News You Can Use

June spotlighted ICompete's beginner swim lessons in partnership with Palatine Park District, reaching 41 participants, and recognized staff member Sara R. for completing the Colibrí Fellowship in immigration law. The newsletter also highlighted the POC Sewing Studio's work teaching practical skills and sustainability to women and youth, and announced the expansion of the POC Roots Community Garden at Falcon Park with three new raised beds open Tuesday and Thursday evenings.

May provided a detailed update on apartment fire relief efforts, reporting that $22,272.50 of the $39,544 raised had been distributed to the 16 affected families for rent, food, clothing, and mental health services. The newsletter also celebrated the Parent Mentor Program's 30th anniversary statewide convention, highlighted POC's community outreach at the Hanover Park Kids at Hope Resource Fair, and recapped the ICompete annual Lock-In event that drew 64 participants at Falcon Park.

April celebrated the success of the Whiskey & Roses fundraiser, which raised $68,768—$8,000 over goal—supporting ESL classes, youth after-school clubs, and teen programs. The newsletter also highlighted Parent Mentor reading initiatives, the expansion of free legal and healthcare clinics at POC Hanover Park, a staff-led renovation of Edgebrook Community Center, and a clothing closet Day of Giving that served 53 families. Upcoming summer programs including dance, soccer, and camp were also announced.