“What if I told you this unassuming building has been a lifeline for generations?” That’s the Polish American Association. It stands here as a testament to Chicago’s vibrant immigrant history. Founded in 1922, the Polish American Association started as the Polish Welfare Association. Prominent Polish businessmen and professionals saw a need. They wanted to provide Polish language social services right here in Chicago.
Originally located in Polish Downtown, the Polish American Association played a vital role. It helped immigrant families adjust to their new lives in the United States. Today, the association’s mission remains strong. Rooted in Polish heritage, it advances today’s diverse immigrant communities. The Polish community is the second largest ethnic group in the Chicago area. The Polish American Association’s bilingual and bicultural services are critical.
The Polish American Association serves over 3,000 clients each month. It achieves this through its 30 programs and services. These programs include social services, education, employment services and immigrant services. The Polish American Association also offers information and advocacy.
Consider the impact of the Polish American Association’s social services. They offer hope and personal growth to families, seniors, youth and battered women. Even the homeless and those seeking to free themselves from substance abuse find support here. PAA staff provides professional support in the client’s first language. This transforms lives and creates stable home environments for immigrants. Services include counseling, parenting education and crisis intervention. A domestic violence program and a senior case management are offered. There are also youth development programs. The Polish American Association provides help for people struggling with addiction.
The Learning Center is another cornerstone of the Polish American Association. It has helped thousands learn English and prepare for U.S. citizenship exams. It also helps people gain new skills. These skills enable them to enter careers in healthcare and other fields. The Learning Center offers ESL classes and citizenship classes. Vocational training programs are available. These include training to become certified nursing assistants. The Polish American Association has provided employment services since 1981. It has offered adult education since 1989. Vocational training has been available since 1992.
The Polish American Association’s immigration counselors guide clients. They help them complete citizenship applications. They also provide information about current immigration policies.
The Polish American Association disseminates information through its website and newsletters. This ensures that even geographically isolated individuals receive up-to-date information. The Polish American Association also stays connected to the local community. It does this through appearances on Polish radio, television and print media.
The Polish American Association is a not-for-profit corporation. It relies on contributions, grants and fees for its funding. A voluntary board of directors oversees the organization’s operations. The Polish American Association employs over 150 professionals. Most are immigrants themselves.
To promote its work, the Polish American Association holds an Annual Gala in November. It also hosts a Chairman’s Brunch in the spring. Smaller fundraising events take place throughout the year.
The Polish American Association stands as a pillar of support. It empowers immigrants to build successful lives in Chicago.