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< All Staff Myra Rodriguez myrodriguez@associationhouse.org Community Health Supervisor What education or prior experiences do you have related to community health? For over a decade, I have provided health, nutrition, and mental health education throughout the Chicago land area, primarily in Chicago communities that are affected by alarming health disparities. As the Supervisor of Community Health programs, we work towards cultivating communities to develop more supportive attitudes and behaviors toward health and mental wellness. What about your work inspires you? I am driven by a passion for strengthening community relationships and partnerships that reinforce and sustain the execution of a social mission and realization of community vision. What's a fun fact about yourself? I love to cook, create art, and enjoy boxing. Related Content Back 2 School Fair Learn More Health Education Learn More Food Pantry Learn More

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

< Back Margarita Rosas Chief Financial Officer Margarita Rosas (she/her) serves as Chief Financial Officer. Reporting directly to the President, Margarita collaborates with the other members of the leadership team, as well as the Board of Directors, to support the financial goals of the organization managing a $17M budget. Margarita brings 20 years of experience in process improvement, systems design, project management, strategic financial planning, monitoring and evaluation, public finance & policy planning across various organizations at the local, national, and international level. Before joining Association House, Rosas served as the Director of Finance with New York Sun Works, driving financial functions and performance. In her five years, Rosas was instrumental in expanding the organization from 90 to over 400 school partners, impacting 120,000+ students annually. Born and raised in Colombia, Margarita has been an international consultant for the International Monetary Fund, deputy director for social investments with the Colombian national government, and Founder of New Life for Everyone, a foundation that supports educational opportunities for over 400 children in marginalized communities in Bogotá. Margarita holds a Master’s of Public Administration from Cornell University, a Master’s in Regional Planning with an emphasis in Local Economic Development, and a dual BA/BS in Business Administration and Economics, both from Universidad de Los Andes. As a Latina, an immigrant, and a mother of a child with disabilities, Margarita feels strongly connected to Association House’s mission for inclusion and creating opportunities for marginalized communities.

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!

Audra attended Valparaiso University School of Law and now she’s the President and CEO of the Shriver Center on Poverty Law here in Chicago. < Back Audra Wilson Audra attended Bucknell University and received her bachelor’s in International Relations and Spanish, and then attended Valparaiso University School of Law, where she obtained her JD. After working in the education industry and sitting in various director roles after college, Audra now fills the position of President and CEO of the Shriver Center on Poverty Law here in Chicago. Audra also sits as a chair of the Cook County Commission on Women’s Issues. Why I Serve? n/a

< All Staff Mrs. Tiana Thomas tthomas@associationhouse.org Assistant Principal How long have you been an administrator? I have been an educator for many, many years but have been in leadership for 7 years. What inspires you as an administrator? I continue to be inspired by the opportunity to create change in the lives of the youth I serve. I also continue to be inspired by my passion and desire to take on challenges when they arise. Thirdly, I continue to be inspired by success stories of the youth I have served and those I am serving. What is one fun fact about yourself? One of my favorite movies is Big Daddy starring Adam Sandler. Related Content Afterschool Programs Learn More Mentoring Programs Learn More Curriculum Learn More

< All Staff Ms. Terra Metz Math Teacher Related Content Afterschool Programs Learn More Mentoring Programs Learn More Curriculum Learn More

< All Staff Ms. Danielle Saguiped WIOA/YES Mentor How long have you been in your field? I have been a school mentor for 1 year. What inspires you as a mentor? Being able to form bonds with students and feeling that I’m a person of safety and trust for them. What is one fun fact about yourself? I love makeup & skincare! Related Content Afterschool Programs Learn More Mentoring Programs Learn More Curriculum Learn More

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< Back Damaris Acevedo Director of Child Welfare Damaris currently oversees the Child Welfare Division, which provides quality services for more than 200 active family cases, including foster care, intact family services, and adoptions. She is a Licensed Social Worker with an Illinois Department of Children and Family Services license and is 402 & CCA certified. Since 2005, Damaris has worked in the Child Welfare Division and began her tenure as a foster care case manager. Damaris attended the University of Illinois at Chicago’s Jane Addams School of Social Work, where she received her Bachelors of Social Work; and received her MSW from Dominican University. Damaris also obtained her LCSW in 2019. Damaris is passionate about helping families, and her commitment is to ensure we treat every participant with dignity and respect regardless of what brought them to our program. She says her work is difficult but very rewarding.

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