UCAN (Chicago)

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

The entire UCAN family sends our deepest condolences to the family of Colleen Bradley, a faithful 10 year plus member of the UCAN Governing Board. Colleen was ever present with her collaborative spirit and continued her family's legacy of generously supporting UCAN as started by her late father, John E. Rooney. Colleen proudly presented the youth scholarship in his name every year at our Youth Leadership Awards gala. Her commitment to our youth and UCAN's mission will never be forgotten and her impact will propel youth to pursue their passion with the same vigor in which she supported UCAN. May the fond memories of Colleen comfort her family, friends, neighbors and colleagues now and forever more. 🕊️

The North Lawndale Athletic and Recreation Association once again proudly supports our program partners with funding for their diverse summer programs this year to engage youth in an array of activities, including skills clinics and tournaments in basketball, football, soccer, rugby and running, to name just a few! These programs for boys and girls are free, well-organized fund and emphasize sportsmanship and teamwork. Our mission: Create a dynamic, community-focused athletic environment for children and adolescents that fosters their personal growth through sports opportunities provided by informed and compassionate coaches, parents and mentors. Learn more at NLARA.org! #UCAN #NLARA #NorthLawndale #Chicago

UCAN was pleased to host Mayor Brandon Johnson and representatives from the Mayor’s Office of Community Safety and the Chicago Department of Public Health today as the mayor announced the expansion of the Emergency Supplemental Victims Fund program to 10 additional communities most impacted by violence. The program’s goal is to ease the financial burden and trauma inflicted on individuals and families directly impacted by gun violence. UCAN CEO Christa Hamilton welcomed guests that included Ald. Monique Scott (24th) and thanked the mayor for the investment in the important work performed by UCAN and other organizations. As part of the expansion, Chicago residents who are victimized by gun violence in one of the city’s 15 priority community areas may be eligible for the ESVF program. Chicago families of youth aged 24 or younger who fall victim to homicide anywhere in the city also may be eligible for the program. #UCAN #Chicago #ChicagoCommunities #CommunityImpact #ESVF #ViolencePrevention #ViolenceIntervention

The UCAN tents were a big hit with people of all ages at the Juneteenth Village Fest celebration on June 15 at Douglass Park. Presented by It Takes A Village, the free, fun festival showcased a number of organizations, food vendors, nonprofits and others that entertained and educated youth, families and seniors in fellowship and to celebrate Juneteenth. As a proud sponsor, UCAN proudly demonstrated our commitment to community by distributing food, giveaways and promoting the programs and resources available through UCAN. #UCAN #Juneteenth #Chicago #ChicagoCommunities #Freedom #Celebration Happy Juneteenth!

The women of UCAN sure know how to make the men feel special! This Father’s Day, the men of UCAN were celebrated at our Nichols Center headquarters in an exceptional way. The fathers, grandfathers, stepfathers, godfathers and father figures at UCAN extend a heartfelt thank you to all of our female colleagues for organizing this beautiful banquet-style affair. The women catered to every detail, making the event truly unforgettable. #UCAN #FathersDay