Tag Archives: Little Village

Building Blocks of Peace, Youth Development

UP2Youth Program Facilitator Positions Available

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Positions available at our community center on 2801 S. Hamlin Ave. for Youth Program Organizer. Read description below:(Expires 12/16/16)

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Job Title: Youth Program Organizer (UP2Youth) :

January – June 2017

Program  Overview 

UP’s Program staff is responsible for with the following four components and delivering it to youth in the community.  Provide tutoring assistance to youth and to ensure the successful operation of the program.

    1. Create an outline and calendar that includes youth empowerment and leadership development activities.
    2. Recruit and serve at least 35 youth (11-17 year old)
    3. Develop a mentoring model that engages youth development
    4. Include parents in the program development

Responsibilities

  • Be familiar with UP’s Mission and respect UP’s policies.
  • Participate in events hosted by UP.
  • Able to create lesson plans according to youth needs.
  • Maintain record of participant’s attendance, assessments, etc.
  • Document participant’s progress.
  • Prepare monthly statistical and narrative reports and notify the director of any changes with the program or schedule.
  • Assist with student recruitment, registration and assessment
  • Develop students files to document academic progress and personal growth
  • Compile students’ writings for publications
  • Attend and participate in staff development workshops weekly
  • Other assignments, as required by the job.

Requirements 

  • Bilingual in Spanish and English.
  • Previous experience working with youth.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel and know how to use the Internet.
  • Be culturally sensitive.
  • Ability to work well with others.
  • Social media experience.

Accountability: Youth Program Organizer reports directly to executive director

Please bring cover letter and resume or email it to apply@universidadpopular.us
Universidad Popular
2801 S. Hamlin Ave.
Chicago, IL. 60623
(773)733-5055

Youth Development

Annoucement: UP2Youth Program launches with new positions!

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Universidad Popular’s (UP) youth program has been assisting at-risk youth and families in Little Village since 2008.  This program has evolved to include partnerships with many institutions and community organizations such as the Consortium to Lower Obesity in Chicago Children, University of Chicago, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Sinai Urban Health Institute, Boy and Girls Club, Enlace Chicago, Gary Elementary School, Little Village Academy, Farragut Career Academy, Little Village High School, St. Agnes of Bohemia School, Violence Prevention Collaborative, Chicago Police Department, Chicago Public Library and the Chicago Public Parks – including many community groups and advisory committees. The program is intended for youth to find a place where they feel comfortable and safe through mentorship with caring adults. This program nurtures youth minds with social, cultural, reading and writing skills, academic achievement, life skills, parental involvement, sports and recreations, health literacy and service learning. Each youth develops leadership skills to achieve their goals and inspire others along the way.

UP to Youth is a youth-led initiative that seeks to empower young people through an environment where they can express themselves and engage their community freely through service-based projects that build skills among youth to enable them to create positive change in their world.  UP to Youth is founded on the model of popular education as conceived by the social theorist and educator, Paulo Freire with the goal of providing a holistic approach to youth leadership and positive youth development that serves as a gateway to higher education.

Since early 2014, Universidad Popular has been advocating with the assistance of youth and parents to reach out to State legislators to support funding efforts of after school programs. We urge you to help us build upon the structure for youth programming we have created and share these job descriptions with others.

Positions available below:

1.)

Job Title: Academic Specialist Fiscal Year: 2017
Department: Youth Programming Program: UP2Youth

Job Summary:
The Academic Specialist assists and supports the UP2Youth Program Coordinator with curriculum-based tutoring plans and tracking grades and progress of youth. In addition, the Academic Specialist is responsible for delivering programmatic activities and tutoring assistance to youth in the community, The Academic Specialist reports directly to the Youth Program Coordinator

 Job Responsibilities:
Create curriculum-based after-school classes that focus on educational achievement and academic outcomes.

  • Oversee tutoring and studying groups to ensure tutors/mentors are using techniques that will help participants develop assets crucial to learning.
  • Collect progress reports and report cards from participants and/or schools to track and analyze academic progress.
  • Meet with participants quarterly to analyze their strengths and weaknesses in school and together create a plan for educational success using goal setting, plans for healthy study habits, and other techniques.
  • Match academically low-achieving participants with volunteers, staff, and peers who excel in areas of weaknesses for individual or group tutoring sessions.
  • Plan and facilitate quarterly trips to college and high school campuses for program participants to learn more about higher education and the benefits of academic achievement.

Job Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree.
  • Bilingual Spanish/English is mandatory.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Word, and Excel.
  • Experience working with youth.
  • Be patient, good listener, responsible, and culturally sensitive.
  • Excellent organizational and communication skills.

NOTE:  This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employee may perform other related duties to meet the growing needs of the organization.

Send Cover Page and Resume to:                                            apply@universidadpopular.us

Universidad Popular
Olivia Flores-Godinez
2801 S. Hamlin Ave.
Chicago, Illinois 60623

2.)

Job Title: Program Coordinator Fiscal Year: 2017
Department: Youth Programming Program: UP2Youth

Position Overview
UP’s Youth Program Coordinator will administer the design and implementation of the UP2Youth program. He/she will ensure program quality and performance, which includes overseeing staff development, communicating with parents and youth participants, and maintaining relationships with funders, community partners, media, and other youth development providers. This programs hours of operation are Monday – Friday 3pm – 5pm

Responsibilities
 Create program design and work plan for the current year to be approved by Management Team.
 Oversee recruitment and registration process for new participants.
 Maintain participant and volunteer records updated and organized.
 Develop and manage a strong team of youth facilitators, providing leadership in the vision for the program and training and assistance for day-to-day program activities.
 Cultivate current and prospective funding for the UP2youth program.
 Develop relationships with other youth providers, local high schools, parishes, community organizations, local businesses, and ensure UP2Youth’s presence at community events.
 Plan and organize program events.
 Attend administrative conferences and other available trainings.
 actively participate in weekly coordinator meetings, staff meetings and organization-wide events and activities.
 Adhere to UP’s mission and policies
 other duties as required.
 Guide Youth research/advocacy projects
 Encourage Civic engagement on UP2Youth
 Do PR on UP2Youth matters issues

Requirements
 Bachelor’s Degree with an emphasis in positive youth development, social work, psychology, education or another related field.
 Two or more years of experience working with youth.
 Bilingual and bicultural in Spanish and English.
 Proficient in basic computer software: Microsoft Office, Internet, basic database management and data entry.
 Demonstrated experience in nonprofit fundraising, grant writing and reporting.
 Familiarity with the participatory education.

NOTE:  This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employee may perform other related duties to meet the growing needs of the organization.

Send Cover Page and Resume to:                                            apply@universidadpopular.us

Universidad Popular
Olivia Flores-Godinez
2801 S. Hamlin Ave.
Chicago, Illinois 60623

3.)

Job Title: Outreach Specialist/Facilitator Fiscal Year: 2017
Department: Youth Programming Program: UP2Youth

Job Summary:
The Youth Outreach Specialist assists and supports the UP2Youth Program Coordinator with recruiting new youth and networking with local schools and organizations. In addition, the Youth Outreach Specialist is responsible for delivering the sports and psychical recreation program to youth in the community. The Youth Outreach Specialist reports directly to the Youth Program Coordinator. This programs hours of operation are Monday – Friday 3pm – 5pm.

 

 Job Responsibilities: 

  • Create recruitment and outreach plan to attract local youth participants to programing
  • Develop and maintain partnerships with all schools participants attend.
  • Create mutual agreements and contracts with principals and other administrators that assist the program with data collection and information gathering on participants.
  • Become familiar with standards in physical recreation and implement them in program design
  • Plan daily opportunities for physical recreation that appeal to a broad spectrum of youth interests including team sports, various styles of dance, yoga, aerobics, and others
  • Evaluate progress in participant’s physical health based participation in physical and nutritional activities
  • Actively participate in community coalitions and dialogues with the purpose to explore resources, prevent violence, and promote cultural expression among youth

 

Job Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree.
  • Bilingual Spanish/English is mandatory.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Word, and Excel.
  • Experience working with youth.
  • Be patient, good listener, responsible, and culturally sensitive.
  • Excellent organizational and communication skills.

NOTE:  This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employee may perform other related duties to meet the growing needs of the organization.

Send Cover Page and Resume to:                                            apply@universidadpopular.us

Universidad Popular
Olivia Flores-Godinez
2801 S. Hamlin Ave.
Chicago, Illinois 60623

4.)

Job Title: Parent Engagement Specialist Fiscal Year: 2017
Department: Youth Programming Program: UP2Youth

Job Summary:
The Parent Engagement Specialist assists and supports the UP2Youth Youth Program Coordinator with parent communication in addition to referring families to proper agencies for assistance. The Parent Engagement Specialist reports directly to the Youth Program Coordinator. This programs hours of operation are Monday – Friday 3pm – 5pm

Job Responsibilities:

  • Act as a liaison between the organization and families of youth participants
  • Maintain continual contact with parents regarding activities, events, youth behavior and progress, and other relevant issues as they occur
  • Plan and deliver new parent orientations at the beginning of each school year
  • Provide all families with information regarding rules, policies, events, daily activities and other items and ensure their understanding
  • Connect families to internal and external resources
  • Refer youth and their families to services not provided by UP
  • Plan and host monthly Parent Advisory Council meetings to share information about the program with the parents and to gain feedback
  • Distribute and collect evaluations to analyze and monitor success of program
  • Provide quarterly workshops for parents based off interest surveys
  • Organize parents to provide bi-weekly healthful meals for youth participants

Job Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree.
  • Bilingual Spanish/English is mandatory.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Word, and Excel.
  • Experience working with youth.
  • Be patient, good listener, responsible, and culturally sensitive.
  • Excellent organizational and communication skills.

NOTE:  This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employee may perform other related duties to meet the growing needs of the organization.

Send Cover Page and Resume to:                                            apply@universidadpopular.us

Universidad Popular
Olivia Flores-Godinez
2801 S. Hamlin Ave.
Chicago, Illinois 60623

These positions expire 11/18/16

English Literacy, Volunteers, Youth Development

Vanderbilt University Alternative Spring Break in La Villita

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Universidad Popular welcomes Vanderbilt University’s students once again for their Spring-break experience in Chicago.

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The week of March 7th to Mach 11th, 2016, Universidad Popular’s adult education LEARNING TO SUCCEED, English Language Development Program and the youth after-school program had, once again, the opportunity to exchange life experiences and re-enforce learning skills with 10 students from Vanderbilt University’s Alternative Spring Break from Nashville, Tennessee.

13Facilitators and participants alike had a meaningful experience by sharing their why’s and their struggles of learning a new language. Participants had the opportunity to work in small groups which facilitate their learning processes.  Vanderbilt University students from were able to use their language skills to help our participants feel more comfortable asking and answering questions to strangers.  But most importantly, they had the opportunity to get to know each other and share life experiences.

1Universidad Popular is very thankful for this great interacting and we invite anyone who wants to support our community empowerment mission to come out and start building bridges with us.  The only degree required is to care for people.

Here are some comments from Vanderbilt University students’ experiences including a video during our health literacy activity -Zumba

Reflections from Vanderbilt University Alternative Spring Break

I thoroughly enjoyed spending time at Universidad Popular with its vibrant and passionate community.  Though only here for a short time. I made great relationships with the participants and community at large.  I am sad to go, since I learned so much about the people of “La Villita” and their stories as well as a little more about myself.

16Getting to directly interact with the participants and people here was always a happy occasion, and was probably my favorite aspect about UP.  Universidad Popular is not just a place for people to come to learn English or simply pass the time, but a place where the community comes together to learn from each other as they try to better themselves and the community.  Universidad Popular is a school for life.

-Miguel Gómez
Vanderbilt University

17Coming in to tutoring my first day at UP, I had no idea what to expect. However immediately when I walked into the room, I noticed how warm and friendly everyone was.  Cesar and all the participants were so kind and welcoming.  Everyone is really dedicated to learning English, and it was an amazing experience to help them.  Even in just one week, I was able to connect and help my participants. Not only did they learn, but so did I.  I loved every moment from presentations to Zumba to playing soccer with the kids at Universidad Popular.  I wish I could come back and continue to be involved.

-Student
Vanderbilt University

12It has been a pleasure working with Universidad Popular this week. I’ve been blowing away by this organization’s mission and focus on the community and its members as more than just clients or students.  It’s been so inspiring and eye-opening to spend time in conversation with all of the participants and hear their stories and hard work and resilience.  I’m so thankful that Universidad Popular has graciously given us the opportunity to learn more about this community and its people.  UP has been so welcoming in letting us be members of this community for the short week we were here.  Being able to partake in the experience here has been an invaluable experience and memory.  I leave Chicago and UP with so much more knowledge about the both the assets and needs of this community, with great experiences, and most importantly new friends.  Thank you to UP for welcoming us into this wonderful, constructive community.

-Student
Vanderbilt University

10At Universidad Popular I learned the realities of many Latinos living in the US. It was amazing receiving the drive and desire that all the participants have to learn English.  Better their lives and living situations here.  It was also so interesting hearing everybody’s story –it gave me so much appreciation for the effort they display and the difficulties they face every day.  The kids were so full of life and welcoming to us.  Even though we broke their normal routine.  It was great to see them in a program like this to keep them safe, busy and enriched outside of school I hope to see UP get more funding in the future because this is such a special place to the Latino community.  I wish you all the very best in the future and I hope to visit one day!

-Student
Vanderbilt University

9¡Muchísimas gracias por la oportunidad de servir en Universidad Popular durante esta semana! Universidad Popular es una comunidad especial y siento que estaba invitado a ser parte de esta comunidad y familia.  A pesar de que solamente hemos estado aquí por un poco de tiempo. He disfrutado la experiencia de acompañar a los participantes de Universidad Popular en su camino de aprender inglés, especialmente como estoy aprendiendo español.  Fue un placer juntarnos en el esfuerzo de aprender nuevos lenguajes, pero aún más importante fue la oportunidad de aprender mutuamente sobre nuestras experiencias.

Espero que podamos volver a “La Villita” en el futuro y pasar más tiempo con la comunidad linda.

¡Gracias!

-Octavia White
Vanderbilt University

3The last week at Universidad Popular have been incredibly eye-opening.  My interaction with the adults in the ESL class were so full of joy.  I was so impressed by the openness of the community as they welcomed us into their homes I want to emphasize the bravery I saw in every person who came to Chicago in search of a new life and came to UP in search of a new language.  Learning a new language is a huge undertaking, and a commitment that should not take lightly.  Keep studding because I can’t wait to hear all about your English journey when I come back.

-Arianna Yarrita
Vanderbilt University

6Working with the kids and adults at Universidad Popular has been such an enriching experience.  I have never been exposed to a community like Little Village and getting to know the members of the community one on one was very eye opening.  Before coming here I only saw the Hispanic community as a group of people that exists in this community.  I’ve learned a lot from everyone and really appreciate the opportunity given to me to interact with them.

-Student
Vanderbilt University

I cannot say enough positive things about our experience at UP.  We loved the opportunity to interact with and learn from this vibrant community.
From our group’s conversations throughout our week in Little Village, it was clear that everyone had been touched by the stories we hear at UP.
Many thanks to Cesar and every staff member here for their dedication to helping this community.

Mil gracias a todos en UP, de parte de todo nuestro grupo, fue una bendición estar en La Villita.

-Schott Lancaster
Vanderbilt University

7I really appreciate how community-driven UP is and it’s really apparent how much Cesar cares about the community and helping improve the lives of its residents.

I had a ton of fun getting to know the individual stories of the Advance English class participants, and I’m truly tanksful for the experience –It was really educational and I now have a new perspective to look at world issues through. Up is doing amazing work in the community, and it’s clear that all the Little Village residents love being here.  Thank you for all that you do!

-Student
Vanderbilt University

18Spending time with the participants, facilitators and administrators at Universidad Popular has been truly inspiring.  From interacting with participants who are determined to advance for their good and that of their family.  To the facilitators and administrators who invest not only their efforts but their hearts into the lives of others.  Each interaction with the people at UP has filled me with hope for the future of the Latino community.

I had so much from spending the week here has been worthwhile. Thank you for opening your doors to us students, as learning about your institution and mission will be one of the most important learning experiences as college students.  Thanks and God Bless!

-Barbara Santana
Vanderbilt University

To connect your students with us at Universidad Popular please contact us at media@universidadpopular.us

Computer Literacy, Digital Literacy Program, Employment, English Literacy, Families Program

We are Learning to Succeed!

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We are participants at Universidad Popular and we urge Governor Bruce Rauner to please sign Bill SB 2043.  We need to continue learning English. Thank you!

IMG_7373
Our program participants took action into their own hands this week to urge Governor Bruce Rauner to please sign SB 2043. A bill that will appropriate State funding to adult education through the Illinois Community College Board.

On Twitter Tuesday, participants posted on UP’s twitter page getting over 320 impressions with followersCapture1On Website Wednesday, participants visited the Governor’s website to sign a petition for SB2043 and urge Rauner to sign the bill.

On Telephone Thursday, participants called the Governor’s Office at 217-782-0244  or 312-814-2121 and asked him to sign SB2043 see a video clip here 20160212_121629

On Facebook Friday we reached over 1000 people, please help us share this post!

download_20160212_122927

Learning to Succeed (LETOS) provides English classes in the morning and evening for immigrant adults, with an emphasis on life skills, civic engagement, and community transformation. The curriculum and teaching method we use is based on popular education; there-fore, participants are encouraged to participate in class, curricula, and evaluation of the program. Classes take place at two different locations in Little Village and in Chicago Lawn.

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At the community level the state budget crisis has rippled it’s outer rings and impacted direct services to workforce programs, computer training, after-school youth programs, adult education and family literacy. These programs provide educational training to hard working immigrants residing in the Chicagoland area.

Today, the State of Illinois continues to struggle as community centers fold and many others reduce services to less than 50% capacity. What should we tell people who knock on our doors at night who struggle to pay the rent and keep their homes warm in the cold winters? What should we tell people who are victims of violence due to a rise in crime and gun violence – “Do you want a job?”, “do you want to go to college?” if you don’t sorry we can not help you because you are not contributing to the States economy?

IMG_7296Little do you know these are hard working immigrants, they all have jobs, they all work long hours, they all want to get a better jobs, they all want to go to college or universities. But, they have other responsibilities and commit selfless acts, each person can not surrender thousands of dollars to institutions. Community centers provide a space where each learner gains confidence to build their communication skills to carry out conversations in English with their employers and at demanding times in the doctor’s office or with their children’s teachers. These types of programs must also be funded in order to equip those who can to continue in their educational paths and individual career pipelines even if the end result is a raise or a better position in a job they have committed their entire lives to.

How well do you know people committed to learn English?

“My name is Jose Diaz. I prefer to be called Jose. I was born in Puerto Rico. I am 49 years old. I came to Chicago on February 26th 2009. I am married.”

“My name is Betty Salguero. I prefer to be called Betty. I was born in Guayaquil, Ecuador. I am 47 years old. I came to Chicago on January 2010. I am married. I am a nurse. I like to work at O’Hare airport, I clean.  On my free time I like to watch movies. I love to eat Ecuadorian food. My favorite place to visit is the mall. I like to learn at Universidad Popular. ”

“My name is Maria Elena Romano. I prefer to be called Maria Elena. I was born in Mexico City. I am 61 years old. I came to Chicago on May 26th, 1994. I am married. I like to dance everything. On my free time I like to sing. My favorite food is American food. I am a participant at Universidad Popular since September 2015.”

“My name is Maria Barraza. I prefer to be called Mary. I was born in Durango, Mexico. I am 43 years old. I came to Chicago on October 1989. I am married. I am a first communion catechism teacher. I like to dance and I like to exercise with Zumba.  On my free time I like to watch TV, go to my mother’s house, walk and study English. I love to eat Mexican food. My favorite place to visit is Durango, Mexico. Every day I take my children to school.  I have four children. I work a lot at home and I take care of my mom.”

 

Youth Development

Youth Program Organizer Position available!

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UPDATE 2/1/16 – 1 position available at our community center on 2801 S. Hamlin Ave. for Youth Program Organizer. Read description below:(Expires 2/15/16)

up

Job Title:  Youth Program Organizer January – June 2016
Position: Part-Time Positions Available: 1

Program  Overview 

UP’s Program staff is responsible for with the following four components and delivering it to youth in the community.  Provide tutoring assistance to youth and to ensure the successful operation of the program.

    1. Create an outline and calendar that includes youth empowerment and leadership development activities.
    2. Recruit and serve at least 25 youth (5th to 8th grade)
    3. Develop a mentoring model that engages youth development
    4. Include parents in the program development

Responsibilities

  • Be familiar with UP’s Mission and respect UP’s policies.
  • Participate in events hosted by UP.
  • Able to create lesson plans according to youth needs.
  • Maintain record of participant’s attendance, assessments, etc.
  • Document participant’s progress.
  • Prepare monthly statistical and narrative reports and notify the executive director of any changes with the program or schedule.
  • Assist with student recruitment, registration and assessment
  • Develop students files to document academic progress and personal growth
  • Compile students’ writings for publications
  • Attend and participate in staff development workshops weekly
  • Other assignments, as required by the job.

Requirements 

  • Bachelor’s Degree.
  • Bilingual in Spanish and English.
  • Previous experience working with youth.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel and know how to use the Internet.
  • Be culturally sensitive.
  • Ability to work well with others.
  • Social media experience.

Accountability: Youth Program Organizer reports directly to executive director

Please bring cover letter and resume or email it to apply@universidadpopular.us
Universidad Popular
2801 S. Hamlin Ave.
Chicago, IL. 60623
(773)733-5055

Families Program, Feria del Mole, Health Literacy Initiative, Microbusiness, Volunteers

10th Annual Feria Del Mole – RESULTS

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winner7

Universidad Popular (UP) celebrated its tenth annual “La Feria del Mole” on September 26 and “El Mercado del Mole” September 27, 2015.

Over 3,000 people from all over Chicago and the tri-state area came to taste, buy and take home mole in these events where 20 women and their families competed with their home-made recipes to be awarded the “Best Mole in Chicago.”

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This year’s winners by majority vote included:

$500 for “First Best Mole,” to Table #11 Ma. Carmen Flores, a Chicago Lawn resident, from Cerro del Campo, Amatepec, México
$350 for “Second Best Mole,” to Table # 6 Maria Gonzalez, a Gurnee, IL resident, from Michoacán, Mexico
$250 for “Third Best Mole,” to Table #9 Rocio Aguilar, a Chicago Lawn resident, from Mexico City, Mexico

Special cash awards for best table and dress:winner11
$150 for “Best Table Decoration,” to Table #12 Julia Garcia
$150 for “Best Traditional Dress,” to Table #27 Griselda Baez

This year Universidad Popular helped ( La Feria del Mole has certified)  15 moleras obtain  their Food Hand Sanitation Certificate from the National Restaurant Association  through the ServSafe Food Handler Program (a complete solution that delivers consistent food safety training to employees) which  covers five key areas:

● Basic Food Safety
● Personal Hygiene
● Cross-contamination & Allergens
● GTime & Temperature
● Cleaning & Sanitation.

winner2Our annual event Feria del Mole was presented as a play at Goodman Theater through a partnership with Albany Park Theater Project (APTP), a multi-ethnic youth-led theater who is dedicated to do performance art, and a vision of social justice. Miguel Alvelo, Little Village resident and UP program facilitator who knew Rossana Rodriguez’s work at APTP, thought that this event would be a good opportunity to bridge our efforts and this was how this mole play came into being. Rossana jumped on the bandwagon with a group of youth and came to La Villita back in the Summer to conduct a series of field interviews, the basic ingredients of FEAST.
winner8The idea behind these interviews was to create an original play
based on the life experiences of the moleras, whose stories might otherwise go untold. The performance FEAST 2015 was based on those moleras’ stories and other ethnic groups. Albany Park Theater Project had a success with this performance and the play was available for a month and a half at the Goodman Theater plus a special presentation at UP’s assembly hall.

winner3This year’s 2-day event was a great success in celebrating our culture with Mole at the spotlight of traditional Mexican Cuisine. Most importantly, this family event had moleras working together with their sons, daughters, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and even in-laws to contribute to an amazing day full of Mole tasting, performances and entertainment for all. Carmen Celio from table #18 said, “next year I’m going to have one of my sons cook the mole and compete for me, this year my grandchildren helped me, and I was delighted to pass down this traditional recipe of a combined taste from Guanajuato and Veracruz.”

A little history of the winners of La Feria Del Mole 2015:
Lilia segoviano

Maria del Carmen Flores 1st Place:winner1
Maria del Carmen is a native of the state of Mexico, Cerro del Campo, Amatepec, Mexico. Carmen came to UP looking for adult education. During the lessons she learned about La Feria del Mole and decided to participate. Last year she won 2nd place and now took first place. She brought the whole family, daughters, sons and grandchild Karina. All were very supportive during the event. Carmen said the mole recipe is from her mother but modified to your taste and the taste of the public. She dedicates her time to cooking and covering orders from family and friends for the family business. She works making food to sustain the family. She was very happy to have participated during these two years. Her Mole was prepared using more than 10 pounds of a mixture of chile peppers. It took a day to prepare the mole for the event and cooked for more than two hours. Carmen shared, “I have 21 years living in Chicago. My dream is to have a restaurant to own and work out of. I worked in a bakery and I learned to bake cookies and cakes. After this year’s Feria I went to celebrate. Thank God.”

Maria González 2nd Place:
winner9Originally from Michoacán Maria participated in the fair last year obtaining 3rd place. She participated again and this time won 2nd place. Coincidentally the day of La Feria was her husband’s birthday therefore celebrated here with the mole festivities and her entire family to support. Married with 5 children, all living in Chicago for 26 years Maria lives near Gurnee Mall. She traveled more than an hour away with the family by car. She was made aware of La Feria del Mole by her daughter and signed up for the contest. Maria shared, “My mole is a family recipe and my daughters know how to make it and give it the same traditional flavor. We bought 4 pounds of chile guajillo and chile ancho. My family helped me to prepare the mole; it took like 5 hours of teamwork. I added all the seasonings. This opportunity was very emotional for us because we put a lot of time and heart together to share this recipe of ours. I was very nervous during the event. I made the mole last me the entire event, sometimes I gave a lot and sometimes I gave less but I always measured mole to distribute. As a result my sisters have shared that I need to make mole for their parties and family events. During the fair many asked me where they could buy my paste. The whole event was great.

Rocio Aguilar 3rd Place.
winner12From the State of Mexico Rocio brings her great-aunt’s recipe, but her mom’s seasoning claims a flavor of queens of Mole recipes, Rocio is matching its great taste with its distinctive flavor. All participated in the family. Originally from Mexico City, parents born in Guanajuato, Tlalnepantla the mole was a tradition of the grandmother. Rocio’s great-aunt usually makes for family parties and Rocio helps. Rocio would take her great-aunt to the market to buy chiles. “Winning 2nd place was great for us.  We were all nervous at the beginning while standing on stage to begin the competition especially since the nieces of one of the Ambassadors were participating,” Rocio shared. Rocio felt nervous because he had not participated in this type of family event and the stage caused some nerve. “It’s not the same before and during the competition, we worked hard for two days to get everything ready. I like to make mole, for me this process can last one week. The peppers are ground, toasted and everything in-between, this is a long process. My husband said I should of done it myself but we all know food tastes better when my aunts, sister-in-laws, two nephews, four nieces got involved. A good teamwork for sure! My sister-in-law & child’s godmother and their children, including Sandra helped to decorate the table front. The event made me feel very good, and less pressured, we saw a very familiar atmosphere. Each table had its season of flavor, it was amazing.

About El Mercado Del Mole :
Olivia Flores-Godinez

El Mercado del Mole is the outcome of Universidad Popular’s micro-business initiative not only to promote our moleras but also to plant the business seed in their mind for them to sell their mole sauce and eventually start building their (family?!) business using their (delicious?!) family/ancestors mole recipe.

The Mole winners by popular vote, shared their mole cuisine on the following day. At this time we had the opportunity to sit and eat this delicious mole; Doña Chevia (89 years old) tried all of them! Josefina came to buy mole to prepare her dinner at home, “I am cooking the chicken at home as we speak, I just need the mole” she said. The Guangorena’s family heard about el Mercado del Mole on the TV news and decided to come to visit us at UP, Mr. Rangel drove all the way from Streator Illinois to come and eat mole! One of the Moleras created a good variety of dishes using mole, such as Tortas de mole, nachos de mole, and enchiladas de mole at her table.

What I noticed during El Mercado del Mole was that most of the people were seniors that wanted to come sit and enjoy the mole either with their family, relatives or friends. We had the Chinelos, a Morelos dance group that brought plenty of joy on the audience; people stood up and danced with them, many smiles were seen from those that enjoyed watching them perform– the ambient was great to create abundant memories for all of us!

About El Mercado del Mole:
Rocio Aguilar

winner13“It was another great experience, something new and a lot of work to participate in the Mole Market. My whole family joined this hard working activity including my husband, my godmother (sister in-law), my aunts and my parents. From a week earlier we plan to sell. We came up with the idea of presenting the mole as traditionally sold in the city of Mexico. We offered mole in “tortas” (mexican sandwiches), enchiladas (tortillas with mole), nachos with mole, mole hojaldras (burgers).

The nachos we invented here in Chicago because it was something simple for kids to eat and provided the taste of mole. We also think that many people are vegetarian and nachos is something that can be attractive. Some do not eat meat so the idea of nachos was a good choice. It was impressive to see the people who tasted the mole we cook, it was worth all the work. There is no better judge than the people who eat my mole and say “good!, I like this! or it is delicious!”

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winner10We would also like to give a special thanks to all of our volunteers and sponsors who helped and contributed to this successful cultural family gathering. See you next year!

UPrising

Youth Program Organizer Position available!

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Universidad Popular announces 2 new positions available at our community center on 2801 S. Hamlin Ave. for Youth Program Organizers. Read description below:

up

Job Title:  Youth Program Organizer January – June 2016
Position: Part-Time Positions Available: 2

 

Program  Overview 

UP’s Program staff is responsible for with the following four components and delivering it to youth in the community.  Provide tutoring assistance to youth and to ensure the successful operation of the program.

    1. Create an outline and calendar that includes youth empowerment and leadership development activities.
    2. Recruit and serve at least 25 youth (5th to 8th grade)
    3. Develop a mentoring model that engages youth development
    4. Include parents in the program development

Responsibilities

  • Be familiar with UP’s Mission and respect UP’s policies.
  • Participate in events hosted by UP.
  • Able to create lesson plans according to youth needs.
  • Maintain record of participant’s attendance, assessments, etc.
  • Document participant’s progress.
  • Prepare monthly statistical and narrative reports and notify the executive director of any changes with the program or schedule.
  • Assist with student recruitment, registration and assessment
  • Develop students files to document academic progress and personal growth
  • Compile students’ writings for publications
  • Attend and participate in staff development workshops weekly
  • Other assignments, as required by the job.

Requirements 

  • Bachelor’s Degree.
  • Bilingual in Spanish and English.
  • Previous experience working with youth.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel and know how to use the Internet.
  • Be culturally sensitive.
  • Ability to work well with others.
  • Social media experience.

Accountability: Youth Program Organizer reports directly to executive director

Please bring cover letter and resume or email it to apply@universidadpopular.us
Universidad Popular
2801 S. Hamlin Ave.
Chicago, IL. 60623
(773)733-5055

Fundraising, UPrising

UPrising Youth Program Launches Crowdfunding Campaign!

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Universidad Popular’s UPrising Youth Program works with over 100  youth throughout the year and helps them overcome systematic challenges through a holistic approach that covers youth leadership, mentorship, and academics. Thanks to UPrising, Little Village youth have a safe space where they can grow and learn together in a supportive environment.

UPrising Support testimonials

Recently, Universidad Popular became one of hundreds of organizations in Illinois that has been affected by statewide budget cuts and the lack of 2016 budget. Because of this, the youth program will be forced to shut its doors and cease to provide area youth with academic, social, cultural, and physical mentorship.
This is devastating news
Our youth have organized themselves to speak up and demonstrate how important this program is for them. These past few months they’ve participated in demonstrations, press conferences, professional conferences; they’ve sent letters to the governor and public officials; and now they are launching a two-week crowdfunding marathon to make their summer program possible.
You can help
We want to make our summer youth program available for community youth, 5 hours a day, 5 days a week. To make this happen, we need to raise $20,000 by June 30th.
 
Share this campaign with your friends, family, and everybody else! Spread the word about the importance of funding holistic youth programing. We even made a tiny url to make sharing even easier:
Donate! 
Every little bit helps us reach our goal of sustaining our summer programing while we seek stable funding for the fall.
Checks can be made payable to Universidad Popular with “UPrising” in the memo line and sent to:
Universidad Popular
2801 S Hamlin Ave.
Chicago, IL 60623
For more information contact us at 773-733-5055 or online at www.universidadpopular.us

English Literacy, Families Program, Microbusiness

UP’s Knitting Group – Now on THURSDAYS!

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IMG_1758Last year for International Women’s Day, the English classes put on an IMG_1765exhibition of women’s talents to highlight the women that are part of the program.

Maria Serrato brought many knit items to show and shared a little bit of her history, how she learned to knit, and her micro-business of selling hats and scarves that she makes herself.
From there, Maria decided to form a group to share her skills with others. Since then, the group has been
meeting once a week after the morning English classes. Some people have come to learn knitting for the first time, and many come to knit new projects, learn a few new stitches, and enjoy spending time and sharing stories with other women in the IMG_1757neighborhood.IMG_1755

This year, the group meetings have been moved to Thursdays from 12:00-1:00. We are trying to do more projects together, and are starting with a simple hat. All are welcome to join!

 

 

Health Literacy Initiative, Volunteers

Sanación Colectiva: Hierbas para la Mujer

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hierbas medicinales para las mujeres flyer

En los Sábados 8 y 22 de Noviembre las mujeres de la Villita, junto a Jacoba–voluntaria de Universidad Popular–han juntado sus sabidurías para expandir la conversación sobre la sanación colectiva. Han estado revisando como, a traves de la milenia, la humanidad y especialmente las mujeres han recolectado conocimiento y recaudado medicinas que la tierra misma provee para sanarnos de muchos malestares comúnes.

Con un enfoque en la salud de la mujer, han estudiado y debatido el desligamiento de las sabidurias ancestrales con la medicina actual. Re-visitando los consejos de sus madres, o abuelas, estas mujeres ahora están creando un compendio de sanación natural basado en la sabiduría de las mujeres mismas que ha sido reenforzado por varios estudios científicos que se han encomendado a “descubrir” este conocimiento antiguo. El producto final de este compendio será un libro que esperan poder publicar autónomamente a finales de este año. Avisaremos por este mismo medio del mismo, y estará disponible para lectura en las oficinas centrales de Universidad Popular en la Villita, Chicago.

Incluímos aquí la presentación Powerpoint (en formato PDF) que se creó basada en una encuesta sobre métodos ancestrales de sanación que se usó para facilitar las conversaciones:

Sanacion Colectiva Hierbas para la mujer Universidad Popular Nov 8 2014