ProgramsSummer Youth Programming Concludes at the SALUD Center
The UNITY Squad summer programming concluded at the SALUD Center. Youth learned about financial literacy, critical thinking, civic engagement, workforce preparedness, and leadership development. This summer, the principal focus was youth empowerment. The team wanted to give the youth different experiences through community field trips. One of the trips was visiting Chicago State University and learned how to make a solar car. The youth also went to the Lincoln Park Conservatory to learn how to connect with nature and use it as a way to find calmness. Another trip was visiting the South Chicago Library. All of the youth signed up for library cards, checked out books, and were assigned a book report. The youth received a tour of the library and an informational lecture on their services. The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign came to the SALUD Center to present workshops on quantum physics. The youth received a demonstration on how to dissect a drone and add the opportunity to resemble it. Another activity was the Science Escape Lab, where youth decoded messages to find a cure for a virus. UNITY Squad also had guest speakers. Claretian Associates' very own CEO Angela Hurlock spoke to the youth about the organization's mission and services in South Chicago. The youth also received a digital literacy workshop from City Colleges of Chicago and learned about the importance of cybersecurity. Six youth were chosen to participate in a research group by the University of Chicago. The youth were interviewed about their experience with CPS schooling. For their final ceremonial event, the youth went bowling. They enjoyed eating in each other's company and playing in teams. At the Back-to-School and Wellness Event, the youth received their certificate of completion. “They did not want the program to end. They came in shy and didn’t want to talk to each other, but by the second week, they all became friends,” said Youth Development Program Manager David Todd. Hoops in the Hood
Claretian Associates, in partnership with LISC hosted Hoops in the Hood at the SALUD Center. Three times a week youth ages 11 – 17 trained, conditioned, and learned new basketball skills. The group participated in a basketball tournament at Ellis Park with other participating organizations. They learned about teamwork, patience, leadership skills and how to overcome adversity. This program is designed for communities affected by violence and provides a safe space for youth to play basketball for the summer. Back-to-School and Wellness Event
Claretian Associates, the South Chicago Neighborhood Network, Communities Partnering 4 Peace (CP4P), United Way of Metro Chicago, and other community partners hosted the annual Back-to-School and Wellness Event on August 8th at 91st and Brandon. About 350 community members attended. Over 500 book bags with school supplies were distributed for elementary school, high school, and college aged students. Senator Robert Peters and 10th Ward Alderman Chico were present and showed their support. To get students ready for school, vaccination clinics were available from the University of Chicago Medicine, and the Chicago Public Health Department. Advocate Health had 15 doctors who provided health screenings for blood pressure and diabetes. Attendees were able to have one-on-one consultations with doctors. Students also received haircuts sponsored by the Special Service Area #5. The event had 37 vendors that provided resources on health, mental health, housing, education, and more. This year the event had entertainment by the Jesse White Tumblers. The performance was such an attraction getter that cars stopped to watch them. After the Tumblers performed, they engaged with the community and received great feedback. For many, it was their first time seeing them perform. The event also had music by a DJ that provided Karaoke and dancing. Community members also enjoyed food from local food vendors. This is the 5th year the Back-to-School and Wellness event has been held to help the community prepare for the school year and stay informed of community resources. “I want to make sure that we are always creating opportunities for what is available in our community,” said Program Manager Tiarra Owens. In the future, Tiarra wants to provide school uniforms and more resources to start the school year.  Safe Passage Safe Passage returns as classes resume for Chicago Public Schools. Community Watchers are an important asset as they ensure a safe path for students to school and home. Claretian Associates covers Burnham Mathematics & Science Academy, James H. Bowen, George Henry Corliss, Myra Bradwell, Douglas Taylor, Arnold Mireles, and Ninos Heroes. WE are Building Getting to Home Claretian Associates plans to develop 14 single family homes on vacant lots under the City of Chicago's City Lots for Working Families program. Under this program, the city sells vacant lots to a developer for $1 to build affordable homes for first time homebuyers. These lots are in the 8000, 8900, and 9100 blocks of S Buffalo Ave. The application for these lots was approved and passed through the City council last month. Claretian is currently in the process of closing on the lots and securing financing to begin development. Staff Highlights James Sims Local Community Violence Intervention (CVI) Hero CP4P Program Manager James will be awarded the Local CVI Hero Award. This award acknowledges dedicated individuals who work to create safer environments thought a variety of community-centered approaches. James has worked in the CVI field for approximately 11 years. His work began as a violence interrupter, later was promoted to a supervisor, program coordinator, and to his current position as program manager. At the Claretian CP4P office, staff awards are placed on the wall and now he will place his as well. “Somebody finally gave me an award that I can put on the wall to show gratitude that my work did not go unnoticed,” said James. His leadership and commitment are helping to shape the field of violence prevention in the South Chicago community. Announcements South Chicago Housing Resource Event Join Claretian Associates, Fifth Third Bank, and other partners for a housing resource event at 91st and Brandon, on Wednesday, September 17th starting at 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM. Learn about housing services and banking resources in South Chicago. Attendees will have the opportunity to access the Fifth Third Bank Financial Empowerment Mobile. For more information contact Paul Panciera at 773 734 9181 ext. 2036.  Communities Partnering 4 Peace The next series of Light in the Night events will be on September 17th, 20th, and 26th in the neighborhoods of South Chicago, South Shore, and South Deering. Each event will have food and clothing distributions.  Fitness Center
If you have not joined the fitness center, take advantage of our affordable memberships: Classic $14.99, Classic Plus One $25, and Classic Paid in Full $150. As a member, you can take advantage of our free “Get Fit Class” every Wednesday and Thursday at 10:30 AM. For the month of September, members can bring a friend to exercise and will win a prize for bringing in the most friends.
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Programs Hoops in the Hood In an effort to engage youth over the summer, Claretian Associates, in partnership with LISC, is hosting Hoops in the Hood. This program is designed for communities affected by violence and provides a safe space for youth, ages 11-17, to participate in basketball conditioning three days a week. During the 6-week program, youth will enhance their physical fitness, prepare for peak performance, and participate in agility and basketball drills. This structured approach will help to improve overall performance on the court. At the conclusion of the program in August, youth will compete in a tournament with other participating organizations. We wish them luck! One Summer Chicago
Now in its 8th year, Claretian Associates is employing youth under One Summer Chicago. The program, known as UNITY Squad, focuses on youth ages 14-15. Participants will learn important life skills such as financial literacy, critical thinking, civic engagement, workforce preparedness, and leadership development. Youth will participate in college field trips, guest speaker presentations, and more. SALUD Fitness Center Highlight For over a year Pamela (Pam) Jones has been a SALUD Fitness Center member. She comes to exercise regularly, sometimes even twice a day. Staying healthy has always been a part of Pam’s life, but more now because of the fitness center in the community. Pam had been a member of the former South Chicago YMCA for years. Pam joined when her friend Rosa told her that the SALUD fitness center was open. “I love to exercise, it’s my passion. I decided to come here, I felt comfortable, I like the people,” said Pam. Another reason Pam became a member is because of her health. Since joining, her blood pressure has lowered by exercising and eating healthier. “I focus on eating healthy and exercising because overall it's for my mind, body, and spirit. My health is worth all those things,” said Pam. Pam is happy the SALUD Fitness Center opened in the community because it is convenient and is something the community needs. Pam enjoys being a member so much that she even distributes fitness center flyers to her friends. “This feels like home away from home. I like it here because I spend time with people who lift my spirits,” said Pam. Exercising with friends reduces her stress level. Pam’s fitness goals include maintaining her weight and building more muscle. Exercising for Pam is a lifetime commitment. Pam likes to encourage others to join the fitness center and has invited friends to join her in the fitness classes offered. Her favorite class is the Get Fit class. She thought the class was going to be hard, but she tried and loved it. Recently her job schedule doesn’t allow her to attend classes, but she still makes staying fit a priority. Pam wants to continue exercising for as long as possible. “I’ve been exercising for 30 years,” said Pam. Since joining the fitness center Pam has made more friends who she now calls family. “We have a good time, support each other, and exercise,” said Pam. She also exercises on weekends. Pam is looking forward to the pool reopening. She hopes to see more classes like Zumba offered on weekends. Pam would like to thank the staff because they have been welcoming and warm. We Are BuildlingSACRED Groundbreaking
Claretian Associates’ broke ground in May on its newest affordable housing development, SACRED, Sustainable Affordable Commercial Real Estate Development. SACRED will consist of 81 units and 6000 square feet of commercial space. The project will allow Claretian to continue to provide affordable housing in the South Chicago neighborhood.
Staff highLight New Hire Claretian Associates welcomes Youth Development Program Manager, David Todd. David will be developing and managing the youth program at the SALUD Center. David has worked with at risk, low risk, homeless, and LGBTQ youth for the past seven years. “I am loving my position because I’m passionate about working with youth,” David quotes the Bible, James 1:27, he believes that his job is to be of service to the orphans and widows and not to be polluted by the rest of the world. “I use that verse to carry me on as my purpose throughout life,” said David. According to David, the youth for him are like the orphans in the verse, that's why he chooses to work with youth who do not have resources to succeed. Growing up, he did not have many positive role models. “I grew up in practically every underserved community in Chicago,” said David. Therefore, he wanted to make a difference and serve youth in need of guidance. David was at a crossroad in life and decided he wanted to change his direction . “I want to be that positive role model for youth,” said David. David will be developing youth programming, and he is currently managing the One Summer Chicago and Hoops in the Hood programs. “Right now, my focus is helping youth understand the importance of making good decisions,” said David. Before working for Claretian, David had two barber shops. “I started noticing there were a lot of single parents, who couldn't afford haircuts for their children,” That motivated David to start a community initiative, Clippers Change Communities, to provide free haircuts to all the youth in underserved communities. For three years, his goal was giving 1200 youth haircuts. David loves the challenge that has been given to him at Claretian, to make youth programming effective and successful. “Working with youth is my life focus,” said David. He hopes to bring leadership, teamwork, calmness, and success to Claretian. Announcements Back to School and Wellness Event The South Chicago Neighborhood Network, and other community partners will have the annual Back to School and Wellness Event on Friday, August 8th at 10:00 AM- 2:00 PM on the block of 91st and Brandon. There will be a book bag giveaway, resource vendors, games for kids, food, and music. For more information contact Program Manager Tiarra Owens at [email protected].  Communities Partnering 4 Peace The next series of Light in the Night events will be on August 15th, 22nd, and 29th, in the neighborhoods of South Chicago, South Shore, and South Deering. Each event will have food and clothing distributions. We hope to see you there!  Fitness Center
If you have not joined the fitness center, take advantage of our affordable memberships: Classic $14.99, Classic Plus One $25, and Classic Paid in Full $150. As a member, you can take advantage of our free “Get Fit Class” every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 10:30 AM. ProgramsCommunities Partnering 4 Peace
On May 13th, Claretian Associates, Communities Partnering 4 Peace and other violence prevention organizations advocated in Springfield at the 2025 CVI Rally and Legislative Action Day. Organizations advocated for the continuous funding of the Reimagine Public Safety Act that supports to reduction in gun violence and promotes safety in communities. Learn more about the rally here.
Cinco De Mayo Celebration
In May Claretian Associates, Communities Partnering 4 Peace, Catholic Charities, Department of Family and Support Services, and Victory Centre hosted the Cinco de Mayo Health and Resource fair at the South Chicago Senior Satellite Center. The event brought awareness of resources in the community for seniors. Attendees enjoyed a performance by the Hoofer Tap Dancers, participated in karaoke, ate delicious food, and the enjoyed company of others.
South Chicago Block Party
On May 17th, Claretian Associates and community partners hosted the South Chicago Block Party at 91st and Brandon. Projects that were presented included SACRED, the renovation of Villa Guadalupe, and Calumet Gateway Garden. Attendees had the opportunity to visit each project development table and receive information and provide feedback on each of them. The community enjoyed food, music, and family friendly activities like pony rides, face painting, and more.
 Seniors The seniors from Villa Guadalupe and South Chicago Salud Center had a day trip to have lunch at Golden Corral restaurant. It was an event to celebrate mothers and women. The seniors enjoyed lunch and the company of each other. This senior outing is one of the many trips planned to prevent social isolation and bring unity between the two senior buildings. We Are Building SACRED Groundbreaking The development of SACRED, Sustainable Affordable Commercial Real Estate Development, will break ground on Saturday, May 31st at 1:30 PM at 9212 South Burley. SACRED will consist of 81 units and 6000 square feet of commercial space. SACRED has been a development idea for 15 years. We hope you join us to celebrate this major milestone. Staff highlight New Hire Claretian Associates welcomes Melvin Edwards, the new Director of Community and Safety Programs. Melvin will be working with the programming team and focus on needed resources for the community. Melvin will be Melvin will be responsible for overseeing programs such as the South Chicago Neighborhood Network, youth programming, Safe Passages and Communities Partnering 4 Peace. Melvin will be ensuring that each program provides quality work. For the past few years, Melvin has been creating workforce development programs. He has a passion for violence prevention because he wants gun violence to be reduced in communities. Melvin expresses that from a selfish standpoint he wants to make the city safe for the people he loves. Though Melvin wants to give back to the community too. “I want to help people and give back to the same population that I was a part of because I was the average youth that evolved in the streets. Later on I changed my life,” said Melvin. Melvin studied to be a preschool teacher, but instead he decided to work in the nonprofit sector. “I stumbled upon the nonprofit space and I’ve been working in particular with community violence prevention (CVI) and workforce development for the past eight to ten years,” said Melvin. Melvin also feels very strongly about providing financial literacy for the community, like stocks, interest rates, and purchasing homes. “Financial literacy is a driving force in which it can take us out of poverty,” said Melvin. Melvin received his bachelor's degree from Northern Illinois University. He is currently studying at DePaul University for his Masters in Business Administration. Melvin’s goal at Claretian is bringing more programming and providing quality work for the community. “The more programs and resources we have, we can be a beacon on the south side of Chicago,” said Melvin. His personal goal is to create a wealth management academy, so he can provide funding to nonprofits. Announcements Health Expo at the SALUD Join us on Tuesday, June 3rd, for the South Chicago Neighborhood Network Health Expo. Claretian Associates is partnering with the South Chicago Neighborhood Network, Advocate Health Care, University of Chicago and other organizations to provide free health education resources. Meet one-on-one with health providers to discuss your needs. The Expo will take place from 10 AM until 2pm at the SALUD Center. For more information contact Tiarra Owens at [email protected].  Mortgage Loan Workshop Join Claretian Associates and the Chicago Urban League on Wednesday, June 25th, for a credit score workshop. Learn about down payments and closing costs, loan types and payments, and more. This event starts at 6 PM at the SALUD Center. Register here.  Fitness Center If you have not joined the fitness center, take advantage of our affordable memberships: Classic $14.99, Classic Plus One $25, and Classic Paid in Full $150. As a member, you can take advantage of our free “Get Fit Class” every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 10:30 AM. |
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