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The Association House Run Team crushes their personal goals while fundraising for their neighbors. Are you a runner, fitness enthusiast, or someone ready to take on a new challenge — all while giving back to your community? Lace up those sneakers, because the Association House Run Team is recruiting for 2026!   Whether you’re an experienced runner or a first-time race participant, this is your chance to run together, grow together, and make a meaningful impact  across Chicago. At Association House, we believe in movement with intention  — fitness that not only challenges you physically, but also supports transformational community impact. When you join the Run Team, you’ll: Join a welcoming community of runners  motivated by health, connection, and purpose. Make every mile matter  by raising vital funds that support Association House programs helping neighbors throughout Chicago. Have fun!  From 5Ks to half marathons, we explore Chicago’s neighborhoods one race at a time. Last year, our team not only hit the pavement together — we raised $5,000 to transform lives  in our community! By sharing your passion for running, you help bring opportunity  to the lives of the people Association House serves. Get ready for exciting race days across the city! Our featured team events include: 📅 Sunday, May 17, 2026  – Chicago Spring Half Marathon + 5K 📅 Saturday, July 26, 2026  – Stan’s Donut Run 5K + 10K 📅 Sunday, October 4, 2026  – Bucktown 5K Are you ready to make your miles meaningful? 👉 Sign up today  by filling out the Run Team Interest Form and start your journey with a community that runs with heart and purpose. 📩 Have questions? Reach out to Jennifer Sheridan, Development Specialist , at jsheridan@associationhouse.org

When Ramsey returned home after nearly a decade in federal prison, the road ahead felt uncertain. Like many people reentering their communities after incarceration, he faced serious barriers to employment — and the constant pull of habits that had defined much of his life. “I’ve been in and out of prison for over 30 years,” Ramsey shared. “This was the first time — probably the first time ever — that I didn’t even think about going back to that lifestyle .” That turning point began through street outreach. Ramsey was connected to SC2 (Scaling Community Violence Intervention), a citywide initiative that works through trusted community organizations to prevent violence by addressing its root causes. SC2 focuses on relationship-building, conflict resolution, and linking people to real opportunities — from mental health support to job training — before harm occurs. Through SC2’s outreach, Ramsey was introduced to Association House of Chicago and its Culinary Careers Training Program. What started as a class quickly became something much bigger. “When you find something that gives you peace and lets you be productive — and you can see the results of your work — that’s something you start to value,” he said. “Every day, I appreciated it more.” In the kitchen, Ramsey found structure, encouragement, and a sense of dignity that had long been missing. He credits the program with helping him stay focused and grounded during a critical period of reentry. “This wasn’t about being perfect,” Ramsey explained. “They met you where you were. If you didn’t know anything, they taught you. And they actually wanted to see you succeed.” Most importantly, the program helped interrupt the cycle that had pulled Ramsey back into incarceration for decades. “It was never prison that stopped me before — not family, not fear. It was finally having the chance to do something different and still be good at it.” -Ramsey, SC2 Participant at Association House Today, Ramsey continues to build his skills, pursue certifications, and explore opportunities in the culinary field, lending a hand to catering events alongside his fellow graduate chefs. He remains deeply grateful for the environment he found at Association House — and for the outreach that made it possible. “When you walk into Association House, you feel it,” he said. “People there genuinely want to help. And that kind of atmosphere can change a life.” Ramsey’s story is just one example of how SC2’s community-based approach is creating safer streets and stronger futures — not through punishment, but through connection, care, and opportunity. ▪ -- Discover more about SC2 at sc2humboldt.org .

Join Association House on Thursday, June 11, at Faces of Hope  for an unforgettable evening of celebration, connection, and inspiration that honors the resilience and hope driving our mission forward. Save the date and be part of this special night.  Early bird tickets go on sale March 16th! Faces of Hope is returning to Lacuna Lofts for an incredible night of bold flavors, lasting moments, and stories that remind us what's possible when we come together. When you join us, you fuel Association House's work to expand opportunity so individuals can fully participate in the life of their families, communities, and society. Want to get involved? Faces of Hope invites civic-minded businesses to join us through sponsorship or in-kind donation. Learn more below!

Kristy is the Supervisor of our Visions Substance Use Program. Question: What attracted you to work at Association House? Answer: In my search for non-profits in Chicago, I came across Association House's website. Seeing the long history and everything from case management, substance use, and mental health services, to a high school for youth until 21, two residential buildings, and more, I knew I should apply. I have always known I wanted to work with people in the criminal justice system that struggle with substance use. This program specifically works on a harm reduction approach. We are open and willing to meet each participant who comes in "where they are at" with no judgment. Q: What is your favorite part of working at AHC: A: I have been working here for five years and feel like Association House is one big family. Everyone here has the same goal: helping people in the community. It's a big building with multiple programs and everyone knows each other and works together to reach a common goal. Fun fact: My sister and I are 11 months apart and are the same age for five days in June.

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.