Resiliency Initiative Connects Immigrants and Neighborhood

A new series of programs, workshops and events at the McKinley Park neighborhood’s Aquinas Literacy Center focuses on building connections with new immigrant residents, especially those currently learning English.

The McKinley Park Resilient Community Initiative is unique in the neighborhood and city because “it truly grows from the ground up,” said Dr. Patrick Santoro, the initiative’s program director.

“It’s multicultural, culturally responsive and shaped by neighbors’ needs,” he said.

Resilient Roots

The program joins Aquinas’ free English classes for adults with courses in community advocacy; workshops enabling environmental, financial and civic literacy; and job readiness and employment support.

One example is the new, six-week “Resilient Roots: Our Stories Are Strength” program, which helps adult English learners gain confidence through storytelling, reflection and dialogue, Santoro said.

Immigrant Rights Training

Another is the upcoming series of Immigrants Rights Training workshops on November 4, 11 and 18, which share knowledge about immigrant rights and how to respond effectively in real-life situations.

“We’re not just teaching English,” Santoro said. “We’re building resilience through rights education, storytelling and community celebration.”

McKinley Park Neighborhood Plan

The McKinley Park Neighborhood Plan released in February 2021 influenced the direction of Aquinas’ new program, Santoro said.

“The McKinley Park Neighborhood Plan reminded us that resiliency isn’t only about infrastructure — it’s about people,” he said. “That vision inspired us to create programs where neighbors learn, connect, and support one another.”

Free and Open

All residents are welcome to participate in the resiliency initiative’s programs, which are offered free of charge at the center, a non-profit operating in McKinley Park since 1996.

Santoro encouraged those with questions and interest to reach out by calling (773) 927-0512, emailing patrick@aquinasliteracycenter.org or visiting the center at 1751 W. 35th St., Chicago.

“Resiliency is about more than surviving," he said. "It’s about finding strength in each other.”