We provide an array of services to support, inform and educate the community on topics that strengthen the individual and family unit in Little Village and surrounding areas, with the aim of healing, building relationships, and creating safe spaces to promote wellness in the community.
Our team of clinicans delivers trauma-informed care and support for you and your family through free individual and group therapy. We also provide case management for Department of Child and Family Services (DCFS) and Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) clients.
Richard is a 4th degree knight since 1998 and was instrumental in bringing the Vietnam Moving Wall to Berwyn in 2014. Lyons, IL 60534 Phone. Our work with youth in South Lawndale/Little Village includes restorative principles classes in the school setting, anti-bullying and suicide prevention training, an after-school leadership program, and a mentoring initiative for students aimed at building youth power, support, and positive identities and relationships to inspire resilience in our communities.
Contact:
Mariana Martinez
Clinical Therapist
mmartinez2@eriehouse.org
(773) 542-7617x2809
We offer parenting groups and workshops on topics such as teen dating and effects of technology on the development of a child as well as women's empowerment groups to support you in your journey, creating safe spaces where you can learn and grow in community with others.
Contact:
Erika Flores
Community Support Specialist
eflores@eriehouse.org
(773) 542-7617x2812
Our work with youth in South Lawndale/Little Village includes restorative principles classes in the school setting, anti-bullying and suicide prevention training, an after-school leadership program, and a mentoring initiative for students aimed at building youth power, support, and positive identities and relationships to inspire resilience in our communities.
Contact:
Solomon Martinez
Community and Youth Program Coordinator
smartinez@eriehouse.org
(773) 542-7617
You can make a significant impact on the lives of individuals and families in the South Lawndale/Little Village community.
Knight Dating South Lawndale Illustrated
Mentor
Participate in a team environment to provide support to local youth, build positive relationships, and share resources to help them reach their potential.
Ideal Commitment: 1 day/week throughout the year
Intern
Get hands-on experience as you complete your social work or psychology internship through your undergraduate or graduate program.
Ideal Commitment: Semester/Full Academic Year, depending on program requirements
Meet Our Participants: Pastora Ramirez & Felix Garcia
Meet the Proyecto Cuídate Counseling Team
Proyecto Cuídate Provides Remote Trauma-Informed Counseling and Supportive Groups for our Community through COVID-19
There are no upcoming program events at this time.
Richard E. Leja | 3rd Ward Alderman
Richard has been a union member in good standing in local 191 for over 40 years. Starting his career at the famed Washburn Trade School and working for M. Ecker Decorating. His early years were concentrated on stage work and spraying, eventually working his way into paperhanging and Faux finishing. He worked for Tiffany Decorating, Miglin-Beitler corporation, and The Hilton Towers before his retirement in December 2015. He is now a lifetime Gold Card member. Richard married Patricia Hartenstein in June 1976. Patricia's father, Bill Hartenstein had been a painter in local 147 for close to 50 years. Most of his later years were spent painting for the Chicago Park District and at Lincoln Park Zoo.
Richard and Patricia have 3 grown children. They moved to Berwyn in 1980 where Richard has been involved in the community ever since. He was involved in the St. Leonard troop 32 scout program for many years. He was on the St. Leonard school board and Parish council. Richard is a 4th degree knight since 1998 and was instrumental in bringing the Vietnam Moving Wall to Berwyn in 2014. He has been on the executive board of The Berwyn Pav YMCA since 2017 and has tirelessly worked with seniors, veterans, and area youth since the early 80s. Richard is now running for 3rd ward alderman in Berwyn. He will be a voice for union issues, and an advocate for fair and equitable treatment for our working families.
(708) 749-3824
@lejafor3rdward
friendsof3rd@gmail.com
Karl Ferrell | Candidate for Joliet Township Trustee
As an active and engaged member of I.U.P.A.T. Local 33, Karl has volunteered and assisted numerous politicians that support Union Labor. Karl is a member and former president of District Council 14 Young Lions Committee, an organization that's committed to social, community and political volunteering. Karl is also a trustee for Joliet Painters Local 33, along with being a founding member of the newly organized Will County Democratic Black Caucus, Joliet Gatekeepers, community empowerment, and mentoring program. Karl is also a founding member of the Will County chapter of Black Lives Matter and he's currently running for Joliet Township Trustee.
Karl is a dedicated community activist with a keen interest in social and economic empowerment for distressed communities as well as an advocate for equal education and opportunity.
Matt Shepard | MCHS District 111 School Board
Hello!
My name is Matt Shepard and I am running for MCHS District 111 School Board. Below, you will find a short bio to give you a better idea of my background.
I am currently an Instructor at DC 14 Apprenticeship Program teaching commercial painting for District Council 14 in Chicago.
I am 45 years old, grew up in Shorewood and have lived in Channahon for the last 16 years. I went to the Troy Middle School and went to Joliet West High School. I have been a union painter for 22 years. I spent 18 years in the field doing mostly commercial work. I have always been very active with my local. I started off as a trustee, moved on to treasurer, then financial secretary and now currently hold a position on the Local 33 E-Board. The Union contract that I have worked under has provided myself and my family peace of mind with great wages and benefits.
Graduating from the DC 14 Apprenticeship and receiving the Outstanding Apprenticeship award for my graduating class is something I will always be proud of. But I kept striving for more after that. Becoming a foreman, running large projects, being an officer at Local 33 and eventually becoming an instructor at the DC 14 Apprenticeship Program are all accomplishments that I am all very proud of.
But first and foremost, getting married, having 2 sons, and becoming a grandfather without a doubt are my most cherished achievements. I have been a volunteer at the Minooka Community High School for the past 2 years donating my time as a boat captain for the Minooka Anglers Club. I also am an avid tournament bass fisherman. I truly enjoy my neighborhood and community here in the MCHS school district.
I look forward to meeting and answering any questions anyone may have! Please feel free to contact me. Thank you for your support
Matt Shepard
815-530-4780
matthewshepard@sbcglobal.net
Consolidated Primary - February 23, 2021
Consolidated Election - April 6, 2021
