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We take the time on this Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month to honor, celebrate, and recognize the historical and cultural contributions of individuals and groups of Asian and Pacific Islander) AAPI) descent nationally and here in Chicago. Two significant events established more than 100 years ago mark the commemoration of May for what is now celebrated as AAPI Heritage Month: on May 7, 1843, the first of Japanese immigrants arrived in the country, and on May 10, 1869, predominantly Chinese immigrants constructed and completed the transcontinental railroad. Despite these and so many other contributions to American society and culture, the “destructive foreigner” narrative has for decades incited suspicion, prejudice and hatred of AAPI individuals and communities. And in recent years, Asian American communities have experienced an uptick in violence and hate driven largely by racist and xenophobic rhetoric surrounding the coronavirus pandemic. We at Association House reject these notions of hate and exclusion and recognize that the contributions of our diverse AAPI communities add to American society and identity in immeasurable ways. During AAPI Heritage Month and beyond, we can be allies in actionable ways that go beyond words. AAPI Heritage Month is not only for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders to celebrate, but it is also a time where we can all actively participate in Chicago’s rich Asian-American culture and take actions to educate ourselves. Association House’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI/Anti-Racism) Committee has created a list of ways to support local AAPI Businesses within the Chicagoland Area displayed in the images below. We're proud to partner with a number of these organizations and businesses throughout the year.

As you know, June is Pride Month and a time to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community. Pride Month celebrates LGBTQIA+ culture, achievements, and activism through organized activities, including film festivals, art exhibits, marches, concerts, and other programs. Through these efforts, the LGBTQIA+ community and its allies also aim to increase awareness over ongoing issues of inequality as well as commemorate the lives lost to hate crimes and HIV/AIDS. The month-long celebration is really a call for greater unity, visibility, and equality for the LGBTQIA+ community, and an opportunity to recognize our AHC team and participants that identify as LGBTQIA+ for their contributions to the House and for the important and unique perspective that they bring to our work. That said, while it's a time to look toward a fairer, kinder future, it's also a moment to recognize all the advances- and setbacks- in the last few decades. Although the movement began long before 1969, we recognize that year’s Stonewall uprising in New York City as a catalyst to recognize the rights, the dignity, and the solidarity with our LGBTQIA+ family. Stonewall began when Marsha P. Johnson, a Black transgender woman, and a coalition of gay rights activists spurred an act of rebellion against the laws that oppressed the community. Today, these acts have become an inclusive celebration of LGBTQIA+ visibility. When we think about all they have accomplished, we thank those who marched at Stonewall and in movements throughout the country, for it is their courage and vision that gave birth to the LGBTQIA+ movement. Sincerely, The DEI Committee Kristy Kolzow Juan Carlos Linares Jemina Lyle Nicole Reed Drew Williams Aasta Ziegler

Idalys joined Association House through the Colbert program, helping individuals with mental health conditions transition out of nursing facilities to community-based living. Idalys has had many roadblocks on her way to her independence, but she’s made it through each one. She is motivated and determined in sharing her message of positivity with the world. Through Association House, Idalys is seizing her future, well-being, and becoming independent. Meet Idalys – in her own words: Who is Idalys? Tell me about yourself. Wow! Idalys is a beautiful, special, and grateful person. Idalys was lost for such a long time, so long. I literally was crawling on my knees when I came to Association House. How did you get connected to Association House? When I was in a nursing home, Mr. Darius (nursing home staff), mentioned that I could get an apartment. And by the grace of God [he] showed me to Association House. And I met Aasta. She was really nice. Then I met Rachel and a couple of more girls, and they were scary. (Rachel and Idalys both laugh). Y'all came in with happy faces, and I was like, ‘Oh my God.’ But it is OK and every day that I see these ladies I know it's beautiful. It’s joy; it’s laughter; it’s hope. It's welcoming. What was your experience like with Association House? The first thing Association House did for me was give me all my medication. I told [the staff] I would be a better person next year. I came back the following year, when I started the whole program - healthier with more self-esteem and love. They hooked me up with my link so I can have food; brought me clothes; and gave me love until I could love myself. It was so beautiful. I've been through a lot this year. I lost my home due to a home fire. Association House came the following day and brought me everything. Mr. Henry (our vocational support specialist), who I love so much because [he] is my hero. He took me shopping; bought me an air mattress, shampoo, conditioner, and perfume. I was so grateful. I’m so happy I will be getting my apartment within the next few weeks, but I have to admit, ‘nothing - and I’m serious -nothing would ever happen to me if it wasn't for Association House.’ I’m the most grateful person in the whole wide world. What does it mean to you to have your own apartment? I'm a very spiritual person, and I believe in God. I want my own destiny, home, and life. I don't wanna depend on nobody. It's me; it's my turn. God is giving me a chance. Now it's time for me to shine. I wanna shine. What have you taken away from your experience? There is a lot of things that I have learned. [Association House] has a drop-in center and it’s so fun. The staff is great and teach us about nurturing ourselves - how to live, take care of our personal hygiene. We speak about self-esteem, medications, and more. [They are] like a family. A family that makes me laugh; a family that accepts me for who I am. How has Association House helped you? As soon as you walk in, the receptionists welcome you. Then you go upstairs then there's John, Awilda, and Enrique. Who offer you anything you want. If you don't have personal things, they give it to you. And we all love each other. We do music therapy, which, for me, is a must. And then, on Tuesdays I see Miss Alejandra, my therapist. I have trust issues when it comes to therapists. But they made me feel so comfortable. There's Miss Rachel who keeps up with all my medical things - and throws me under the bus when I forget {All laugh} but she takes care of me. Could you share what would it be like for someone who needs a service like this and could do it, but doesn’t have the opportunity? Wow! That’s very hard. I was the youngest person in the nursing. I looked around every day and I'm like ‘Why am I in this nursing home with so many old people? Why? And it was because there was a lesson to be learned. I was a drug addict. I was getting high for 20 plus years; and Winston saved my life too. It made me safe and sober.’ There are so many people in that nursing home that cannot do most things for themselves. And there are people that keep them there. And they are trapped, want to go home, and want their own apartment. And it could be given; but I find it unfair for [people] to give so much to the nursing homes, and yet not be able to enjoy life, eat a healthy meal, go outside, and see your family members. None of that. As part of your journey, you make your own videos. What is your message to your audience? First of all, I have to say it was all Henry. He inspires me to do things. I was the kind of person that would literally sit in a dark room and cry. I would call Rachel and Darius, ‘I don't wanna cry no more,’ I had no self-esteem. And this year, after the fire; it was like a wakeup call. I have a new life, a new perspective. I decided to start videotaping it. My life journey, you know? Where am I going? What's going on with me? What is Association House doing for me? People here [at AHC], there are so many, and I don't even know their names but everyone... thank you. They gave me my life back, and I videotape it. I’m grateful for the team. Everyone that helps me out. Those are my videos. And they're beautiful, beautiful, beautiful. They're inspiring and they inspire people to go out there and follow your dreams. Because it's been given to you. GIVEN. And it didn’t cost me a thing. I am that one person that you guys are helping that made a change. That made a life. I think you guys are my angels; and I wouldn't ever turn my back to Association House because that is my home.

Alejandra is our Licensing Representative and part of Association House's Child Welfare team. She shares how loves seeing the children and youth in care smiling at her when she visits their foster home. She shares the importance of people being foster parents, what influenced her to work in foster care, and what she enjoys about being a licensing representative. What is your favorite part of your experience with Child Welfare? Seeing the children and youth in care smiling at me when I visit them at the foster home. I love hearing how their day went, accomplishments, school progress and any recreational activities. Above all, I was able to experience successful stories in the form of return home to birth parents, single parent, guardianship and adoption. In honor of National Foster Care month, why should people become foster parents? Children and youth in the foster care system have experienced either being abused, neglected, abandoned or faced tremendous obstacles. With your love and support, these vulnerable children in care will have the opportunity to be in a safe, loving environment — which allows them to thrive. Lastly, foster parenting is a powerful way to lift up the heads of these children and youth and show them that there is hope for the future. Who influenced your desire to work in foster care? My childhood friend was a key factor in my desire to work foster care at Association House of Chicago. She was already working as a case manager at AHC and she was aware that management was recruiting for additional staff to come onboard. Therefore, she reached out to me and encourage me to apply for foster care. All thanks to her and my dedication to help children in need, I have the privilege to work at an amazing agency. What do you enjoy the most when working as a licensing representative? Everything! From spending time with youth in care & foster families, speaking to potential prospectives, working with our development team in creating media content for recruitment to working diligently with my fellow colleagues.

Brandon is our Social Studies teacher for Association House High School. He shares how his high school health teacher inspired him to be an educator. He shares his favorite part of working at Association House, the high school, and his most fulfilling experience as a teacher. What is your favorite part of your experience with Association House? My favorite part of my experience with Association House is seeing the ways we’ve grown as an organization. Many organizations may find it easier to stick to what is comfortable and refuse to move with an ever-changing society. AHC, on the other hand, has shown itself to be willing to grow and respond to the realities of our world. For example, when the uprisings and protests began in the wake of George Floyd’s murder by police, we worked with administration to release a statement reflecting our commitment to anti-racist education. AHC has also worked to develop anti-racist policies within the building, developing a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee to ensure we build these values into our operation and culture. Many schools or organizations might shy away from this sort of commentary and change, encouraging a stance of political neutrality, but AHC recognizes that neutrality cannot stand in the face of injustice. What is your favorite part of your experience with Association House High School? My favorite part of my experience with the high school is the ability for educators to shape their classroom, whether that be teaching style, curriculum choices, or classroom activities. Teachers are given the autonomy and respect as experts to be able to dictate what their classroom looks like and what topics will be discussed. While teachers all around the country are being forced to teach a history which ignores the racism of the past and present, we are encouraged to look closely at systems of oppression with our students. Instead of being told to avoid difficult topics, we are supported by our school to dive into these issues. Whether it be discussing violent protests, looking at wealth inequality, discussing homophobia/transphobia, or confronting racism, teachers and students are trusted to delve into these discussions with sincerity and care. Who influenced your desire to want to be an educator? My high school health teacher was the person who made me want to become an educator. He approached education in a way that made it real and made students want to listen. He covered information that we actually wanted to learn and made it relevant to our lives. He discussed topics that other adults stayed away from (like mental health, drugs, and sexual health) in a way that was comfortable and welcoming. He encouraged students to be unapologetically themselves and really saw students for who they were. He helped me understand that a good teacher is simply there to help guide the journey of learning that the students get to lead. What has been your most fulfilling experience as a teacher? My most fulfilling experience as a teacher is being able to see students recognize their own potential and use that potential towards a better future. Our students are required to exist within the traditional school system, which was created to reinforce white supremacy by violently requiring assimilation and conformity. For those who push against this assimilation, they are often given the label of “bad student” who “can’t be successful in school”. Within this reality is an opportunity: Creating spaces in which students can re-envision themselves and direct the blame where it truly lies: a school system informed by a racist and capitalist society. Students can very acutely name and describe this system but have usually not had their descriptions validated by people with power, especially teachers. And once their experiences are validated, there is a sense of relief and reassessment of identity: There are no "bad students". Instead, there are students who weren't allowed to succeed in a school system that was made to push them out. Any student can be successful in a school that loves and celebrates them. Lastly, we begin to see another important reality: broken systems can be changed with people power and solidarity. This process of dismantling oppressive systems and reimagining them as positive, healing spaces is what makes teaching worthwhile. It’s a process of demolition and rebuilding that will be led by powerful young people.

Jennifer is our Community Support Specialist and part of Association House's Behavioral Health team. She shares how the connections she's made with participants and coworkers make her experience at the house special. In honor of National Mental Health Awareness month, she shares what influences her career, shares some advice, and the importance of taking care of ourselves. What is your favorite part of your experience with Association House? My favorite part about working at Association House is the connections I have made with my coworkers and participants. I appreciate that the people I have met throughout my time here have made it a great experience. What influenced your desire to want to be a counselor? I feel very strongly about mental health and mental well-being because growing up in a traditional Hispanic household with immigrant parents, mental health was not seen as “real.” I wanted to be able to change that mindset at least within my family. I hope that with time, mental health is no longer a taboo topic within my culture. In honor of national mental health awareness month, what advice would give to someone struggling with their mental health? I would like to encourage people to seek help when they feel like they need it. Whether it be with a friend or a professional, it is important to have a safe space where one can feel better. Taking even small steps in receiving treatment may be of big benefit. Why do you believe it’s important to take care of our mental health? I believe it's very important to take care of our mental health to live a healthy lifestyle. Our mental health helps determine the decisions we make and our connections with others. Therefore, I believe that out mental health is important for our overall well-being.

Adriana is our Foster Care Case Manager and part of Association House's Child Welfare team. She shares how working with peers who are all educated and part of the LatinX community is her favorite part of her experience. She shares with us who inspired her to work in foster care and her most fulfilling experience as a case manager. What is your favorite part of your experience with Association House? My favorite part about working at Association House is being able to work with my peers who are all educated and part of the LatinX community. I feel proud and included and I'm so thankful to be working next to such amazing individuals. What is your favorite part of your experience with Child Welfare? My favorite part of working in Child Welfare is being given the opportunity to help our minor's and families feel taken care of and supported during their involvement with DCFS. It's a difficult time for the individuals involved and that is when support is needed most. Who influenced your desire to work in foster care? My brother-in-law and therapist influenced to me to explore social work. They all had their degrees in social work and/or psychology and both suggested social work because in encompasses so many different realms. They were right, since joining the field I have had the privilege of closely working with therapists, addiction counselors, attorneys, and judges. What has been your most fulfilling experience as a case manager? My most fulfilling experience as a case manager was working on an adoption for two minors who had an active DCFS case for as long as they could remember. Visit after visit they would express how they just "didn't want to be a part of the system" anymore. Although I'd end up missing our visits, I was ecstatic they no longer had to be a part of something they so desperately wanted to be free of.

CHICAGO (CBS) -- High school can be a tough ride for some students. One young man with whom we spoke said it was boring and he felt like he was surrounded by robots. But his new school takes a different path to graduation. CBS 2's Lauren Victory took us inside the Association House High School, an alternative charter in Humboldt Park. Association House High School at 1116 N. Kedzie Ave. looks and sounds like a regular Chicago Public High School – from the stampede to class to the buzzing teacher. Yes, there are microscopes, textbooks, and the constant sharpening of minds – but this charter school's classrooms aren't run-of-the-mill. "You get that one-on-one. They make sure you actually learn," said student Carlos Vega. A small class size and personable teachers keep him engaged. He says he's made a total transformation from his previous school. "I was like skipping and you know – not invested in it. You know, getting in trouble," said Vega. A mentor referred him to Association House of Chicago about three years ago. Many of Vega's classmates have similar stories. Something prevents them from attending a traditional school. Baby Jordany was Jessica Froylan's challenge. "I always wanted to finish high school. With my other schools, it was hard, because I was pregnant. Then I had my kid and had nobody to watch and I'm like, I'm not going to come to school," said Froylan. Now, Froylan and her sister are able to work on their diplomas while their kids play. The Family Literacy Program that makes daycare possible is more than a babysitting service. The moms are encouraged to visit during the school day to pick up skills to teach their babies at home. "It's one of the things I'm most proud of as principal," said David Pieper, who has been with the school for more than 10 years. The principal said he has always researching ways to increase attendance which is how laundry access became another perk for students. "A lot of our students lack that support or that access to fundamental necessities" Pieper said. "To not miss school for something as simple as laundry; if we can remove that barrier, it's something we attempt to do." The newest, non-traditional approach at the school is restorative justice training for all staff, which is made up of both teachers and designated student mentors. The alternative but personalized learning is making a difference. Just ask Vega. "It makes school actually kind of fun," he said. The 18-year-old is on track to graduate this year. Association House High School gets the same sort of funding that a typical school gets. But its extra resources like daycare and laundry access are paid for through grants and donations.

Cortney is our Psychosocial Rehabilitation (PSR) Bilingual Clinician and part of Association House's Behavioral Health team. She shares with us that as a teacher, she was drawn to assisting the kids in her classroom who were struggling behaviorally, which inspired her to be a therapist. In honor of National Mental Health Awareness Month, she shares the importance of taking care of our mental health and provides advice to those struggling with their mental health. What is your favorite part of your experience with Association House? My favorite thing about Association House is how committed everyone is to help the people we serve. In my short time here so far, I have noted that so many of our employees are willing to go above and beyond to make sure our participants are taken care of. The willingness of various teams and departments to work together and collaborate to ensure that we are providing to best services we can is refreshing, and I feel lucky to be a part of such an amazing team! What influenced your desire to want to be a therapist? I was always fascinated in school with any topic that was related to psychology, so that was initially what inspired me to major in psychology in undergrad. When I first graduated, I initially got certified in Montessori teaching and believed that it was my calling. However, I soon found that as a teacher, I was drawn to assisting the kids in my classroom who were struggling behaviorally – the ones who just did not fit into the Montessori way of learning and had trouble interacting with other kids and were not being served by the structure of the class. I wanted to be able to dedicate my time to helping those kids and quickly realized that I was going to need further training to do that. For that reason, I chose to pursue a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology. Once I had my degree and training under my belt, it seemed like a natural progression to step into the role of being a therapist. In honor of National Mental Health Awareness Month, what advice would give to someone struggling with their mental health? My biggest advice to anyone struggling with their mental health is that you are not alone. There are so many of us who struggle with mental health issues, including myself. Don’t be afraid to seek help. I know that there is stigma and shame in our society for receiving treatment or assistance for mental illness, but please don’t let this keep you from asking for help when you need it. There are people and places all over this city who are trained and ready to help you through whatever you are going through. Why do you believe it’s important to take care of our mental health? For me, taking care of my mental health is just as important as taking care of my physical health. The mind-body connection is incredible and well-established, which makes mental health awareness so crucial. Our mental health affects how we think, feel, and act and therefore how we handle everyday stressors, how we relate to others, and what choices we make. Thus, just like our physical health, we must work at it every day. Small things like exercising, eating healthy, taking a break when you need to, opening up to people in your life, remembering something that made you smile, and getting enough sleep are small steps we can all take to work on our mental health daily.

When children are away from their homes of origin, they experience a profound loss. It is important that foster parents support the children in processing emotions. This article will help you understand the child’s behavior in the stages of grief. Shock and Denial Children may act with little to no emotional expression, as if the loss were not significant. You may notice the child is: Going through normal activities and showing little commitment Quiet and compliant Passive, indifferent, or numb These expressions can be mistaken as the child being fine. That can lead to future behavioral signs not seen as separation trauma. Children who did not have a band with their guardian(s) may not show an emotional reaction. Most will experience this period of shock and/or denial. Anger and Protest: When the child can no longer deny the loss, they may begin responding in anger. This anger may in general, directed at a specific person(s), or towards specific object(s). You may notice the child is: Always dissenting Hypersensitive, crabby, or hard to please Displaying tantrum behaviors Anti-social The child's anger may cause conflict that lead to a struggle for control. Recognizing that anger is part of the grieving process. Caregivers must support and redirect the child’s feelings instead of punishing them for misbehaving. Bargaining: In the bargaining phase of grief, the child may try to bargain with the person they think has the power to change their situation. They may also try to “do better” to prevent the finality of the loss. Here, you may notice the child is: Eager to please Trying to be good Negotiating to go home These expressions are an attempt to control the environment, and protect themselves against feeling confusion, and uncertainty. They may believe that acting a certain way will allow them to go home. , there is a slim chance that the child's behaviors will get the results they want. When the child realizes that the bargaining strategy does not work, they will feel the impact of the loss. Depression: As the child completely realizes their loss, they are likely to experience depression. They may not want to do activities, feel useless or helpless, and have episodes of fear or panic. You may notice the child is: Appearing to have lost all hope Experiencing emotional distress Displaying regressive behavior Unable to pay attention or experiencing a short attention span Frustrated without effort, overwhelmed At this stage, foster caregivers may become frustrated that they can't help the child. This may be a suitable time to re-establish the relationship between the parent and child. Resolution: In the final stage, the child's distress or depression minimizes. They will start to return to an active life in the present and think about their future. You may notice the child is: Developing stronger attachments in new home Identifying themselves as part of the family Experiencing less emotional distress Resolution is a positive sign if the child will not reunite with their biological family. This can be harmful if the child reunites with their biological family and does not re-establish contact. As you help your child navigate grief, it is important to care for yourself as well. Reach out to your case worker or a counselor for help.

Children and youth who experience trauma and loss carry that trauma with them. It can affect them throughout their lives. As a parent, being aware of the areas affected by trauma is important. Here, you’ll learn how trauma affects children, and how you, as a parent or guardian, can support them in these areas. Relationships Maltreated youth often avoid closeness. They fear relationships since they could associate them with loss or pain. They can create self-protection defenses like numbing and withdrawal. Youth need to identify and express their feelings as they manage their fears. Encouraging them to do so can help them overcome attachment problems. Guardians need to use positive interactions. They must respond to the youth's needs and honor the youth's previous attachments. Guardians need to work through their own losses and manage their negative feelings. Safety & Control Youth who could not protect themselves in the past may feel powerless. Leading them to fear impending doom, be angry or have tension, and have the need to feel in control. The youth needs support in stressful situations. Guardians can help by creating chances for success and push the youth to make good choices. Guardians must be an example of someone who can manage their anger. Self-Regulation - The ability to manage one’s emotions and behavior. Maltreatment of children and youth can impair their developing brain. Sometimes affecting their ability to self-regulate or manage their own emotions and behavior. They need help identifying and expressing their feelings while considering the possible consequences. Guardians need to help the youth talk about their feelings and help them accept responsibilities for behaviors. and practice re-dos. Identity & Sense of Self - One’s perception of characteristics that define themselves Youth that were maltreated or removed from birth parents may think they are unlovable and incomplete. They struggle to have a positive sense of who they are and their place in the world. To heal, youth need to reconstruct and process their life history. Guardians need to talk about adoption and past trauma. They need to teach the youth how to handle negative comments from others. Overall guardians must be open in the youths' best interest.

Complex trauma results from repeated traumatic experiences. It usually begins early in life with the child's caregiver. Affecting the child's development, thoughts about themselves, and their ability to have relationships. Children whose homes were not safe may create ways that allow them to survive day-to-day. When the child is safe, their survival tactics are no longer useful. These tactics can interfere with their ability to live and love. This article will help you understand complex trauma in your own life or in the lives of children you care for. Remember, therapy and coaching are important tools in recovering from complex trauma. You got this! Our therapists are always here for you. Effects of Complex Trauma Attachments & relationships Our early relationships with our caregivers affect us more than we know. It can affect how we trust, balance emotions, sense the world as safe or not, and understand our own value. A child with complex trauma can have a hard time with friendships, and authority figures. Physical Health When a child grows up afraid or under constant stress, their body may not grow to its full ability. The body can respond to normal levels of stress as if it is under extreme stress. There is a connection between childhood trauma exposure, high-risk behaviors, and chronic illness. Emotional Responses Children with complex trauma have a hard time understanding, expressing, and managing emotions. They can feel depressed, anxious, angry, overwhelmed from internalizing or externalizing their emotions. Reminders of their traumatic events can be anywhere. They may react to these reminders or become numb to them and threats in their environment. Dissociation When children have an overwhelming or scary experience, they may mentally separate themselves. They can think of themselves as separated from their bodies. They could also lose the memory of what happened to them. They don’t dissociate on purpose it becomes a defense mechanism. It can look like they aren't paying attention or daydreaming. Behavior Children with complex trauma may be easy to trigger and are likely to have intense reactions. They can struggle with knowing how to calm down and lack impulse control. Because of this, they may seem unpredictable. A child who feels powerless may be defensive or aggressive. Especially when they assume they are being blamed or attacked. They can also be very compliant with adults. Cognition: Thinking and Learning When children grow up with constant threats, they only think about survival. They may have issues reasoning, problem-solving, keeping attention, and thinking about the future. They can also have issues with gaining new skills or information. They may have a hard time with language development and other learning difficulties. Self-Concept and Future Orientation Children learn their self-worth from the reactions of others. Caregivers have the greatest influence on a child’s sense of self-worth and value. Children with complex trauma may feel shame, guilt, low self-esteem, and poor self-image.