Founded on the principle that everyone can do it and can make it, HACES emerged from the vision of two community leaders in the early 1990s who responded to urgent calls for help from hundreds of immigrant families in Waukegan, IL. Officially established in 2005, the organization has grown into a transformative force within Lake County, dedicated to changing lives and strengthening communities through radical love and unwavering commitment to service. The name HACES itself embodies the organization's core belief in human potential and possibility, reflecting the mission to provide expertise and navigational support that empowers immigrants and citizens alike. What sets HACES apart is its deep roots in the Waukegan community and its comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted challenges facing immigrant families—from legal status and documentation to poverty, healthcare access, and educational opportunities. The organization's impact speaks volumes: thousands of Dreamers have renewed their work permits through DACA scholarships, families have received emergency COVID assistance, and community members have been connected to life-changing resources and benefits. HACES operates with a culture of service embedded throughout its staff and board, prioritizing strategies that advance their mission of creating fully engaged citizens who contribute meaningfully to their community. By combining legal expertise with health education and community advocacy, HACES addresses the full spectrum of needs immigrant families encounter throughout their journey to becoming documented, empowered members of American society in Waukegan and beyond.
Waukegan, IL