UCAN (Chicago)

In response to the tragic shooting of postal worker Octavia Redmond, our South and Westside VIPS teams took to the streets of Chicago’s West Pullman neighborhood to connect with this community. To commemorate her life and honor her memory, as well as all families affected by gun violence, our team hosted a community pop-up event and balloon release to engage and uplift our community. No family should have to go through the pain of losing someone due to gun violence, but when it does happen, the community must come together in solidarity. Our community event provided a safe space for healing and prayer for those who are hurting. UCAN’s team listened and provided resources to those impacted by gun violence. We believe that through collective action and compassion, we can foster resilience and hope even in the face of such profound loss. By standing together, we not only honor the memory of Octavia Redmond but also strengthen the bonds within our community. We remain committed to supporting West Pullman and all communities affected by violence, advocating for change, and promoting peace. Together, we can create a safer, more connected, and compassionate society. #UCAN #ViolencePrevention #CommunityEmpowerment #Chicago #ChicagoCommunities

During the FY24, we are excited to announce that 52 participants graduated from our Career Pathways program. Our Workforce Development career pathway program uses a customer-centered approach that maps a series of manageable education, occupational training, and work-based learning steps toward high-growth industry-aligned skills, credentials, and career advancement. Our graduates, representing a diverse range of fields, including healthcare, distribution and logistics, and hospitality services, have demonstrated their hard work, professionalism, and commitment. We are proud of each participant's journey and congratulate all the graduates! 🎓✨ #UCAN #CareerPathways #WorkforceDevelopment #Chicago #ChicagoCommunities To learn more about the program, visit https://lnkd.in/gfqB4Gfe

UCAN OSC SYEP (Summer Youth Employment) & IYIP Summer Program (ILLINOIS YOUTH INVESTMENT PROGRAM) youth participated in a tour of City Hall as guests of Alderman Gil Villegas of the 36th Ward. The youth are currently working for the Alderman. During the tour, Alderman Villegas surprised the youth by inviting them into a live City Council Meeting. During the meeting, Alderman Villegas took the floor and acknowledged our youth and UCAN. He shared accolades with the council regarding UCAN's outstanding work with youth and the community, and he presented UCAN’s participants to the City Council. Please see the attached pictures. The presentation will also be available online on the City Council’s website. #UCAN #OSC #SYEP #IYIP #Chicago #ChicagoCommunities Alderman Gilbert Villegas

Join us tonight for our monthly Professional Foster Parenting Zoom informational!

We are hiring to the UCAN Family! Visit https://www.ucantoo.info/ to learn more about your future with UCAN. #UCAN #Careers #Chicago #ChicagoCommunites

On June 27, UCAN staff wore orange to stand in solidarity for Gun Violence Awareness Month and to showcase our collective hope for a safer world. Wearing orange is more than just a symbolic act; it's a powerful statement of unity and awareness. It honors the lives affected by gun violence and echoes our call for safety and peace in our communities. #UCAN #VIPS #Academy #Chicago #ChicagoCommunities #GunViolenceAwareness

We are excited to share that UCAN will be hosting its 7th annual Trunk Party. This festive event celebrates the achievements of our participants as they prepare to embark on their college or trade school journey, providing them with the essential supplies and support they need. We are seeking your support in equipping our youth for success through an in-kind donation. Your generosity is not just a contribution; it is the cornerstone of our ability to make a significant impact. Items such as school supplies, backpacks, or dorm essentials are invaluable in arming our youth for their educational journeys. Please send your donations to UCAN’s headquarters (3605 W. Fillmore, Chicago, IL 60624) by Monday, July 29, 2024 or shop our Wal-Mart registry. #UCAN #TrunkParty #Classof2024 #Chicago #ChicagoCommunities #2024Graduates https://lnkd.in/ga-NwKgs

UCAN extends sincere, heartfelt condolences to the family of Cook County Commissioner Dennis Deer, who was a consistent and steadfast supporter of our service to youth and families, and we proudly supported his servant leadership. Commissioner Deer was no stranger to our North Lawndale campus and programs. We will never forget the constant commitment to community he embodied every day and his vision to improve the health, options and future of his constituents. We will honor his service with a renewed commitment to our service. Rest in peace, Commissioner Deer. Your legacy will forever live on. 🕊️

Juneteenth is a day to commemorate the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and honoring resilience, freedom, and the ongoing quest for equality and justice. UCAN, in partnership with the Chicago Association of Black Social Workers, hosted two special events at our Nichol’s Center office to honor this holiday. UCAN residents, staff, and their families joined this free event to enjoy traditional soul food and celebrate our community's progress. Let's always use this day to further educate ourselves about Juneteenth, appreciate African American culture, and reaffirm our commitment to creating a brighter future for everyone in our communities. #UCAN #Juneteenth #Chicago #ABSW

UCAN enjoyed a productive, forward-looking meeting with Cong. Sean Casten (6th Dist.) at our Western office as CEO Christa Hamilton and several of our senior leaders highlighted our direct service and wraparound programs for youth, families and young adults in his district and beyond. Looking forward to collaborating, Cong. Casten, in the best interest of those who need and deserve our support. #UCAN #PoliticalPartnerships #Chicago #ChicagoCommunities Sean Casten for Congress