Programs and Initiatives

We operate many vital programs, participate in coalitions, and hold several special events throughout the year. The following is a partial listing.

Health Programs

Our health programs are focused on healthy lifestyles, disease prevention and management. We also look to the future by collaborating on research projects.

Promotores de Salud (Health Promoters)

The community health promoters program is one of the central and distinctive programs at CCJD. In this program local residents are trained by the Chicago Department of Public Health, the Red Cross, Michael Reese, UIC, Mujeres Latinas en Accion, Chicago Family Health Center, the American Lung Association, and many others to understand the health problems prevalent in South Chicago, such as diabetes, HIV/AIDS, asthma, Prenatal Care, Breast Cancer and more. They then take this information, implement it in their own lives, and then share it by giving presentations in the community.

Una Visita Cuenta (A Visit Counts)

Health Promoters who complete their certifications can then become part of the Una Visita Cuenta program. They make appointments and visit fellow residents at their homes and share their knowledge through presentations and informal conversation. This program has been succeeding through out the years in bringing the community health promoter model to our urban setting. These visits keep us in touch with the community and help us to proactively identify many needs.

HIV / AIDS Prevention

This program promotes HIV/AIDS prevention specifically targeted at Hispanic women, young adults, and the Lesbian\Gay\Bisexual\Trans-gendered community. We work specifically at breaking the cultural barriers to effective HIV/AIDS education and prevention.

Diabetes

We offer classes for those at risk for type II diabetes, as well as blood glucose testing and body fat percentage testing. This disease is very prevalent in the Latino community.

Literacy & Education Programs

Grupo Amigo (Group of Friends) After School Program

A common problem in the area is a lack of activities for children after school. The After School Program provides tutoring and a safe place for at risk youth.

Un Dia en el Sol (A Day Under the Sun) Summer Program

An extension of our After School Program, the children and their parents are involved in learning activities, exercise, and field trips to cultural attractions that they would not otherwise be able to visit.

First Literacy

First Literacy classes are offered to those who have limited literacy in their native language of Spanish.

English as a Second Language

ESL classes are offered to residents who want to learn practical skills in spoken and written English.

Organizing Programs

Arnold Mireles Human and Community Rights Program

This program aims to raise awareness of human and tenant rights in the community. This knowledge can empower people to take action against those that violate the law and their rights.

Community Gardens

We maintain two gardens on former empty lots. This not only helps the community volunteers learn about gardening but reduces crime activities.

Social Services

Food Pantry

We distribute emergency food aid to local families in partnership with the Greater Chicago Food Depository. We consider this an extension of our healthcare activities in meeting the basic nutritional needs of all members of the community.

Clothing Donation

We receive clothing donations and make the items freely available to the community. By helping to meet people's needs we offer an opportunity for them to get further involved with our organization.

Partnerships and Collaborations

We often partner with universities and other research institutions either in providing access to participants or receiving training to actually conduct research in the community. Some of the institutions we work with are the University of Chicago, The Field Museum, and the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Our partnerships with other service organizations are also extensive, and include the Chicago Children's Museum, the Greater Chicago Food Depository, Via Guadalupe, Chicago Family Health Center, and many more.