Latino Community Events in Aurora, IL

Join us at the 2026 IHCC Annual Business Conference and Expo for networking, insights, and cool business trends! Get Ready for the 2026 IHCC Annual Business Conference and Expo! 📍 Navy Pier | October 9 The IHCC Annual Business Conference & Expo is back at Navy Pier on October 9, and it’s more than just a business event. This single day event brings together corporate leaders, public agencies, industry professionals, and entrepreneurs under one roof. With 90+ exhibitors, tailored workshops, and thousands of attendees from across industries, this is where connections turn into real opportunities. Whether you’re launching a startup, scaling your business, or looking to connect with diverse suppliers and partners, this is the place to be. Come ready to connect, learn, and leave with more than business cards. Leave with momentum. What to Expect 🍽️ Opening Breakfast (Ticket Required) Hear from industry leaders and visionaries as they share insights, experiences, and inspiration to kick off the day. 🤝 Networking Opportunities (Free) Meet entrepreneurs, executives, mentors, and potential partners who can help you move your business forward. 🏢 Exhibitor Floor (Free) Explore a wide range of businesses and organizations showcasing products, services, resources, and opportunities. 🎓 Workshops & Conferences (Free) Gain practical tools and strategies through expert-led sessions on entrepreneurship, leadership, innovation, and more. Event Agenda 7:00 AM – 8:30 AM Opening Breakfast Registration (Ticket Required) 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM Opening Breakfast (Ticket Required) 11:00 AM Ribbon Cutting Ceremony 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM General Admission (Free) • Exhibitor Hall • Workshops & Conferences • Professional Headshots 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM Exhibitor Hall 👉 Become an Exhibitor Today! 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM Workshops & Conferences (Included with General Admission) 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Matchmaking One-on-One Sessions (By Invitation Only) 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM Cocktails & Networking at Bar Sol (Ticket Required)

Join us for a 2-day conference focused on fostering a diverse, inclusive, and empowering environment where everyone can thrive and lead. 2026 HACE National Leadership Summit Breaking Barreras: Cultivating the Power of Líderes At HACE, we believe everyone has the right to realize dreams bigger than their circumstances. Our mission is simple yet transformative: to unlock the full potential of Latinos and diverse individuals for themselves and their communities. This year’s Summit theme, “Breaking Barreras: Cultivating the Power of Líderes,” celebrates the courage to challenge the status quo and create new possibilities. Over two powerful days, barrier-breakers from across our community will come together for transformative sessions led by thought leaders and industry experts. Together, we’ll explore new pathways to growth, dismantle what holds us back, and transform the trajectory for the next generation of leaders. By Cultivating the Power of Líderes, we honor our commitment to nurturing leadership potential across all communities—because when one person’s potential is ignited, it creates a ripple effect that strengthens organizations, families, and the broader economy. Our HACE alumni don’t just break barriers—they create pathways. From teachers inspiring students to business owners and CEOs generating jobs, they represent what’s possible when talent meets opportunity. Join us in building a future where leaders rise, barriers fall, and communities thrive. Because we can be Más. Explore Our Three Leadership Tracks Join us for two transformative days of learning, connection, and growth as we explore HACE’s three core leadership pillars — Thought Leadership, Talent Acquisition, and Professional Development — through a dynamic lineup of sessions designed to inspire action and elevate leadership at every stage. Track 1: Inspira — Inspiring Transformative Change Pillar: Thought Leadership Explore how Latino leaders are reshaping the future through courage, innovation, and purpose. This track centers on the personal and collective power of transformation — from financial wellness and cultural identity to resilience, caregiving, and the evolving role of humanity in an AI-driven world. Sessions include: Wealth con Propósito: From Money Mindset to Financial Momentum Resilient Leadership: Bienestar & Healing en Acción Invisible Barreras Navigating Immigration Issues in the Workforce Caught in the Middle: Navigating Career, Caregiving y Cultura Staying Relevant en un Mundo Powered by AI, Workforce y Inclusive Innovation Track 2: Conecta — Pathways of Talent & Opportunity Pillar: Talent Acquisition This track focuses on opening doors, breaking barriers, and redefining what inclusive hiring and advancement look like. Through panels, data-driven insights, and interactive workshops, participants will gain strategies to expand opportunity and drive equitable workforce change. Sessions include: Breaking Barreras in Talent Acquisition: Opening Pathways to Opportunity From Culture Fit to Culture Add: Reimagining Organizational Growth Equity by Design: How Decades of Data Reveal Bias in Career Pathways The Mobility Mindset: Navigating Job Hopping and Career Growth Networks that Open Doors: Career Growth in the War Room Track 3: Crece — Rising to Our Leadership Potential Pillar: Professional Development Designed for emerging and established leaders alike, this track helps participants embrace their authentic leadership style, strengthen resilience, and chart intentional career paths. Each session offers actionable tools and inspiring insights to elevate your impact and influence. Sessions include: Trailblazing with Resilience: Leading Without a Roadmap Owning Your Power: Leading with Culture, Confidence, and Authenticity Network to Lead: Building Connections that Count Bridging Generations: From Management to Mentorship Strategic Career Mapping: Designing Your Leadership Journey Early Bird Pricing (Ends Dec 31 at 9:00 p.m. CST) Lock in discounted rates now—apply the promo codes at checkout. 2026 National Leadership Summit (In-Person Ticket Only) — $550 Save $100 with code EARLYSUMMIT26 2026 Awards Celebration (In-Person Ticket Only) — $325 Save $50 with code EARLYAWARDS26 Summit & Awards Celebration Bundle (In-Person Ticket Only) — $900 Save $100 with code EARLYCOMBO26 Early bird discounts valid through December 31 at 9:00 p.m. CST. Ready to Grow, Connect, and Lead? Choose the track that aligns with your goals—or mix sessions across all three to design your own leadership journey. ** For more details on the full agenda, list of speakers, hotel & parking accommodations, and additional event information, visit HACE’s website to learn more about the 2026 Summit & Awards Celebration. ** Hotel Accommodations – Summit 2026 We are excited to offer a special room block for Summit 2026 attendees at the JW Marriott Chicago, located in the heart of downtown and just minutes from the Summit venue. Room Block Details: Discounted group rate available for Summit attendees Rooms available on a first-come, first-served basis Reservation deadline: March 31, 2026 After this date, the discounted rate cannot be guaranteed We encourage guests to book early to secure their stay at the preferred Summit hotel.

A circle for Latino Men Reenvisioning their role in Community A monthly circle for Latino Men Reenvisioning their role in Community February 22nd – Why are we here? March 29 – Understanding Masculinity and Femininity April 26 – Exploring Self-Love May 31st – Compassion as a Practice Facilitated by Ruben Gerena and Jupiter García Rubén Gerena is currently an Assistant Professor and Department Chair of the Human Services department at National Louis University. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Human Services from Phoenix University and his master’s degree in Nonprofit Management from Spertus College. Rubén has spent over 25 years working with youth in Chicago. While mentoring youth in the Alternative school system, he helped to establish initiatives that have led to a large array of youth-focused programs across the city of Chicago that are still impacting communities. Some of these programs focused on addressing the trauma that has been experienced through gun violence and domestic violence. In addition, Ruben has been a part of city-wide initiatives in helping to address recidivism rates primarily in the south and southwest sides of the city, through increasing job readiness programs and life skills training that have been proven to decrease the number of individuals returning to prison. Ruben is also an advocate for Restorative Justice practices and is a circle keeper. Rubén is also a Lucumí priest (Olorisha) and is ordained in the secrets of Obàtálá. Rubén is a drummer and has been studying Afro-Puerto Rican Bomba and Plena music and Dance since his teenage years. In addition, Rubén is a Drum maker and has taught youth and adults throughout the city to make their drums as a method of helping people reaffirm their own cultural identity. Currently, Ruben is the Board President of La Escuelita Bombera de Corazón, a leader in Afro-Puerto Rican arts. Jupiter Garcia, a seasoned practitioner from Chicago, brings over 17 years of diverse healing experience. Coming from a lineage of curanderas, Jupiter's extensive background, rooted in Buddhism and Ifa, encompasses Reiki practice and teaching, chakra balancing, and access to the Akashic Records, providing multi-dimensional healing opportunities. With a profound commitment to trauma healing, Jupiter has dedicated years to facilitating healing groups for survivors of childhood abuse and guiding ancestral healing work. This experience informs Jupiter's compassionate, trauma-sensitive approach to wellness and personal transformation. As an experienced meditation guide, Jupiter leads bilingual meditation sessions that help participants cultivate present-moment awareness and inner peace. These group experiences are complemented by Jupiter's one-on-one coaching, where individualized guidance helps clients develop sustainable practices for emotional regulation, stress management, and enhanced well-being. Jupiter creates safe, supportive spaces where healing can naturally unfold, anchored in ancient wisdom. Clients benefit from Jupiter's holistic methodology that addresses mind, body, and spirit connections, offering pathways to profound healing and personal growth.

At DePaul University in Chicago, IL, the Latino Law Student Association represents a vibrant community of law students united by their cultural identity and shared commitment to legal excellence. This student-led organization creates an inclusive space where Latino law students can build meaningful relationships, support one another through their legal education, and collectively work toward professional success. The association embodies DePaul University's values of community engagement and social responsibility. By bringing together students from similar backgrounds, the organization fosters a sense of belonging within the law school community while celebrating the rich cultural perspectives that Latino students bring to legal education and practice. Members benefit from peer mentorship, shared experiences, and collaborative learning opportunities that enhance their educational journey. Serving the Chicago, IL area, the DePaul Latino Law Student Association connects students not only with each other but also with the broader legal community and cultural organizations throughout the city. The organization recognizes the importance of maintaining strong ties to Latino communities while preparing members for meaningful careers in law that can address community needs and advocate for social justice. Through its active participation in campus life and engagement initiatives, the association demonstrates that student organizations are essential to creating welcoming, supportive educational environments. The DePaul Latino Law Student Association stands as a testament to the power of community, cultural pride, and collective advocacy within legal education, empowering students to become leaders who bridge the gap between law school and the communities they serve.

The Hispanic Latinx Law Student Association at Chicago-Kent College of Law represents a dedicated community of students united by shared cultural heritage, professional aspirations, and commitment to advancing equity in the legal profession. Located in Chicago, Illinois, this student-led organization creates meaningful connections among Hispanic and Latinx law students while building bridges to the broader legal community. Members benefit from a supportive network that celebrates cultural identity while navigating the challenges and opportunities of legal education. The association champions the voices and experiences of Hispanic and Latinx students within Illinois Institute of Technology's Chicago-Kent College of Law, ensuring that diverse perspectives are represented in campus discourse and decision-making. Beyond academic pursuits, the organization fosters lasting friendships and professional relationships that extend well beyond law school. As Chicago-Kent's student organizations continue to evolve and strengthen their digital presence through the upcoming 312 Community Hubs platform launching in Fall 2025, the Hispanic Latinx Law Student Association remains committed to its mission of community building and mutual support. For current and prospective students interested in connecting with fellow Hispanic and Latinx law students and engaging in meaningful community initiatives, this organization offers a welcoming and empowering space within the Chicago legal education landscape.

The Latine Law Students Association (LLSA) represents a vital community within Loyola University Chicago School of Law, serving as the central hub for Latinx students pursuing legal careers in Chicago, Illinois. This student-led organization exists to create an academic and social support network where members can thrive, connect, and grow together throughout their law school journey. LLSA automatically includes all Latinx students at the law school while extending open membership to any student in good standing who wishes to participate. At its core, LLSA is committed to amplifying the voices and experiences of Latinx communities within legal education and practice. The organization brings speakers who discuss pressing legal issues affecting Latinx populations domestically and internationally, ensuring members remain informed about critical developments in their communities. By keeping members updated on scholarships, community events, and employment pathways, LLSA empowers students to navigate their legal careers with purpose and cultural awareness. Beyond academic support, LLSA serves as a bridge between law students and the broader Latinx community. Members participate in meaningful service initiatives and community engagement activities that extend their impact beyond the classroom. The organization deliberately fosters an inclusive culture where both Latinx and non-Latinx students build relationships and understanding. Led by dedicated student leaders and supported by faculty advisor Professor Sarah Diaz, LLSA demonstrates that law school success is strengthened through community, mentorship, and shared commitment to serving underrepresented populations. LLSA events create spaces where friendships form, professional networks develop, and collective commitment to justice takes root.