In the lead-up to Labor Day weekend, staff from across the READI Chicago initiative gathered for games and food at a celebratory cookout.
The READI Chicago family reflected on the evolution of the program in its first two years and on the importance of cognitive behavioral therapy and jobs. Staff shared a moment of silence and released balloons in recognition of all those who were a part of the journey, pledging to honor them by creating lasting, sustainable change.
In observance of Labor Day, staff considered the value and necessity of work, both to READI Chicago staff and to participants.
“I feel like work dignifies the human being, and our participants need to experience that,” Englewood Outreach Director Tony Salaam said. “They need to experience dignity, pride, self-respect, and the ability to provide for themselves and their families. Getting a paycheck is new for a lot of them.”
