Esperanza Community Services Continues To Help Children And Families

Esperanza Community Services was founded in 1969 to provide children with developmental disabilities access to quality education. Photo provided by Esperanza Community Services.
Esperanza Community Services was founded in 1969 to provide children with developmental disabilities access to quality education. Photo provided by Esperanza Community Services.

Esperanza Community Services Continues To Help Children And Families

By Tia Carol Jones

Esperanza Community Services was founded in 1969 to provide children with developmental disabilities access to quality education. With limited options at the time, a group of parents understood the importance of that kind of access to help their children thrive.  They decided to create spaces rooted in inclusion, dignity and possibility. More than 50 years later, Esperanza Community Services continues to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, in order to help them lead fulfilling, independent lives, with a strong focus on Spanish speaking communities.

Leaders at Esperanza Community Service took the time to answer questions about the organization and its mission.

Citizen Newspaper: How does the work of Esperanza Community Services benefit the community?

Esperanza: Esperanza strengthens the community by supporting individuals with developmental disabilities in achieving greater independence, accessing essential services, and participating fully in society. We serve as a vital resource for families, educators, and care providers, and we contribute to a more inclusive and equitable Chicago by ensuring that people of all abilities have opportunities to succeed and be seen.


Citizen: What are some of Esperanza Community Services’ programs?

Esperanza: Our programs are designed to support individuals across their lifespan. These include:

  • Esperanza School: A therapeutic day school and vocational training program for students ages 5–22 with autism and developmental disabilities.
  • Adult Day Services: Community-based programming that promotes life skills, vocational training, and social engagement.
  • Residential Services (CILA): Supportive housing options that offer 24/7 care and foster independence and quality of life.
  • Behavioral Health Services: ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis)-based supports that promote positive behavior and skill-building in both school and community settings.
  • Bridge Adult Day Program: A transitional program designed to support young adults ages 22–26 as they move from the education system into adulthood, with a focus on building independence and life skills.


Citizen: Why is an organization like Esperanza Community Services important when it comes to supporting people with developmental disabilities?

Esperanza: People with developmental disabilities often face barriers to education, employment, healthcare, and community participation. Organizations like Esperanza are crucial because we provide not just services—but advocacy, respect, and personalized behavioral and clinical services support. Our person-centered approach ensures that individuals are not defined by their challenges but empowered to achieve their goals in environments that are inclusive, safe, and nurturing.


Citizen: How can the community support the work Esperanza Community Services is doing?

Esperanza: There are many meaningful ways to support Esperanza’s work:

  • Donate: Financial contributions help us sustain and expand our programs, especially with threatened cuts to government funding.
  • Volunteer: Community members can lend their time and talents to support events or program activities. You can also apply to join our Associate or Executive Boards.
  • Attend Events: Join us for fundraisers, awareness campaigns, and community-building events. The 2025 Esperanza Gala takes place on Thursday, September 18th from 6:00 p.m.-9:00 pm and is a wonderful way to see our mission first-hand. You can learn more about this event here: https://esperanzacommunity.org/gala/
  • Advocate: Help us raise awareness and promote policies that support disability rights and inclusion.
  • Partner: Businesses and organizations can collaborate with us through sponsorships or shared initiatives.


Citizen: Where can people go to find out more about Esperanza Community Services?

Esperanza: To learn more about our programs, events, or ways to get involved, visit our website at www.esperanzacommunity.org.


Esperanza Community Services is located at 520 N. Marshfield. The phone number is 312-243-6097.


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