<![CDATA[CLARETIAN ASSOCIATES - BUILDING COMMUNITY IN SOUTH CHICAGO - Blog]]>Fri, 10 Jul 2026 18:00:38 -0500Weebly<![CDATA[June 2026 Newsletter]]>Tue, 30 Jun 2026 21:06:13 GMThttps://www.claretianassociates.org/blog/june-newsletter-2026Events
​Sweet Home South Chicago Pitch Competition Vendor Marketplace
On Saturday, June 13th, the SALUD Center hosted Sweet Home South Chicago Pitch Competition and Vendor Market in partnership with United Way of Metro Chicago, Center for Changing Lives, Tech Rise by P33, and Renaissance South Chicago.  

The event kicked off with a vibrant vendor marketplace, where attendees had the opportunity to support and shop from a variety of local businesses and entrepreneurs.  Afterwards, local small business owners took center stage for the Pitch Competition, presenting their business plans and products for a chance to win a $25,000 grant.  The local businesses that competed were Melissa Perez of Meil 85 Collective, Jason Jones of Lakeshore Photos, Fenesha Hubbard Muhammad of FEOM Expressions, and Rohoanna Burrell of Chef Anna Authentic Island Flavor. The day concluded with announcing Melissa Perez of Miel 85 Collective as the competition winner.  ​

This event highlighted the creativity and innovation of South Chicago’s entrepreneurs while providing meaningful opportunities for small business growth and community connection.  
Gun Violence Awareness Event
Claretian Associates, in partnership with Communities Partnering 4 Peace (CP4P), and other community organizations, recently hosted a Gun Violence Awareness Event at Peoples Park. The event brought community members together to reflect, learn and engage in meaningful dialogue around violence prevention. A highlight of the event was a community panel facilitated by UNITY Squad youth, featuring panelists from CP4P, the Brandy Foundation, and the Chicago Police 4th District Community Engagement Office. The group shared insights and strategies for building safer neighborhoods. In addition, 93 Studios constructed an orange wood ribbon (orange symbolizes gun violence awareness), where youth contributed quotes, pictures, and names of loved ones lost to gun violence. The event also offered family-friendly activities and resources.  CP4P hosted a children's clothing giveaway, and provided food, music, games, face painting, a caricature artist, and access to community resources. ​
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School Is Out Summer Fair

On Thursday, May 28th, Communities Partnering 4 Peace hosted a School is Out Summer Fair at O.T. Bright Elementary School in the South Deering neighborhood. The event brought families, students, and community members together. Attendees enjoyed had kid outdoor activities, food, music, and fun giveaways. Community resources were offered from Metropolitan Family Services, SGA Youth and Family Services, Wintrust Bank, and and organizations. 
Seniors
On June 18th, the South Chicago Senior Satellite Center hosted a Juneteenth event. The day was filled with lunch from the Golden Diner, karaoke, and a cooking class. The seniors enjoyed celebrating Juneteenth while watching the Obama Presidential Center Library opening on television.  

Later in the month, seniors from Villa Guadalupe and South Chicago Salud Center had a Father’s Day celebration with music, food, and senior resources.  

Programs

Youth Summer Programming
Youth Chicago Works
Claretian Associates is excited to host its 9th annual Youth Summer Employment Program, continuing its commitment to empower young people through meaningful learning opportunities.   Now in its second week, UNITY Squad students have engaged in a variety of activities designed to build confidence, leadership, and community awareness.  

Participants have explored their goals and aspirations through creative vision boards, strengthened their voices with public speaking workshops, and fostered collaboration through engaging team build exercises. In addition, youth have taken part in activities focused on developing leadership skills. ​

A highlight of the program has been the group’s facilitation of a gun violence awareness panel, demonstrating their understanding of critical issues affecting their neighborhood.  
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Hoopz in the Hood
In partnership with LISC Chicago, Claretian Associates, is proud to host Hoopz in the Hood, a program designed to create safe and positive spaces for young people.   The program offers youth ages 11-17 the opportunity to participate in basketball clinics twice a week, where they can build skills, stay active, and connect with peers in a supportive environment.  Participants will have the opportunity to represent their community by competing in regional events alongside other community organizations.

Pool Fundraiser

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You’ve seen what the South Chicago Swimming Pool means to our community, it's not too late to help bring it back. Your donation makes a difference. Consider donating here.

Announcements

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Light in the Night​

Join Communities Partnering 4 Peace for the July series of Light in Night events on July 10th and 24th. These community events will take place across the neighborhoods of South Chicago and South Shore. Enjoy an afternoon, from 4:00 until 6:00 PM filled with music, delicious food, and valuable community resources provided by the CP4P violence prevention team. These events are designed to create safe, positive spaces where neighbors can come together and support one another.
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Neighborhood Care at the SALUD Center

We are excited to announce that Salud Center has partnered with Advocate Health Care to bring accessible, affordable, quality care for all ages from trusted healthcare professionals in your community. Services include well and sick visits, chronic disease management for diabetes, blood pressure checks, and cholesterol screening. Available Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM at Salud Center located at 3039 East 91st Street in Chicago.  ​

Call to schedule an appointment at 312-268-6627 or simply walk in.
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Fitness Center ​

Come visit us at the fitness center and take advantage of our very affordable memberships: Classic $14.99, Classic Plus One $25, and Classic. As a member, you can take advantage of our free “Get Fit Class” every Wednesday and Thursday at 10:30 AM.

Staff HighLights

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New Hire 
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Claretian Associates welcomes Earl Aaron as the new Safe Passage Program Manager. He will oversee the team of community watchers that provide a safe path for students during the school year. 

 Earl manages the partnership of eight Chicago Public Schools, Burnham Mathematics & Science Academy, James H. Bowen, George Henry Corliss, Myra Bradwell, Douglas Taylor, Arnold Mireles, and Ninos Heros, and supervises approximately 40 community watchers. “It has been a learning experience, and I look forward, implementing changes to improve the program,” said Earl. He would like the school partners to view Safe Passage as an asset and work together to ensure students get to and from school safely.  

Currently, Earl is assisting with the Chicago Youth Works, youth summer employment program. For 5 weeks, Earl will work with youth ages 14-15 to help them gain early work experience, build essential life, and leadership skills.  
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Earl has been working in the youth development field and Chicago Public School for over 10 years. He was a Teen Advisor at the Skokie Library, where he tutored, mentored, and helped with youth apply for jobs and college applications. In addition to working with youth and with people of all ages. “I enjoy making a difference in the lives of others despite their age,” said Earl. He is looking forward to learning, meeting new people, networking, and personal growth as a manager. “I think experience goes a long way, I’m looking forward to gaining more experience,” said Earl.
]]><![CDATA[May 2026 Newsletter]]>Thu, 28 May 2026 22:58:23 GMThttps://www.claretianassociates.org/blog/may-2026-newsletterEvents
Making Waves for South Chicago
​On May 4th Claretian Associates hosted Making Waves for South Chicago, a community swimming pool fundraiser. Attendees heard a conversation with Claretian CEO Angela Hurlock and Swim Olympian Cullen Jones about his career and the importance of knowing how to swim.  Salud Center Program Manager April Morris spoke on why bringing back the South Chicago pool is important to community. Learn more about event here. We are grateful to those who attended and contributed.  ​
Cinco de Mayo Senior Resource Fair  ​
On May 5th, Claretian Associates, Communities Partnering 4 Peace, and the Department of Family and Support Services, held the Cinco de Mayo Senior Resource Fair at South Chicago Senior Satellite Center.  Attendees enjoyed performances from Taylor Folkloric Dance Team, Hoofer Tap Dancing and participated in karaoke. The day was filled with community resources, raffles, entertainment, and traditional Mexican food.

Programs

Youth Summer Programming
There is Still Time to Apply for Youth Summer Jobs!
Chicago Youth Works

Claretian Associates, in partnership with Chicago Youth Works, is offering youth ages 14-15 the opportunity for summer employment. The program will be held for 6 weeks at the SALUD Center. Youth will gain early work experience, build essential life, and leadership skills. Youth in the program will receive a weekly stipend, and transportation and meals will be provided. If interested, apply here. For more information, contact Program Manager Tiarra Owens at tiarrao@claretianassociates.org. 
Hoopz in the Hood 

In partnership with LISC, Claretian Associates will host Hoopz in the Hood at the SALUD Center. This summer safety initiative creates fun, safe and engaging spaces for communities and has been a valued program at Claretian for several years. Designed for youth ages 11-17, Hoopz in the Hood will run for six weeks, offering a positive environment to connect, stay active and build skills. The program will conclude with a friendly tournament featuring youth from other participating organizations. Learn more and register here.  ​

Announcements

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End to Gun Violence Awareness Event ​

Join Claretian Associates and Communities Partnering 4 Peace for End to Gun Violence Awareness Event on Thursday, June 25th, at Peoples Park from 4:00 until 6:00 PM. The event will honor the memory of the lives taken by gun violence and bring awarenesses to the impact on the community. For more information contact Tiarra Owens at tiarrao@claretianassociates.org or Eriberta Sanchez at eribertas@claretianassociates.org
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Light in the Night

Join Communities Partnering 4 Peace, for the June series of Light in Night event, on June 6th, 12th, and 13th. These community events will take place across the neighborhoods of South Deering, South Chicago, and South Shore. Enjoy an afternoon from 4:00 until 6:00 PM filled with music, delicious warm food, and valuable community resources provided by the CP4P violence prevention team.  These events are designed to create safe, positive spaces where neighbors can come together and support one another. 
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Vendor Marketplace​

Join Claretian Associates and other community organizations on Saturday, June 13th for the Sweet Home South Chicago Vendor Marketplace at the SALUD Center. Come out to shop, connect and support South Chicago local businesses. This is a great opportunity to discover unique products, meet local vendors and support the community. The Marketplace will be open from 10:00 AM until 2:00 PM. For more information contact Corridor Manager Paul Panciera at paulp@claretianassociates.org
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OPENING SOON!

We are excited to announce that Salud Center will be partnering with Advocate Health Care to bring accessible, affordable, quality care for all ages from trusted healthcare professionals in your community. Services include well and sick visits, chronic disease management for diabetes, blood pressure checks, and cholesterol screening. Available Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM at Salud Center located at 3039 East 91st Street in Chicago.  ​

Call to schedule an appointment at 312-268-6627 or simply walk in.
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Fitness Center ​

Come visit us at the fitness center and take advantage of our very affordable memberships: Classic $14.99, Classic Plus One $25, and Classic. As a member, you can take advantage of our free “Get Fit Class” every Wednesday and Thursday at 10:30 AM.

Staff Highlights

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New Hire 

Claretian Associates welcomes Jillian House as Director of Resident Engagement Services, where she will oversee resident services, the Senior Satellite Center, and work alongside property management.
Jillian has worked in the nonprofit and social services sector for 22 years.  She has always worked with seniors and vulnerable individuals as a case manager, service coordinator, resident service coordinator, residential services, and more. She was a site director for the Chatman Senior Satellite Center working with the Center for New Horizons, and before joining the Claretian team. “This is something I thrive in; I love helping others. I kind of look at myself like an assistant device, ‘tell me your problem and I will solve it,’” said Jillian. She finds working in nonprofit and social services extremely rewarding. 

Since joining Claretian, Jillian’s favorite part has been getting to know the seniors and residents. “Seniors always have a lot of questions and one of the best feelings is being able to answer and provide them with the proper resources,” said Jillian. She believes Claretian is a great and strong agency and loves that it is located in South Chicago. Jillian looks forward to her professional growth at the company. ​
]]><![CDATA[April 2026 Newsletter]]>Thu, 30 Apr 2026 05:00:00 GMThttps://www.claretianassociates.org/blog/april-2026-newsletterPrograms Picture
Making Waves for South Chicago 

Claretian Associates and P33 will kick off their celebration of Water Week with Making Waves for South Chicago, a special fundraising reception. We look forward to bringing back the pool and creating a fun space for community members to make new memories.
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Cinco de Mayo Senior Resource Fair  

Claretian Associates, the Department of Family and Support Services, and Communities Partnering 4 Peace will host the Cinco de Mayo Senior Resource Fair at the Senior Satellite Center located at 9223 South Burley, on Tuesday, May 5th, 10:00 AM until 2:00 PM. Come and explore community and health resources, enjoy music, food and entertainment. For more information contact, Traci Darling at tracid@claretianassociates.org
Chicago Youth Works

Claretian Associates, in partnership with Chicago Youth Works, is offering youth ages 14-15 the opportunity for summer employment. The program will be held for 6 weeks at the SALUD Center. Youth will gain early work experience, build essential life, and leadership skills. Youth in the program will receive a weekly stipend, and transportation and meals will be provided. If interested, apply here. For more information, contact Program Manager Tiarra Owens at tiarrao@claretianassociates.org.  
​Hoopz in the Hood 

In partnership with LISC, Claretian Associates will host Hoopz in the Hood at the SALUD Center. This summer safety initiative creates fun, safe and engaging spaces for communities and has been a valued program at Claretian for several years. Designed for youth ages 11-17, Hoopz in the Hood will run for six weeks, offering a positive environment to connect, stay active and build skills. The program will conclude with a friendly tournament featuring youth from other participating organizations. Learn more and register here.

We Are Building

SACRED
Construction for Sustainable Affordable Commercial Real Estate Development (SACRED) is 40% complete. SACRED, located at 92nd and South Burley, will have 81 units of affordable housing, 6,000 square feet of commercial space, and 44 parking spaces. Progress is moving steadily, and Claretian Associates is excited to share the video below. 

Announcements

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OPENING SOON!

We are excited to announce that Salud Center is will be partnering with Advocate Health Care to bring accessible, affordable, quality care for all ages from trusted healthcare professionals in your community. Services include well and sick visits, chronic disease management for diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Available Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM at Salud Center located at 3039 East 91st Street in Chicago.    ​

Call to schedule an appointment at 312-268-6627 or simply walk in.
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Light in the Night Events 

Join Communities Partnering 4 Peace, for the May series of Light in Night event, on May 15th. These community events will take place across the neighborhoods of South Deering, South Chicago, and South Shore. Enjoy an afternoon from 4:00 until 6:00 PM filled with music, delicious warm food, and valuable community resources provided by the CP4P violence prevention team.  These events are designed to create safe, positive spaces where neighbors can come together and support one another. 
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Education Focus Group 

Claretian Associates will host two Education Focus Group sessions on May 12th and 26th. Participants will only need to attend one session.  The focus groups are designed to gather input from community members, parents, and partners on how we can collectively support and advocate for improved educational outcomes. Register here. For more information contact Program Manager Tiarra Owens at tiarrao@claretianassociates.org 
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