< All Staff Ms. Michelle Greene mgreene@associationhouse.org FLP Supervisor How long have you been a supervisor? I have worked here as the supervisor since October 2021 but I've worked with children and in a school setting since 2016. What inspires you in your position? What inspires me is knowing that my job takes away one of the many barriers that come along with being a teen parent while trying to finish school. I love being able to provide parents with resources that they aren't always aware is available to them and help them realize they are their child's first teacher. What is one fun fact about yourself? I'd like to think I'm a professional at Karaoke. Related Content Afterschool Programs Learn More Mentoring Programs Learn More Curriculum Learn More

An 8-week food prep training and subsidized employment program for returning and justice-involved citizens to prepare for positions in professional kitchens. Behavioral Health Pre-Apprenticeship How does a pre-apprenticeship help? The Association House Behavioral Health Pre-Apprenticeship program is your first step toward a career in compassion. With this free 5-week course, you'll open pathways toward Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS), Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor (CRSS), Mobile Crisis Response, or Behavioral Health Case Management careers. Whether you're looking for immediate employment, or want to expand your knowledge with a formal apprenticeship, we will help you make the connection. Students will complete the course with a Mental Health First Aid certification to safely intervene in a mental health crisis. Plus, you'll receive courses & workshops in the many behavioral health career paths available to you, enabling you to speak the language of the industry, and nail your interviews. A Compassionate Career is Within Reach! Recovery Crisis Response Case Work These are just a few of the high-impact, purpose-driven careers our program can unlock. If you feel a drive to help others and connect on a deeper level with the world around you, a behavioral health career could be the right fit for you and your future. Eligibility & Enrollment Our pre-apprenticeship program is open to anyone with an interest in a behavioral health career, with priority for SNAP beneficiaries and SNAP-eligible candidates, as participation may support SNAP work or training goals. We'd especially like to connect with you if you have lived experience in recovery, mental health, or community support. Class Schedule and Enrollment Cadence: Current Class Schedule: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10 AM-3 PM Class Format: In-Person and Virtual New cohorts begin every 5 weeks! “This class gave me the confidence to ask the hard questions — including whether someone is suicidal and has a plan. It also helped me listen more deeply and connect people to the support that best fits their needs.” - Program Participant ↓ APPLY BELOW ↓ Related Content NextJob Learn More Workforce Staff Learn More

We provide a safe and comfortable place for adults in our mental health programs to get together. This is a safe space - free from stigma and judgement. Drop-In Center How We Help The Drop-in Center provides a safe and comfortable peer-led gathering place for adults in our mental health programs, and for those who are transitioning from life in a nursing facility to life in the community. This is a place free from stigma and judgment. Here, we build support and connection. What To Expect Group activities such as field trips to area attractions, walks in the park, family movie nights, and holiday celebrations. Opportunities for personal growth through life skills groups, peer leadership, and meditation. Drop-in access to the TV room, reading room, game room, arts, and computers. Program Hours Monday: 9am - 5pm Tuesday: 9am - 6pm Wednesday: 9am - 5pm Thursday: 9am - 7pm Friday: 9am - 5pm Saturday: Determined by Peer Council "We have participants who come to Drop-in Center every single day. Why? Because they're respected and treated with dignity. The staff respect them. The participants respect them. That's what we do here, and I just love it." - Maggie Hettman, Quality Administrator Eligibility & Enrollment Individuals must be enrolled in a referring Association House program. If you are interested in learning more, please contact us at 773-772-8009. 90% of participants increase their understanding of how to access and utilize community resources. Related Programs Psychosocial Rehabilitation Learn More Case Management Learn More Counseling Learn More

< All Staff Ms. Janely Salgado jsalgado@ahhs.education RSP Mentor & Aventa Lab Coordinator How long have you been a mentor? I have been at Association House of Chicago for 4 years, but I am new to the position since August 2023. What inspires you as a mentor? I love building relationships with the students and being able to guide them in any situation. The best feeling is having them check in with me when they need a support system. What is one fun fact about yourself? I love to dance! Related Content Afterschool Programs Learn More Mentoring Programs Learn More Curriculum Learn More

< Back Jose Vela jvela@associationhouse.org Culinary Training Aide Culinary Training Aide Related Content BankWork$ Learn More NextJob Learn More Tech#Ready Learn More

< All Staff Ms. Amiracle Harris Substitute LB1 Teacher - Diverse Learner's Department What inspires you as an educator? As a kid, I learned differently, so I figured I could be a change and a positive inspiration for kids who are in special education. Changing one mind at a time! What's a fun fact about you? I'm a chef! Related Content Afterschool Programs Learn More Mentoring Programs Learn More Curriculum Learn More

Have you ever thought about becoming a foster parent? We provide training and support throughout your journey, so you can make a difference in the life of a child. Become a Foster Parent How it Works When a child is removed from their home, foster parents provide safe and loving homes, and support a child during a difficult time. Association House helps foster parents meet and exceed licensing requirements. Our bilingual staff provides training and support throughout your time as a foster parent, so you can make a difference in the life of a child. Eligibility Anyone can become a foster parent regardless of your gender or marital status. To become a foster parent at Association House’s Child Welfare program, you must complete the following requirements: Must be at least 21 years old. Legal residency/citizenship of the United States Extra bedroom in home Medical exams and fingerprinting for each person residing in home Income & Financial Stability Completion of 27 hours of Foster Parent Training 3 reference letters "What inspired me to be a foster parent was the desire to be a mother to someone who really needs that mother figure. Even though I know it could be temporary, I still feel like it is worth it to be that nurturing parent for however much time that child needs it. Helping that person become who he will become is a privilege for me." - April, Foster Parent 154 children were protected and cared for in foster care. FAQs How long does it take to become a foster parent? The process takes approximately 3 – 6 months. To receive your foster care license, you must go through 27 hours of training, each adult in your household must pass a federal background check, and there is a home study which assures that your home or apartment is appropriate for a child. As soon as your process is complete your case worker will begin to explore placements with you. Do I need to own a home to be a foster parent? Nope! Renting a home is totally fine, as long as all other requirements are met. Do a child's birth parents visit him or her? A large part of a child’s identity comes from his or her family. As a foster parent, you will need to make an effort for your child to stay connected through visits. Your case worker will work with you on the time and location of these visits. Sometimes it’s a grandparent and/or siblings that desire to stay in touch with a child. Learning about this and becoming comfortable with this is part of your foster care training. How much does it cost to become a foster parent, or to adopt through foster care? It is free to become a foster parent. And it is free to adopt from foster care. There are no legal expenses. Note that adoption through an adoption agency (either domestic or foreign) can cost between $25,000 – $40,000. Each child who is adopted through foster care receives a small stipend until the age of 18. And, there are many college scholarships for children who have been adopted through foster care. Please note that in foster care, our goal is always reunification first. If reunification simply is not possible, as determined by the courts, then foster families may choose to adopt the children they have cared for. What kind of support will I receive as a foster parent? Each child is covered with health insurance and each child receives a stipend for his or her individual care. The stipend is different according to each child’s needs. On top of that, Association house has Direct staff service involvement – both case managers and licensing representatives are easily accessible for our foster parents to ensure their questions are being answered, follow up with information or provide guidance. Want More Information? Related Content Intact Services Learn More Parenting Resources Learn More Foster Care Learn More

Association House connects you with trusted energy efficiency programs that help lower your utility bills, improve home comfort, and make it easier to access savings and resources available in your community. Energy Efficiency How We Help We help residents take control of their energy costs by connecting them with programs that lower utility bills and improve home efficiency. By making these opportunities easier to understand and access, we help households reduce monthly expenses and enjoy safer, more comfortable homes. Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Are you struggling to keep up with your home energy costs? Help is available through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) . This program primarily assists with heating bills and provides a one-time payment sent directly to your utility company on behalf of your household. By applying to LIHEAP you will be automatically enrolled in the new Low Income Discount Program, which will provide a monthly discount of 5% to 83% on your utility bill, based on the utility and your household income. Review income guidelines and required documents at the Community and Economic Development Association (CEDA) of Cook County website. Learn More About LIHEAP If eligible, then the fastest way to apply is by contacting the CEDA intake agency in your area, which can be found at the above CEDA website. If you have questions, contact CEDA at 800-571-2332 . Apply now through August 15, 2026, or until funds are exhausted. Illinois Home Weatherization Assistance Program (IHWAP) Reduce your energy bills with the Illinois Home Weatherization Assistance Program (IHWAP) ! If you meet income eligibility requirements, you may qualify for free weatherization services and upgrades . These upgrades make homes more energy-efficient, reducing the energy needed to stay warm in winter and cool in summer. Additional benefits include improved comfort and better indoor air quality, which can positively impact health. Weatherization services funded through IHWAP may include: Air sealing Attic and wall insulation HVAC repair or replacement Water heater repair or replacement Electric base load reduction (lighting and refrigerator replacement) Ventilation and moisture control measures (plus other health and safety improvements) Apply through the Community and Economic Development Association of Cook County (CEDA). Visit CEDA website to find partner intake sites near you. Learn More About IHWAP Our goal is to make sure families know about the energy savings programs available to them. By connecting residents with resources that improve energy efficiency, we can help lower monthly bills and make homes safer and more affordable." Myra, Senior Supervisor of Community Health Programs Additional Resources Utility Bill Assistance: Utility Financial Assistance Navigators Apply for grants, manage monthly bill payments, and explore energy-efficient practices! Nicor Gas Energy Aide Program Get financial assistance if you are having difficulty paying your natural gas bill. Peoples Gas Payment Arrangement Flexible payment arrangement plans or energy assistance options to help catch up on your bills! Energy Efficiency Incentives: Home Energy Savings Program (HES) Get a free home energy assessment to help identify opportunities to reduce energy usage and lower utility costs. Nicor Gas Free Water-Saving and Weatherization Kit Get a free energy-saving kit to improve efficiency, reduce utility costs and conserve resources! ComEd Appliance Rebates and Discounts Get reimbursed when purchasing qualifying energy-efficient appliances. Learn More Want to learn more about energy efficiency programs near you? Call or email Myra at 773-772-7170 x3204. Related Programs Clean Energy Training Learn More Food Pantry Learn More NextJob Learn More

Our Auxiliary Board supports Association House's mission and community throughout the year. As a group of early to mid-career professionals, you will plan exciting fundraising events and give back. Auxiliary Board Grow Your Career & Give Back to Your City! The Association House Auxiliary Board combines professional networking with hands-on community outreach. Together, we volunteer, raise funds, and grow awareness in the wider community - all in support of the House's mission. Connect with passionate professionals & make a profound impact while you do it! Your Year on the Aux Board Volunteer Give back to the families and children we serve through our annual toy drive, Back 2 School Fair, and fundraising events. Network Hang out with fellow young professionals at Trivia Night and Summer Soiree, our annual fundraising parties. Organize Step up when your city is in need. Rely on a network of passionate people to stabilize and uplift your neighborhood! How You'll Benefit Serving on the Auxiliary Board is exceptionally rewarding and comes with real benefits for young professionals looking to grow your network, skills, and impact. Network with the Board of Directors and active business & civic leaders at events Professional develop in project management, networking, and marketing as you grow as a young professional Pathway for future leadership on Association House’s governing Board of Directors Contribute to the legacy one of the oldest nonprofit organizations in Chicago Meet The Auxiliary Board Your Responsibilities Auxiliary Board members advance the mission by fulfilling the following responsibilities: Attend bi-monthly Auxiliary Board meetings Attend auxiliary fundraising and networking events Participate in volunteer opportunities Participate in committee work aligned to your interests and skills Make a personal commitment through a give/get requirement – of at least $250 Upcoming Events Join Us! Young professionals are encouraged to express interest through the member application . If you have questions, please reach out to Dalia, Development Associate, at ddelafuente@associationhouse.org. Apply to Join "To me, being a part of something bigger than me is so important and the House has helped me find that . Hearing personal stories is my favorite part of volunteering. It is great seeing individuals lift each other up and invest in themselves." - Rose, Auxiliary Board Member Our Sponsors We are deeply grateful to our 2026 event sponsors and in-kind supporters, who help make our work possible and drive our mission forward. Related Content Auxiliary Board Members Learn More Auxiliary Board Application Learn More Impact 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

Help us create change. Through team-building projects, in-kind drives, and event sponsorship opportunities, your corporate allyship invests in our community. Corporate Partnership How You Can Help Businesses and employees actively seek to improve the communities where they live and work. Through team-building projects, in-kind drives, and event sponsorship opportunities, your corporate allyship invests in our community’s advancement. A partnership may take on many forms. Learn about the different ways you can partner with us and help create change. Volunteer As a corporate team, you can volunteer at our community events. Association House’s Back 2 School Fair occurs in August, where volunteers hand out backpacks or lead activities with children and families. In December, join us for our Holiday parties and pass out food to families or lead arts and crafts for children. Schedule a volunteer service day with us, and promote team building among your group while doing good in the community. In-Kind Drive Host an in-kind drive with your team, or at your workplace. Collect school supplies and backpacks for the summer Back 2 School Fair, or toys, games and winter wear for children in November. Learn More Sponsorship Opportunities Our board-hosted Faces of Hope gala takes place each Spring. Our Auxiliary Board of Young Professionals hosts multiple networking and fundraising events throughout the year. Email Drew Williams for any questions. Contact Us For more information about corporate partnership opportunities, please contact Drew Williams , Donor Experience Manager, at 773.772.8144; or Lillian Bui , Development Director, at 773.772.7170 ext. 9104. Related Content Give Now Learn More Matching Gifts Learn More Give Items Learn More

Whether you're looking for a new career, a volunteer opportunity, or ways to give back to the community - we have something for you! Make an impact, today. Get Involved We’d love to have you as part of our Association House community. Check out the various way you can get involved below and help us be a voice for those in Chicago. Careers Association House is rooted deep within our community and works day in and out to meet the needs of those living right down the block. Come and join our amazing team today! Join Us Auxiliary Board Together, Auxiliary Board members make a collective impact that changes the lives of those we serve. They volunteer, raise funds, and grow awareness in the wider community. Learn More Events Find an event you love, and make an impact that lasts. There are plenty of ways to support the work we do and what's better than attending an event and seeing our work first hand. Learn More Ways To Give Supporters like you fuel our social impact. The success of those we serve relies on your contributions to us. Find the way to give that works for you and change a life today! Give Now Volunteer There are many opportunities to utilize your skills and become involved in the programs at the House that serve a diverse and multi-generational community. Learn More Run Team Pledge to fundraise for the House by running races across Chicago! Conquer your personal goals and create meaningful change in the process. Learn More Success Stories Welcoming LUCHA's New Co-Executive Director, Rosa Y. Ortiz! Introducing the newest member of LUCHA's leadership team. Aug 28 2 min read Association House Creates and Pilots New Pathway to Behavioral Health Careers The first year of our Behavioral Health Pre-Apprenticeship introduced students to countless career possibilities. Aug 27 3 min read How Association House Staff Leveled Up Their Skills in 2026 This year, Association House staff earned licenses, attended conferences, and thought big about their careers. Jul 22 4 min read