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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 by uncertainty, we chose to act boldly. Because what defines Association House has never been the challenges before us, but the determination with which we face them. This continues to be true today and every day. Over the last three years, we made tremendous strides to achieve our goal to expand access to high-quality, culturally responsive services while breaking down barriers that have long limited opportunities, especially for individuals with disabilities and our Black and Latinx community members. Together, we: Grew from a $12 million to a $23 million organization, ensuring more families, youth, and individuals receive the resources they deserve Strengthened programs, expanded services, and reimagined what support can look like in a changing world Deepened partnerships with community organizations and businesses to build more pathways for individuals to thrive Because of you, our stakeholders, donors, staff, and participants, we see our mission coming to life all around us. What once began as possibility has transformed into progress. The seeds of change we planted together are now in full bloom. As we look ahead, we recognize that uncertainty still surrounds us. But thanks to your commitment and belief in our work, we move forward with hope. Our next chapter is just beginning, and together, we will continue to flourish. With gratitude, Juan Carlos Linares President & CEO

Credit: Ariel Parrella-Aureli/Block Club Chicago On Friday morning, LUCHA welcomed community members, partners, and elected officials into the historic Humboldt Park United Methodist Church to celebrate the long-awaited groundbreaking of its new affordable housing redevelopment: La Herencia Apartments. Standing inside the 1928 sanctuary, attendees were surrounded by the very walls that will soon become 22 permanently affordable homes in Logan Square . Developed in partnership with Canopy Design + Architecture, this first-of-its-kind redevelopment will preserve the historic church’s façade and 13 existing apartments while adding nine new homes —each thoughtfully designed to honor the building’s legacy while meeting a high standard of craftsmanship, beauty, and care. Bundled up in the Chicago cold together, there was a special intimacy and emotional weight in the air—a reminder that this building’s transformation is not just about construction, but about memory, belonging, and stability. The project is the first in Chicago history to convert a church entirely into 100% affordable housing. Congresswoman Delia Ramirez had an especially personal connection to the church's redevelopment. The name La Herencia —which translates to “inheritance”—speaks directly to that legacy. For nearly a century, this space has offered sanctuary in many forms: as a place of worship, as housing for working families, and as a hub for activism and mutual support. Today, the building lives on through a renewed commitment to permanent affordability in a neighborhood facing immense housing pressure. That legacy was made especially tangible through the presence of Congresswoman Delia Ramirez, whose connection to the building is deeply personal . As a child, she lived in the apartments above the church—making the transformation of the entire building into affordable housing not just a policy victory, but a full-circle moment rooted in lived experience and generational impact. " This is the place that built me—literally. This is where I first learned to speak, to lead, and to believe in my own voice. This place is holy—not just because of the building itself, but because it shows the most beautiful parts of humanity in a world filled with darkness." — Congresswoman Delia Ramirez Earlier this year, the congregation officially rededicated the property to LUCHA, ensuring the site would continue uplifting the community even as the neighborhood changes. Renovation plans include adding a new elevator and creating modern, energy-efficient apartments with in-unit laundry and accessible layouts . Five units will serve individuals exiting homelessness or living with developmental disabilities, with supportive services provided by Renaissance Social Services. Illinois House Representative Will Guzzardi addresses the crowd at La Herencia. The ceremony brought together federal, state, and local leaders who spoke to the urgency of building affordable housing near transit, schools, and jobs—especially in rapidly gentrifying areas like Logan Square. “I moved to this neighborhood because regular people could afford to live in a vibrant, loving community. Increasingly, that opportunity is only available to the wealthiest. Today we’re guaranteeing that this corner will welcome everyone—not just people who can afford luxury condos.” — Illinois Rep. Will Guzzardi Digital rendering of the completed La Herencia Apartments, projected for Winter 2026. With this ceremony, what began as a six-year effort finally broke ground —but more importantly, broke beyond the limits of what many once believed possible. La Herencia Apartments is not just a housing project; it is a statement. It affirms that preservation, equity, and community-led development can coexist—and that history doesn’t have to be lost to progress. It can guide it. -- Construction is expected to continue over the next year, with LUCHA planning to welcome new residents in 2026. Learn more about how LUCHA is pushing affordable housing in Chicago into the future at lucha.org . ▪

ALSO outreach workers hosting a block party to connect individuals with resources that empower them to thrive. Association House has always fought violence with opportunity — opening doors to education, careers, and community support. Now, as a founding partner in the SC2 Humboldt Park Collaborative, we’re taking that work to the next level, building a safer Chicago through direct, compassionate intervention in our neighborhood. This year, the nation’s eyes were on Chicago . And this summer we saw the lowest number of homicides since 1965, and violent crime overall was down 22% from last year. This is due in no small part to the efforts of Community Violence Intervention (CVI) groups across Chicago: thousands of trained disruptors working to put at-risk youth on a brighter path, detach from local gangs, and stop violence before it starts. The success of CVI efforts resulted in the creation of the Scaling Community Violence Intervention for a Safer Chicago Initiative (SC2): a network of community support organizations all working together to address the root causes of violent crime and maximize support options for those ready to leave the streets and make a change. Each participant’s journey starts with street outreach, connecting with case workers at pop-up cookouts, block parties, and info tables. From there, SC2 provides the tools for every individual to be the architect of their own future. Outreach workers from NewLife Centers connect with individuals in need across Chicago. With inroads to steady employment, continued education, mental health counseling, legal services and more, each journey with SC2 is designed to fit the needs of the individual—fulfilled by free services offered by over a dozen community support organizations working collaboratively. Association House is proud to be taking on the challenge as a key SC2 partner , connecting participants to our job training programs, counseling services, alternative high school and more. In 2026, we’re mobilizing to take SC2 to the next level, advancing the groundwork laid by our case workers through social media outreach, donor engagement, and a hands-on internship for SC2 participants hoping to break into a career in marketing. “For the first time in decades, I’m not worried about the police kicking in the door or losing sleep over the choices I’m making. I’m so far from that now — and that’s a relief I can’t even describe.” -Ramsey, SC2 Participant Lori Crowder, Executive Director of ALSO, states, “Association House and its partners—ALSO, BUILD Inc, CCFJ and New Life Centers - are working hand in hand to redesign how services are delivered in Humboldt Park and reach over 1,300 high risk people over 5 years. Together, we’re proving that safety doesn’t begin with policing—it begins with opportunity, connection, and care.” The momentum behind SC2 is not just about reducing violence, but about rebuilding trust and restoring hope in neighborhoods long denied both. As this work grows, Association House and our partners will continue standing beside every participant ready to rewrite their story—and redefine what’s possible for Chicago. ■ -- Discover more about SC2 at www.scalecvichicago.org .

Angeles and her family in the courtyard at Encuentro Square. This year, LUCHA and developer partner, Evergreen Real Estate, celebrated the grand opening of Encuentro Square. This two-building, multi-family development sits on the 606 Trail in Chicago’s Logan Square community and provides 89 units of affordable housing. As this neighborhood faces rising rent prices and longtime resident displacement, this project was a necessary step toward preserving the culture of this community. Encuentro Square is more than a building. It’s a promise to our neighbors that their stories, culture, and future will continue to thrive for generations to come. Last year, Logan Square native Angeles, watched the once abandoned factory lot at Cortland and Ridgeway transform. Pushing a stroller carrying precious cargo – her newborn son – she watched as the foundation was poured, as concrete began to climb six stories high, and as the exterior was wrapped in brilliant orange glimmering in the summer sun. Just four blocks away, she and her husband were living in a run-down apartment, and the family was quickly outgrowing their cramped space . Facing a landlord who was increasing their rent and unwilling to make much-needed repairs, they knew it was time to move on. Angeles and her family love spending time in the children's play room at Encuentro. As they began their search for new housing, it felt clear that Logan Square was no longer affordable. But, just as Angeles and her husband were preparing to relocate further west to Portage Park, they received a life-changing call: they had been selected for a three-bedroom apartment at Encuentro Square. When Angeles and her family moved in, it marked a new beginning. Standing by the window in their new apartment overlooking the Chicago skyline, she felt an overwhelming sense of calm. She could finally envision the better life she had been searching for. Encuentro Square started to feel like home. Her days became filled with warmth and light. It was the place where her son took his first steps. It was where she welcomed family and friends with pride. It was the start of a fresh chapter. “My favorite part about living at Encuentro Square is peace of mind. Knowing that we’re safe and secure. You get a sense that the community really cares about you.” -Angeles, Encuentro Square Resident Not long after moving in, Angeles’ husband was laid off. After years of 60-hour workweeks to provide for their family, the sudden loss brought panic and uncertainty. But, when they contacted management, they were met with nothing but support. “It’s so easy to talk to the staff here, and they will understand if you are going through a hard time,” explains Angeles. “ They communicate with us as actual people. It made it easier for us to stay positive.” Angeles’ family had the space to navigate the crisis. Her husband soon found a new job with better pay, benefits, and the flexibility to be more present with his family. Just a year ago, Angeles was consumed by worry over rent and bills. Today, she says she feels free to plan for the future. With another child on the way, Angeles and her husband are already dreaming about one day owning a home where they can continue making memories that last a lifetime. ■ Encuentro Square. Photo Credit: Christopher Barrett -- A special thank you to those who brought Encuentro Square to life, especially Evergreen Real Estate Group, Canopy / architecture + design, Chicago Department of Housing, Chicago Department of Planning and Development, Chicago Housing Authority, Palenque LSNA, Leopardo Construction, and All Construction.

When Melanie decided to become a foster parent, it wasn’t part of a long‑laid plan—it was a moment shaped by loss and reflection. After her mother passed away and she found herself living alone, Melanie felt a quiet but powerful pull toward something more: "My cousin had been a foster parent, and I was always so close to that process, that type of family. After I lost my mom, I thought to myself: it’s time. ” Jamia was Melanie's first adoption. With guardianship of Jeremiah, Jamia now has a sibling her own age. That decision led her to Association House, where she completed her foster care training and soon welcomed her very first placement—Adrian, a seven‑month‑old baby who is now 13 years old and still part of her family today. Over the years, Melanie has welcomed ten children into her home , providing stability, care, and love through every stage of uncertainty. During the first few years of her journey, she gained guardianship of Adrian, and adopted another child, Jamia. She credits much of her confidence to the preparation and support she received early on. “The process moves pretty fast, so the classes are really helpful," Melanie shares. “You learn what you’re able to do and cannot do, and how to really be there for the kids. ” Just as important was the ongoing support from staff. From her first caseworker to licensing staff, Melanie describes Association House as a place where help was never far away. “It’s not just one person helping you. From the top down, everybody’s involved and supportive ,” she says. “I can call them with anything, and they get right back to me. They’re always on top of it.” Melanie notes that her fostering experience came with both joy and challenges, but the journey has been well well worth it. Chloe and Adrian entered Melanie's life at different times, but they share a birthday! It's been like having a twin adopted in. “The most rewarding part is just being able to give back,” Melanie explains. “Being available, just being someone that the kids can look up to.” The hardest moments come when children leave her home — even when it’s for the right reasons. “They teach you not to get attached, but that’s hard when somebody’s been with you for years or even just a few months. ” she says. This past October, Melanie experienced one of those rare, joyful milestones: another permanency with two children who had been with her for six years: Chloe and Jeremiah, a pair of siblings. “It's a wonderful thing when the kids really want to be with you. My son kept asking, 'is it over, is it over?' We were just waiting on court—and when it was done we were so happy," she shares. "It's a big moment. When you know they’re staying with you, it’s like everybody did their part — the agency, the judge, the family." Now with a permanent family of four, Melanie is looking ahead to vacations without court permissions, a bigger home, and a future built together. When we asked Melanie what she would say to someone considering foster care, her answer was simple and sincere: “This is a big commitment, but one I'd take a million times. You have to be ready to be a teacher, a therapist — all of that. And you have to make sure you have a village. I found one at Association House." ▪ -- Take the first step toward becoming a foster parent and get licensed with Association House. Learn more at https://www.associationhouse.org/foster .

When Martina found herself at home recovering from cancer, unemployed and uncertain about the future, she needed more than a distraction— she needed a way to reclaim control. That’s when she discovered Association House of Chicago’s technology programs, made possible through the generous support of Google Fiber. Tech classes kept Martina on trend as she prepared to re-enter the workforce. “I was just trying to find other things to do and keep myself busy,” she recalls. Enrolling in AI Essentials gave her both structure and purpose. “Once I started to do it on my own, I was in control of my own time, and how fast I wanted to do things.” After quickly receiving her AI certification, Martina went on to earn her Excel Associate certification, pursue project management training, and prepare to step back into the workforce with renewed confidence. Martina’s story is a powerful reminder of what happens when opportunity meets access. For Palak, a new mother looking to return to her tech career, the same courses provided a bridge back into opportunity. “I wanted to brush up my skills after my baby was born, and these classes gave me the confidence to step back into the tech field,” she says. Palak received her LearnKey Microsoft Office course certification with help from instructor Casey Moulton. From Digital Skills for Life to AI Essentials and Microsoft Office certification, Palak sharpened her technical abilities while reclaiming her professional confidence. “The Intermediate Excel class made the biggest difference for me—I recommend it to everyone who wants to learn data skills. The teaching and support here are amazing, ” she adds, highlighting instructors like Casey Moulton , who guided her every step of the way. For Alex, technology training was about more than career advancement—it was a tool to help others. After years of working as a teacher, and noticing that parents often needed support too, he was inspired to enroll in Association House's Financial Careers Training course, which connected him with AI Essentials. “These classes felt like an opportunity to help people in ways I hadn't considered before,” he explains. "Puzzling through complicated financial decisions can be a lot , and with the AI skills I learned here, I can help people consider all their options and increase their financial literacy." His advice to new learners captures the spirit of Association House: “You have to have the mindset that you are going to succeed … and it’s perfectly alright to open yourself up to things you didn't know before." The journeys of Martina, Palak, and Alex illustrate the transformative power of accessible technology education: confidence restored, opportunities expanded, and futures reimagined. Another tech class at the House-- Senior Planet-- provides computer confidence skills for adults over 60. Thanks to Google Fiber’s unwavering support , programs like Digital Skills for Life, Senior Planet, Microsoft Office Certification, and AI Essentials remain free to all, ensuring that every learner—no matter their circumstance—can step boldly into their digital future. -- Learn more about our tech programs and join our next cohort at associationhouse.org/tech-ready .

Association House stands for safety, empowerment, and respect above all. At a time in which fear and intimidation have become commonplace in our community, our doors remain open to all, providing transformational programs to all our neighbors, no matter their background. No one is ever turned away , and any one can find where they belong. Unfortunately, aggressive immigration enforcement, prolonged SNAP disruptions, and social and economic challenges have had a direct impact on individuals in all of our programs. Our neighborhood has been directly targeted with violence and aggression in immigration enforcement. Individuals, regardless of status, are afraid to leave their homes and access services . Our food pantry has had to double its holiday efforts to account for the gap in SNAP support. Nevertheless, our staff and leadership are committed to keeping everyone in our facilities safe, and maintaining our longstanding principles of educating participants on their rights.  We will continue to stand up for equity and for each other , and we call on the incredible spirit of our community to stay strong in uncertain times. Empowerment begins with knowledge . Learn your rights today through resources from the Immigrant Justice Center below, and help keep our communities safe, resilient and thriving.

The holidays are here — and that means it’s time to make magic happen for every child in our care. Will you help bring a smile to a child’s face this season? This winter, Association House hopes to share holiday cheer with nearly 500 children and their families  through our Foster Care and Intact Family programs. These parents work tirelessly to provide safe, loving homes — but for many, the holidays can stretch budgets too thin to include those extra-special gifts. Your generosity helps make sure every child experiences the joy and wonder of the season. Whether you donate a toy , organize a collection , or help spread the word , your support brings happiness and hope to kids who need it most. You can donate to support our children’s holiday activities, or choose toys and gifts directly from our Amazon wishlist. Every item ships straight to Association House, where volunteers wrap each present with care before it’s delivered to a child we serve. Thank you for making the holidays brighter for families across our community. Because of you, the magic keeps going! Want to make an even bigger impact? Share our message with your friends, family, and coworkers. Or, host a toy drive of your own! Download our toolkit below to plan your drive.

This week is Digital Inclusion Week: a nationwide event to fight for fair access to technology and the Internet as our world continues to move online. The House has a decades-long history of free computer courses to keep our community ready for changing job requirements and able to stay connected with their loved ones. Today, the House's tech classes help more people than ever by offering a dynamic lineup of courses to build skills no matter your skill level. Our Digital Skills 4 Life class offers the basics for personal computers and smartphones, from email to safe browsing. Microsoft Office Skills gives intermediate users in-depth knowledge of Word, Excel, and more: a huge boost for anyone seeking work in data management or office support. Senior Planet gives students over age 60 the chance to learn alongside their peers in a judgement-free zone-- not only for basic computer skills, but for websites and apps they're personally interested in, from Zoom to Pinterest. AI Essentials is a crash course in smart prompting and responsible use of technology that's changing our world and workforce more every day. These classes couldn't succeed without the help of our amazing tech staff-- instructors and motivators who guide our students through moments of struggle and lead them to success. For Digital Inclusion Week, we're putting the spotlight on them to celebrate the amazing work they do for our community! Meet the Tech Team! Hind Elbanna Associate Workforce Development Program Director What's your role in the computer lab? I oversee Technology Training and lab operations, scheduling and launching all of our classes. I support all our instructors and track our work with our students to make sure we're organized and efficient, and that our students can find success. Favorite part about working with our tech classes? Seeing confidence grow is the best part - when a learner builds a résumé or lands a job thanks to new skills. It’s especially rewarding when participants complete our programs truly tech-savvy, with industry-recognized certificates to show for it. Why do you think teaching technology is important? Technology skills open doors—to jobs, online services, banking, healthcare, education, and community. Our classes reduce the digital divide and give people the tools to be independent, safe, and confident online. What do you enjoy outside of work? Spending time with my family, cooking (especially Middle Eastern dishes), exploring Chicago neighborhoods, watching movies, relaxing, and traveling! Casey Moulton Digital Navigator What's your role in the computer lab? I teach Digital Skills 4 Life, and various workshops for Senior Planet. I also teach a remote class in the evenings for Microsoft Office learners. Favorite part about working with our tech classes? I find that being able to work with our community to discuss topics in tech access, and to rally our participants in embracing their individual agency over information, communication, and resource-acquisition has been extremely rewarding. Why do you think teaching technology is important? At this point in history, we face rapid technical advancements that promise connection and progress, yet many in our community are left behind without access to the internet, computers, or the time to learn them. For those from analog generations or homes without computers, dependence on digital literacy feels alienating. Our programs meaningfully improve access and opportunity. Without digital skills, people are limited in healthcare, food, and employment—unable to find doctors, buy affordable groceries, or apply for jobs that now exist almost entirely online. Access to technology and education bridges this gap, offering a path to survival for those willing to learn. These classes help participants gain agency and learn how to use technology to access essential resources at little to no cost. They are free and open to all, offering training in email etiquette, professional certifications, and a supportive learning environment that reminds participants they are not alone in navigating the digital world. What do you enjoy outside of work? I like to garden, kayak, hike, and dabble in performance. My background is in performing arts; so, I enjoy going to see theatre and improv around Chicago! Dean Martin Career Navigator What's your role in the computer lab? My role is focused on employment preparation and placement. I work with the NextJob program to help participants build resumes, write cover letters, prepare for interviews—including mock interviews—and assist with their job search. Favorite part about working with our tech classes? The best part is when participants land a job and come back excited to share the news—‘Mr. Martin, I got the job!’ That moment is always rewarding. Why do you think teaching technology is important? Technology is constantly evolving, and many participants face barriers to employment due to limited tech skills. Our program bridges that gap by teaching them how to use technology for job searching, online interviews, and more—especially helping middle-aged and senior participants keep up. What do you enjoy outside of work? I enjoy going to the gym, working in the yard, and staying active. Diana Guzman Intake & Data Specialist What's your role in the computer lab? My role involves supporting the Workforce Development Program and overseeing the Google AI Essentials Program. I help compile necessary files and ensure participants have access to the resources they need—whether it's tech-related support or assistance with housing. I also collaborate across tech programs, offering help to students from other classes when needed, and work to make their day-to-day experience smoother. Favorite part about working with our tech classes? The most rewarding part is helping participants complete their programs. Many face life challenges that can interrupt their progress, especially with self-paced courses like Google AI Essentials. I provide reminders, flexible support—even late-night Zoom meetings—to keep them on track. Seeing their progress and receiving messages about their achievements makes the work truly fulfilling. Why do you think teaching technology is important? Teaching technology is crucial because many people lack access to free, high-quality programs. Even when available, life circumstances often prevent them from taking advantage. Our support and guidance make these opportunities feel more attainable. We help participants transition into new fields or stay current with tech trends, and we’re committed to helping them succeed—whether that means passing classes or finding employment. What do you enjoy outside of work? Outside of work, I enjoy crocheting, watching movies, and cooking. Lately, I’ve been exploring Mexican cuisine to reconnect with my heritage, even though I tend to cook more Asian dishes! -- Want to get involved in a technology education class at Association House? Learn more about our full lineup of programs at associationhouse.org/tech-ready .

Amiyah came to Association House High School for her diploma, but left with even more. When Amiyah walked across the stage as part of the Class of 2025 at Association House High School, she wasn’t just collecting her diploma: she was rising above the people who doubted her, and more importantly, proving to herself that she had something special to offer the world. “I remember one teacher at my old school told me I couldn't even get a job at McDonald’s,” Amiyah recalls. “Being put down like that just made me hate school.” At her previous school, she felt unsupported, behind on credits, and disconnected from her teachers. The lack of encouragement weighed on her, leaving her discouraged about her future. But when a friend told her about AHHS, Amiyah found something she had never experienced before: staff who believed in her potential, a flexible system that allowed her to catch up, and resources that supported her whole well-being. “Everything was just so different from a regular school,” she said. “They help you with everything—financially, transportation, even making sure you have food or clothes if you need it. And when you don’t understand something, they’ll take the time for one-on-one support. Everyone here encourages you to better yourself.” That culture of care allowed Amiyah to thrive. Instead of falling further behind, she got back on track and graduated on time. Along the way, she also earned her pharmacy technician license —something her counselors encouraged her to pursue and even helped fund. That certification opened the door to her first healthcare job, working as a pharmacy tech at CVS. Amiyah found support and compassion in teachers, leaders, and mentors like Ms. Hogan, Ms. Thomas, and Ms. Lyle. She points to several staff members who pushed her to aim higher: Principal Pieper, mentors like Ms. Lyle and Ms. Thomas, and Ms. Kim, whom she affectionately calls her “school mom.” “I really have a good connection with her. She still looks out for me to this day, even after graduating,” Amiyah said. “Everyone I’ve been involved with at this school still makes sure I’m okay. They’re like family to me.” Now, Amiyah is continuing her education at Malcolm X College, preparing to enter the nursing program. Her dream? To become a NICU nurse, caring for premature infants and their families. The dream is personal. “I was born premature myself,” she explained. “And I’m also the oldest of all my siblings, so I’ve always had that caretaker role. I want to make a true statement for them, to show them that if their big sister can do it, so can they. I want my sisters to see that we can be somebody. ” Faces lit up all over the AHHS hallways when Amiyah visited for this interview! Looking back, she sees AHHS as the turning point in her journey. “ When I first came here, I was just wild. Being here calmed me down tremendously, and I really got to focus on my goals. At first, I doubted myself, but they really spoke life into me and made me believe I could do it. And I did.” Her advice to future students thinking about AHHS is simple: “Do it. Ask questions. Take advantage of everything they offer. Don’t give up. Keep showing up. The staff here will make sure you succeed.” At Association House High School, that’s the goal: to meet students where they are, provide flexibility and support, and help every young person discover their own path to success. For Amiyah, that path now leads to scrubs, stethoscopes, and the fragile lives in the NICU-- where she hopes to keep proving that a difficult start doesn't determine the end. ◼ -- Learn more about Association House High School at associationhouse.org/high-school . Interested in enrolling? Speak with an admissions counselor by completing an interest form.

This past month, Association House was filled with excitement, laughter, and community pride as families gathered for our annual Back 2 School Fair . With sunshine overhead and music in the air, nearly 600 attendees  joined us for a day dedicated to preparing students for a strong start to the new school year. From free medical physicals and immunizations to connections with 30 community organizations , families had the chance to access valuable resources all in one place. These partnerships ensured that students not only walked away ready to learn but also healthier and supported by a network of services. One of the highlights of the day was seeing the joy on children’s faces as they received one of 300 backpacks  filled with school supplies. For many families, this support is a crucial step in starting the school year equipped and confident. To top it off, our raffle sent seven lucky winners home with brand-new bikes and two others with scooters—thanks to the generosity of our community supporters. And because no fair is complete without a little magic, kids were dazzled by a special bubble and balloon show , where colorful creations and giant floating bubbles brought wide-eyed wonder to young and old alike! The success of the Back 2 School Fair was only possible thanks to the dedication of countless volunteers, staff, and partners. From the Community Health and Facilities teams  to Life Skills Education, Development, and Leadership, along with every individual and organization who donated supplies or lent a helping hand—we are deeply grateful. This event was more than just a fair; it was a celebration of what’s possible when our community comes together! With backpacks full, spirits high, and bubbles in the air, we were reminded of the power of unity and the joy of supporting our students as they step into a new school year. -- Learn more about Community Health at Association House here.

It's that time of year again! Get ready for our annual farewell-to-summer celebration, the Auxiliary Board Summer Soiree, returning to El Cid in Logan Square for another year of connection, culture, and community impact. On Wednesday, September 17 from 6-8 PM, join us to discover how Association House can help you grow your career and give back to your neighborhood at the same time. Your ticket gets you access to our thirst-quenching open margarita bar , delicious Latin shared plates , and a group salsa dance lesson from Lisa La Boriqua. Hosted by our Auxiliary Board of young professionals working in finance, technology, community development and more, the Soiree is a great chance to learn about how getting involved with Association House can take your career to the next level. Bring a friend from work for a cocktail and a chat with one of our Aux Board members about what their involvement has added to their skill set-- and about the change they've created and witnessed firsthand! Tickets are on sale now at the link below, but act fast to secure $50 Early Bird pricing before the increase on September 10! Don't miss out on this chance to connect with motivated changemakers in your community and take your first steps into incorporating charity into your professional journey. 🎉 SUMMER SOIREE 2025 ☀️ 📅 Wednesday, September 17, 2025 🏠 El Cid - 2645 N Kedzie Ave, Chicago ⏰ 6 PM - 8 PM