The Resurrection Project latest news

The Resurrection Project’s CEO Raul I Raymundo to Introduce Keynote Speaker U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Shaun Donovan at the 2012 NALCAB National Conference

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 12:00:00 -0600

On December 1^st the 2012 National Association for Latino Community Asset Builders’ (NALCAB) national conference, Building a Better Economy for All Americans: Desarrollando Destinos Economicos, will feature U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Shaun Donovan as a Keynote Speaker. The Resurrection Project is proud to announce that our Chief Executive Officer, Raul I Raymundo, will introduce the distinguished keynote speaker tomorrow at 1:45pm EST at the Mayflower Renaissance Hotel in Washington D.C.

The Resurrection Project is a proud affiliate of NALCAB – a national organization that represents and serves a geographically and ethnically diverse group of non-profit community development and asset building organizations that serve as anchor institutions within our Latino communities. The Resurrection Project (as well as other NALCAB affiliates) implements responsible, market-based strategies for creating jobs, developing neighborhood assets, and building family wealth. These strategies include affordable housing developers, micro lenders, economic development corporations, and consumer counseling agencies.

Mr. Shaun Donovan was sworn in as the 15th United States Secretary for Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and is responsible for managing a $48.5 billion budget. His tenure as HUD Secretary has reflected his commitment to making quality housing possible for every American. Donovan was sworn in at a time when the foreclosure crisis had devastated American families. Under Secretary Donovan’s leadership, HUD, with the assistance of grassroots organizations and their networks, (like The Resurrection Project), has helped stabilize the housing market and has worked to keep responsible families in their homes.

Some of the critical issues NALCAB’s 2012 conference will touch upon include Economic Development in an Anti-immigrant Environment, Competing with Predatory Practices, Earned Revenue Strategies and Social Enterprise and Pathways to Wealth Building: From Financial Education to the Middle Class.

Please join us and NALCAB in our efforts, learn more at www.nalcab.org.

Class Now in Session at Instituto’s Health Science Career Academy

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 12:00:00 -0600

Instituto's Health Science Career Academy

On September 7 Instituto Del Progreso Latino (IDPL) opened the doors of its Instituto Health Sciences Career Academy, a new charter high school that will pave the way for the next generation doctors, nurses, informatics professionals, and bio-technicians. The high school serves 600 Chicago youth in grades 9 to 12. The Resurrection Project was the lead developer on this $22 million project for IDPL. The Resurrection Project helped Instituto transform a 77,000 square foot warehouse at 2520 South Western Avenue into a 100,000 square foot, state of the art educational facility. The project involved the adaptive reuse of the existing facility and the addition of a new construction structure adjacent to the building.

IHSCA Prepares Our Future Health Care Professionals

Instituto Health Sciences Career Academy is the city’s first charter health science career academy and it was designed to address the shortage of Latinos in the healthcare field and to support Chicago’s efforts to provide high-quality education options. Located in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood, Instituto Health Sciences Career Academy is an unique facility that fully integrates health sciences into an general studies curriculum to provide students with a rigorous college prep curriculum so they can succeed in competitive colleges and universities. The school also offers the opportunity for students to earn professional certification for high-wage entry-level positions in the healthcare field (i.e. pharmacy technicians and physician assistants).

Students Learn How To Measure Heart Rate

“So many of our children grow up hoping one day to become a doctor, or a nurse, or a veterinarian,” said Juan Salgado, president and chief executive officer, Instituto Health Sciences Career Academy. “Now we can connect our students’ passion for math and science into well-paying careers in medicine, nursing, informatics and biotechnology.”

Instituto Health Sciences Career Academy construction spurred economic development during these difficult times. The $22 million project was supported by a $12 million dollar grant from State of Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Development through the Illinois Job Now Capital Bill. The development was also possible with the support and investment from the City of Chicago Department of Housing and Economic Development, Local Initiative Support Corporation (New Market Tax Credits), Harris Bank, and JPMorgan Chase. Development partners include McShane Construction Company (General Contractor), JGMA Architects (Design Consultant), and Ghafari Associates, Inc. (Architect of Record).

For more information on Instituto Health Sciences Career Academy please visit their website at www.healthacademy.idpl.org.

Five Stories Down, One To Go: La Casa is Rising Up

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 12:00:00 -0600

La Casa Site, October 15th 2011

We are proud to announce that in August 2011 The Resurrection Project began construction of La Casa, an innovative community-based dormitory in Pilsen that will serve 105 college students with housing, internships, and mentorship programs. The project is currently under construction at the intersection of 18th Street and Paulina Street.

La Casa is a 6-story, 33,000 square feet building. The First floor structure will house a student educational resource center, recreational space, and commercial space. The project will also have a lounge area, fitness area, classroom, and meeting space. The structure will feature ample glass curtain wall systems and vegetative green roofs.

The ground floor of the 6-story building - at the intersection of 18th Street & Paulina - will be commercial space with 1,460 leasable square feet in the front and 1,200 leasable square feet in the rear. This space could accommodate a small café or other business. The 1,200 square foot space in the rear will be occupied by Instituto Del Progreso Latino, a local partner organization dedicated to the fullest development of Latino immigrants and their families through education, training, and employment. In this space, Instituto, will operate the community resource center to deliver its highly successful program that assist vulnerable high school youth through intensive mentoring, support, internships, and scholarship opportunities. Additionally, workshops and individual academic counseling appointments will be offered to high school students, college students, and parents from the community in an effort to provide support for navigating through college processes and achieving academic success.

The upper five stories of the building will support La Casa’s residential component. Each floor consists of student units and a resident advisor unit. The student unit is designed as a suite, complete with a full kitchen, living, and dining area. This building, along with the entire La Casa facility, will have wireless internet for student and community use.

For more than 20 years, The Resurrection Project has promoted the pursuit of education as key to a successful future, and today we are proud to pave the way for a new generation with La Casa, an innovative community-based dormitory in Pilsen that will serve college students through housing, internships, and mentorship programs. Development of La Casa is supported in part by a $8.4 million capital grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and philanthropic support from the Polk Bros. Foundation, JPMorgan Chase – Facebook Community Giving Campaign, Field Foundation of Illinois, John and Kathleen Buck, Jim and Kay Mabie, Cody and Deborah Engle, and Vive La Hispanidad. Development partners include Denco Construction (General Contractor) and Urban Works (Architect). Stay tuned for more information on how your college-bound family members can be part of La Casa.Stay tuned for more information on how your college-bound family members can be part of La Casa.

When Harry Met Casa Maravilla

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 12:00:00 -0600

Harry Volunteers for TRP Home Rescue Fair

Happiness naturally follows through giving and sharing, but Harry’s pathway to happiness was interrupted by obstacles that forced him to make life-changing decisions. Born in New York’s Spanish Harlem in 1953 to Puerto Rican immigrant parents Harry has been a dedicated community volunteer since he was a teen and through his studies at Princeton University. After graduating from college he continued serving as a Peace Corps volunteer in South Korea and later as a Peace Corps recruiter in Chicago in 1981.

Chicago offered him a chance to be civically engaged by working and volunteering in the Latino community at different local non-profit organizations where he taught English as a Second Language. Life was rewarding, productive and stable until Harry’s health began to decay.

Harry was diagnosed as HIV positive and had to confront the fact that his life would dramatically change . He suffered from strong physical pains that sometimes left him unable to move. Regardless of his health condition, Harry’s social conscience and altruistic spirit provided him the strength to continue teaching English and improving his beloved Latino community.

Unfortunately, as his health condition worsened, he was forced to retire at the early age of 42. Not planning to retire so early, he had to face the fact that he needed a plan to survive with little savings, his meager income from Social Security, and a little help from his sister. With monthly rent and medical expenses, his weekly budget for food and other needs was a measly $15.00. Such economic difficulties had Harry bound to his dilapidated apartment. He didn’t have the funds for a deposit on a better apartment. With his arthritis-swollen hands, it became difficult for him to perform simple tasks, like opening the elevator gate. To make matters worse he experienced problems breathing. He had to submit to a tracheotomy, a life saving procedure in which a hole is created in the trachea and a tube is inserted through it which bypasses the upper respiratory tract. Harry was ready for a change.

Harry Teaching Spanish at Casa Maravilla

As he watched Univision’s local coverage of Casa Maravilla’s grand opening ceremony, he quickly dialed The Resurrection Project telephone number. Harry applied for an apartment and became a tenant soon after. Harry’s life improved because his housing costs decreased. With quality housing, Harry now lived in dignity. His stress decreased and now he is on a path to happiness and sharing his skills for the betterment of our community. Nowadays he feels inspired by the difference he makes in building community and sharing his talents as a Spanish and English teacher. He frequently volunteers at actions like The Resurrection Project’s Home Rescue Fairs and is the editor of Noticias Maravillosas, the first bilingual senior newspaper currently distributed at Casa Maravilla.

Pilsen Celebrates TRP's First UNISONO Arts & Music Festival

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 12:00:00 -0600

On Saturday August 20 over 1,000 people gathered at Pilsen's Zocalo to enjoy the first edition of The Resurrection Project's art and music festival: Unisono. Unisono is a celebration of our pan-latin cultural roots, offering music lovers a diverse mix of genres such as salsa, cumbia, ranchera, latin rock and funk in one action-packed day.

The event kicked off at 1:00pm with the folkloric tunes of Pilsen's own Fandanguero. From Chicago's Roots Rockers to Los Vicios de Papa, every one of the acts, brought their best repertoires, excitedly setting the pace for the headlining act, the Austin Texas band Grupo Fantasma.

2011 Unisono was brought to you by The Resurrection Project, in partnership with The National Museum of Mexican Art, PilsenPortal.org and the Pilsen Planning Committee with the purpose of promoting peace, education and diversity.

In addition to musical performances, there were also hands-on activities hosted by the National Museum of Mexican Art. People in attendance took advantage of workshops on printmaking, silk-screening, face painting and dance.

While taking in the summer sun, TRP presents this fun opportunity to not only to promote peace, education and explore the diversity that is Pilsen but also to highlight TRP’s La Casa project: the first live and learn multi university community-based dormitory. La Casa will offer student housing and resources for the opportunity of pursuing higher education.

To learn more about La Casa, to donate or sponsorship opportunities, please contact Ulises Zatarain at (312) 666-1323.

Illinois DREAM Act Now A Reality!

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 12:00:00 -0600

Governor Pat Quinn signs the Illinois DREAM Act

This morning hundreds of community residents, community leaders, elected officials and education activists gathered at Benito Juarez High School in Chicago to witness Governor Pat Quinn as he signed the Illinois DREAM Act (Development, Relief and Education for Alien Minors Act), setting an example nationwide on the positive steps the federal government should take to help undocumented students achieve their academic and career goals. As it is, The Illinois DREAM Act will set up a commission to raise private money for college scholarships. Illinois students can take advantage of the DREAM Act if they attended an Illinois high school for at least three years, received a diploma and have at least one parent who is an immigrant. Immigrant children here both illegally and legally can apply. It also allows anyone with a Social Security number or taxpayer identification number to enroll in state-run college savings programs. Governor Pat Quinn, Mayor Rahm Emmanuel and other important officials took the podium to talk about the leadership that lead to the creation of the DREAM Act.

Ariana Salgado and Mayor Rahm Emmanuel

The elected officials were followed by what mostly considered the highlight of the event, a heartfelt testimony from Ariana Salgado. Ariana is a youth leader and undocumented student who shared her story on how she got involved in organizing in her community towards the goal of achieving this important piece of legislation. She shared how in her junior year of high school her school counselor told her it would be nearly impossible to go to college because of lack of financial assistance for undocumented students. Ariana's work and perseverance organizing paid off, and now undocumented students under law will be valued and respected. "The Illinois DREAM Act was not only urgent to us students, but also urgent to our parents who had sacrifice their life to ensure we can reach out our dreams." shared Ariana as the crowd stood up in ovation.

TRP efforts on education has led to the improvement of local schools, such as CPS' Jose Clemente Orozco Academy, and has foster community relationships between parents and school's administrations in Chicago's 25th Ward. Dedicated to promoting education, TRP's CEO Raul I. Raymundo, which is a 1983 Benito Juarez High School

TRP's CEO Raul I. Raymundo

graduate proudly shared his story. "As an immigrant myself I became naturalized shortly after I graduated high school and i went on to college. I value the overall importance of a college education and I know that all of you sitting out there are looking forward to a college education so you can contribute back to our community our great city and this great country we we all call our home". Raymundo stated that "According to Bloomberg/Business week study, documenting the valedictorian dilemma, in a lifetime of DREAM students this country could benefit from contributions of close to $8.6 trillion into our economy in just one generation". Finally, Raymundo urged all to redouble the efforts to push for federal DREAM act and eventually for comprehensive immigration reform.

RBL’s Official Kick-Off: Inspiring Youth for a Safe & Healthy Community

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 12:00:00 -0600

The Resurrection Basketball League’s (RBL’s) Official Kick-Off on Friday, July 1st 2011, was an impressive success as our program continues to grow. With 50 new players registered for this tournament, and over 100 local youth in attendance this evening we can claim it has been the biggest and most fun RBL crowd yet!

The community "chefs" at the grill did an excellent job cooking delicious hot dogs and hamburgers for the youth and community members from the block that came out and enjoyed the games, sportsmanship, and camaraderie. A highlight of this season opener was the inclusion of healthy snacks to RBL's menu, as now those in attendance could choose to enjoy the taste of fresh red apples, cold nectarines, strawberries with cream and bananas to improve their stamina on the court. Among the new activities, Zumba dancing demonstrations and face painting proved to be instant favorites for all the little kids.

Remembering Officer Brian T. Strouse

On this day and as part of the festivities of RBL’s Official Kick-Off, the Pilsen community paid tribute to a young police officer who fell in the line of duty: Officer Brian T. Strouse. This annual memorial, now in its tenth anniversary, took place at the Resurrection Basketball League’s basketball tournament held on 18th Place between Loomis Street and Throop Street — right by the exact the location where Officer Strouse lost his life while conducting a surveillance of gang activity several years ago.

Police officers stood in formation throughout the event in support of Brian’s desire to extract the negative and violent elements from the streets, rather than the youth. This ideal is what drives RBL to take back our streets and make them a place where kids can be safe again. Community leaders such as Alvaro Obregon, Carmelita Frias, Alderman Danny Solis, and TRP's CEO Raul I. Raymundo, along with prominent figures such

TRP's Raul I. Raymundo

as Chicago’s Superintendent Chief of Police Garry McCarthy and the Strouse family, were there to commemorate the fallen officer and to once again reclaim the streets for the good of our youth. Leaders highlighted the importance of law enforcement in the development of healthy communities and how this principle has inspired Pilsen to be a catalyst for citywide safety programs, such as the community policing program called Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy (CAPS). The memorial also brought out many new faces including RBL players, volunteers and other members from the community who were encouraged to establish friendships with the patrolling officers in our neighborhoods. The continuing support from the Strouse family and our community has proved to make Brian’s dream of a safe place for kids to play a reality.

…The Games Continue

The Resurrection Project takes pride on this safety initiative, which now in its 11th anniversary and is the forerunner of the City of Chicago’s model for Hoops in the Hood. Several months of preparation and evaluation took place in order to make RBL Hoops in the Hood a successful event and with your support we will continue growing.

As our neighborhood effort extends, Pilsen opens its doors to other communities in order to show that there are no boundaries and that we can all come together for the common good.

Join us in your block!

Keep up with the games, scores, highlights, pictures and more! Check out our for up-to-the-minute action at our RBL's Facebook!

Civic 2.0 classes: Bridging Pilsen’s digital divide

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 12:00:00 -0600

On Wednesday May 4, 2011 The Resurrection Project, Casa Juan Diego, the IL Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and Cooper Dual Language Academy celebrated the graduation of the first Civic 2.0 class.

The Civic 2.0 classes are designed to introduce community members to basic computer use, from turning on a system and operating a mouse to surfing the web and using email. The Civic 2.0 classes are part of the SmartChicago initiative which is currently bridging the digital divide in our communities via classes and community workshops.

The computer classes were facilitated by TRP's Elizabeth Rosas-Landa. Through a 10 week course on computer basics, Liz shows our community the advantages of technological knowledge and how computers can improve quality of life.

Mrs. Jesus receives her Civic 2.0 Award

“I was scared of getting near a computer, but that is not the case anymore. Now I can go to the library, log into my email, use the computer with my son, help him with homework, and be self-sufficient. This has been a wonderful experience and thanks to it I am studying English, and that is improving my life!” shared 2011 Civic 2.0 graduate Mrs. Jesus Jimenez.

With the completion of the program, Civic 2.0 graduates receive a netbook along with continued support from the city, so they can continue learning, remain connected to their classmates and utilize the information they gained from the program. Graduates now have the ability to share their computer skills with family and friends, help their children with school work and take advantage of all the information the internet offers.

If you would like more information on Civic 2.0 and other local SmartChicago events contact Elizabeth at 312 850 1935 ext. 104.

Chase Community Giving awards $68,000 for La Casa!

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 12:00:00 -0600

On June 22, 2011 The Resurrection Project was selected by the Advisory Board of the Chase Community Giving campaign to receive an extra $43,000 award for building La Casa - the nation's first community-based student housing development - bringing the total award of $68,000! TRP thanks Chase Bank for their generous support!

TRP also wants to thank you for your support during this online campaign, and remind you to continue supporting our fundraising efforts for La Casa. Please consider making a contribution to La Casa today!

What is La Casa?

“The bathroom, at 2:00 am” - this is when and where many of our college students study. At The Resurrection Project, we believe that they deserve more, and we are proud to announce our Big Idea: La Casa! Located in Pilsen, the heart of Chicago’s Latino community, La Casa will be the nation’s first community-based student housing development. The facility will support 105 Latino university students through a living/learning environment conducive to academic achievement. It will include housing, internships, and mentorships as well as a state of the art computer lab, student resource center, and college recruiting hub for high school students and families. La Casa will help reduce Chicago's high school dropout rate for Latinos (currently 35%) and increase those who have earned their Bachelor’s degree from a mere 8.9%. With a scheduled debut in Fall 2012, La Casa will help realize the dreams of many students, impacting families for generations to come. La Casa es tu Casa!

199 Families Served at Melrose Park's Home Rescue Fair

Wed, 13 Jul 2011 12:00:00 -0600

TRP volunteers at Home Rescue Fair

On June 11 & 12, 2011 The Resurrection Project (TRP) - in partnership with the Alliance for Stabilizing Our Communities, led by the National Council of La Raza (NCLR, the National Urban League (NUL), and the National Coalition for Asian Pacific American Community Development (National CAPACD), with the support of Bank of America— hosted a free Home Rescue Fair at Casa Esperanza in Melrose Park, Ill. Loan specialists, housing counselors, and attorneys provided intensive counseling and offered home retention strategies through workshops and in-language assistance to 199 Illinois families facing financial hardship.

Minority communities have been among the hardest hit by the economic downturn that continues to plague many American families. This reality was evident in client breakdown as 64% were Latino, 17% Caucasian, 11% African American and 5% Asian. Lenders like Wells Fargo and Bank of America had a strong presence, and were in high demand since most homeowners in attendance had mortgages with one of these two entities. For close to 60% of attendees this was the first time they worked directly with their banks and almost half of those in attendance were over 90 days behind in their payments. This is an important consideration as those families will now have the opportunity to explore ways to keep their beloved homes.

The Chicago Home Rescue Fair is one of many fairs that we at The Resurrection Project (TRP) have held since 2009 to help keep families in their homes or navigate other options after foreclosure. For those who might have missed this opportunity and wish to have their case assessed please contact TRP at (312) 666-1323. TRP is committed to helping alleviate homeowners facing financial hardship across the Chicagoland area.

Home Rescue Fair Provides Home Retention Services for Chicago Community

Mon, 06 Jun 2011 12:00:00 -0600

Para leer el comunicado de prensa en español oprima aqui.

(June 11-12, 2011) Chicago, IL – Housing has long provided a pathway to the American Dream for minority families, with non-Whites five times more likely to hold their homes as an asset over corporate stock. However, the ongoing foreclosure crisis is keeping that dream out of reach for many local families. To further their commitment to assist multicultural homeowners in the nation’s hardest hit neighborhoods, The Resurrection Project, Oak Park Regional Housing Center, and Latino Policy Forum, in conjunction with the Alliance for Stabilizing our Communities, will host a Home Rescue Fair beginning June 11 through June 12 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. to assist households at risk. The Fair will take place at the Casa Esperanza at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, located at 1115 N. 23^rd Avenue, Melrose Park, IL 60160 providing intensive counseling and home-retention strategies including workshops and in-language assistance. Homeowners can pre-register for the fair by calling 312.254.5034.

The program is the result of a national partnership including the National Urban League (NUL), National Council of La Raza (NCLR) and the National Coalition for Asian Pacific American Community Development (National CAPACD), with the support of Bank of America. The Resurrection Project and Latino Policy Forum are both affiliates of NCLR, partnering locally with the Oak Park Regional Housing Center. The fair aims to provide homeowners facing financial hardship with the resources they need to help them stay in their homes.

Homeowners can take advantage of the following in order to get the most out of their experience at the home rescue fair:

Pre-registration – attendees can register online in advance of the event. This will ensure that homeowners bring the proper documentation to the event and allow associates to fully evaluate their mortgage situation for a loan modification.

Multi- day services – the fair will be carried out over multiple days in order to meet with as many community members as possible and provide homeowners with the sufficient amount of service they need.

Resource Pavilion – In addition to one-on-one meetings with lenders, attendees will also benefit from resources available in the Resource Pavilion where they can gain helpful information from a number of local services in areas such as predatory lending, job placement, and public benefits, among others. Some of the local organizations present at the fair include:

H.A.S. – Healthcare Alternative Systems
Representatives from the Office of the Illinois Attorney General, Lisa Madigan
The Resurrection Project – Affordable Rental Apartments
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program
Fannie Mae
The Welcoming Center (Illinois Department of Human Services)
P.A.S.O. -- Proyecto de Acción de los Suburbios del Oeste (West Suburban Action Project)

The Alliance for Stabilizing our Communities has held three home rescue fairs in the Chicago area since 2009 and provided assistance to over 900 households. The program began as part of a two-year commitment by the Alliance organizations—through a $2.5 million grant from Bank of America—to provide resources and counseling to homeowners with the greatest need. The Alliance is back in Chicago in 2011 to continue to help homeowners facing financial hardship as unemployment and home retention continue to be issues nationwide.

“Last fall, there were more than 2,500 foreclosure filings in predominately-Latino communities in the city and the suburbs,” said Sylvia Puente, executive director of the Latino Policy Forum. “Foreclosure is devastating Latino communities. Our hope is that this Fair provides solutions for Latino and other homeowners, putting them on track to keep their homes and rebuild their communities.”

The ASC has served over 9,000 households over the past two years as a result of 35 successful events hosted in 28 high-risk communities around the country.

According to Raul Raymundo, CEO of the Resurrection Project, “The latest Census data demonstrates a profound shift in the relocation of minorities in Illinois. Perhaps the most surprising fact is that more Latinos now live in Chicago’s suburbs instead of its city limits. Now, we have to ensure that it is just as easy for them to receive services and information that will help them improve their personal finances.”

For more information, homeowners can call (312) 254-5034.

About The Resurrection Project

The work and mission of The Resurrection Project, a community-based nonprofit, is to build relationships and challenge people to act on their faith and values to create healthy communities through organizing, education and community development. The Resurrection Project primarily serves the neighborhoods of Pilsen, Little Village, and Back of the Yards on Chicago's Southwest Side through initiatives such as affordable homeownership and rental housing, financial education, leadership development, and civic engagement. For more information, visit www.resurrectionproject.org

About the Latino Policy Forum

The Latino Policy Forum is the only organization in the Chicago area that facilitates the involvement of Latinos at all levels of public decision-making. The Forum conducts analysis to inform, influence and lead. Its goals are to improve education outcomes, advocate for affordable housing, promote just immigration policies, and engage diverse sectors of the community, with an understanding that advancing Latinos advances a shared future. For more information, visit www.latinopolicyforum.org.

About Oak Park Regional Housing Center

The Oak Park Regional Housing Center operates the West Cook Homeownership Center – a HUD-approved housing counseling agency providing pre-purchase and foreclosure counseling in western Cook County. The Center’s mission is to achieve meaningful and lasting diversity. Services of the West Cook Homeownership Center are targeted to low-and moderate income and minority households. For more information, visit http://liveinoakpark.com.

For more information, please contact:

Janna Hughes – Emanate PR – 212.805.8041 – janna.hughes@emanatepr.com

April Dornidon – Emanate PR – 310.312.2278 – april.dornidon@emanatepr.com

Ryan Kelsey – The Resurrection Project – 312-907-4823 – rkelsey@resurrectionproject.org

From Mujer Avanzando to Success: Sandy's Experience

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 12:00:00 -0600

Sandy Guzman has been able to achieve her goals and, at 28 years old she continues pursuing life improving opportunities thanks to the Mujer Avanzando program. Her difficulties started when she became a mother at the early age of 18, as she was still in her junior year of high school living with her parents. After her first child was born she continued going to school but it was difficult to manage her time between school, being a mother, being in a romantic relationship and also maintaining a part time job as a bookstore cashier. Her days will start early, as she would take her son to daycare then go to school, pick him up, drop him off at her parents place and then going to work until 9pm, with very little time to spend with her kids and her partner. A year after having her first child, she became pregnant with a second child, moved in with her partner to raise the kids but due to her responsibilities her relationship started deteriorate. This unstable situation led to other more serious problems ultimately escalating into domestic violence.

However, Sandy, as the strong woman she considers herself to be persevered and endured being mistreated while continuing in this situation. 4 years after she had her last child, her relationship has turned worse with her partner leaving and returning pretty often, causing her more distress. It is also around this time that Sandy gave birth for the 3rd time. It was then that she decided to stand for herself and look for opportunities to break away from all this negativity and one day, as she walked down 18th street she found a way.

A flyer at the Rudy Lozano library announcing Mujer Avanzando caught her attention, specifically the free daycare offer. She was working to pay for a place to live and for daycare, and all this was very expensive with a part time bookstore cashier pay. She called the number, but due to the popularity of the Mujer Avanzando program, she had to wait for a year to be able to join. She didn’t let this long wait curb her enthusiasm, and was promptly enrolled by Irene Ochoa after a year went by.

Quickly after joining Sandy took advantage of the classes the program had to

offer. With Mujer Avanzado she learned about computers and how to use Microsoft Office products such as Excel and Powerpoint, skills she nowadays considers important as they were able to increase her earning potential. From the finance classes, she learned how to save money and also how to create a budget. And from the Leadership courses she learned that she has the power to manage her time wisely, productively and achieve the goals she has established for herself and her family.

Her hard work paid off, Sandy not only completed and graduated from Mujer Avanzando program last February 2011, but her talents, overcoming and disposition earned her a job with us at TRP as our receptionist. As she answers every call with a friendly upbeat voice, she is planning for a bright future in which she hopes to be more involved helping women achieve their maximum potential. She contemplates becoming a domestic violence victim advocate and plans to seek opportunities that would lead her there with Mujeres Latinas en Accion. She is also saving money for a down payment to buy a home for her and 10, 9 and 4 year old kids.

“If I can positively impact a struggling woman life by sharing my story, I would share my experience with Mujer Avanzado, encourage her to pursue and achieve her goals, just like I am doing. I overcame, became stronger and now I feel I can accomplish anything. ”

To learn more about Mujer Avanzando contact Irene Ochoa or Lupe Raymundo at (773) 890-0055.

Pilsen Seniors Succeed after 25 Year Fight

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 12:00:00 -0600

Pilsen Senior Activists in Springfield, IL.

Members of the greater Pilsen community came together to honor those who led a 25 year fight as they celebrated the 1st Open House of the Senior Satellite Center at Casa Maravilla located at 2021 S. Morgan St.

“This Senior Satellite Center is now open to everyone 55 and better throughout the adjacent neighborhoods,” Carmen Velasquez, Executive Director of the Alivio Medical Center said. “We hope that everyone across neighborhoods beyond Pilsen such as Little Village, Heart of Chicago, Back of the Yards, and South Loop make this center a part of their weekly wellness and social routine. We have the courageous people here in these photos to thank for it.”

The opening of Casa Maravilla brings to the Pilsen neighborhood a comprehensive 73-unit affordable senior rental building and a Senior Satellite Center which will be operated by the Alivio Medical Center for the Department of Family and Support Services, Senior Services-Area Agency on Aging.

The development is part of a campus environment that provides a range of housing and services, including Casa Morelos, a 45-unit mixed-income rental housing complex and the adjacent Alivio Medical Center and Bienestar Pharmacy. This campus will create a strong sense of community, where residents will work to support and recognize the contributions of each other’s.

Community leaders, residents, TRP tenants and seniors were there to celebrate.

“Twenty-five years ago, this neighborhood was even younger demographically. Young families were even younger. New grandparents began building many of the community organizations to support the needs of young parents and children,” said Susan Vega, the Manager, Senior Programs at Alivio. “By the time these leaders began to work on a specific space for themselves, they found that they were being short-changed. Their fight would be longer and more grueling.”

The City has worked closely with non-profit groups, private developers and faith-based organizations to ensure that Chicago’s seniors will be able to live independently and enjoy the quality of life they deserve after a lifetime of hard work.

“This is a community that innovates,” said Mary Ellen Caron, Commissioner of the Department of Family and Support Services. “One of the founders in this movement for Casa Maravilla and the Senior Satellite Center was named Guadalupe Reyes, founder of El Valor. She used to say, ‘If we can’t find a way, then we will make one.’ She and many others dedicated their lives to innovating for the wonderful people in this community”.

Raul Raymundo, CEO of The Resurrection Project added, “Our mission is to challenge others to act on their faith and values.” “Many of those who started this movement 25 years ago have sadly passed away. Those activists even knew that was very likely that they all wouldn’t be able to walk through the doors of the building today, and they still maintained a very strong faith in their vision. Their sacrifice made this a reality.”

“Casa Maravilla is another great example that shows that Chicago is a place where government, the private sector and the not-for-profit sector can work together to improve the quality of life for all our residents,” Mayor Daley said.

Arts & Crafts Instructor Cali Munoz.

Since the doors opened recently, each week the Center is full of activity for those from near and far. Organizations such as the National Museum of Mexican Art, the Adler School of Professional Psychology, the Growing Station Community Garden, the Goodman Theater, and University of Illinois Med Center are participating here.

“We are happy to see that over two-thirds of those participating in the City’s Golden Diners Program each weekday are from the neighboring communities,” said Teresa Fraga, Chairman of the Board for the Alivio Medical Center.

For more information, call 312-743-0493. The Senior Satellite Center is open Mondays through Fridays from 8:30 a.m. through 4:30 p.m.

TRP’s Guacolda Reyes wins La Raza’s Annual Distinguished Women Award.

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 12:00:00 -0600

La Raza's Newspaper Guacolda Reyes profile

The Resurrection Project is honored to announce that on Thursday, March 31st, Guacolda Reyes, TRP’s Vice President of Community Development, was awarded La Raza’s Annual Mujeres Destacadas/Distinguished Women recognition awards, a prestigious award honoring the many contributions Latinas have made within our community. Guacolda was selected out of 30 strong nominees in the Business & Technology category, which recognizes women who have played a significant role in the economic development or technological advancement for the Latino community.

Throughout TRP’s history, Guacolda has been a true leader in community and economic development in the Chicagoland area. We have been benefitting from her guidance and expertise at TRP for over 13 years now, and our community development projects during that time, including over 500 units of affordable housing in our neighborhoods, are directly attributed to her work.

Casa Maravilla Tenants Travel to Springfield for Capitol's Lobby Day

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 12:00:00 -0600

On Thursday, March 3rd over 40 community members including Resurrection Project tenants from Casa Maravilla, members from Centro Toribio Romo Immigrant Center and parishioners from Saint Agnes of Bohemia parish packed a bus and two cars and headed down to Springfield on a mission to talk to their state elected officials. It has become a tradition; this time of year hundreds of immigrant advocates flood the halls of the state capital to ensure that the state assembly is doing the best it can be for all the immigrants and refugees in the state.

This year, community members went to lobby and make sure the immigrant service line item remains funded so that immigrants can continue to receive the services they need, lobby for the Illinois DREAM Act making it more attainable for undocumented students to go to college, and to lobby for the Smart Enforcement Act, a bill that would defund programs such as "Secure Communities" which is deporting immigrants in numbers never seen before and costing the state valuable resources.

Maria Reyes from Saint Agnes of Bohemia said she went to Springfield because she was pulled over by the police a month ago for failing to make a stop and was only given a warning. "I realize that if I had been undocumented, the consequences could have been much worse, I could have been deported for this traffic violation instead of just given a warning," Maria told the group on the bus. Agustin Vega, a resident of Casa Maravilla, told the group he was going to Springfield because he was once accused and detained for being an undocumented immigrant even though he was born in America, he expressed frustration with programs that lead to discrimination and said that those programs needed to be stopped.

While at Springfield, community leaders met and spoke with Senator Antonio Munoz and Representative Acevedo. Maria Pena thanked Senator Munoz for his leadership on Smart Enforcement Act and asked what the community could do to move the bill forward while others shared stories of their friends in deportation. Lucio Ibarra, a Casa Maravilla leader, lead the group in the discussion with Representative Acevedo and asked him for his support and leadership in the House of Representatives.

The group came back with enthusiasm to keep working on improving the lives of immigrants and their families in the state and will soon be holding Know Your Rights trainings throughout Pilsen and Little Village!

Invest. Empower. Transform. TRPs 20th Anniversary Video

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 12:00:00 -0600

As TRP turned 20, we produced a video documenting our success in the communities we serve. Learn about our history, what we do, how we build relationships and create healthy communities.

The Resurrection Project & Instituto Del Progreso Latino breaks ground on the new Instituto Heath Sciences Academy.

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 12:00:00 -0600

On February 18^th 2011, The Resurrection Project, in partnership with Instituto Del Progreso Latino, broke ground on the construction of the Instituto Heath Sciences Academy. The high school is addressing the profound shortage of Latinos and other urban youth in the health care field in Illinois and ensuring parents and students have a high-quality educational option that leads directly to the jobs of the future.

The construction of the Academy will spur economic development now and in the future. Supported in part by a $12 million dollar grant through the Illinois Job Now capital bill, the $22 million project, developed by The Resurrection Project for IDPL, will transform a 77,000 square foot warehouse at 2520 South Western Avenue into a 100,000 square foot, state of the art educational center by the fall of 2011. Governor of Illinois Patrick Quinn, US Senator Richard Durbin, State Senator Tony Munoz, State representative Edwin Acevedo and Alderman Daniel Solis we amongst the guests of honor and each took a moment to express the importance of this development in our communities.

Mayor Daley Dedicates New Casa Maravilla Senior Housing And Satellite Center In Pilsen Community

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 12:00:00 -0600

Mayor Richard M. Daley today joined Ald. Danny Solis (25^th), The Resurrection Project and members of the Pilsen community to celebrate the grand opening of the Casa Maravilla affordable senior housing facility and satellite senior center located at 2021 S. Morgan St.

“Chicago’s seniors are one of our most valuable assets,” Mayor Daley said. “We depend on our community of seniors to serve as role models to our families and communities and are grateful for the significant contributions they have made to the culture of our neighborhoods and fabric of our city.”

Casa Maravilla offers a comprehensive 73-unit affordable senior rental building and a Senior Satellite Center which will be operated by the Department of Family and Support Services.

Mayor Richard M. Daley, Casa Maravilla Tenant Carlos Nunez, TRP's CEO Raul I. Raymundo and City of Chicago's Department of Housing and Economic Development's Ellen Sahli

Alex Morales

Mayor Daley said that the campus will create a strong sense of community, where residents will work to support and recognize the contributions of each other.

“We are proud to work at all levels of government to support our seniors who spent a lifetime building this great city,” Mayor Daley said. “The creation of more quality affordable housing for seniors and families is one of the ways that we are building a better future for the people of Chicago.”

Creating housing opportunities like Casa Maravilla for seniors is a part of the City’s recent five-year senior housing plan. The City exceeded its five-year goal by committing more than $433 million to support the creation of 4,022 new units of quality, affordable senior housing by the end of 2010.

Casa Maravilla is a $20 million affordable senior rental housing development built in cooperation with the Resurrection Project.

The five-story building is a mix of 28 studio, 32 one-bedroom and 13 two-bedroom units. Sizes range from 478 to 828 square feet. Other amenities include a fitness center and on-site parking. The units are made affordable to seniors earning less than 60 percent of area median income.

Casa Maravilla incorporates various green elements into the design and construction of the development, including water permeable paving, highly efficient mechanical systems and insulation.

The City invested $4 million in loans, $800,000 in tax credits, generating $13.2 million in equity and an investment of $108,400 in donations tax credit equity.

Other financing includes funding from the Illinois Housing Development Authority, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and a private mortgage loan.

Through the Chicago Department of Family and Support Services and our community partners, we are able to provide more than 400,000 seniors annually with resources, services and programming that promote healthy and independent lifestyles.

Call (312) 743-0493 and take advantage of the services that the Pilsen's Satellite Senior Satellite Center has to offer.

The Resurrection Project's receives the CISCO's 2010 Residential Construction Project of the Year

Tue, 01 Feb 2011 12:00:00 -0600

On Friday January 28 the Construction Industry Service Corporation (CISCO) announced its Project of the Year award winners as part of its annual Pride in Construction Award Program. The program, which recognizes the top quality union construction projects in four categories, also honors the efforts of an area educator, Illinois public body and labor conciliator. During this event the Resurrection Project & McShane Construction received the Residential Construction Award for our newest buildings Casa Maravilla and Casa Morelos, located in the Pilsen neighborhood.

Read the article here.

Pilsen Planning Committee Celebrates Pilsen’s 1st Family Unity Night at Dvorak Park

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 12:00:00 -0600

Last December 16, The Pilsen Planning Committee’s Family Task Force celebrated its first Family Unity Night at Dvorak Park. Over 250 Pilsen families attended this lively event and took advantage of the educational workshops, games and other activities offered by the local community based organizations.

Domestic Violence Prevention workshop.

The event provided a wide variety of workshops, from the most practical road safety workshop hosted by West Town Bikes to more specialized topics as Mujeres Latinas en Accíon: Signs of Dating Violence Workshop Pros Art Studio Workshop. Among the other workshops offered that evening we also had Orozco Academy’s parents teaching Migajon sculpting, ProsArts Studio creativity workshops and an introduction to knitting hosted by Tejer y Poder (Pilsen’s local Stich & B*tch Project chapter).

Alivio Medical Center promoted their healthy youth programs

“The Family Unity Night was a huge success. It brought our local community-based organizations to work together and establishing a safe, clean family oriented event that has the potential to improve our local quality of life as local organizations connect with at-risk families” shared Luis Bermudez, TRP’s Elev8 Manager at Orozco Academy and member of the PPC’s Family Task Force.

The Resurrection Project, as the lead agency for the Pilsen Planning Committee, is proud of the work of the PPC’s Family Task Force and its local partners. Congratulations!

Learn more about the PPC’s Family Task Force and its partners by visiting the following the links below:

Union League Boys & Girls Club, National Able Network, TRP, Working Bikes Cooperative, ProArts Studios, Pilsen Athletic Conference Youth Baseball, Alderman 25^th Ward Danny Solis, Mujeres Latinas en Accion, STARS Students Teaching And Reaching Students, SER Central States Jobs for Progress Inc., Stitch & B*tch, 12^th District Police Department and the Chicago Park District.

Families Embrace Technology at the New Communities Program’s SmartChicago Campaign Roll Out

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 12:00:00 -0600

The Pilsen Smart Communities Launch on November 16^th brought together the technological expertise of the Instituto Del Progreso Latino and the community organizing approach of The Resurrection Project to Orozco Community Academy for families ready to learn how they can take full advantage of all the benefits that being computer savvy has to offer.

Over 300 parents and their kids participated in presentations and demonstrations on technology-based services available online, such as Skype.

TRP’s Broadband Technology Opportunity Program organizer, Elizabeth Rosas-Landa, impressed the guests by having a free live video conversation with Skype users in Mexico City and in the Mexican City of Michoacan. Elizabeth is an outspoken proponent of promoting and increasing access to technology for all families. “Technology can bring the family together,” she said, “and by providing information on online resources available and training to use these technologies, we can improve our children’s education and quality of life overall”.

TRP's SmartChicago Tech Organizer Elizabeth Rosas-Landa

During the event, local community leaders such as Orozco Community Academy’s Principal Mrs. Coralia Barraza expressed her gratitude for the efforts The Resurrection Project and allies are undertaking to bring these types of digital and educational opportunities to local families. By the end of the event, TRP’s Broadband Technology Opportunity Program had collected 250 registration forms for IDPL’s Family Net Center Program, proof that our community is ready to take the leap to bridge the digital divide.

If you or anyone you know would like to take advantage of and/or promote our technology initiatives, please contact Elizabeth Rosas-Landa at 312.850.1935 ext 104.

The Broadband Technology Opportunity Program is supported in part by LISC (Local Initiatives Support Corporation), Broadband USA, City of Chicago, Pilsen Smart Communities, The Resurrection Project, Instituto del Progreso Latino and Pilsen Portal.

ILDCEO’s Energy Efficient Affordable Housing Program State Grant Awarded to Casa Maravilla

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 12:00:00 -0600

Casa Maravilla

On October, 27 2010, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (ILDCEO) held a press conference at The Resurrection Project’s (TRP’s) newest affordable senior rental building Casa Maravilla, to publicize the state efforts to fund more energy efficient affordable housing in Illinois . The grant for a green senior housing project in Chicago that TRP received is part of an effort to create more energy efficient affordable housing in Illinois.

The morning event opened with ILDCEO’s Director Warren Ribley showcasing the green and energy efficient components of Casa Maravilla and the reasons the State of Illinois needs to continue investing in green technologies. ILDCEO’s $200,000 Energy Efficient Affordable Housing Program State Grant will helps The Resurrection Project offset costs for installing sustainable features at Casa Maravilla. The grant is part of the efforts of the Illinois Energy Efficient Affordable Housing Program, a program that started in 1988 and which, according to the department, has already provided more energy-efficient housing to more than 5,500 low income families. “The Resurrection Project would like to thank the state and DCEO for their commitment and investment to affordable housing project for low-income seniors,” said Raul Raymundo, Chief Executive Officer of The Resurrection Project. “With this funding we were also able to make Casa Maravilla one of the greenest buildings in the entire city and promote environmentally friendly community development initiatives.”

Guacolda Reyes, TRP's Vice President of Community Development

Casa Maravilla features a variety of green building technologies including pervious paving to decrease run-off and a partial green rooftop system reducing energy consumption and water entering the storm sewers. Casa Maravilla is also one of Chicago’s first residential buildings and low income housing tax credit buildings to utilize an innovative and environmentally geothermal heating system, which draw’s on the earth’s natural heat to both warm and cool the building. “We only have one planet,” said The Resurrection Project’s Vice President of Community Development Guacolda Reyes. “We built Casa Maravilla with this in mind; we committed ourselves to building in a way that was friendlier to the earth and would be more sustainable across generations, and then we went out and got the funding to make that happen.”

“We are delighted to live in such a beautiful building, that is affordable and close to work,” said Mr. Rafael Peña, a tailor on 18th street. He and his wife, Maria Hernandez, are Casa Maravilla tenants and active community residents. The couple has started hosting get-togethers with other seniors in the building, and they were recently captains of The Resurrection Projects voter registration drive. “We have the opportunity and the space to spend time and socialize with our neighbors,” said Mrs. Hernandez. “It’s a dream come true.”

TRP & City of Chicago to Inaugurate Casa Maravilla’s Senior Satellite Center

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 12:00:00 -0600

We regret to inform you that the Grand Opening of the City of Chicago’s Senior Satellite Center at Casa Maravilla planned for Saturday January 29^th 2011 has been postponed until further notice.

Casa Maravilla—The Resurrection Project’s newest affordable rental building, exclusively for adults 55 and over- will be housing the newest City of Chicago’s Department of Aging Senior Satellite Center. Casa Maravilla’s Senior Satellite Center will host the Golden Diners Program, offering local seniors a way to get a healthy meal each day and enjoy the company of friends. Hot, nutritious lunches will be served to adults over 55 years of age and, in addition to enjoying a meal with friends and neighbors, seniors can participate in the many activities scheduled for the site.

The Satellite Center will also boast: an award winning fitness program with a personal trainer and state-of-the-art fitness equipment; a Health Promotion and Wellness Education component with in-house medical providers supported by Alivio Medical Center; computer training classes in a supervised computer lab; life enrichment activities (dance, arts and crafts,; parties and special events; billiards, senior club meetings, etc.); field trips; and tours. Last but not least, Casa Maravilla is strategically located directly north of Alivio Medical Center and, for most senior citizens, access to affordable quality health care is a main concern when choosing a place to live.

According to TRP’s Vice President of Community Development, Guacolda Reyes, “Our seniors deserve the best, and so many of them have been living in deteriorating conditions and suffer from increasing rent, economic hardship due to the recession and fixed incomes, and isolation. Now seniors not only can take advantage of the safe and affordable housing opportunity but also of the City of Chicago’s Senior Satellite Center, a valuable resource for the whole community, offering daily meals, educational activities, and services, thanks to one our strongest partners, the City of Chicago.”

TRP Saves the Mendez’ Home from a Complicated Case of Foreclosure

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 12:00:00 -0600

Angelina Mendez, a 41 year-old local entrepreneur and mother of two, was able to purchase a home close to the convenience store she owns in Little Village. Like many families who have faced the danger of foreclosure, Angelina was able to accommodate the initial payments on her home before her original mortgage terms expired. As is the case for sub-prime loans and adjustable rate mortgages, once the new term expired, her house payments increased dramatically.

When her payments skyrocketed to almost triple the amount she used to pay monthly she started to look for help. Angelina’s sister, whose own home had been saved from foreclosure and mortgage payments reduced after working with The Resurrection Project, recommended she contact us. Angelina, already aware of The Resurrection Project’s reputation in the community, called us immediately.

TRP’s Foreclosure Manager, Alex Navas, began working with Angelina in September 2009: reviewing her documents, contacting the bank who owned her mortgage, and applying for a loan remediation,. During the lengthy process, while waiting for a resolution from the bank, Angelina found out that her mortgage servicer had changed. With her loan in the hands of a new servicer, Angelina and Mr. Navas had to reinitiate the loan modification process. Despite the setback, TRP quickly established contact with the new servicer, submitted her paperwork, and achieved a loan modification. Now, Angelina is thrilled with her new fixed-rate mortgage payment, which is nearly a third of what it had been when she first contacted TRP.

“I am grateful to TRP as they we are able to help me protect my investment, and they did so with a high level of professionalism, trust and integrity- and I have been telling everyone about my experience. Now my daughters and I can enjoy once again the financial stability of owning our home. And they did everything without expecting anything in return, just driven by good faith” shared Angelina.

If you, a family member, a friend or anyone you know is in the process of foreclosure, please refer them to TRP. We help families save their homes!

Changing the course of people's lives by transforming.

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 12:00:00 -0600

At the Gala, TRP recognized community leaders who have committed themselves to action in support of improving the lives of others. These leaders are behind the scenes, doing the on-the-ground work of community revitalization but aren’t in the spotlight. We honor these individuals who have committed themselves to civic engagement and giving back to their community. They are truly cornerstones; they are foundational to our work and to the work of making their streets and neighborhoods and city a better place to live.

Rosa Perez

A single mother of three who purchased her home in 1996, Ms. Perez not only invested in her community but for years has diligently fought with her neighbors to take back their streets when they were threatened by gangs and violence. Ms. Perez and her neighbors worked hard to close down dangerous hotspots and make the neighborhood a more safe and peaceful residential community.

Edith Souto

Two years ago, Ms. Souto, a participant in the Mujer Avanzando program, was riddled with debt and trying to leave an abusive husband. Today, Edith is debt free, has begun her own credit history, opened a savings account to buy her home. Ms. Souto is now very active in her parish and community by working to assist the homeless, youth drug addicts and reaching out to women who have been in domestic violence to financially prepare them to leave their abuser. Edith plans to open her own business and create a foundation to give back in the future.

Maria Hernandez and Rafael Peña

Tenants of TRP’s most recent affordable rental building, Casa Maravilla, the Peña-Hernandez family are active community residents and members of St. Pius, a Pilsen parish. Inspired by the impact of TRP’s efforts in the community, they began volunteering, and most recently were captains of our voter registration drive.

Yolanda Mercado

Ms. Mercado, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2001. She came to TRP’s Stand Against Cancer workshops because her husband had lost his job and she didn’t have health insurance; through the program, she was able to receive treatment and beat cancer. Now Ms. Mercado volunteers her time as a health advocate, educating other women on the importance of early detection, and participating in a variety of other civic engagement programs in the community.

Sonia Espinoza

As one of Elev8’s first parent volunteers when the program began at Orozco Academy in 2008, Ms. Zamora taught herself English by sitting in on her son’s classes and studying his books, lessons, and homework. After two years studying she finally earned her high school diploma. Now Ms. Zamora volunteers almost full-time as Elev8’s spokesperson and has grown into a community leader, advocating on local and national levels on behalf of Elev8 and the importance of education.