Austin Peoples Action Center is dedicated to changing lives in our neighborhoods. The status quo is not good enough. As an organization and as a greater community, we need to look around and see what we can change to make people’s lives better.

OUR PROGRAMS

Chicago & Dolton Family Case Management

Established in 1980 with the vision to transform the community, the Austin Peoples Action Center (APAC) began its journey with an initial fund of $500 from a community rummage sale. Under the leadership of Cynthia Williams, who has been at the helm as CEO for over three decades, APAC has tirelessly worked to advance its mission in the greater Austin area.

APAC is dedicated to breaking down the barriers of economic and cultural disparities that contribute to challenges such as under-education, under-employment, nutritional deficits, homelessness, and health issues. Through years of community engagement, the commitment of our neighbors, friends, and dedicated staff has turned visionary ideas into tangible actions.

Today, APAC proudly acknowledges the support from significant partners such as the Illinois Department of Human Services, Catholic Charities, the Advocate Bethany Community Health Fund, and the Illinois Department of Health. These collaborations, alongside the contributions of past supporters, have been pivotal to our ongoing efforts to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.

Join us as we continue to fight for a brighter, more equitable future for the greater Austin community. Discover how you can become a part of our journey towards creating lasting change.

Healthy Families Illinois

Healthy Families Illinois (HFI) offers a comprehensive voluntary home visitation program designed to support new and expectant parents. Our dedicated Family Support Specialists provide personalized home visits on a weekly basis, delivering essential resources and support tailored to the unique needs of each family and their new baby.

Our services encompass a wide range of assistance to ensure the well-being of both parents and children. This includes support for securing adequate nutrition, accessing medical care, finding affordable housing, exploring job and educational opportunities, and utilizing mental health services. Additionally, HFI offers invaluable guidance on early childhood development stages, empowering parents with the knowledge and resources they need to foster a healthy environment for their growing family.

Proudly funded by the Illinois Department of Human Services, Healthy Families Illinois is committed to making a positive impact in the lives of Illinois families. Discover how our program can assist you in navigating the exciting journey of parenthood with confidence and support.

Senior, Mother and Child Nutrition Program

The Senior, Mother, and Child Nutrition Program (SMCNP), a pivotal initiative by the Illinois Department of Human Services and managed by Catholic Charities, offers comprehensive supplemental food and nutrition assistance monthly.

Targeting low-income, post-partum women, children aged 5 to 6, and seniors 60 and above who qualify, SMCNP aims to enhance the health and well-being of vulnerable community members. Through providing essential nutrition services, this program plays a critical role in supporting the dietary needs of families and seniors, ensuring they have access to the necessary nutrients for a healthy life.

The WIC Food Center

Located at 5125 W. Chicago Ave, the Catholic Charities WIC Food Center specializes in providing a safe and convenient shopping experience tailored for pregnant women and mothers with children up to the age of 5. Understanding the needs of our customers, our facility features a child-friendly 'kiddie corral,' allowing parents to shop in peace while their children engage in safe play.

Beyond shopping, the center proudly hosts an extensive nutrition center designed to enrich the shopping experience with educational opportunities. Here, families can learn how to maximize the nutritional benefits of supplemental foods offered through the WIC program, enhancing their well-being and dietary habits.

Supported by Catholic Charities, the WIC Food Center is more than just a place to shop—it's a resource for empowering families with knowledge and support for their nutritional needs. Visit us to discover a shopping environment thoughtfully designed with the needs of young families in mind.

Freedom School (After School For Youth)

The Freedom School offers a nurturing environment for children and teenagers aged 6 to 17, ensuring their safety, well-being, and development. Located in a secure residence, we provide a comprehensive program that includes nutritious meals, adequate rest, support with homework, engaging recreational activities, community gardening projects, and meaningful discussions facilitated by experienced counselors and mentors.

Our mission is to offer a supportive and enriching after school space where young individuals can thrive, learn, and grow. The program is designed to cater to the holistic needs of youth, fostering their physical, intellectual, and emotional development in a structured yet nurturing setting.

Funded by the Illinois Department of Human Services, Safe Home After school for Youth is committed to making a positive impact in the lives of young people by providing them with the resources and support they need during critical after-school hours. Discover how our program can help your child or teenager make the most of their after-school time in a safe, supportive, and enriching environment.

Teen REACH Two

Teen REACH Two, an essential afterschool program funded by the Illinois Department of Human Services, offers a nurturing and secure setting for at-risk youth aged 6 to 17. This program is designed to foster the comprehensive development of participants by providing high-quality academic support, life skills education, positive adult mentorship, and engaging service-learning opportunities.

Additionally, a variety of recreational, sports, and cultural activities are available to encourage social, physical, emotional, and intellectual growth among the youth. Teen REACH Two is committed to making a difference in the lives of young individuals by equipping them with the tools they need for success.

Teen Pregnancy Prevention

The "Wake Up and Face the Truth: Pregnancy Prevention & Awareness Campaign" is a crucial new initiative aimed at confronting the pressing issue of teen pregnancy and the widespread prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases among young people.

Designed to engage teenagers living in urban areas, this campaign offers enlightening workshops and strong motivational support to educate and empower youth. Spearheaded by the Advocate Charitable Foundation, our Teen Pregnancy Prevention program is dedicated to elevating awareness and providing the necessary tools and knowledge to foster healthier, informed communities.

Diabetes Prevention and Awareness

Empowering Chicago: Diabetes Prevention and Awareness Campaign" is our proactive initiative, extending across the Chicagoland area, to educate the community about the risks and prevention of type 2 diabetes in both children and adults. Our mission focuses on identifying and mitigating diabetes risk factors through comprehensive prevention strategies and treatment options.

We are actively engaging with adults via community organizations, churches, and faith-based groups to spread knowledge and support. This critical health awareness campaign is generously supported by the Illinois Department of Public Health, demonstrating our commitment to fostering a healthier, more informed society.

The APAC

Technology

Center

S C H E D U L E

At our new State-of-the-Art Technology Center, we offer a comprehensive suite of technical programs aimed at empowering our community with essential technology skills. Our courses range from basic computer training (digital literacy), programming for game and app development, to job readiness and workforce development programs. Participants engage with interactive media applications and acquire vital employment skills, including internet safety, podcast production training, and proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace applications. This holistic approach prepares individuals for success in today's technology-driven world.

Our Goals:

Equip underserved youth with essential technology skills to bridge the digital divide.
Educate parents and grandparents in the use of smartphones and computers, enhancing their digital proficiency.
Offer life skills training to enhance youth's social and interpersonal abilities, preparing them to navigate life's challenges effectively.
Create pathways to future employment in technology fields and spark interest in tech careers through dedicated outreach initiatives.

We Offer Cutting-Edge Programs and Partnerships:

Amazon has listed us as a priority partner to refer community residents looking for jobs. APAC uses technology resources to help job seekers prepare for interviews and complete online job applications.
APAC made its technology center and resources available to immigrants without resources, using technology for translation services and completing immigration paperwork.
We have the resources to train an additional 25 youth who will be enrolling in our apprenticeship job training program.
We will provide training for disadvantaged youth in technology skills, including those participating in various programs.
We will offer training in aviation flight training skills, basic computer digital literacy, game design programming, podcasting, interactive media applications, and using the Internet.
We will partner with local shelters for homeless pregnant Moms, providing them with technical skills, education, and resources.
We offer training to parents and grandparents to use smartphones and computers, bridging the digital divide, and providing life skills education to build youth social and interpersonal skills.
We have established partnerships and collaborations with Malcolm X College, Columbia College, and Duke Ellington Elementary School to help strengthen our reach in the community and provide pathways higher education.

OUR PROGRAMS

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