Translating hope to reality

We are dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities to lead

self-determined lives, fostering a sense of agency and choice.

Our Team

For over 55 years, the Esperanza team has earned a distinguished reputation among the families we serve as a reliable and compassionate service provider dedicated to meeting our client’s unique needs and fostering a supportive environment.

Click on the photo below to send an email to any member of our Leadership Team!

Jayne Drew, MBA

Chief Executive Officer

Anne Hellmer, M.Ed., Ed.S., NCSP

Executive Director, Programs & School Principal

Leslie Boyle, M.Ed., BCBA

Director of Human Resources & Organizational Development

Yamari Rodriguez

Director of Finance

Joanna Wagner, MNA

Director of Development & Marketing

David Walters, PMP

Director of Facilities & Project Management

Becca Del Real

Director of Special Education

Liz Juarez, RN

Director of Nursing

Brenda Roman, QIDP

Director of Adult Day Program

Tim Jones, Ed.D., MS

Director of Community Living & Family Support

Theodore Issen, MS, BCBA

Director of Behavior Services

Lexi Castaneda, MA, CCC-SLP

Director of Clinical Services

Our Boards

Comprised of visionary leaders, industry experts, and diverse talents, our board plays a pivotal role in steering the course of organization. Together, we elevate possibilities, setting the stage for a future defined by groundbreaking accomplishments.

Interested in joining one of our boards? Complete the Contact Us form below or email info@esperanzacommunity.org
for more information.

Executive Board

Lauren Novak

Board Chair

Corrugated Supplies

Hiren Prabhakar

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois

Stephen Scott

Board Development Chair

Savills North America

Thomas Grogan

LUTHI, LLC

Aaron McKay

Immediate Past Chair

Aramark

Leanne Price

Accenture

Bret Deyo

Secretary

Aetna

Kent Richard

Finance Chair

The Northern Trust

Barbara Obregon

TransUnion

Gillian Nagler

Blair Hall LLC

Kim Deeb

Development Chair

PWC

Nitin Ramachandra

CCC Intelligent Solutions

Brian Macias

Brian Anthony Consulting LLC

Associate Board

Jessica Young-Eleazar

Chair

Math Circles of Chicago

Bianca Velazquez

Esperanza Staff Liaison

William Ruppert

Instacart

Diana Maya