Our Programs
Esperanza Community Services provides individualized therapeutic and educational programs to help children and adults with mild, moderate, and severe developmental disabilities (including autism) as well as behavior needs be as independent as possible.
Our mission is accomplished through programs delivered at our campus in West Town and throughout the community. All of Esperanza’s programs are bilingual (available in both English and Spanish) and are offered five days a week, with the exception of our residential program, which operates 24/7. Door-to-door transportation is provided for programs on Esperanza’s campus, which is located at 520 N. Marshfield, near the intersection of Grand and Ashland.
Esperanza School
All students need a place where they can learn, grow, and be supported to reach their potential. Esperanza School addresses the educational and developmental needs of students age 5-21 with mild to severe developmental disabilities, including intellectual delays, cognitive impairment, Autism, emotional and/or behavioral needs, and other conditions.
Esperanza Learning Center
Esperanza Learning Center (ELC) is a new program within the therapeutic environment, that aims to provide support for students with acquiring essential daily living, vocational, and leisure skills with the end goal of achieving the highest level of independence for that individual student.
Adult Day Program
The Coleridge Adult Day Program supports adults with developmental disabilities to continue building the academic and relevant life skills needed to be as independent as possible. Through skill development plans custom-tailored to the needs and goals of each individual, adults are developing life skills like meal preparation, communication, using public transportation and navigating the community, grocery shopping, and more.
Participants are empowered to make their own decisions about daily activities, and self-direction is emphasized. Arts and crafts, music, and theater are also available, ensuring that the learning needs of participants of all learning styles and skill levels are addressed.
Community Integrated Living Arrangement
Esperanza’s homes are located in residential neighborhoods in Chicago. All residents in our CILA program are supported to live as independently as possible in supervised, family-like homes that facilitate skill-building and community integration. Services promote self-sufficiency and development in the areas of self-care, social skills, recreation, meal preparation, budgeting, and recreational interests. Presently, Esperanza owns and operates 3 homes within the northwest side of Chicago.
Client & Family Support Program
Esperanza’s Client & Family Program aims to preserve families and strengthen relationships. We provide goal-oriented, person-centered services in a community setting with in-home supports to individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities and their families.
Esperanza Art Studio
Esperanza Art Studio provides exploration, self-expression, and decision-making through art-making for adults with developmental disabilities.
Support our Programs
Please consider making a recurring or one-time donation that enables us to continue helping participants build the skills that lead to independence.