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A Description of the programs and people of La Universidad Popular.

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Page 1: Sharing Our Laurels
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SharingOur Laurels

2010

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SHARING OUR LAURELS2

Whenever the economy goes sour we start hearing talks aboutfurther training as though it is always one's deficiency or fault that oneis unemployed. The economy now is in such a shape that more andmore people with college degrees are applying for jobs that high schooldropouts can handle. Nevertheless, as it happens every spring, atsunami of graduations is overwhelming college campuses throughoutthe country, even though most of the graduates of the last couple ofyears are still unemployed and with no prospects of employment insight. Still, thousands and thousands more are picking up their degreesand applying for jobs in order to start the process of paying off theirstudent loans. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that for thenext ten years the US economy will be generating, at the best, twicemore low-skilled jobs than those requiring higher education. Whetherwe refer to low- or even to high-skilled jobs, this is an employer'smarket, for some years to come. Whoever invested years of their lives(plus borrowed huge amounts of money to obtain whatever trainingthey got) will not be necessarily willing to submit themselves toemployers that are disregardful of those fixtures. Historically, this iswhen many employers start actively seeking immigrants while manyothers start pressing their representatives in Congress for legislationreforms, suitable to their labor force needs.

In his drive to bring about economic recovery in the 1980s,President Reagan was determined to help the employers: Besides taxrelief, he insisted with the US congress to pass what became theImmigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. He did not wantemployers to leave the USA with their jobs and taxes. In general, low-skills jobs command low pay; typically, these are jobs that US citizensbalk at. So, unless our workplace is re-organized to provide livingwages to low-skilled jobs, the influx of immigrants will remain,regardless of whatever “fixing” we do in our border. We can notoversimplify immigration as a border's problem: The Chinese, centuriesago, and the Soviets in the 1960s, not to speak of the Israelis morerecently, tried to solve their “border's problem” by building walls andwe know how (in)effective such a strategy was. Unless, our labor

market is fixed, “aliens” will continue coming through the border topick up our vegetables, to slaughter our poultries and pigs, tolandscape our yards, to clean our offices, to fix our homes, to cook ourfood, to wash our dishes, to care for our seniors, to nanny our childrenand so on. Otherwise, a lot of families and businesses will not do wellenough to survive in this economy. Nonetheless, in recessionary times,these very same people responsible for the health of our economy areblamed for all the maladies of society. It happened so many timesbefore, said the other day journalist Vicente Serrano, the grandson ofone of the victims of one of the xenophobic moments of the US historyin the early 1930s: “Not only the economy was suffering from a deepdepression but also no one had any clue on how to get it out of thedoldrum,” he added. The pseudo-solution?! The deportation ofwhoever the powers-that-be decided that did not belong here: Overtwo million people were “repatried” to México, albeit so manythousands of them had been born in this country. In a hodgepodge ofbad humor, ignorance and racism, the Hoover Administration called it“Mexican repatriation.” In fact, it was out of this weltanschuung thatMr. Serrano decided to highlighten such a gross violation of people'smost basic civil liberty and constitutional right by putting together adocumentary-A Forgotten Injustice-that Universidad Popular'sparticipants watched a few times last winter as a part of their civiceducation issues forums. Last fall Illinois passed a law (SB1557)mandating our high school history textbooks to cover this dark chapterof the US history hoping to prevent the repetition of this brand ofxenophobic policies. This spring, however, the State of Arizona enacteda legislation very similar to the one that exiled, ostracized Mr. Serrano'sgrandmother to a foreign land, México, despite her California's birth.In a clear demonstration that politicians are not to be trusted, SenatorMcCay, once a self-proclaimed champion of immigration reform, hadno hesitation whatsoever laying his support behind Arizona's SB1070.Should Joe Arpaio, the Maricopa County Sheriff, have decided to runfor Arizona's governorship, most likely he would beat Jan Brewer thisupcoming fall. A recent poll there showed his popularity approval to behigher than 70%! In other words, it would be a mistake to see him as

Jobs, Training andImmigration Reform

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UNIVERSIDAD POPULAR 3

an anomaly. In fact, SB1070 is nothing more than the application tothe entire state of what this immigrant-hunting sheriff has been doingin his county for many years. Therefore, it is not wise to demonize the“Arpaios” of the world; chances are that they mean well but do notnecessarily know any better, perhaps: They target workplaces andworkers; deportation seems to be their way to address theunemployment problem in the country.

Immigrants are about building communities, about adding valueto society. Show a strong economy anywhere in the world and wewill be able to pinpoint a correlation with immigrants there as well.In modern times, no economy has been as powerful as ours;likewise, no country in the world has had an immigration influxstronger that the one to the USA. Therefore, any elected official thatis serious about rebuilding our economy would have by now donehis or her best efforts to push through the US congress a reform toour immigration laws. Given its complexity, immigration reform isalways controversial and time consuming. Meanwhile, PresidentObama, if he were serious about it, could have at least come up withexecutive orders to address some of the current immigration issues.Instead, his administration has been splitting families, ruiningcommunities and deporting immigrants much faster, much moreeffectively than the previous administration did. At times, it appearsdetermined to deport immigrants as a way to deal with the currentunemployment rate. It is worthwhile to notice that Mr. Obama runhis campaign promising to look after Main Street; since immigrantsare at the bottom of it, there was a lot of hope there. However, whentime to govern came up, Mr. Obama filled his cabinet positions andhis many commissions with notorious Wall Street representatives toadvice him on reforms and changes “that we can believe.”

Thus far, “work” on immigration has always boiled down to“fixing” the southern border of the country. As a result, multi-milliondollar contracts have been awarded to well-connected companies toerect walls, place satellites and other high-tech surveillance systems,plus stationing thousands of border patrol's boots on the ground tokeep “aliens” from responding to our broken labor market. Here iswhere Mr. Obama could easily use the bully pulpit to educate thenation. Given the widespread misinformation about the role ofimmigration in our economy, it is clear that those sincerelyconcerned about the country's economic recovery need to act. Insuch a process, immigrants are assets, not liabilities. Public figures,the media, the clergy, researchers, academicians, civic leaders,community organizers and other data-driven voices need to speak

up on this topic, before further fragmentations occur in our society.In general, politicians are not responsible enough, unfortunately, toaddress this matter in the interest of the economic recovery of ourcommunities. We saw, recently for example, how “our”representatives in Springfield dealt with the state budget and theeconomic recovery; they are committed to themselves, not to theirdistricts, not to us the taxpayers. They are pretty good in runningtheir mouths and making all kinds of promises, but, in the end, veryfew of them dare to do the right thing and deliver on their ownpromises. This is where civic organizations such as UniversidadPopular can come in and force elected officials to do their job, i.e.,to represent our interest, not necessarily theirs! Likewise, at nationallevel the picture is no different. In view of the widespreadxenophobic climate, politicians will not hesitate in backpedalingaway from immigration reform positions or even to go against it. Asa result, the task of informing, educating those with whom we workabout this issue is upon us. Due to his commitment to do somethingabout the healthcare situation, President Obama worked tiredlesslyto get it done. He went to the media networks, travelled all over thecountry stumping for it, met with editorial boards, lobbied Congressand managed to get something out of it. Will he do the same as faras immigration reform goes? Most definitely, this is a question forvoters to answer!

DR. ELIO DEARRUDAHBOARD PRESIDENT

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SHARING OUR LAURELS4

Despite its apparent simplicity, the work that not-for-profit

organizations, such as Universidad Popular, do is quite complex

especially in light of the growing challenges presented to our

communities and families by the new constructs that are being brought

up all the time not only by general assemblies across this country but

also by the US Congress. Increasingly, we have seen pieces of

legislation being enacted without the due appropriation, which causes

even more hardships to not-for-profit agencies delivering badly needed

services in low-income neighborhoods. In times such as these, not-for-

profit organizations need, more than ever, all the support possible; in

many ways, they complement a lot of the work that our government

should be doing. For this reason, like so many other not-for-profit

organizations in Illinois, we at Universidad Popular are constantly

reviewing the way we carry out our mission. We can no longer do our

work in the same way we have done in the past; there was a time when

the bulk of our services was done overwhelmingly by volunteers on a

one-to-one or small-group fashions.

Today's challenge is massive. The pressure to deliver a body of

knowledge (that is forever expanding) does not dwindle, mainly in

view of the growing population of those in need. This explains why we

have been finding ourselves having to do a great deal more of work

with a lot less provisions. Such praxis has a very limited life, though:

It can not go on effectively for a too extended period of time. When

government fails to deliver badly needed services, not-for-profit

organizations get swamped with people in need. It is a fact that not-

for-profits tend to be much more effective and efficient than

governmental agencies. Therefore, especially in recessionary times

such as this, not-for-profits should be the getting a lot more (and not a

lot less, if any) provisions. Nevertheless, this is precisely what we

currently see in Illinois; certainly, it does not make much sense.

In this particular stage of our development, digital technology has

been instrumental in the process of recreating ourselves, mainly in view

of its outreach capability:

It has allowed us to

stretch our services way beyond our original modalities and

boundaries. Through summits, workshops, seminars, roundtable

sessions, coalitions, town-hall meetings, networking, neighborhoods

issues forums and the like, we have been able to offer some of the

elements that our participants need to inform, enlighten, educate and

empower themselves.

Although very effective, not everything can be done within the

confines of a classroom, chiefly when the bulk of our participants are

youth, adults and seniors: Their life experiences have to be taken into

account. Consequently, we kept on finding ourselves in the last twelve

months constantly trying to balance the classroom work with a slew of

external activities, including trips to Springfield and Washington, D.C. All

along we have taken precautions for one effort or initiative to feed the

other and vice-versa. To an extent, this has been a juggling act. However,

the problem with juggling acts is that they can be extremely stressful: Not

to drop the ball, one's eyes have to be constantly watchful, 24/7.

In other words, juggling acts tend to be short-lived. It is

unconceivable that so many of our elected officials have considered

balancing the state budget at the expense of services needed by

communities such as the ones with which we work. This situation is

forcing non-profits to juggle more and more efforts, events and

activities to insure service delivery. This on-going situation in Illinois is

creating a “juggling culture” among non-for-profit organizations that

feel compelled to serve the people that come to our doors, despite the

State's degree of (un)accountability to their needs. The work has been

hard, much harder than ever before, but this is precisely the reason that

caused Universidad Popular to come to light in the early 1970s. It is

clear, more than ever before, that unless a lot more than just a few of us

get our will, voices and action together, the establishment will continue

to be taking us for granted. In fact, it is precisely to prevent it from

OLIVIA FLORES-GODÍNEZDIRECTORA EJECUTIVA

A Juggling Act

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UNIVERSIDAD POPULAR 5

This was a tough learning year for me. More than ever before,

I realized that we learn in different ways. Some of the learnings

come easy but some others tend to be painful, very painful.

Whatever is the case, though, at the end of the experience we

always earn something useful, some additional weapons for our

arsenal of tools in the battle for our lives. During some of these

learning processes there are moments of fear, doubt and confusion.

Oftentimes, we do not even know what is the purpose, what is the

lesson, if any, out to much confusion and “dolor”. I do believe in

the saying “whenever the student is ready, the instructor shows

up”. And I say this because I came to realize all the “teachers” that

I had right next to me; from each and every one of them I learned

something that I did not know before.

The learning process is for self-improvement, to be better

individuals and to acquire a better understanding of daily life. As I

mentioned before, learning is not always a pleasant experience, it can be

painful. It is often said that comfort, comfort zones are not necessarily

good for us, mainly in terms of learning. Perhaps that is right; perhaps I

needed the load of the pain that I went through last year. Looking back

now, I really needed to revise not only what I was doing but also how I

was doing my job, how I was carrying it out. In the beginning of last fall,

I was pretty sure that we were ready to start delivering more and better

services, but I never imagined all the turbulences, conflicts and pain that

we were going to have to go through within a matter of a few months.

The problems escalated so fast, catching me so unprepared that a few

times I came close to quit it all.

One of the positive outcomes out of all these pain and suffering

is that I got to know my co-workers much better and learned to

interact with them, despite our diversity of views, opinions and

strategies. Before these troubles, I had never taken the time to meet

them, to get to know their interests, their fears, their doubts, their

dreams and potentials. However in taking the time to learn about

them, I also learned about myself.

This year brought me learning experiences and a new out look

on life. I remember when I was a child back in Cuernavaca, Morelos,

my mom used to wash our clothes in the river. While she was doing

it, my sisters and I used to play in the water and one of my favorite

games was to look for smooth stones. I was always picky about

choosing them, I tried to find the smoothest and nicest shaped stone.

Many years later, I learned that if these stones had been were sitting

comfortably in the riverbed without ever rubbing against one

another, they would never become the way I like them-smooth and

nice. At this point of my life, with all the friction of this passed year

I realize that perhaps we are all closer to becoming like these smooth

and nice stones that I loved as a little girl.

OLIVIA RAMIREZ, COORDINATORHEALTH LITERACY INITIATIVE

ReflectionsAbout a Learning Experience

Ms. Ramirez joined UP's LETOS classes in 2001 at the St. Sylvester church in Humboldt Park. In 2002 shestarted doing Spanish Literacy tutoring for those lacking reading and writing skills in the native language.Three years later, she started organizing nutrition workshops and dance classes, they were the foundationof Health Literacy Initiative (HEALIN)

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UNIVERSIDAD POPULAR 7

I joined Universidad Popular only a few months ago,

and from the moment I started, I could feel that it is much

more than a brick-and-mortar location for popular

education-it has a pulse-its heart beats, pumping life into

the neighborhood. Just like the people who walk through

its doors every day, it is a living, breathing, and moving

entity and it changes to fit the needs of the community it

serves. It is because of that nature that the UPrising youth

program was created. UP felt the open wound that decades

of gang violence, poor performing schools, and lack of

resources, left on the skin of the neighborhood's young

people.

Little Village has the youngest population in Chicago,

and yet it is one of the most ignored neighborhoods when it

comes to federal, state, and city-funded initiatives for youth.

UP saw the opportunity to change that reality, and began

providing services for the community's largest asset-it's

young-through employment at first, and then through the

arts, academic assistance, civic engagement, community

empowerment, and physical and mental wellness. I came to

UP to be a part of this movement to heal the wound that La

Villita's youth carry with them on their skin, making sure it

never reaches their spirit. This neighborhood-this city, this

county, this world-depends on our youth to grow and

become the leaders we so desperately need, to not only heal

their own wounds, but also to close the growing disparity

between those who have the power to change lives, and

those whose lives could benefit from change.

In the short time I have been here, I have seen the

good that UP, and the UPrising staff, have done to ensure

that the youth who come into contact with the

organization will one day leave it as healthy, empowered,

and constructive young adults, ready to challenge

society's interpretations and statistics that say they won't

graduate from high school or earn a college degree; the

status quo that tries to reduce them to the difference that

low expectations have left them with. These young people

will move on to impact their community in a positive way,

using the tools that emerged from within them, and

always remaining an extension of us, sending UP's

message from the heart to the legs, walking the sidewalks

and invigorating the streets.

ABIGAIL WOOD, COORDINATORUPRISING PROGRAM

Pumping LifeInto TheNeighborhood

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IntroductionAs we do every spring, here we have a small sample of the many

voices of participants in our programs, projects, efforts and initiatives inthe last ten months. Through the years, Universidad Popular hascapitalized on the views and voices of its participants to design itslessons, activities and events. This partially explains our emphasis oneliciting the voices of our participants and, most importantly, gettingthem to capture their views on paper, regardless of their degree ofcommand on the on the written language, English or Spanish, for thismatter. Here is where their writings become so empowering, especiallyonce their peers feel compelled to share as well their thoughts on topicsof internet to them. This has been how writings has become such anintrinsic component of our community work.

Therefore when spring comes along and we start putting our add-book together, we always select a few writings from each and every classto pair up with the individuals or businesses that have chosen to supportour work in the community. For one thing, this strategy gives ourstudents a further sense of power, once their voices are recorded in apage. For other, it gives to those supporting us a glimpse on the caliberof programs we offer to the community.

SHARING OUR LAURELS8

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The quote “None o us, including me, ever can

do great things. But we can do all small things

with great love, and together we can do

something wonderful” by Mother Teresa of

Calcuta is a beautiful quote.

I believe this quote is true because if one of us

does something small, but with a lot of love, this

world can be a better place to live and the people

that live in this wonderful world called earth will

be happier than today. But the reality is that most

of us are very selfish and only think about

ourselves and never about others.

I have heard that if we are positive and think

in positive things we can attract positive things

as well. But I think that most of the time we are

thinking very negatively, only about the worst in

people or the worst things that can happen. We

must work on ourselves. We must work on

ourselves and change our attitude and actions so

that we can do great things together.

“Blanca is an exceptional student! Her writing is organized, clear and well thought-out. She is very responsible and punctual; always the first to arriveand she achieved perfect attendance. Blanca always delights those around her with her descriptive writings, her wise insights and her positive andcollaborative attitude. Blanca is a true gem of a young woman!” Marisol Aguilar, Group Facilitator

We Can Do Great ThingsTogether

Blanca Zamudio

UNIVERSIDAD POPULAR 9

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CongratulatesUniversidad PupularParticipants for a Year

of Achievementsand Commitment

to their Advancementand Learning.

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Un día cuando iba para mi trabajo me sucedió algo queno olvidare. Aun tengo presente lo que sucedió. El día seisde octubre del 2006. Yo trabajaba como conductor de“forklift.” Ese día, el seis de octubre, fui a entrenamientopara utilizar un “cherry picker or reach truch.” Durante mientrenamiento se me dijo que la maquina estaba bien, y quelos frenos estaban en buena condición. Sin embargo, parami sorpresa, cuando trate de poner los frenos no sirvieron,y por más que trate de parar la troca termine estampándomefrente a la pared de contención. Lo malo fue que mi piernaizquierda quedo presionada contra la pared. Por suerte mipierna quedo a un lado, cerca pero a un lado sino se hubieracortado completamente. En ese momento llego laambulancia y la policía. Me trasladaron al hospital ydescubrieron que uno de mis huesos se había quebrado.Fue el hueso de la fíbula que se quebró.

Francamente, para mí no fue un gran problema, sinembargo mi esposa estaba embarazada cuando sucedió esoy ella se tuvo que esforzar de más para ayudarme durantemi recuperación. Yo ponía mucho d mi parte para que ellano se esforzara mucho pero no era mucho lo que yo podíahacer. Así estuve como por seis meses, fue el tiempo queduro mi recuperación. Pero ahora le doy gracias a Dios quemi hija nació y que mi esposa esta bien. Ahora mi hija tienetres años y tengo un bebe de un años. Sin embargo, lo queme sucedió en el trabajo no se lo deseo a nadie. Y le doygracias a mi esposa por ser una mujer tan maravillosa y a mipadre Dios por que sin ellos yo no soy nadie en esta vida.Bueno me despido de ustedes. Hay que echarle ganas ydarle a la vida para adelante y nada de para atrás!

-“Jesús tiene una disposición y empeño para aprender digno de reconocimiento! Por ahora su meta es aprender y/o mejorar sus destrezas en el idiomaIngles. Estoy segura de que muy pronto lo lograra porque el pone todo de su parte, ha sido un gran orgullo para mí trabajar con personas como JesúsHernández en mi clase!” Mayra Garcia, Group Facilitator

Vivir La Vida Con GanasJesús Hernández

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Gloria & Gaspar Flores

3 OFICINAS PARA SERVIRLE MEJOR

Gloria FloresRealtor

Tel: 773.581.9600 ext 112Fax: 773.582.0490

[email protected]

Gaspar FloresBroker / Owner

Tel: 312.656.6301

2843 West CermakChicago, IL 60623773.376.9600

5417 South PulaskiChicago, IL 60632773.581.9600

5450 South KedzieChicago, IL 60632773.476.9600

“Siempre al servicio de nuestras familias,en la compra o venta de casa”

Su Familia

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My name is Sandra. I am thirty-one years old. I havefour children, three boys and one pretty girl. My life hasbeen filled with everything that life can give us; like fun,suffering, delight, sadness, and especially love.

At this moment of my life, I am going through somethingnice. Before I passed through hard moments, but thanks toUniversidad Popular, I overcame them very quickly.

I feel good because Families Learning to Teach hashelped my family to improve in many ways. Now we aretogether helping each other, instead of being locked in ourhome like we were before we knew about this program.

Now we can look at the problems with the confidence thateverything is going to be fine.

I am learning things that are going to help me in life, Iam learning English, yoga, computers, aerobics, glass art,and most importantly I am learning to work with mychildren, help them whit their homework and teach themall that I'm learning.

I thank God for all the people that care for us and helpus to empower ourselves by sharing their knowledge andallowing us to share mine. THANKS, UNIVERSIDADPOPULAR!

“Sandra Negrete has overcome many difficulties. She has grown a great deal in her leadership and self-esteem. She is always looking for ways to helpher children. Sandra is very involved in the events we have in the organization. She has enhanced the FLT program by sharing her artistic talents likedrawing on glass.” Maria G. Chaidez, Group Facilitator

My Experience InUniversidad Popular

Sandra Negrete

UNIVERSIDAD POPULAR 13

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SERVICIO YMANTENIMIENTODE APARATOSMUSICALES, TVs YVCRs MODULARES

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WE REPAIR ALL MAKES.

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WE SPECIALIZE IN

RAINBOW & KIRBY

Page 16: Sharing Our Laurels

I am Silvia and I was born in Tangancicuaro,Michoacán, México. My town is a beautiful place to live,the weather is nice, and people there are friendly andkind. There is a lake called Camecuaro, it has manystreams of fresh water. People there can spend the daywith their family and there are various activities to do.There are canoes that take people for a tour in the lake; ifyou decide to paddle by yourself, you can do it; it is agood experience for everyone. Children enjoy it becausethey can see the fish or the turtles under the water. Thereare many ducks crossing the lake side by side. There are avariety of kinds of birds and you can see them on the trees,flying near you, singing in their nests. There also oftenMariachis that sing and play.

In Tangancicuaro there are playgrounds for childrenwith swings, sleds and more. People can see and feel thepower of nature. Camecuaro has an area with tables andgrills or you can bring and prepare your own favorite food.You can eat at a restaurant as well. There are manyrestaurants with traditional Mexican food like enchiladas,

sopes, flautas, posole, mole, quesadillas or the deliciouscarne en su jugo. You can also eat sea food-all the dishesare delicious.

Many people from other Mexican states came to visitCamecuaro. I would like to invite you to visit Camecuarosame day. I have unforgettable memories of the years I spentthere with all my family. I learned to swim there and Itaught my children to swim there as well. We used to gothere every Saturday. For me, this is the most beautiful placefor living. But one day my family had to leave looking for abetter life.

Now that I live here one of my goals is to learn how tospeak English fluently. I also want to keep my body healthy.One of my goals is that my children in the future continuetheir studies and get a career to have a better life. I haveto encourage my children to be successful. It makes mehappy because I want the best for them. I want to learn howto use the computer now and continue coming to school tolearn more activities here at UNIVERSIDAD POPULAR.

-“Silvia is an outstanding student! Silvia is very responsible, kind and is always willing to help when volunteers are needed. Silvia loves her family andenjoys working as a team. Silvia is very respectful, friendly and generous” Marisol Aguilar, Group Facilitator

Tangancicuaro: A Beautiful PlaceSilvia Marquez

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HEALTHY FOOD LITERACYINICIATIVA EN SALUD

Invites you to participate in

HEALTHYCOOKING

Le invita a participar en

COCINANDOSALUDABLE

MAIN DISHESSIDES DISHES

SALADSSOUPS & CREAMS

DESSERTSIn theses classes we will learn

healthy cooking tips towardthe prevention of degenerativediseases. While using the same recipes that we know and love.

We will learn the nutritionalfacts of foods through the

nutritional pyramid.TUESDAY 12:00 a 1:00pm

CLASSES FREEIf you need more info, please call us:

773.733.5055

PLATOS PRINCIPALESPLATILLOS PARA ACOMPAÑARENSALADASSOPAS & CREMASPOSTRESEn estas clases encontraremos sugerenciassencillas para cocinar saludable, a la vez que prevenimos enfermedadesdegenerativas. Usaremos las mismasrecetas que conocemos y nos gustan.

Conoceremos los factoresnutricionales de los alimentosa traves de la pirámide nutricional.MARTES DE 12:00 a 1:00pmCLASES GRATUITASSi necesita más información, llame al:773.733.5055

2801 S. Hamlin Ave., Chicago IL 60623 • universidadpopular.us

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I am from El Salvador. I came to United States in theyear 2004 in search of better opportunities for my familyand myself. In El Salvador I had several jobs. I worked fortwelve years as a landscaper planting trees, flowers andother things. I also worked as a salesman for three years insupermarkets for several companies. But my greatestfrustration was not to be able to have a career in Football. Ihad the opportunity to train professionally but due to thebureaucracy and circumstances of life it was not possible.That was when I made the decision to come here with thepurpose of staying here for only two years and then returnto my country.

The hardest thing to do when I came to this country wasthe separation from my family. I remember the day that I leftmy town to come to this country it is an unforgettable dayfor me. My family went to say their farewells at the placewhere I was departing from it was nighttime. My wifeembraced me and was kissing me nonstop wishing to detainme “my love don't let this be a goodbye, but until later.”AndI could not answer her. My daughter told me, “daddy whyare you leaving, don't you love us any more or have wedone something bad? If we did something forgive us butdon't leave, please.” It broke my heart when she told me thisbut I replied, - “my daughter, now you don't understandbut I tell you, it is to give you and your brother what isbest.”My daughter was eight years old and my son five.Now when I see their photographs it hurts to remember her

words, my mom cried a lot and gave me her blessings, mybrothers also because they knew the trip was difficult anddangerous and many do not make it. But I thank God Iarrived to Chicago in three weeks.

My family was very happy because I arrived well. Istarted to work for the American dream, but little by little Irealized that it is difficult when you first get here because ofthe obstacles of not speaking English, and also beingundocumented. When I talk to my family I always tellthem that I am doing very well because I do not want themto worry about me. When I am alone I ask myself, was itworth the sacrifice of denying my children the warmth of afather, and giving up the love of a woman who gave me herheart. I wonder if it was really worth it.

One of the greatest enemies of love is distance andtime. I have been here six years and I have yet to sleepbecause my dreams have not become a reality. Now I amstudying English at Universidad Popular to be preparedif a better opportunity for my life, and if not I havelearned a new language. But nevertheless I will continuestriving for the future of the ones I love most. My life isno different from the lives of the many people that comefrom their county to the United States with the samepurpose, to give their families a better economic life, butcreating a great void in the lives of their loved ones whowere left behind.

“Rafael, is a talented person who has a variety of skills. He worked in horticulture and flower design in his country. Here he does masonre work. Oneof his goals is to learn English well to communicate for social and professional development. He has a good rapport with is peers, participates in classand is one of Student's Council representatives for our group.” Otilia Gonzalez, Group Facilitator

Was It Really Worthy?Rafael Abrego Guevara

UNIVERSIDAD POPULAR 17

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J. Nicolas Albukerk

Civil RepresentationPersonal Injury, such as police batteryPolice misconduct, which includes jail beatingsMedical malpractice, including elderly hospital AbuseCriminal RepresentationDrug trafficking & dealingGun possession, including felony weaponsFirst degree murder, sexual assault, & DUI cases

ATTORNEY AT LAW

We have experts on retainerto get the facts to win your case.We start by retrieving the factsimmediately, whereas other lawyerswait until the trail gets cold.

ALBUKERK & ASSOCIATES

111 E. Wacker Drive, Suite 555Chicago, IL 60601773.847.2600

Page 20: Sharing Our Laurels

Cantarle quisiera al vientoPero yo no se cantar;Mejor voy a declamarPara expresar lo que siento.

Cantarle quisiera al vientoPara que vuelen mis versosFlotando en el universoY expresen mi sentimiento.

Mi corazón oprimidoPor tantos sueños frustradosCruzó fronteras de EstadosPersiguiendo lo querido.

Así en tierra extraña vivoCon mi esperanza en un puñoY en el otro tengo vivosRecuerdos de mi terruño.

MI libre desplazamientoExtrañas leyes limitanMás lo que nunca me quitanQue brote mi pensamiento.

En multicolor conciertoDe rostros endurecidosMis sueños no concluidosSe tornan en desconcierto.

Más claudicar yo no quieroAnte tan dura faenaPrefiero enfrentar la pena,Morir luchando prefiero.

Mr. Panchi an economist-trained professional in México, joined UP's LETOS at St. Agnes of Bohemia church in 2006. Despite working all day as afurniture assembler, he seldom missed his evening classes. Lat winter he became a LETOS' facilitator. In his free time, he writes poetry

SueñosFrustrados

Pedro Panchi

Dios permite que un día yo pueda verte

Y estrecharte cariño entre mis brazos,

Y gritarle a todo el que nos vea

Que bello! es amor cuando hay abrazos.

Que te bendiga Dios divino ser,

Que te bendiga Dios porque eres mi hija,

Que te bendiga Dios porque eres madre,

Que te bendiga Dios por ser mujer.

Sí… hay un Dios en el cielo y es tan enorme!

Si abrazarte no puedo a la distancia,

Que el saber que me quieres me conforme,

Y el pensar en ti,

torne en amor tal circunstancia.

A Mi HijaAusente

Pedro Panchi

UNIVERSIDAD POPULAR 19

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Like Sandra Cisneros, I am an immigrant. A firstgeneration immigrant in the United States. When I firstcame to this country, it was a very hard experience forme because I did not know the English language andmany times I struggled because of it and said “What amI doing here?”

I have lived in this country for more than ten years now,and like Sandra, I have moved from one apartment to theother for different situations. I think that we immigrants arelike that. We are constantly moving. However, I wouldprefer to have my own home in México and live there withthe rest of my family. I feel like that the moment, but I knowthat in reality, only time will tell.

I believe that been an immigrant is very hard, it doesnot matter which country you came from. It is always hardto start new and to live far from your family and to leaveeverything that you have in your country and start again.

The story of Sandra is very interesting because it is thestory of most of us immigrants. If I could meet Sandra Iwould chat with her for a long time and I would ask her ifher parents were able to buy their house among manydifferent things.

“Blanca is an exceptional student! Her writing is organized, clear andwell thought-out. She is very responsible and punctual; always the firstto arrive and she achieved perfect attendance. Blanca always delightsthose around her with her descriptive writings, her wise insights and herpositive and collaborative attitude. Blanca is a true gem of a youngwoman!” Marisol Aguilar, Group Facilitator

Only TimeWill Tell

Blanca Zamudio

Sometimes we think that everything is hard but thetruth is that we complicate our own lives. Life is beautifuland wonderful; each one of us is the most important forourselves. Never say we can't. We have the power andliberty to say and make everything we want, but we forgetthat we, as human beings, make mistakes. We have to knowhow to listen so that we can grow.

My big problem is to try to correct others when theyare speaking incorrectly. I know that is very inconvenientto correct when people speak; I don't do it to make othersfeel bad, but as Paulina Rubio song says everything has acause and effect. The cause is that my mother is a personwho did not have an education. She never went to schooland the people of a higher class were always laughing atthe way she would speak. It was very humiliating for her.Therefore, I made the decision to teach her to speakcorrectly.

I believe we are equal, no matter the religion, nor race.I don't understand people who make fun of our way ofspeaking, this is why I believe that to have humility is thebest thing anyone can have; never feel more than others.We need to realize that we all make mistakes.

“Cristina loves to be involved in everything at Families Learning toTeach of Universidad Popular where she has been an active leader fortwo years. Her leadership skills motivates everyone to do the same.She is always willing to help others even outside of the program hours.Her motivation keeps everyone united in class.” Veronica Orduño,Group Facilitator

We All MakeMistakes

Cristina Pacheco

UNIVERSIDAD POPULAR 21

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I am from Guanajuato, México. I have lived in Chicagofor the past five years. I want to become a United Statescitizen. I want to learn English soon because I will get myinterview soon. I am going to civic classes to learn moreabout the United States Constitution. I like this country butI need to learn more about the history and the system of thegovernment. I am studying very hard every day and I amhappy now that I have new classmates in two differentplaces. I hope I get my reward, I am very excited.

My name is Maria Elena, I was born in Moroleon,Guanajuato. I have one brother and two sisters. I had fouryears old when my parents decided to move to Mexicali towork in the field picking cotton. In my town, the weatheris warm. I remember when I was a child people used toenjoy music in the park while eating ice cream or delicious“chicharrones” or “cueritos.”

When I got married I lived in different places such asTijuana, Sonora and Arizona. I have lived in Chicago since2004; I started working in factories, as a packer. I like to workbut sometimes I can only work a few months during thesummer. I would like to work more time, my problem is thatI can't find a good job since I am not bilingual at the moment.

Yesterday I had a class about the census 2010. I learnedthat the government is giving $12.00 dollars for each personthat counts in the census. The census does not care aboutyour legal status, but it is important that everyone counts sothat we can have better schools, hospitals and services forour communities. The census is only done every ten years.

My purpose in life is to move to Arizona and to live inthe Mexican border. I like to change places and to be ingood health.

“Maria Elena is a dedicated person. She has pereseverance and drive to do what it needs to be done.” Mayra Garcia, Group Facilitator

My CitizenshipMaria Elena Macías

UNIVERSIDAD POPULAR 23

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SHARING OUR LAURELS24

SUPPORT

… by volunteering a few hours in the morning, afternoons, eveningsor weekends. Why let economically disadvantaged community residents

battle alone against illiteracy, unemployment and poverty?

HELP Universidad PopularHELP Community Residents Help Themselves!

The adult literacy program of Universidad Popular (UP) is a volunteer-based initiative whichworks with people who want to master basic academic skills such as reading, numeracy,reading comprehension, critical analysis, speech, writing or learning to speak a second

language. Won't you help Universidad Popular by donating your time,experience or resources? You may want to assist UP in the of helping people help themselves.

• Tutoring adult literacy students.• Doing student recruitment.

• Administering placement tests.• Identifying community needs.

• Conceptualizing methods and techniques of instructions for adult learners.• Developing tutoring materials and curricula.

• Writing grants proposals.• Conducting tutor-training sessions.

If you care about community empowerment,enjoy teaching adults, have good organization skills,

communicate well in English or Spanishand treasure participatory work,

CALL US TODAY at (773) 733-5055and become a Community Service Volunteer!

Page 26: Sharing Our Laurels

UNIVERSIDAD POPULAR 25

Like Esperanza, in The House on Mango Street, I have experiencedmany difficulties in the United States. The first problem was that we didnot know the English language. When we came to this country wecame and we did not know how to speak the English language, so wefelt as if we were deaf. Not knowing the English language can impairour growth in this country.

Another similarity to Esperanza's experience is that I have hadto constantly move from pace to place. I moved several time fordifferent reasons, to find a home with a better price, to move to ahouse closer to work, etc.

However, things have been good in my life in the United States. Oneof them is that I enjoy having personal relationships with people ofother countries and traditions. When we meet new people we grow andwe learn from one another while making new friends. Another greatexperience is that I go to school and learn English to get a better job andopportunities in this country.

“Francisco is an exceptional student. He is very responsible, dedicated and doesmore than the expected. He enjoys working as a team. He is optimistic andencourages those around him to take initiative and to continue to learn English.”Marisol Aguilar, Group Facilitator

Now Things AreGood In My Life

Francisco Novella

Some days we eat at school.Some times I like the food more than others.But today I give thanks for the lunch that

I can share with my classmates.

God, please, I ask that you give somethingto eat to every child so they can have

abundance of food.

I ask you that they never get hungry again.Thanks God for everything you give us.Let us share and make us generous.

“Petra is a very good student. She is eager to learn everythingshe can. She is very cooperative and always trying to help. Sheis very perseverant in reaching her goals.” Amelia Cruz, GroupFacilitator

A Prayerof Thanks

Petra Modesto

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SHARING OUR LAURELS26

PRESENTA:

Exito de la Mujer Hispana

Todos conocemos por lo menos a una mujer extraordinariaen nuestro entorno familiar o nuestro vecindario.

Y aunque hay muchas de ellas,Universidad Popular desea reconocer públicamente en este gran evento, a por lo menos cinco mujeres.

¡Participe nominando a una o más mujeres!

Enviar nominaciones a:

Universidad Popular2801 S. Hamlin Ave, Chicago, Illinois 60623

Atencion: Anayasin Vasquez

Un evento creado para reconocer el trabajo ydedicación de la mujer en nuestra sociedad.

SABADO 4 DE DICIEMBRE, 2010

La nominada debe ser una mujer ejemplar. Una mujer que haya facilitadoel progreso de otros al despertar conciencia social, promover diversidad o establecer

oportunidades de superación personal o profesional.La nominación debe ser acompañada de una breve descripción de los motivos

por los cuales desea nominar a esta persona; (tres párrafos mínimo)Agregue también el nombre, domicilio y teléfono de su candidata y el suyo

para poder confirmar su nominación.

PARA MÁS INFORMACIÓN, LLAMAR AL 773-733-5055

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Decidí compartir una de los regalos más bonitos ysignificantes que recibí este año, una cartita que de una demis hijas, Rocío. Rosita, como yo le llamo desde pequeña,me escribe cartitas muy seguido, tengo una amplia colecciónde ellas, las guardo en una cajita y también en mi corazón. Yesta dice así:

“Mami,Leí algo en un libro y me encanto: -“there's a story behind

everything. How a picture got on a wall. How a scar got onyour face. Sometimes they are hard and heartbreaking. Butbehind all your stories is always your mother's story, becausehers is where yours begins.”- Que perrona, verdad?

Gracias por darme la oportunidad de contar mi historia, ytambién por dejarme contar tu historia - que para mí, es unade las historias más bellas. No creo que sabes cuánto hablo deti. Ni tampoco que cuando hablo de ti, mis ojos brillan y micorazón se llena de amor y ternura. Yo se que Diosito me da loque quiero muchas veces - un bebé (Andrés) una carrera. Peroel regalo más grande que me ha dado eres tú.

Mami, no sé cómo decirte cuanto te quiero. Siempre hasestado a mi lado, especialmente cuando más e necesito. Eresuno de los seres humanos más hermoso que conozco. Eresuna de las mejore madres del mundo - y apuesto que eres lamejor. Pero mami, para mí, eres la mamá perfecta.

Gracias por ser mi madre, mi solecito mi azucarita.Gracias por enseñarme como ser una persona Buena y debuen corazón. Gracias por ser el mejor ejemplo que puedo ytrato de seguir. Gracias por mis hermanos y hermana y por

enseñarme a quererlos TANTO. Gracias por querermeincondicionalmente. Gracias por darme la oportunidad decontar mi historia, la cual no existiría sin mi madrehermosa. Te Adoro! Feliz día de las madres!

Me parece que esta carta es otra lección de amor y dereto de las muchas que atreves de los años he recibido de mishijas e hijos. Sinceramente no la comparto por vanidad demadre, que yo se que todas la tenemos. Lo que realmenteintento compartir es mi reacción y análisis después de leerla cartita de mi niña. Muchas veces me detengo a revisar losaños de crecimiento de mis hijos/as y si fueron años muydifíciles pero la gran incógnita que viene a mi mente es: a)que cambiaria si yo hubiese sabido que iban a contar mihistoria, como parte de su historia? b) Cuando eranpequeños nunca pensé que ellos darían la vuelta al espejopara que yo me reflejara en él? c) que más debí hacer? Lesamo muchísimo, pero de verdad sé los hice saber en losmomentos apropiados? d) De verdad les hice saber en lapráctica diaria que mi amor, mi ternura y mi tiempo estabadedicado a ellos? Bien, si lo hice o no, ya no me puedoregresar el tiempo, porque ahora son ya son adultos, solotengo a mi pequeño Andrés; por esta razón mi mensaje vapara toda aquella madre de niños/as pequeños; porqueaprender a disfrutar cada momento de ese ser humano queDios mando a nuestra vida es el regalo más hermoso quecada una de nosotras recibimos. Ellas/os son una lecciónintensiva que tenemos que revisar cada día y cada momentoque estas creaturas pasan con nosotras.

Con mucho amor,Olivia

My Dreams Came True

UNIVERSIDAD POPULAR 2727

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SHARING OUR LAURELS28

LEARNINGTO SUCCEDLEarning to Succeed (LETOS) is part of Universidad

Popular's COmmunity LITeracy Program (COLIPRO).

LETOS is an adult education program that offers English

as a second language instruction. As part of the

program, participants also use computers as learning

resources.

Every year LETOS serves an average of 300 students,

ranging from 19-80 years of age, through morning and

evening classes. Classes have 4 different levels 0-4-level

5 is the level where the participants feel confident

speaking, reading and writing the English language.

Like most of our programs, LETOS has many success

stories of community members who began as students in

the program and later became leaders. Universidad

Popular's annual Sharing Our Laurels Ad book features

many of these stories. One example is that of Olivia

Ramirez, a beginning student who later became an

ardent promoter of the program. Olivia inspired several

friends and relatives to take English classes and to

become actively involved members. Olivia currently

serves as a coordinator for UP's HEAlth LIteracy INitiative.

FAMILIESLEARNINGTO TEACHFamilies Learning to Teach (FLT) is one of the several

components of UP's COmmunity LIteracy PROgram

(COLIPRO). It is a program in which both parents and their

children learn together. FLT's four major components are:

1. Adults as language literacy learners.

2. Parents as parenting skills learners.

3. Children as learners.

4. Parents and children learning together.

Through the development of FLT, participants have also

created other classes, which are now part of our

repertoire. Some of the classes include: Computer Class:

This class is designed to equip participants with the

technological skills necessary to succeed in today's world.

Leadership Development: Aerobics, Tae-Kwon-Do and

Yoga classes are taught by volunteer facilitators. Arts and

Crafts: these groups include guitar lessons, drawing on

glass, sewing, dough molding and book making. Health

Education and Parenting Workshops: parents receive

parenting and health workshops once a week.

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UNIVERSIDAD POPULAR 29UNIVERSIDAD POPULAR 29

The DIgital LIteracy PROgram (DILIPRO) is the technology

class at UP. DILIPRO is among one of the most popular

programs at Universidad Popular. DILIPRO began in the

summer of 2003 answering the call of residents and

volunteers who wanted to have computer literacy classes.

Since its beginnings, UP envisioned the possibility of

offering computer classes. The DILIPRO program has had

about 1000 participants in total. Every semester there is

an average of 80 participants who are in the waiting lists-

making DILIPRO one of the most popular programs at UP.

Participants in the program are also deeply committed

and consistent; many of them coming from different

areas in the city including north side of Chicago, Cicero,

Berwyn, Aurora, and many other areas.

Many low-income, Spanish-speaking families do not have

access to computers or computer classes in their

communities. Being computer illiterate in today's society

is a great disadvantage in the workforce and in many

other settings. Acquiring computer skills allows

participants to gain skills necessary to fully integrate into

the labor market and to alleviate some of the

generational gap between parents and today's children.

In DILIPRO, participants get to learn about computer

hardware and its basic uses. Participants also learn how to

use Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Publisher, Power

Point and Internet basic skills. Students also create

resumes, letters, banners, flyers, business cards, Power

Point presentations, Excel budgets, among many others.

DIGITAL LITERACY PROGRAM

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3500 West 63rd PlaceChicago, Illinois 60629

www.universidPh: 773.733.5055 •

education with, by

LEARNING TO SUCCED (LETOS)LEarning TO Succeed (LETOS) is part of

Universidad Popular’s COmmunity LITeracy Program (COLIPRO). LETOS is an adult education

program that o�ers English as a second language instruction. LETOS’s English language instruction is designed based on the participants’ needs and

wants. UP believes that learning the English language is a critical tool for improving

our life standards and the well-being of our communities.

FINANCIAL LITERACY

The FInancial LIteracy PROgram (FILIPRO) is UP’s !nancial literacy initiative that wishes to serve

members of our community with !nancial literacy. Although all UP’s programs and projects have always

had a !nancial literacy component to them, only in the last !ve years, UP decided to establish a unit that exclusively concentrated on !nancial literacy issues. It started by o�ering seminars on budgeting, !nan-

cial, planning, banking, credit development, taxes, personal and business loans, among many others.

FAMILIES LEARNING TO TEACH (FLT)Families Learning to Teach (FLT) is one of

the several components of UP’s Community LIteracy PROgram (COLIPRO). It

is a program in which both parents and their children learn together. FLT’s mission

is to provide a nurturing space where parents and their children can learn,

making education the foundation for its community empowerment initiative.

HEALTH LITERACY INITIATIVE (HEALIN) UP’s HEAlth Literacy INitiative (HEALIN) strives to promote participant’s healthy living lifestyle. The program o�ers physical !tness classes and work-

shops on health issues a�ecting our communities. It is HEALIN’s mission to built strong and healthy

individuals, families and communities.

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2801 South Hamlin Ave.Chicago, Illinois 60623

dadpopular.us Fax: 773.733.5056

and for the people

PRO SEC LEGAL CLINICThe Pro Se Clinic assists the community with legal matters. UP believes that everyonedeserves access to justice based on the motto“Equal Justice for All.” Pro Se Legal Clinic’s maingoal is to explain and educate its clients aboutlegal matters and their rights. The clinic also servesas a mediator for its clients to try to minimize their dependence from attorneys. In doing so, Pro Se Legal Clinic also aims to continue to raise awareness of common legal mistakes and abuses in our community and to create leaders within its clients.

DIGITAL LITERACY PROGRAM (DILIPRO)The DIgital LIteracy PROgram (DILIPRO) is the technology class at UP. In DILIPRO,participants get to learn about computerhardware and its basic uses. Participants alsolearn how to use Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Publisher, Power Point and Internet basic skills. Students also create resumes, letters, banners,"yers, business cards, Power Point presentations,Excel budgets, among many others

UPRISING YOUTH PROGRAMUPRising is UP’s youth after school program which aims at increasing students’ academic performanceand enriching their bi-cultural identity. UPRising wasdeveloped in response to the call for youth involvementin the communities currently served by UP. UPRisinginitiated in October of 2010 with the mission of fostering a positive and self-empowering learning space for youth. UPRising’s participatory approach also seeks to raise awareness among participants about some of the most pressing issues their communities face

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SHARING OUR LAURELS32

HEALTHLITERACYINITIATIVEUP's HEAlth LIteracy INitiative (HEALIN) is built upon the

assumption that “we are what we consume”, as Olivia

Ramirez, its coordinator, repeats all the time. Therefore, it

puts a great deal of emphasis on nutrition. HEALIN

stresses healthy living. As part of the HEALIN program, UP

offers weekly health courses free of charge to community

residents. Current courses include yoga, dance, martial

arts, aerobic, nutrition, and healthy cooking classes. In

addition, UP periodically hosts health-related forums

about obesity, asthma, water pollution, respiratory

problems, gardening, organic food, junk food, drug

abuse, preventive medicine, alcoholism, and STDs.

FINANCIALLITERACYPROGRAMThe FInancial LIteracy PROgram (FILIPRO) is UP's financial literacy

initiative that wishes to serve members of our community with

financial literacy. FILIPRO has assisted hundreds of residents

annually with the preparation of their income tax returns and

property tax appeals. This way, it has brought back to the

community thousands of dollars that they did not claim in the past.

Many new micro-business in the “vecindario” are started every year,

therefore, FILIPRO intends to provide them the necessary technical

assistance so that they can be in full compliance with official rules

and regulations besides gaining the ability to grow their capital.

Many come to FILIPRO with several finance related questions.

They come to inquire about the filing of their income tax returns,

when they receive letters from the IRS, when they need help with

their accounting, etc. FILIPRO then makes sure the person

understands the documents and receives individualized

attention regarding the matter. In addition FILIPRO offers many

workshops on how to better manage money, how to invest,

among many other economy matters. Currently FILIPRO is

composed by several team members.

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UNIVERSIDAD POPULAR 33

UPRISINGPROGRAMUPRising is UP's youth after school program which aims at

increasing students' academic performance and enriching

their bi-cultural identity. The program was designed to

engage youth in creating a positive approach to resolve

UPRising is UP's youth after school program which aims at

increasing students' academic performance and enriching

their bi-cultural identity.

UPRising was developed in response to the call for youth

involvement in the communities currently served by UP.

Underserved Latino youth living in urban areas are very

susceptible to gang involvement, alcohol abuse, drug

abuse, young pregnancy and to drop out of high school.

UPRising initiated in October of 2010 with the mission of

fostering a positive and self-empowering learning space

for youth. UPRising's participatory approach also seeks to

raise awareness among participants about some of the

most pressing issues their communities face.

PRO SELEGAL CLINICThe Pro Se Legal Clinic assists the community with legal

matters. UP believes that everyone deserves access to justice

based on the motto “Equal Justice for All.” Pro Se Legal Clinic's

main goal is to explain and educate its clients about legal

matters and their rights. The clinic also serves as a mediator

for its clients to try to minimize their dependence from

attorneys. In doing so, Pro Se Clinic also aims to continue to

raise awareness of common legal mistakes and abuses in our

community and to create leaders within its clients.

Pro Se Legal Clinic was founded in 2005 with the

collaboration from various different attorneys and

community members of Universidad Popular. Pro

Se Legal Clinic strives to provide bilingual, effective

access to affordable legal information and legal

assistance to its community members and clients.

Pro Se Legal Clinic works with an average of 100 to

150 clients every month. Most of these cases are

family law cases (divorce, child custody, and

domestic abuse), immigration and fraud cases.

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Hi, my name is Esmeralda Quevedo. I was born in abeautiful town twenty minutes away from Cualican Sinaloa,México. I was living there for my first eighteen years of life.When I finished my preparatoria which is equaled toUnited States high school, I had to travel to the city to be asuccessful person. When I got to the city, I had to work parttime to support myself. I almost finished my third grade inthe university, but I could not, because I had to travel to theUnited States.

Now I live in the beautiful city of Chicago. I havebeen living here for the past fifteen years and I have beenworking very hard since I came here. I work in as abeautician in a beauty salon. I like what I am doing right

now, but I have to learn English and learn how to use thecomputers. Because if we want to be better in thiscountry we need to know them. I have many goals forthe future.

One of them is to become a beauty instructor. I wantto continue trying to be a nice person and be generouswith everybody around me, like my family and friends. Iwould like to be a successful person and to have moretime for my family. To do this I am learning English andafter learning it I want to go to college and become acosmetology teacher. But I want to have both languages.I want to be able to help others when they do notunderstand English.

“Esmeralda Quevedo is a great student! She is hardworking, respectful and polite. She is very friendly and is very kind to everyone she meets.” MarisolAguilar, Group Facilitator

My Goal:Become A Beauty Instructor

Esmeralda Quevedo

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Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Maria OfeliaSalas and my husband's name is Daniel Salas. We havethree children, Edgar is the oldest, Orlando is the secondand Judith is the youngest. With God's help and with oursacrifice they all finished high school. My oldest son gotmarried and soon after Orlando got married as well. Godhas blessed my children with their spouses; they are verygood and hard working women. Now I want to share withyou what happened to me in the beginning of 1977. Icame to the United States for the first time on June 13,1977. My brother Eleazar lived in California, but when hefound out that we had arrived to Chicago and we weredoing fine he decided to come to live here with us. Wewere pleased but there was a problem we did not have abedroom for my brother. Therefore, we all decided to rentan apartment for a couple of months since the plan wasthat one of my sister-in-laws was going to do a closing onher first house and we were going to live together. So werented a basement apartment across the street. She wantedme to live close by since I was eight months pregnant offirst child. Since we were planning to live there for only ashort time we didn't have phone service and back then wedidn't have cell phones.

When we would turn off the lights, noises would beheard like when you scrape something on the wall. I wouldask my husband, “What is that?” And he would try to calmme down and say, “There are a lot of children upstairs andthe walls expand.” It puzzled me that I would hear noises

during the day as if someone was sweeping and dragginglots of trash. After a month my son was born and when Ireturned home from the hospital my sister-in-law went fortwo days to help me, on the third day she went to bath mybaby. When she left I closed the door. The door faced thealley it was an old door and to keep it secure, I would puta piece of wood against it. About half hour later, I sawenormous rats coming from all sides of the room I countedmore than thirty (30) rats! My apartment was one hugeroom without partitions and I could see how they cameout; they were 10- 12 inches. I embraced my baby and Igot on my bed which was against a wall. I was veryfrightened watching to make sure they would not get closeto us. It was about 5:00 pm when my husband and mybrother came home from work; they both worked in thesame place. They were knocking hard on the window andtelling me to open the door. When I heard their voices I gotout in fear and I burst in tears; I couldn't even speak. Therats were pulling at the bed sheets. My husband andbrother broke the door down and they covered me and myson with a blanket and took us out of that house. I swearto you that I recall this and I get a knot in my throat andtears run down my cheeks to imagine the sad ending thatawaited my son and I on that day of terror. I only ask theyoung mothers who are starting to have children to be verycareful, that if they suspect that there is any type of rodentto eliminate them because when they smell the tender fleshof a baby they will attack the little baby. I thank god andmy family for saving us that day!

“Maria Ofelia Salas has a pleasant personality and gets along well with her peers. She participates in class fully and is very determined to improve inthe English language and computer skills. Even though works long hours in her job, she still manages to have good attendance in both of her classes.”Otilia Gonzalez, Group Facilitator

A Day of Terror!Blanca Zamudio

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My childhood was good; we were eight children, sevengirls and only one boy. I was happy when I received toysduring Christmas time because that was the only time whenmy parents gave us toys. The toys were simple like a doll ora ball but I was really happy to receive them. As a child, Iused to play with my sisters, cousins and friends. We playedgames like “la pichada” something like hide and seek. I wasalso very happy going to school and learning new things.

When I was seven years old I started to help my fatherin the field. First I helped him to sow then when I grew upa little more I helped him to pull up the bean plants and tocut the corn plants. That was very hard work. Many times Ithought, “Why don't I have what I want?” The answer wassimple, my parents were poor and they were not able to giveus what we wanted, or needed. Most of the time I did notsee the television because we only had one and most of the

time it did not work. But now I can see that material thingsare not important to be happy because when I compare mychildhood with my children's childhood I see that it is verydifferent. Here in the United States they can have toys orthings that they never had. However, they do not havemuch freedom to play in the streets without worrying aboutviolence. They also do not know my mother or my family.Here I can buy a cake for them when it is their birthday, orbuy toys when they want them, yet, they do not have theircousins or someone to play with.

Living in México as a child was hard, however, therewere positive and good things about it. In the United Satesmy children do not have as much freedom, or many cousinsand people to play with them but they have morecommodities and things which I did not have as a child.Thus, it is hard to say what is best.

“Blanca Zamudio, a very bright and humble person, somewhat timid but always willing to help; she was always punctual to the class with a mind setof “where do you need help?” Blanca hardly ever missed a day of class and when she did, it seemed that she felt that she had missed a lot and alwaysasked her classmates what was covered to catch up, it was great meeting Blanca and have had the opportunity to work with her and have had her inthe class.” Mayra Garcia, Group Facilitator

My ChildhoodBlanca Zamudio

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My name is Ruperto Diaz Calles; I am from Puebla,

Mexico. I was born and raised in a beautiful town close

to Atlixco, Puebla. It was in March 1980, it was almost

my birthday when my mom, my brothers and I were

talking about my father, who was killed in Mexico city by

a bus. I told my mother that I wanted to come to the

United States. My mom didn't want me to come to the

United States because I was 17 years old.

Finally, I convinced my mother and in April, she let

me come to the U.S. I left my town at 5:00a.m., it took

me almost two days and two nights to arrive in Tijuana,

Baja California, Norte. After, I arrived in Tijuana I looked

for somebody to help me to cross the border. Crossing

the border between Mexico and the United States is very

hard. It was about 7:00p.m. when we started running,

trying to step into San Diego, when suddenly “el mosco”

caught us and they sent us back to Tijuana, Mexico. I did

not give up, I was trying to cross for two weeks. Finally,

one lucky day, thank God, I crossed.

Three weeks after my departure, I arrived in Chicago

with my brother, and in June I moved to N.Y. I worked

in a restaurant for 7 months, but in December of the

same year I went back to Mexico to get married,

however, a big surprise was waiting for me; my girlfriend

was pregnant and was living with another man. So I

decided to come back to the U.S.A. In September 1985,

I started my journey again, that time I crossed by Nuevo

Loredo, Tamaulipas and it took me two weeks again to

step into San Antonio, Texas. I arrived with my cousin

who lives in Huston, Texas. I stayed for two weeks and

then I came to Chicago. I started to work in a factory as

a machine operator, material handler and relief operator

until I learned how to install the molds.

I became a setup man a little after I learned how to

put all the parameters and state the machine to produce

good parts, but I only worked there for two years.

Then, I went back to Mexico, but this time I brought

my girlfriend with me back to the U.S.A. Everything

was beautiful until one day I had gone back to Mexico

and she took advantage and started dating one of my

cousins. When I came back from Mexico, I told her that

she needed to move out of the house. I remember it was

New Years, January 1995. When I came back from

work, she had already left and took all her belongings

with her.

After that I went back to Mexico and I met my wife.

We dated for eight months, and in September 1995 we

got married. We love each other and our three beautiful

children. We have been married for almost fifteen years.

I thank God, that after all the hard times in my live I

found someone that really loves me and who I love and

we are very happy.

My Journey to U.S.A.

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Para mi la vida es un gran privilegio que Dios me haregalado a través de mis padres queridos. La vida hay quedisfrutarla porque es muy corta y no sabemos cuando vamosa partir de este mundo y por eso hay que disfrutar y vivircada momento como si fuera el último día de nuestra vida.

Es muy importante enseñarle a nuestros hijos comotratar de vivir felices. Ellos deben saber desde pequeños quela felicidad es tarea de cada persona, ellos deben aprender ano darle tanta importancia a los problemas taninsignificantes que nos hacen daño. Todos sabemos que enla vida hay momentos en verdad difíciles y fuertes.

Yo recuerdo mucho lo que le paso a un amigo quetrabajaba conmigo de repente la vida le cambio muydrásticamente. Todo empezó con un dolor y cuando fue aldoctor le diagnosticaron un tumor canceroso y

desafortunadamente ya no se pudo hacer nada por él. Losdoctores le dieron 3 meses de vida a pesar de tener 27 añosde vida, pobrecito no me imaginó lo que paso por su menteen ese instante. A veces la vida puede traernos situacionesmuy injustas y es cuando nos damos cuenta de laimportancia de vivir intensamente. Por esta razón debemosde hacer a un lado el rencor, el odio, la venganza y elegoísmo porque todo eso daña nuestra salud y no nos dejaser felices. Como padres debemos tratar de convivir cadamomento y compartir nuestra experiencia de vida connuestros hijos y toda nuestra familia.

HAY QUE VIVIR LA VIDA AHORA QUE PODEMOSPARA QUE EL DIA QUE DIOS NOS LLAME A CUENTAESTEMOS FELICES Y SATISFECHOS POR HABER DADOTODO DE NOSOTROS A NUESTROS SERES MASQUERIDOS.

“Jesús viene cada día a clase con una actitud positiva y siempre con la disposición de ayudar y apoyar a sus compañeros de clase. El es un granmotivador, trabaja mucho con su familia para sacar de/para ellos lo mejor. Toda su familia participa en los programas de Universidad Popular, paramí ha sido un gran placer conocer la familia Castel” Mayra Garcia, Group Faciltator

La Vida: Un Regalo De Dios!Jesús Castel

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I come from Jalisco, México. I am the fourth child bornout of nine. I came to the United States when I was fourteenyears old. It was really hard for me to say goodbye to myfamily because we had a good relationship.

When I came to the United States with my sister Istarted working in a restaurant and worked there fore a longtime. I still do, but now I am self employed. I was reallydedicated to my job and didn't have time to go out much; Ialso helped my family with everything I could. Especiallymy parents and my own family.

One day when I was working a got a call, saying thatmy dad had died, due to a car accident… That was theworst day of my life. I still remember the last time I saw

him, we were saying goodbye, we kissed and hugged, andhe wished me well. Now, when it's Father's Day or whenthere is a special event I am reminded of him, and I misshim even more.

Now I have my own family, I met my wife here inChicago my wife here in Chicago. She is a beautiful woman.We have five children, the oldest is a girl. She is married andhas a son. Our second is a boy, he is in college and is alsoin the National Guard, the next one is a girl, and she is inhigh school. The fourth is a girl and she is a junior in highschool. The fifth is a boy and he is in the third grade ofgrammar school. I am proud of each and every one of them.I enjoy going to vacations with my family, it is a good wayto grow as a family.

“Jose Huerta is assertive and a self starter. He takes every opportunity he has in class to improve in the English language skills. He works long hours,six days a week. Yet he manages to have very good attendance and is always ready to participate in class.” Otilia Gonzalez, Group Facilitator

I Am Proud Of My ChildrenJose Huerta

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When I was living in México I was very independent. I startedto work since I was very young. With great effort, I was able tofinish a career and work in what I liked to do for two years.

When I was 22 years old I got pregnant and thatcompletely changed my life. I was scared because I wasalone, but I also was exited because I knew I would not bealone anymore especially when I found out that I was caringa baby girl. I made a great effort to be healthy and I was moreconscious of how to take care of my body. Also I changed myjob because the one I had was heavy and risky. I was fivemonths pregnant when my brother and I decided to come toChicago with our parents then everything changed for me.

When I arrived to Chicago I found a comfortable job andthat made everything easier. One week before my baby wasborn; my baby's father and I decided to start living together.Again I had to leave my job because my daughter was bornand I wanted take care of her. I was a little depressed for a

while. My baby was sleeping almost all day and all night. Itvery hard for me to get used to staying at home all day long.It was difficult for me to ask for money or consulting withsomeone else before doing whatever I wanted to do. Then Ibecame consciousness about all I had; the little and bigthings that I was missing all my life, MY OWN FAMILY.

After that, I started enjoying every single detail of mynew life. Especially because my whole family was living inChicago. Finally I could see all of them. My brothers andsisters; my mother, my father everybody living in the samestate. I enjoyed taking care of my baby with the help of myhusband. He worked very hard and I didn't have to leavemy child alone and work outside of my home. I enjoyed mydaughter because we were growing up together. She hasbeen teaching me to be a good mom and me how to behappy. I now enjoy every day because, thanks god, mydaughter has a family something I did not have when I washer age and it is all she need “A GOOD FAMILY”.

“Eva Castillo is a great student! She is a gifted speaker and a great organizer. She was the Program Action Committee (PAC) representative for the lastsemester of the 2010 academic year. Eva is one of a kind; she is intelligent, enthusiastic, hardworking and witty! Eva Castillo and her daughter Paulinaare shining stars in the FLT program.” Marisol Aguilar, Group Facilitator

My Child Changed My LifeEva Castillo

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The Celebration of a Flavorful TraditionThe Celebration of a Flavorful Tradition

TM

TM

September 24 and 25, 201012:00 noon - 8:00pm

Universidad Popular2801 South Hamlin Ave.Chicago, IL 60623

presenta

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Mi nombre es Alma Pérez. Soy madre de dos maravillososniños, ambos con sordera profunda. Rubén, mi hijo mayor solose comunica a través del lenguaje Americano de señas (ASL). Ely yo comenzamos a aprender el lenguaje juntos hacenaproximadamente cinco años. A sus seis años el inicio sueducación formal de ASL en la escuela publica elemental Kinzie.Yo acudía una vez a la semana a clases de señas en su escuela,donde nos reuníamos los padres con el propósito de aprenderel lenguaje de nuestros hijos, y de esa manera podercomunicarnos con ellos. El aprender ASL era miresponsabilidad y por el hecho de estar en Los Estados Unidostambién era una necesidad y responsabilidad el AprenderIngles. Fue por esa razón que me inscribí a las clases en UnPrograma de Universidad Popular llamada FamiliasAprendiendo a Enseñar.

Desde hace dos años, yo soy una participante en elprograma de Familias Aprendiendo a Enseñar ó FLT por sussiglas en Ingles. FLT es un programa muy bueno porque nosolamente ofrece clases de Ingles si no también promueve las

habilidades de los participantes brindando clases adicionalesdirigidas por los mismos participantes.

Yo estoy facilitando una clase de Lenguaje Americano deSeñas básica con el objetivo de que halla mas gente que aprendael lenguaje para que así la comunidad de sordos tenga unespacio mas amplio de comunicación, y no halla una divisiónentre oyentes y sordos, si no que seamos una sola comunidaddonde el lenguaje no sea obstáculo. Para mi es muy importanteque cada vez halla mas gente que se interese en aprender ellenguaje de mis hijos porque de esa manera yo me sentiría mástranquila sabiendo que cuando ellos tengan que salir soloshabrá gente que los entenderá y sabrán comunicarse con ellos.

Yo creo que uno de los regalos mas grandes que Dios nos daes el poder comunicarnos y expresarnos libremente, no importade que manera lo hagas lo importante es saber que te estánentendiendo. Es una satisfacción muy grande el compartir lopoco o mucho que yo sé con otros participantes de la comunidady ser parte activa en el crecimiento de mi familia y mi comunidad.

“By sharing the little or much that she Knows, Alma was able to motivate parents and children to learn American Sign Language. This also motivateddeaf people to volunteer in the Program. Children at FLT are earning English, Spanish and American Sing Language. At Families Learning to Teachevery parents is a teacher.” Gabriel Lara, Program Coordinator

Comprometidaal Desarrollo Comunitario

Alma Pérez

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Universidad Popular is dedicated to stopping underage drinking in the Little Village community. Be a part of our efforts and help us by talking to your children and teenagers about NOT drinking at house and family parties. Also talk about NOT drinking at community festivals. Set clear rules about NOT drinking, but most importantly be involved in your children’s and teenager’s life. For more information on how to talk to your youth or join our efforts, please call Universidad Popular at (773) 733-5055.

Universidad Popular se dedica a parar el consumo dealcohol entre los menores de edad en La Villita. Usted puede ayudarnos. Hable con sus niños y adolescentes sobre el no consumir alcohol. Establezca reglas sobre el no consumir alcohol en las fiestas familiares o en las fiestas de los amigos. También establezca reglas sobre el no consumir alcohol en los eventos comunitarios. Para mas información sobre como hablarles a sus hijos o como participar en nuestro esfuerzo para prevenir el consumo de alcohol entre los menores de edad, favor de llamar a Universidad Popular al (773) 733-5055.

Funding provided in part or whole by the Illinois

g Department of Human Servi

y rvi

y ces

Division of Community Health & Prevention

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My best wishes.This Christmas I wish the best

To you my friend, partner and confident,To you, my husband,

I wish that you always have good health;That God gives you happiness and a job.

I wish that every day of your lifeIs full of happiness.

I hope that God and the Virgin help youAnd give you the enthusiasm that you always have

in looking for a better life for our family.

Thank you for sharing with me your life and make me happy.Thank you because you always help me go on.

God bless you!Never change!

These are my best wishes to my love.Your friend and wife:

Elizabeth.

“Elizabeth Miranda is a very enthusiastic person. She is veryresponsible with her homework. She has learned a lot of English. Shealways makes extra homework because she says she wants to learnEnglish fast.” Amelia Cruz, Group Facilitator

PoemTo My Husband

Elizabeth Miranda

When my mom was in México, she always wished tohave all her family together. Her goal was to have herfamily together because my father was in United States.One day she decided to come to the United States, shecame with my little brother. He was eight years old and mylittle sister nine years old. She came to the United Stateswith the purpose of keeping her family together.

When she was in Chicago she was happy with herfamily, she had a normal life. My mom was a healthywoman, but a few years ago she had a problem with herwomb. She had surgery. Then, after the surgery, she hadmore problems. One day she went to the Hospital andthe doctors said she had cancer and that she had no cure.She lived two months with cancer, and then she died onMarch 19, 2001.

I believe my mother accomplished her goal. May sherest in peace, Maria Orozco, my beautiful mother!

“Nordelia is a very nice, helpful person, she pushes herself to do betterand to learn more. She just doesn't take English classes but takes otherelective classes. She is working on her confidence to hopefully be able tofacilitate a class designing jello.” Veronica Orduño, Group Facilitator

My MotherNordelia Garcia

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My name is Blanca and I was born in a very small towncalled El Progreso, Canatlán, Durango, México. There livedabout 400 people and all the people knew each other. Mostof them lived from the farming. Those who worked infarming were the most fortunate because other people inCanatlán, are very poor and do not have much. My familyhas always lived from farming. When I was a child I had tohelp my father in the farm. We were seven daughters andone son. My bother was in the army, so we were all womenin the house except for my dad. I always hated that becauseI wanted to play but I had to work. However, now that I amgrown up I think that I was very fortunate because someother children that were with me at the school were verypoor and I was not rich, but I always had food and clothes.

The town of Canatlán is known as “Canatlán de lasmanzanas”, because there are lots of apple gardens in the

months of August and September. There is a lot of “pizca demanzana picking the apples from the trees, usually the mendo this work, and the women have to separate the apples.They place the good apples in a box of wood and those arethe apples that go out for sale in México. Maybe they do thesame in other countries. In September we celebrate the fairof las manzanas and a lot of people from the small townsand vicinities come to Canatlán go to the fair.

I worked there until I got married in 1999 and I came toChicago. I worked for about six months and I had to stopbecause I got pregnant, that was in 2000 and in January of2001 my beautiful son was born. I did not know that I couldlove as much as I love my children. They are my life. I havetwo children. One is a girl, she was born in July of 2002 anda boy who was born in 2001. Often times I see them and Ithink how fast they are growing. I love my children!

“Blanca is an exceptional student! Her writing is organized, clear and well thought. Blanca always delights those around her with her descriptivewritings, her wise insights and her positive and collaborative attitude. Blanca is a true gem of a young woman!” Marisol Aguilar, Group Facilitator

Canatlán De Las Manzanas: My TownBlanca Zamudio

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My name is Alma Perez, I am from Guanajuato México.I was born in a small but beautiful town. I got marriedwhen I was almost eighteen years old. After one year ofbeen married I had my oldest son was born. When he wasfive years old we came to the United States. I enjoy living inthe United States because all my family members live here.As soon as I came here, I worked for one year only, and thenI started to have a lot of work with my baby because he wasborn deaf. He had four therapies every week and all mytime was spent with him because I wanted him to learn touse his voice but now I am so happy because he is threeyears old and he uses his voice well. I was very scared whenhe was not able to use his voice.

I think it is important to learn the English languageso that we can communicate with those around us.However, I believe that the most important thing is to beable to communicate with my children's teachers. Forme it is very important to learn English because I havetwo deaf sons. I have to use American Sign Language, soall signs are in English. If I learn the language, it will beeasier for me to communicate with my kids. In thefuture I would like to become a sign languageinterpreter and be able to help many other mothers andchildren who are deaf.

“Alma is an excellent student! Her positive attitude and kind ways serve her well in her learning and in everything she does.”Marisol Aguilar, Group Facilitator

My Goal:Sign Language Interpreter

Alma Perez

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My name is Maria Guadalupe Baeza and this is my story:I immigrated to the United States 15 years ago. I came tothis country with my husband and two children. The oldestwas four years and the youngest was two years old. Myhusband was a legal resident; he was able to get hisdocuments during the 1987 reform. He came to thiscountry to work and I remained in México he spend moretime here than over there.

During my two pregnancies and my children's first yearsof life I was alone; they were only with me. Six years passedand I told my husband, he either stays with us or we all go

to the USA. We then decided to come here withoutdocuments, even though my husband was a legal resident.Since he did not think of bringing us here, he did not fixour residency in the United States.

Years later after being here, my children and I were ableto get our documents. Now I have 4 sons and I am happywe decided to migrate to the United States. My husbandwas able to see and enjoy his other two sons' first years oflife and he is able to see them grow.

“Maria Guadalupe Baeza's husband was the one who introduced her to Universidad Popular. She has been taking classes at Universidad Popular for ayear and a half. This year I have seen a great improvement in her English. She was one of the shyest participants in class but she slowly startedparticipating. She is very eager to learn English. She is one of those people that can never have enough learning.” Veronica Orduño, Group Facilitator

An Important DecisionMaria Guadalupe Baeza

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“This was Virginia's first year at UP, she came in a little shy at the beginning of the year but she came close to the participants fast. In the winter shegot really sick and had to stop attending classes but as soon she felt better and the weather started being nice she came back to UP and had a greatlearning attitude with her. She wants to catch up with everyone else in class and helps others when needed.” Veronica Orduño, Group Facilitator

Adopting a ChildVirginia Abundio

Accomplishing My GoalsEmilia Pantoja

I am writing about children who do not have theirparents with them. Every year, many accidents happen indifferent countries and children lose their parents and otherparents must take care of them. I recommend that if you wantto adopt a child you look for information about how to do it.You can take care of them because you don't know when you,or your family members, might need help. Children are themost important things you can have in life because one of onehundred couples who want children can't have them.

If you know a person who has the resources to adoptchildren, talk to them and teach them the values of life.When you have your parents with you, you feel like you cando whatever you want. Sometimes, some people don'tappreciate their parents. When I see children who don'thave their parents with them I feel very sad because they arewaiting for someone who wants to take care of them. Pleasedon't think too much and adopt a child who can make youhappy your life better and happier!

When I started working at my job, I wished I could speakEnglish with my supervisor in case there were any problemsin my job. Two weeks ago my boss was talking with everyoneat work because every year we have a small pay raise. Whenit was time for my interview I didn't need an interpreter. Most

of the people needed an interpreter but not me. I was able totalk to my supervisor with no help from anyone else. Thiswas my goal when I started taking English Classes atUniversidad Popular because in this country it is veryimportant to speak with other people in English.

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Universidad Popular programs, initiatives, and projects are madepossible with generous support from:

Public Donors: • City of Chicago -Department of Cultural Affairs • Illinois Community College Board• Illinois Department of Human ServicesDivision of Community Health and Prevention Services

• Illinois Department of Human ServicesNew Americans Initiative

• Illinois State Board of Education• Secretary of State Literacy Office

Private Donors:• Citibank, F.S.B.• Instituto de Mexicanos en el Exterior (IME) • Lumpkin Family Foundation • McCormick Foundation• Sara Lee Foundation• Second Federal Savings• The Chicago Community Trust• LISC- CHICAGO

And many individual contributions from community residents,businesses and community agencies.

Thank You!

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS