Ornament Decorating at TFD

This workshop was facilitated by Yekseny Guerrero. The gathering began with introductions, creating a space for everyone to share a bit more about themselves. From there, Yekseny guided our neighbors into some intentional questions - inviting self-reflection and opening the door for deeper conversations.

The heart of the workshop was decorating ornaments, each becoming a canvas for expression. Colors were added to the ornament globes, speaking about the hardships that have been faced - each color representing a story. As the colors were being mixed together, each ornament was unique and created a new look for each one. Watching the colors merging reminded us that even when hardships overlap, there is always something positive in the outcome of all the negatives.

At the close of the workshop, we held space to appreciate the process and each other. We are grateful to Yekseny for leading this workshop with such care and intention as always.

Whistle Kits

Since November, we have been packing whistle kits for our community. These whistle kits are an accessible tool for safety and supporting our immigrant neighbors. Alongside the whistles, each kit includes resources and information. We want our community to be prepared, informed, and connected.

If you would like to request a whistle kit, please fill out this form: Whistle Kits Form

Mental Health Kit Giveaway at Proviso West

Our team went to Proviso West High School for another giveaway of the Mental Health Kits! We were able to give away 41 kits to students. We introduced the students to The Firehouse Dream, sharing how the space and the programs are intentional with creativity, healing, and empowerment. Our Community Engagement Coordinator, Jessica, connected directly with the students, explaining what’s inside the kits and how they can be used.

Thank you, Proviso West High School, for having us and partnering with us in supporting student wellness and emotional well-being.

Candle Making at TFD

This candle-making workshop was led by both Liz, our Program Coordinator, and Jess, our Community Engagement Coordinator. For this workshop, it was a 2-in-1, where candle making was mixed in with a check-in circle.

They started with introductions, as each neighbor wrote down their names and chose a word that started with the letter of their first name. Next, they had the choice to select from inspiring stickers, and paint markers to decorate their candles. This allowed them to add a personal touch that reflected themselves and their stories. Each person then shared the meaning of their candle with the group.

While the candles hardened, they shifted back into a check-in circle where they played games, and fostered deeper connection and belong as a community.

Be sure to check out some of our favorite photos from this workshop below!

Circle Training Day 3 & 4

In our second weekend session for circle training, we shifted the focus toward individual leadership and how they wanted to lead their circle, and what that would look like. Keeping in mind what type of games would happen, and what centerpieces would be part of the healing circle. Also, going over what type of questions would be asked during these sessions. Helping prepare each person to feel confident in guiding their own circle!

Healing circles thrive when we lead with trust, intention, and care - and this training was a step forward to continuing to build spaces with trust and healing.