ASI Health: May Updates

From April showers to May flowers, this is a time of renewal and growth — values that reflect the journeys of the remarkable individuals we are privileged to serve every day.

This month, we celebrate the expanding reach of our programs and look ahead to exciting developments in how we deliver care and support. None of this would be possible without your unwavering commitment to our shared vision: a world where every person — regardless of ability — has the opportunity to live a meaningful, self-directed life.

With deep appreciation,

The ASI Health Leadership Team

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Sen. Durbin Visits ASI Pre-Apprenticeship Program

ASI Health was honored to welcome U.S. Senator Dick Durbin for a firsthand look at our Pre-Apprenticeship Program in Construction, a free workforce development initiative offered in partnership with the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and Lewis University.

Senator Durbin toured the program facilities at our Armitage Office location and met with current participants, hearing directly about their experiences and aspirations. The senator also earmarked $750,000 in funding to support future ASI workforce development projects — a significant investment in the continued growth of programs like this one. The program serves Illinois residents — with a special focus on women, people of color, and veterans — providing no-cost training aligned with union and industry standards, along with industry-recognized credentials including OSHA-10, First Aid/CPR, Flagger Certification, and NCCER Certification.

“This visit means so much to our participants and our team,” said ASI CEO Marta Cerda. “Having Senator Durbin see this work in person underscores the importance of connecting underserved communities to real pathways into the trades, which are careers that are stable, family-sustaining, and in high demand across Illinois.”

The Pre-Apprenticeship Program offers hands-on instruction, classroom learning, and job-site exposure, with wraparound support services throughout the program. Graduates are connected directly to registered apprenticeships and job placement opportunities. The program is open to all Illinois residents aged 18 and older who hold a high school diploma or GED.

We are thrilled to share that our first cohort is nearing the finish line — and the excitement is contagious! Students recently received their program equipment, and we love seeing their enthusiasm as they prepare to complete the program and step into their careers in the trades. Interviews for our next cohort are already underway, and we look forward to welcoming a new group of participants soon. See below for more information about enrollment opportunities.

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🛠️ Seeking Second Cohort for Construction Pre-Apprentice Program

After a very successful launch and our recent visit from Sen. Durbin, ASI is now looking for the second cohort for its Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program. Learn hands-on skills to start a career in construction—no previous experience required—and earn industry-recognized credentials.

The 14-week provides hands-on job site training, classroom instruction, industry certifications, wrap-around services, and a stipend to help participants along the way.

To be eligible, applicants must be:

• at least 18 years old

• an Illinois resident, and  

• hold a high school diploma or equivalency,

• A driver's license — or the ability to obtain one — is also required.

If you or someone you know is looking for a stable, family-sustaining career, apply here.

Questions? Reach out to Michael Walton (Program Administrator) at (773) 879-4573 or Barbara Garcia (Outreach) at (773) 936-4255.

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Make A Difference: Ways to Support ASI’s Mission

Your support makes a tangible difference in the lives of the individuals ASI Health serves. Here are meaningful ways to get involved: 

• Donate — Contribute to ASI to help build our new Health and Workforce Development Center! Give here.

• Volunteer — Help us make a difference. Call us at

  773-278-5130 to learn about how you can support our community.

• Share — Spread the word about our mission with friends, family, and colleagues.

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