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“A busy life it is in this house, with hundreds crossing its threshold every week--indeed every day. Through it all our increasing purpose runs, to so touch by deed or words the life of everyone who enters its doorway, each shall feel the power of a higher life." --Ellen Holt, Founder, Association House (1911) Association House has always been a refuge for women and children. As Association House embarks on our 125th year, we’re reflecting on our history, its ties to the reform movement, and the women that made it happen. Our founder, Ellen Holt, was the daughter of a wealthy Chicago businessman. Rejecting the life of her parents, she began working alongside Jane Addams at Hull House, Chicago’s earliest Settlement House. Soon, she became involved in the formation of Association House. Established in June 1899 to train women for the work of the Young Women's Christian Association, the effort quickly grew to the more expansive vision Holt held. Holt and Association House’s first head resident, Carrie Wilson, understood the need for a single place to meet many community needs: a place where community voice led decision making, and staff lived in community. Early life at Association House was lively: children ran through hallways to music, and residents shared meals and healthy debate. Hundreds of clubs were established over the years where participants learned to cook, read, play sports, and sew. Most importantly, Association House became a gathering place for all: a place where commonalities outweighed differences. What began as a GED assistance program has evolved over 125 years into an accredited Level 1+ onsite high school. Half of the student body are women. Association House began as a radical rejection of exclusion and of gaps that leave individuals struggling. Here, we created a place of inclusion where individuals find the tools and resources they need to lead a more full and complete life. Whether that was a shower, a new skill, or simply a friend, Association House was here. That work continues today and is as innovative and important as it was at our founding in 1899. Follow along for more stories this Women’s History Month and throughout our 125th anniversary year! Have your own Association House history story? We’d love to hear it! You can reach our Development and Marketing team at development@associationhouse.org

Trivia nerds unite! Next month, we're continuing a springtime tradition with the return of the Association House Auxiliary Board Trivia Night! Hosted at the beautiful Park & Field in Logan Square and open to the public, this night is sure to be a blast. Your admission price secures you a drink ticket, an hour and a half of trivia madness, delicious snacks to get your brain in gear, and serves as a generous donation to support all the vital programs serving your community every day at Association House. Secure your tickets below! Larger sponsorship packages are also available with unique perks.

Have you ever worried about how much you're gambling? It can be difficult to tell how much is too much-- but catching the early warnings can mean a world of difference. If gambling has ever gotten in the way of your work, relationships, or financial stability, join us at Association House for a free risk assessment screening as part of National Problem Gambling Awareness Month. A light lunch will be served, and recovery resources will be accessible on site at Association House from 9 am-1 pm. Bring a friend and stay informed on the risks of problem gambling, and learn more about its impact on your community. Looking for other ways to get involved? Submit original artwork to the Are You Really Winning? art competition to inspire those struggling to seek the help they need. The competition's submission deadline is March 31, 2024. Selected works will be featured in a public showing this Spring. If you or someone you love is struggling with gambling, call or text 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gamblerchat.org. Help is available 24/7 – it is free and confidential.

Every child deserves a home where they feel safe, loved, and cared for. For children whose safety is at risk, foster care provides a temporary haven where they are supported through these difficult times. Unfortunately, the foster care system faces it’s own challenges - a lack of funding, staff, and most importantly, foster parents. Becoming a foster parent is a big decision. But since a very young age, Jessica knew she wanted to help the children in her community. Jessica and her husband, Jon, have two biological children of their own, yet they felt they still had love to give. This decision would change their lives forever. Jessica and Jon’s foster journey began in 2016 when they found Association House. Our child welfare team guided them through the process to become certified foster parents. During the process, they were given tools and resources to prepare themselves to take on this huge responsibility. Soon enough, Jessica and Jon welcomed their first foster child, Adel. From the minute nine-year-old Adel arrived at his new foster home, he was met with warmth and affection. He quickly bonded with his foster parents, siblings and an extended family of grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. During regular meetings with his case worker, Angelica, he expressed his desire to make his situation permanent. “Everybody has grown to love him. He’s ours. He’s been ours in our hearts since day one,” says Jessica. Four years later, Adel’s foster home became his forever home. The official papers were signed on his 13th birthday, giving them another reason to celebrate. Though this was a happy day for the family, Jessica and Jon recognize the difficult truths that are sometimes left unsaid. “We understand that adoption can be both the most beautiful and the most traumatic moment in a child’s life. Supporting a child through that requires extra love and support,” says Jessica. Fostering can be a challenging journey full of emotional highs and lows. Jessica and Jon soak in every second. When Association House called again to ask if they were ready to take in another foster child, they said yes. This year, with the help of their caseworkers, Jessica and Jon finalized their second adoption. “Association House has been with us at every turn, through whatever hurdles we are given and there were many. Our case workers are available 24/7. They walk us and the kids through every step. We do it in community,” says Jessica. Though their family is not traditional, Jessica and Jon would not have it any other way. The decision to become foster parents has brought infinite joy to their home. For them, fostering is an act of profound love and resistance against a broken system. Watch “With Love,” a short video created by Fig Media capturing the story of the Venegas family and how foster care changed their lives forever. If you are considering becoming a foster parent, we hope Jessica and Jon’s story inspires you to begin your journey. Association House is here. Learn more: www.associationhouse.org/become-a-foster-parent.

Before coming to Association House High School, many of our students think graduation is impossible. Traditional schools often ignore the many circumstances preventing students from making it to graduation day. But here at Association House, our teachers, counselors, and mentors walk alongside students to help them achieve their goals. After Constance welcomed her daughter, Key, into the world, she realized she had to grow up fast. With no support from her adoptive family, Constance and Key moved from Indiana to Chicago in search of a better life. “I left with just me and my baby. I found a shelter; and it was a rocky transition because I didn’t know how to find other assistance," says Constance. Constance worked hard to provide the formula, food, and necessities needed to care for her daughter. As she made friends, they introduced her to vital resources, like Association House. Two and a half years had passed since Constance dropped out of high school. She didn’t think, she could ever finish. However, when Constance stepped through the doors of Association House, she knew she was in the right place. Constance was met with a supportive community determined to help her reach her goals. “When I first came here, they welcomed me with open arms. It’s like a breath of relief because when I come here I have the support while I try to succeed,” Constance says. Teachers helped Constance stay on track with schoolwork. Mentors provided her with the resources needed to take care of her family. And the Family Literacy Program provided a safe place for Key while Constance focused on her studies. A couple years later, Constance found herself on stage at graduation, sharing her story in front of the people who believed in her the most. Friends who introduced her to the lifeline that is Association House. Teachers and mentors who went the extra mile to ensure she was at school and completing assignments. She even reunited with her biological family, who she had not seen since she was four years old. Constance shared, “I made the decision that I didn’t want to be the girl that failed… We have potential that stands higher than no mountain anyone has ever seen." Association House meets individuals where they are and helps them unlock their potential. Constance is now studying in the EMT Paramedics Program at Malcolm X College. She has received $12,000 in scholarships and aspires to become a physical therapist. Not everyone’s journey is the same. As we celebrate Constance’s story, we are reminded of the remarkable transformation that can happen when individuals receive the right support. Association House is committed to uplifting and empowering the people in our community to live their fullest life.

🏁 Chicago: Lace up and get stretching, because the Chicago Spring Half Marathon & 10K is just around the corner! 👟🏃 We're back for another fit & fun season of fund-racing for Association House in 2024! Make every step count by teaming up with Association House for the Chicago Spring Half Marathon + 10K Race on Sunday, May 19, 2024. Last year, 11 amazing runners teamed up with us to race for a great cause; and this year, we want to see even more smiling (and sweaty) faces repping the House on their trek across the city! We're offering an exclusive discount code for runners who pledge to fundraise with Association House by April 1. In addition to $10 off your race registration fees through Life Time, you'll receive an invitation to our kick-off breakfast and Fun Run on April 6 and an opportunity to score runner-friendly swag to rep the House on your run on May 19. Ready to run for a great cause? Learn more about how you can join team Association House below.

Tomica, a resilient single mother, always had the determination to succeed. Though her early life had its share of challenges, Tomica maintained belief in her potential. Her path to success at Association House began while attending college when she learned about the organization’s programs. It was then that Tomica made the life-changing decision to enroll in the Financial Careers Training program. In 2021, Tomica successfully completed the Financial Careers Training program, opening doors to a career in the banking industry. Through her experience in the workforce, she recognized a need for a deeper education in technology. Tomica’s determination to enhance her abilities encouraged her to enroll in Digital Skills 4 Life, a decision that would prove to be invaluable in propelling her knowledge and skills even further. Tomica’s experience at Association House wasn’t without its challenges. Due to Tomica’s health conditions and her personal struggles with seizures, there were times when she was unable to attend class regularly. She sometimes contemplated giving up, but her teacher, Hind, provided the encouragement, motivation, and most importantly, the flexibility she needed to persevere. Today, Tomica works in the medical field, excelling in data entry. The knowledge she gained through Financial Careers Training and Digital Skills 4 Life has proved to be advantageous in her professional journey. She shared, “I’m not scared anymore or stressed out.” Financial Careers Training and Digital Skills 4 Life have not only taught her helpful skills but have given her the confidence to tackle challenges, both at work and in her personal life. Tomica believes in herself and states, “I know I can do it!” Tomica’s story doesn’t end here. Her future goals include sharing her remarkable journey, knowledge, and experiences with the youth, particularly young girls, to instill in them that they are worth it. She aspires to help others, just as Association House helped her. Tomica’s journey is a true testament to her determination and resilience. Her story inspires those who face adversity, showing us that we can achieve our dreams with the right support and education. Our Workforce Development programs provide individuals with the necessary tools to stabilize their lives, build confidence in their careers, and move towards economic self-sufficiency. For more information about our programs, click the button below!

This month, Association House is participating in the 2023 Gift Responsibly Campaign, joining lotteries and community organizations across North America to raise awareness about the risk of underage lottery use. The campaign is organized by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) and the International Center for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors at McGill University. Research shows that the earlier a person’s participation or exposure to gambling is in childhood, the more likely they are to develop a gambling problem later in life. Gambling exposure during childhood is often through some kind of lottery product, such as lottery tickets or scratch offs. Often these items are given to a child by an adult who is unaware of the associated risks. “The potential long-term risks associated with underage gambling exposure cannot be understated,” said Keith Whyte, NCPG Executive Director. “I commend each Gift Responsibly Campaign participant for their commitment to raising awareness about the risks of youth gambling. Now, more than ever, we must continue to insist that lottery tickets are never appropriate gifts for children.” Keep an eye out for more information about the harmful effects of underage gambling and how you can spread the word. Click the button below for more resources from our Problem Gambling program. If you or someone you love is strugging with gambling, call or text 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gamblerchat.org. Help is available 24/7 – it is free and confidential.

Introducing Association House's Culinary Program Facilitator, Chef Tenoch Ang! After many years of planning and strategizing, Association House launched its culinary program for returning and justice-involved citizens in 2022. With over three decades worth of experience, Chef passes on his expertise in the culinary field and prepares graduates for positions in professional kitchens. Tell us a little about yourself! I am half Chinese, half Filipino, and multilingual. I love to cook and eat. I was an International Banker after graduating college, but I found myself cooking and baking after working in the bank. My father was a chef in China, who discouraged me from being a cook/chef, as he believed that people in the culinary business are not paid very well. What about your work inspires you? Since I was 18, I have loved to cook, bake, and travel exploring the food of the world. Through cooking, I want to be able to be of service to the community. I love to teach and share my experiences to people who don't have the financial resources to take up culinary. What would you consider your biggest accomplishment at Association House? I have been told several times that the management of Association House has been eagerly and actively planning to put up a culinary program for years. Finally, we did it last year, amidst the difficulties! What's a fun fact about yourself? I love learning different languages. I speak Chinese Mandarin, Chinese Taiwanese, Chinese Fookien, Filipino or Tagalog, English and am currently honing my Spanish. I was a professional Folkloric Dancer when I was in college, and a martial artist with a specialization on jitkundo. During my free time or weekends, I explore the food of new restaurants. My favorite dish is paella.

Meet Lili, our passionate Marketing Specialist and a proud first-generation Mexican American. In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, we sat down with Lili to learn about her journey and the role she plays at Association House. Join us in discovering how her cultural roots and commitment empower her to uplift her community and break barriers in the marketing world. Tell us a little about yourself and your position at Association House. Hi, my name is Lili! I am first generation Mexican. I really enjoying cooking and baking even though I am not the best at it, but practice makes perfect. Photography is also something I try to learn more about, not only for fun, but also for work. I have a bachelor’s in communication from Loyola University Chicago. I am the Marketing Specialist here at Association House and I help manage our social pages, such as Instagram and Facebook. I work on the more creative aspects as well, such as creating flyers and designs. What inspired you to pursue your current career path? I wanted to support my community. The Hispanic community can sometimes seem left behind compared to others in my opinion. I want to uplift them as much as I can in anyway. Especially because I understand the struggles it takes to leave your home country and go somewhere new. I also have a passion for wanting to reduce the stigma on mental health. It should not be brushed under the rug, but something that’s recognized. How has your cultural background influenced your career or the work you do at the organization? The desire to be a voice. To be one of the individuals who paves a path for the ones that want to follow similar paths. It feels like sometimes you can’t do something, because you don’t see someone that has a similar background in that position. I struggle with that when I feel like I am the only Latina in the mix. There’s a drive to do better for the people around me and the people who feel like those doors won’t open. Are there any Hispanic figures or leaders who have inspired you throughout your life? Honestly, my parents. I’ve heard so many stories from their childhoods to how they became citizens and seeing them work so hard and all they do for me, and my younger brother makes me truly appreciate all they did and continue to do. Frida Kahlo is also a big inspiration. What she stands for, and her artwork has always stood out to me. She wasn’t afraid to be herself and fiercely independent. Can you share a cultural tradition or celebration that is meaningful to you? Thanks to the movie Coco by Pixar, I developed a stronger connection and appreciation for the holiday, The Day of the Dead. For as long as I can remember, my mom always had an Ofrenda set up close to our front door. An Ofrenda is an altar where it’s decorated with pictures of deceased loved ones and all types of foods and candies or even drinks that they loved. It is believed that on this day they come and visit us and enjoy the items that are placed alongside. It made me understand that though people we love aren’t around anymore, they are never truly gone. Plus, now I love helping my mom decorate and sharing stories. Follow us on social media to see how Lili amplifies the work of Association House!

Meet our Grants Manager, Katie! With a passion for making a difference and a proven track record in the world of grants, Katie joins our team to spearhead our pursuit of impactful funding opportunities. Her expertise in grant management and her dedication to empowering change align perfectly with our mission, and we couldn't be more excited to have her on board. Tell us about yourself! Hi! I'm Katie. I am from the west suburbs of Chicago and currently reside in Oak Park with my husband. My journey in the nonprofit sector began at the University of Wisconsin Madison, where I earned my degree in Community Nonprofit Leadership. After college, I spent two years serving with AmeriCorps, first with City Year and then in a trauma-informed after-school program. These experiences in the programmatic side of nonprofits solidified my passion for working with organizations committed to bridging the opportunity gap. A quote that has stuck with me and guides my professional philosophy is from Wes Moore, who said, "Potential is unlimited. Opportunity is not. Our job is to bridge the gap.” This encapsulates what I aspire to do each day: use my skills to increase resources for programs and organizations that make a real difference in people's lives. Where did you work previously and what experiences have you gained from the role? Before I joined Association House, I worked as the Development Manager at Volunteers of America of Illinois. The two organizations have similar goals and values, which helped me transition smoothly. In my previous role, I had a chance to work on many different parts of fundraising and development. I improved my grant writing skills and got a deeper understanding of community needs in Englewood and Humboldt Park, especially around behavioral and community health. This experience now guides me in my current role as Grants Manager. Tell us about your day-to-day as a Grants Manager. In my role as the Grants Manager, I'm part of the larger Development team. I'm responsible for overseeing our grants, writing new proposals, and nurturing relationships with our partners. Every day is a blend of writing, project management and relationship-building. My tasks range from crafting compelling narratives about our work to connect with funders, to tracking grant deadlines and outcomes. What are you looking forward to in your new position? I'm particularly excited about working across departments, learning from our staff and participants, and playing a supportive role that enables our frontline workers to do their amazing work. The breadth and impact of the programs at Association House are something I truly admire, and I hope that my role in securing resources will contribute meaningfully to all of the programs. What is a fun fact about yourself? I love walking! Whether it's strolling around Oak Park or walking through the halls of the building, you can find me getting my steps in. It's my way of staying active, taking a mental break, and exploring my surroundings.

On August 5th, Association House held its 17th annual Back 2 School Fair. Despite the rainy weather, our community showed up. Volunteers distributed 548 backpacks filled with school supplies, notebooks, pencils, and other essentials to students. In addition, 46 children received physicals to prepare for the upcoming year. The Back 2 School Fair also gave parents the opportunity to connect with over a dozen community partners to learn about local resources to support their families. At one of the booths, WEBZ's Nereida Morena interviewed kids to hear their thoughts ahead of the school year. This amazing day was complete with face painting, balloon animals, bike raffles and a bubble show. Thank you to everyone who made this year's Back 2 School Fair a success! Major support for this event provided by Comcast NBC Universal and WBEZ Chicago.