry, and statistics into one course. Instead of learning them separately, you’ll see how they connect and build on each other. You’ll use math to solve real-world problems, work in teams, and use technology to explore ideas visually. This class helps you see the bigger picture of how math shows up in life. Meet The Teacher Health Fundamentals Ms. D This class is all about learning how to take care of your body and mind. We’ll cover nutrition, fitness, relationships, mental health, and making safe choices. You’ll learn how to build healthy habits, manage stress, and make informed decisions about your well-being. The goal is to help you feel confident, strong, and ready for life. Meet The Teacher U.S. History Mr. Noack U.S. History tells the story of how our country came to be—and how it keeps changing. We’ll explore key events like the Revolution, the Civil War, the Civil Rights Movement, and more. You’ll learn through videos, primary sources, and hands-on projects that help connect the past to the issues we face now. This class shows how history is more than dates—it’s the story of real people shaping our future. Meet The Teacher Dual Enrollment Program Each Spring, the Dual Enrollment Program gives Association House High School students the opportunity to enroll in courses at City Colleges of Chicago, gaining college credits for free. This important program exposes students to the college experience. Past courses have included Intro to Computer Information Systems and Administration of Justice. "My favorite class was English Literature. I love reading. I love writing about what I read." - Giovanni, Class of 2021 Related Content Afterschool Programs Learn More Mentoring Programs Learn More Family Literacy Program Learn More

Providing comprehensive, collaborative and effective programs in English and Spanish. Promoting health, advancing education and economic opportunity in Chicago. About Mission Values The House is a vibrant, inclusive home for people on a journey to live their fullest life. Integrity : Being ethical and demonstrating commitment to mission, values and philosophy Excellence : Using skills and abilities to consistently increase effectiveness Respect : Recognizing and affirming the unique value of each individual, group, and culture Leadership : Taking every opportunity to develop one’s capacity for decision-making, individual initiative, and quality of life choices Education : Enhancing the potential of individuals and communities Association House's mission is to advance each person's full participation in the life of their families, communities, and society. Learn More About Our Impact DEI Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Association House of Chicago has long been committed to the goals of promoting diversity, equity and inclusion. We take a firm, explicit, and public stance in support of BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and other marginalized individuals and communities both within our own service areas and beyond. These commitments acknowledge the fact that nonprofit and social service institutions are not immune from the deep-rooted systemic oppression, racism, anti-Blackness, ableism, xenophobia, and homophobia present in all facets of our everyday lives. To eliminate the perpetuation of harmful stereotypes against marginalized individuals and communities, it is important that we continually assess ourselves and our practices and address our own implicit biases. As such, we will work within our institutional structures to implement anti-bias training consistently across all levels of the House. We will maintain dedicated efforts to the recruitment and retention of diverse employees and participants. We will convene and support the ongoing recommendations of The House Committee. And perhaps of greatest importance, we will maintain dedicated efforts to culture change at Association House. We are committed to these actions today, tomorrow, and ongoing. Your 2025 Annual Report is Here! Juan Carlos Linares Jan 1 2 min read Our Commitment To A Safe and Equitable Chicago Development Nov 4, 2025 1 min read Autism Awareness Month Spotlight: How Allison's Bond with Her Sister Inspires Her Work Nick Malone Apr 25, 2025 3 min read Annual Reports Audited Financials

Our Behavioral Health programs offer an array of culturally competent and evidence-based behavioral healthcare, prevention, treatment, and educational programs. Behavioral Health Our Behavioral Health programs offer an array of culturally competent and evidence-based behavioral healthcare, prevention, treatment, and educational programs delivered by a team of qualified professionals. Services are designed for people facing various challenges at different points in life, whether they are children living with emotional or mental health issues, youth and adults dealing with substance use issues, or families in need of support. We offer a continuum of interconnected services, including case management, counseling, residential living, substance use prevention and treatment, integrated health and resources for individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities. Case Management Our bilingual, culturally-affirming, trauma-informed case management programs support hundreds of individuals with mental health disorders in accessing resources and achieving independence and recovery. Learn More Dulcinea Dulcinea is a structured living setting for adults with severe mental illness or co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. We provide a safe and welcoming environment to foster confidence and independence in our participants. Learn More Psychosocial Rehabilitation Psychosocial Rehabilitation provides a structured, therapeutic program that offers group and individual services aimed at building social, economical, vocational, independent living skills, symptom management, and other skills. Learn More Behavioral Health Pre-Apprenticeship Take your first step toward a career in compassion! Our free five-week course prepares you for a career in Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS), Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor (CRSS), Mobile Crisis Response, or Behavioral Health Case Management Learn More Developmental Disabilities We offer a wide variety of services for people with development disabilities. With dedicated bilingual staff, we work diligently to help our participants lead successful and comfortable lives. Learn More Mental Health Counseling Our services focus on the whole person, providing trauma-informed, culturally affirming therapy that helps you reach your goals at any point in life. You’ll find information on how we can help, the services we offer, our therapists, and how to get started. Learn More Substance Use Counseling Using a harm-reduction approach, we provide Substance Use Counseling and DUI services to individuals looking to reduce their alcohol and drug use. Here, a vision of recovery is made possible. Learn More Drop-In Center The Drop-in Center provides a safe and comfortable gathering place for adults with mental health symptoms who are transitioning from life in a facility to life in the community. This is a place free from stigma and judgement. Learn More Integrated Health Integrated health provides free, bilingual primary health and psychiatric care for low-income, under- and uninsured individuals with mental illness, developmental disabilities, or co-occurring disorders. Learn More Substance Use Counseling Using a harm-reduction approach, we provide Substance Use Counseling and DUI services to individuals looking to reduce their alcohol and drug use. Here, a vision of recovery is made possible. Learn More Problem Gambling Services Our Problem Gambling Services program is committed to raising awareness about problem gambling and finding support that addresses each participant's individual needs. Learn More Success Stories Life Skills on the Job: How Our Program Helps People With Disabilities Earn Their First Paychecks Today, we celebrate the possibilities within individuals living with cognitive disabilities at Association House. Jan 20 2 min read Your 2025 Annual Report is Here! Dear Friends, This year marks a defining moment in Association House’s 126-year long history. As we celebrate the completion of our 2023–2025 Strategic Plan, let us reflect on the journey that brought us here. Following the remarkable 27-year tenure of Harriet Sadauskas, I stepped into the role of CEO and President in 2021. During this time, our world was still navigating the lasting impacts of COVID-19. Still, we began drafting our new strategic roadmap. In an era marked b Jan 1 2 min read Association House Teams Up with Community Partners to Reduce Violence Across Chicago How the House is working to reduce violence in our community through our partnership with SC2 Humboldt Park. Dec 29, 2025 2 min read Partners & Funders

We provide bilingual support and care for vulnerable children and families who have a history of child abuse and neglect and are involved with DCFS. Child Welfare Association House provides support and care for vulnerable children and families who have a history of child abuse and neglect and are involved with the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). We serve the Cook County and Northern Illinois areas and remain one of the few providers with fully bilingual English/Spanish staff. Our goal is to ensure the safety, well-being, and healthy development of children and adolescents with a history of trauma and to promote their resilience and progress. We aim to help parents and families develop nurturing and safe relationships with their children. Foster Care Foster Care services provide children with safe, loving, and secure homes when they are unable to live with their family of origin. Case managers work to achieve permanency for the child through reunification or adoption. Learn More Intact Family Services Intact Family Services provides support to prevent the separation of children and families by identifying problems and risk factors and helping families obtain training and support to keep children at home. Learn More Become a Foster Parent A foster parent is there when a child needs them most. If you have love to give, you can be a foster parent. Our staff is here to support you in your parenting journey. Take the next steps today. Learn More Success Stories Your 2025 Annual Report is Here! Dear Friends, This year marks a defining moment in Association House’s 126-year long history. As we celebrate the completion of our 2023–2025 Strategic Plan, let us reflect on the journey that brought us here. Following the remarkable 27-year tenure of Harriet Sadauskas, I stepped into the role of CEO and President in 2021. During this time, our world was still navigating the lasting impacts of COVID-19. Still, we began drafting our new strategic roadmap. In an era marked b Jan 1 2 min read How Fostering Led Melanie to Her Forever Family After ten placements, Association House foster parent Melanie has a permanent family of four. Dec 17, 2025 3 min read Help Us Bring Holiday Magic to 500 Kids For This Year's Toy Drive! It's time to bring holiday magic to all of Association House's kids once again! Oct 24, 2025 1 min read Additional Resources These resources are here for you. Feel free to check out any of these resources down below pertaining to Foster Care and IDCFS. Also, be sure to check out or Parenting Resources Page filled with tools and tips for all types of parents! Illinois Department of Children & Family Services Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline (1-800-25-ABUSE) - if you suspect a child has been or is at risk of being harmed Crisis and Referral Entry Services Hotline (1-800-349-9049) - the CARES hotline provides connections to SASS services for children and youth experiencing a mental health crisis National Association of Social Workers Code of Ethics - all of our staff members follow these ethical standards DCFS Advocacy Office for Children and Families Brochure Parenting Resources

The fun doesn't stop after the bell. Students can join in clubs and learn new recipes, drawing skills, play games with classmates and so much more! After School Programs Art Club The Art Program focuses on perfecting students craft around a variety of projects and freestyle days. We also watch anime to influence and inspire our projects. Culinary Club Demia Fisher Culinary Club is a student-driven cooking apprenticeship provided to expose teens to a home and commercial kitchen environment. The students learn the art of food preparation, cooking techniques, and presentation. They get to plan, prepare, cook, and present a full course meal. Gaming Club Santiago Duran Do you like games? Well, this is the place for you! We play video games, board games, card games and whatever other games there are to play. Music Studio The Music Studio is a music club where students get instructions on how to play instruments, use equipment and create good music. Our recording booth allows students to record their work and express themselves. FiTT Club Get FiTT is a club designed to teach students about health and fitness. We invited the students to try various types of workouts that include aerobics, yoga, and outdoor sports. Nail Tech Club Students meet and work on both live and model hands on the proper techniques and practices of the nail industry. We have now partnered with a local small business owner to help mentor/coach students through the process of providing quality manicures with or without acrylic. Related Content High School Staff Learn More Curriculum Learn More Mentoring Program Learn More Family Literacy Program Learn More

Make a difference today by setting up a monthly donation. We appreciate each and every donation we get, and thank you for helping us accomplish our mission. Related Content Give Now Learn More Give Items Learn More Matching Gifts Learn More

We wouldn't be where we are today without our volunteers. We have opportunities for everybody, regardless of your availability or skills. Change a life, today. Volunteer How You Can Help Whether you have a few hours or can volunteer regularly, there are many opportunities to utilize your skills and become involved in the programs at Association House. One-Time Volunteer Opportunities Volunteer groups and individuals are needed throughout the year to help with single-day projects and events. Opportunities include: Back 2 School Fair Holiday Toy Drive gift wrapping Mock interviews Career mentorship Hygiene kit packing To express interest and get more information, please email Drew Williams , Donor Experience Manager. Regular Volunteer Opportunities Committed volunteers are essential to many of our programs. These opportunities require a time larger time commitment on an on-going basis or specialized skills. You may be asked to complete a background check and mandatory trainings. Ongoing opportunities in Family Literacy Program, Behavioral Health, Marketing, and Development. New volunteer opportunities are posted to our Volunteer Match profile. To express interest and get more information, please email Jaime Garcia , Human Resources Director. Volunteer Match Auxiliary Board The Auxiliary Board for the Association House of Chicago is a group of young professionals dedicated to supporting the organization’s mission and creating awareness of its community impact for a wider set of professional and public audiences in and around Chicago. Serving as a member is an exceptionally meaningful way to volunteer. Learn More

Make a difference today by donating. We appreciate each and every donation we get, and thank you for helping us accomplish our mission. Related Content Give Stocks Learn More Give Items Learn More Matching Gifts Learn More

We provide free, bilingual primary health and psychiatric care for low-income and uninsured individuals with mental illness and or developmental disabilities. Integrated Health How We Help Integrated health provides free, bilingual primary health and psychiatric care in a trusted, collaborative setting for low-income, under- and uninsured individuals with mental illness, developmental disabilities, or co-occurring disorders. How We Are Different Imagine a doctor that really listens and takes their time with you. Imagine a nurse who goes on walks with you and teaches you how to manage your health in your home. And imagine all this care coordinated in one place where you feel safe and secure, where all staff speaks your language. This is Association House Integrated Health. Here, our bilingual team works together to meet our participants holistic health needs. "It is so important to have Integrated Health as a part of the care provided at Association House because psychiatric health and medical health are connected; health is health. Having Integrated Health under the same roof allows me easier access to information I need to help me provide care. It's much more convenient for participants as well to access their healthcare services onsite." - Dr. Kristina Gawor, Psychiatrist Eligibility & Enrollment This program serves Medicaid-eligible individuals with severe mental health or substance use disorder or developmental disability. Individuals must be enrolled in a referring Association House program. If you are interested in learning more, please contact us at 773-772-8009 ext. 1020. 90% of participants receiving psychiatric services through Integrated Health improve or maintain their level of functioning over the course of a year. Related Programs Counseling Learn More Case Management Learn More Community Health Learn More Developmental Disabilities Learn More

Leaving a gift in your will or through your estate plan is an incredibly meaningful way to leave a legacy of impact for those most vulnerable among us. Will & Estate Gifts How You Can Help Leaving a gift in your will or through your estate plan is an incredibly meaningful way to leave a legacy of impact for those most vulnerable among us. It’s possible for anyone, no matter your estate size to leave a gift. There are also tangible benefits, such as reducing your estate tax or income tax for your heirs. The three easiest ways to make a legacy gift are through your: Will Life Insurance Retirement Plan Leaving a Legacy with Your Will A gift left in a will or estate plan is often called a bequest. With the help of an advisor, you can include language in your will or trust specifying a gift for Association House of Chicago. This could be a specific dollar amount, a percentage of your estate, or the balance or residue of your estate. You retain control of your assets during your lifetime and can change your mind or modify your gift if circumstances change. For recommended language, download our bequest language guide . Bequest gifts are fully deductible for federal estate tax purposes, and there is no limit on the deduction your estate can claim. Sample Language Leaving a Legacy with Your Life Insurance You can name Association House as a primary or contingent beneficiary of your life insurance policy. You retain control and can change your mind or modify your gift if circumstances change. This gift type is ideal for someone whose family no longer needs the protection offered by life insurance. Life insurance gifts pass to Association House free of federal estate tax. If you would like your gift designated for a specific use or for the endowment, please contact us to record your wishes. Leaving a Legacy with Your Retirement Plan You can name Association House as a beneficiary of your retirement plan through a simple beneficiary designation form filed with your plan holder. You retain control and can change your mind or modify your gift if circumstances change. IRA gifts are fully deductible for federal estate tax purposes and pass to Association House free of income tax. How It Works If you would like to plan a bequest to include Association House of Chicago, please notify us so we may recognize your thoughtful and generous intentions. Please email Lillian Bui , Director of Development, to notify us. Related Content Give Now Learn More Matching Gifts Learn More Shop Our Wishlists Learn More

Association House is committed to raising awareness about problem gambling and can help you find support that is right for you. Problem Gambling Services How We Help Problem gambling can cause financial, emotional, and relationship problems, severely impacting a person's life. Seeking help for problem gambling is a courageous step and can lead to a better, healthier future. Association House is committed to raising awareness about problem gambling and can help you find support that is right for you. Problem Gambling Support You are not alone. If you feel your betting has gotten out of hand, call: 1.800.GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) OR TEXT GAMB TO 833234 All calls are confidential. 24 hours a day. 7 days a week. Problem Gambling Helpline Know the Signs & Symptoms This short gambling screening is designed to evaluate your relationship to gambling and can help identify any potential problems with how gambling impacts your life. This confidential survey can be completed online or in-person. Screen yourself below or schedule an appointment/follow-up with our Visions Intake Specialist by calling (773) 772-8009 ext. 6004. Screen Yourself: Have you ever felt restless, on edge, or irritable when trying to stop or cut down on gambling? Have you tried to ask other people for money to help deal with financial problems cause d by gambling? Have you tried to hide how much you have gambled from your family or friends? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you can get help. Problem Gambling Screening "Many assume gambling is a harmless pastime, but for some, it can have devastating consequences. It is our mission to raise awareness about problem gambling and provide the support and resources necessary for those in need." Ayanna, Gambling Outreach Coordinator Additional Resources National Organizations: National Problem Gambling Helpline (800) 522-4700 or chat online at SAMHSA's National Helpline (800) 662-4357 National Crisis Text Line Text HOME to 741741 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 988 or chat online The Trevor Project (866) 488-7386 or text START to 678678 LGBT National Hotline (888) 843-4564 Gambler's Anonymous Gam Talk SMART Recovery Chicago-Based Organizations: Way Back Inn (708) 345-8422 ext. 1 Gateway Foundation (773) 933-3080 HRDI (773) 966-0333 Related Programs Mental Health Counseling Learn More Substance Use Learn More Drop-In Center Learn More Partners & Funders

Association House is a nonprofit organization located in Humboldt Park that provides wraparound services in English and Spanish. old logos Our Program Areas Behavioral Health Mental health, substance use, and developmental disabilities programs. High School Charter school for youth left behind by the traditional school system. Workforce Development Job training, coaching, and placement for under-employed and unemployed individuals. Child Welfare Bilingual foster care and intact family services. Community Health Outreach and wrap-around programs advancing health outcomes. Behavioral Health Mental health, substance use, and developmental disabilities programs. High School Charter school for youth left behind by the traditional school system. Workforce Development Job training, coaching, and placement for under-employed and unemployed individuals. Child Welfare Bilingual foster care and intact family services. Community Health Outreach and wrap-around programs advancing health outcomes. Behavioral Health Mental health, substance use, and developmental disabilities programs. High School Charter school for youth left behind by the traditional school system. Workforce Development Job training, coaching, and placement for under-employed and unemployed individuals. Child Welfare Bilingual foster care and intact family services. Community Health Outreach and wrap-around programs advancing health outcomes. Behavioral Health Mental health, substance use, and developmental disabilities programs. High School Charter school for youth left behind by the traditional school system. Workforce Development Job training, coaching, and placement for under-employed and unemployed individuals. Child Welfare Bilingual foster care and intact family services. Community Health Outreach and wrap-around programs advancing health outcomes. Behavioral Health Mental health, substance use, and developmental disabilities programs. High School Charter school for youth left behind by the traditional school system. Workforce Development Job training, coaching, and placement for under-employed and unemployed individuals. Child Welfare Bilingual foster care and intact family services. Community Health Outreach and wrap-around programs advancing health outcomes. Behavioral Health Mental health, substance use, and developmental disabilities programs. High School Charter school for youth left behind by the traditional school system. Workforce Development Job training, coaching, and placement for under-employed and unemployed individuals. Child Welfare Bilingual foster care and intact family services. Community Health Outreach and wrap-around programs advancing health outcomes. Neighbor Helping Neighbor Everyone deserves service with dignity FIND HELP GIVE NOW News & Updates Faces of Hope Returns Bigger and Bolder Than Ever in 2026! Our biggest night of the year is right around the corner. Save the date for Faces of Hope 2026! Development Jan 13 1 min read How Jordan Powered Up His Future With Clean Energy Training With our Clean Energy job training program, Jordan found a way to break out of his professional slump. Investing in Hope: Why Our Auxiliary Board Shows Up For our Auxiliary Board, making time to give back to the city they call home is about more than fundraising. Association House Expands Workforce Pathways with Pre-Apprenticeship Model In the new year, we're optimizing our job training courses to land students in industry-recognized apprenticeships. Join Our Email List!