Aspire Chicago

Aspire is proud to announce the launch of our new Employment Training Program, a federally funded initiative that is reshaping workforce development for people with disabilities in Chicagoland. 💼💙 By combining hands-on learning in our simulated work environment with real-time skill-building and workforce development, Aspire is preparing our trainees for meaningful employment pathways within the warehouse/distribution industry. This groundbreaking work wouldn’t be possible without the collaboration of partners like Wesco, Parts Town, KeHE Distributors and others. Together, we are connecting people with disabilities to workforce systems to address the employment gap and build a stronger, more inclusive workforce. This is workforce innovation in action and we’re just getting started. Stay tuned as we continue to announce more about this amazing program! ⭐ #PoweredByPossible #EmploymentTraining #WorkforceDevelopment #ImpactInAction Serena Alaily, MBA

Big news, Aspire made the news! 💫🎥 NBC Chicago stopped by and shared our story during a live news segment, helping shine a light on the incredible work happening within our Community Homes! We're so excited to see the spotlight on disability inclusion and accessibility grow, and we're just getting started. Check out the full story with the link below! 💙📺 https://lnkd.in/gH2kPXmD #PoweredByPossible #AccessibleHousing Serena Alaily, MBA

35 years ago today, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law, marking a historic milestone in the fight for the rights of people with disabilities. 📜 Since then, it’s opened doors to greater access, opportunity, and visibility for people with disabilities across the country. At Aspire, the spirit of the ADA fuels our everyday work. From creating accessible homes and inclusive workplaces to supporting people as they pursue bold goals and big dreams, accessibility and independence are our number one priority. We're so proud to be part of this movement, and even prouder to keep pushing it forward. 💙 To read more about the work we are doing, check the link in our bio! 🔗 #PoweredByPossible #ADAAnniversary #DisabilityRights Serena Alaily, MBA

We're excited for the 35th Anniversary Celebration of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) hosted by the Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities (MOPD). Head to the coffee station for a cup of Aspire CoffeeWorks coffee and celebrate disability pride all day long through panel discussions, art, activities, and more. #ADA35

🏡✨ Big things are happening at Aspire—and today marked a major milestone! We officially cut the ribbon at our newly renovated Community Home in Westchester and welcomed Senators, State Representatives, and local government leaders to celebrate with us. Designed with universal accessibility in mind, this home features widened doorways and hallways, a fully renovated kitchen and bathroom, an open floorplan, and accessible additions like a chair lift and ramp. Every detail was created to support safety, comfort, and true independence, and we’re proud to keep raising the standard. A huge thank you to the incredible champions in government who joined us and continue to support this work. To Senator Kimberly Lightford, State Representative Nicole La Ha, and State Representative Diane Blair-Sherlock, your belief in our mission fuels progress like this, and we couldn’t be more grateful for your partnership and advocacy. 💙 This is just the beginning, and we’re so excited for what’s ahead. With continued support, we’re committed to reimagining what living looks for people with disabilities, one home at a time. #PoweredByPossible #DisabilityAdvocacy #AccessibleHousing Serena Alaily, MBA

Big thanks to the Inspira Financial team for spending their morning with us at Academy South! ⭐ From solving summer-themed math games to a fun-filled scavenger hunt, the day was packed with energy, smiles, and connection. The people we support had an amazing time and we’re so grateful for your enthusiasm, kindness, and willingness to jump right in. 💙 We’re can’t wait for the next event! #PoweredByPossible #VolunteerAppreciation Serena Alaily, MBA

This past year at Aspire has been one of incredible growth, connection, and momentum, and it’s all thanks to YOU! 💙 Because of your support, more people with disabilities are reaching milestones, gaining confidence, and finding purpose through learning experiences. From job placements to new friendships and meaningful community experiences, your partnership is creating real, lasting impact. We’re proud of how far we’ve come, and even more excited about what’s ahead. Thank you for continuing to believe in what’s possible. ✨ Explore the full 2024 Impact Report now using the link below! https://lnkd.in/gsn9a837 #PoweredByPossible Serena Alaily, MBA

Strong partnerships build bold futures. 💼✨ Our first Employment Training Program cohort is already showing powerful results! Three of our trainees have transitioned into full-time roles after completing their internships with enthusiasm, professionalism, and glowing feedback from their supervisors. These outcomes are only possible because of the commitment and belief of our amazing employer partners. We’re deeply grateful to organizations like Wesco, Parts Town, KeHE Distributors, and Holman for opening doors and setting a new standard for inclusive employment in the warehousing and distribution industry. “We believe that by removing the stigma around people with disabilities, redefining what talent looks like, and offering a streamlined hiring solution, we can make real progress—both for our economy and for the individuals whose potential has long gone unrecognized.” — Serena Alaily, MBA, CEO Together, we’re not just creating jobs, we’re creating momentum for lasting change. Please stay tuned as we continue to announce more amazing news from this program.💙 #PoweredbyPossible

A big thank you to our friends at Mutual of America Financial Group for spending the morning with us! 💙 From playing some of our favorite games to making meaningful connections, the energy, laughter, and smiles were nonstop. We’re so grateful for your time, kindness, and commitment to creating memorable moments with the people we support. 😄 It was such a fun and joy-filled time for everyone involved, and we’re already looking forward to the next visit! #PoweredByPossible #VolunteerAppreciation Serena Alaily, MBA

Our 2024 Impact Report is here, and it’s filled with moments that matter. 💙 This past year, mental health and emotional wellbeing took center stage at Aspire, and the results have been powerful. With your support, we invested over 168 hours in programs that uplift and inspire—from community gardening and the Aspire dance team to one-on-one support at our academies and beyond. You’ll see your impact in every story, including Kiwani’s, whose journey toward healing is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when people feel seen, supported, and connected. Tap the link below to read the full 2024 Impact Report and see all that we accomplished together. 🌟 https://lnkd.in/gsn9a837 #PoweredByPossible Serena Alaily, MBA