Chicago Commons Is Helping Families Go Further

This Patch article is sponsored by Chicago Commons.

Chicago Commons is a social service organization that provides high-quality, early childhood education, family-centered adult education and senior services. Its mission is to empower individuals, families and communities to overcome poverty and systemic barriers, embrace opportunities and thrive across generations.

Chicago Commons serves four core neighborhoods — Humboldt Park, Pilsen, Back of the Yards and Bronzeville — with its Home Care program serving seniors throughout Chicago and its collar counties.

Learn more about Chicago Commons in this exclusive Patch one-on-one with Edgar Ramirez, president and CEO of Chicago Commons.

Patch: How long have you been doing business in town?

Ramirez: Since 1894, Chicago Commons has been anchored in communities and empowering neighbors with the tools and skills needed to reach their potential and thrive.

Patch: What attracted you to the line of work you’re in, and how did you get started?

Ramirez: Throughout my career, I have always been involved with several initiatives to empower and build communities. Joining Chicago Commons in 2010 has been a continuation of that effort and I am honored to serve as the 7th CEO in the history of Chicago Commons.

Patch: If you had to sum up your business mission to a stranger in five words, what would those words be?

Ramirez: We help families GO further.

Patch: What’s the biggest challenge or most difficult moment you’ve faced in your job?

Ramirez: Chicago Commons is a large organization that touches the lives of thousands of individuals — from families we serve to people we employ to the countless neighbors around our centers. Perhaps the biggest challenge we face is how to continue meeting the increased demand for our services given limited resources and the challenges of a pandemic. I am thankful for our steadfast supporters and our resilient employees.

Patch: What’s the most satisfying part of your job?

Ramirez: The most satisfying part of my job is learning about the success of our families. We have former students who are now college graduates, parents who have rewarding careers and have purchased their homes, and seniors who are thriving in their communities.

Patch: How would you say your business or organization distinguishes itself from the others?

Ramirez: What distinguishes us from others is our amazing team. We have some of the most caring and talented employees who go above and beyond to meet our mission.

Patch: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given when it comes to success?

Ramirez: Perhaps the best piece of advice I have ever given when it comes to success is that you have to make your own success — persistence matters.

Patch: Are there any new projects or endeavors you’re working on that you’re extra excited about?

Ramirez: I am really proud of our staff and how we’ve responded to the pandemic, continuing to provide services with enhanced health and safety protocol that includes PPE for employees and clients, extra cleaning and more. I am also excited that we are able to bring our services to seniors throughout Chicago and its surrounding suburbs.

I encourage the community to take a look at our videos which document these new protocols.

Patch: How can Patch readers learn more about your work and business?

Ramirez: For those that want to learn more about our work, please visit our website or visit us on Facebook and Twitter (@Chicagocommons). Call us at (773) 373-5055.