Stories From Esperanza

Support Kannessa’s Journey in the New Bridge NextSteps Program!

Because Graduation Should Be a Beginning, Not an End… As a new school year begins, we’re celebrating an incredible milestone here at Esperanza, not just for our students, but for our entire community!  This fall, Kannessa, one of our beloved high school graduates,...

Aaron McKay named 2025 Bobby Reyes Legacy Award recipient

Esperanza is thrilled to share the exciting news that our dear friend and longtime champion, Aaron McKay, will be honored with the 2025 Bobby Reyes Award at this year’s Gala! If you’ve ever had the privilege of working with Aaron, you know how deeply he cares about...
Esperanza opens transformative sensory space

Esperanza opens transformative sensory space

When Esperanza occupational therapists James and Holly set out to create a dedicated sensory space, they did not envision the immediate impact they would see.  "David*, who I've never seen relaxed, went into the sensory room and zened out immediately," said...

Esperanza receives Chicago Recovery Grant

Esperanza receives Chicago Recovery Grant

Esperanza Community Services is thrilled to announce our selection as a Chicago Community Development Grant recipient. The award of $585,230 will transform our main school and adult program building in West Town by providing updated, efficient, and more accessible...

Honoring Aixa Alfonso

Honoring Aixa Alfonso

Esperanza Community Services is excited to announce the 2022 honoree of the Bobby Reyes Award: Aixa Alfonso Dr. Alfonso served on the board of Esperanza for over twenty years, championing the Esperanza art program. The student pieces hanging in her home testify to the...

Celebrating Jose’s achievements this Autism Awareness Month

Celebrating Jose’s achievements this Autism Awareness Month

Jose is just like any other young boy: active, curious, and playful. Jose loves riding his bike, jumping on the trampoline, and playing with his brother Avery. Jose was diagnosed with autism at age 2 ½, experiencing significant challenges that Jose’s previous school...

Sharing love through art: Anthony M.

Sharing love through art: Anthony M.

Anthony's heart for art shows in this piece that he drew in 2020, which combines his love of drawing hearts and using the colors pink, purple and red.  “Wishing everyone hearts, candy, and dancing for Valentine's Day celebrations,” said Anthony on this...

Volunteer Board Members Wanted

Volunteer Board Members Wanted

Esperanza Community Services is seeking well-connected leaders who are passionate about helping people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Chicago. Learn More and View Application

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