PROJECT A.S.T.R.O.
Project
A.S.T.R.O is the the result of a pilot program launched in 2000 by the Cook
County Public Guardian’s Office. The program is for
boys and girls between the ages of 13 – 18, who
reside in substitute care (foster homes, group homes, independent living,
residential facilities, etc.), who have an interest in the arts (performing or
visual arts) and are willing and able to commit to an 11-week session. Classes
meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at 1116 N.
Kedzie, Chicago (near Division; accessible by public transportation)
There are two classes available.
Visual Arts –
Students will learn basic art techniques. The
instructor is Gabriel Villa, a Chicago artist who has taught art classes at
several local high schools and the Gallery 37 program.
Acting –
Students will learn basic acting techniques. The
instructor is Bernadine
Robinson, who has
worked in theater since 1993. She has taught acting to inner-city youth through
the Harold Washington College Outreach Program.
There will also be
opportunities to attend special workshops and field trips to performances and
art exhibits.
If you have questions or
wish to refer someone to the program please contact us at (312) 603-0876.
Stories to make you smile
GAL helps youth find the right path.
Recently an Ohio newspaper showcased
the story of Donta Greene. Donta is a record-setting wide receiver for the
Toledo Rockets. He lived in a single parent household and was on probation as a
youth in the Ohio Juvenile detention system. Mr. Greene attributes much of his
positive path in life to guardian ad litem Michelle Grodner. Ms. Grodner was
his probation officer. According to Donta “Michelle didn’t know me and she
wasn’t part of my family, but she still reached out to me and was there for me
at a difficult time”. This goes to show everyone that all it takes is one
person to care to make a difference in someone’s life.
View article
A Night to Remember
Due to unfortunate circumstances the Rosario* children could not live
together. They missed each other terribly and cherished each moment they spent
together. In the works for one month, the assigned attorney and caseworker
quietly arranged for the children to be together for Joyce's ninth birthday. On
November 19th, the Rosario children were picked up and taken to the United
Center to see the Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus, thanks to the
generosity of Ronald McDonald House
charities. The excitement began as soon as the children were in the car. They
were so happy to see each other that they couldn't contain their joy. En route
they exchanged gifts with one another and chatted up all the way to the United
Center.
At the circus, the older siblings paid special attention to Joyce to make
sure she was having the best birthday possible. They made sure she had plenty of
snacks to eat. Everyone shared food and treats with one another. They laughed
and smiled till their faces hurt. During the second half of the show, the
trapeze artists came out and did death defying stunts. One of the artists
happened to have the same name as Joyce and when her name was announced Joyce
beamed and said, "that's me; she has my
name!" The final act performed and the children slowly walked and talked to the
parking structure. They sang Happy Birthday to Joyce and hugged each other
goodbye. While walking away all the kids hugged once more and told each other
they loved one another.
Empty Nesters find new lease on life
Roland M.* just celebrated his first birthday with his non relative foster parents, Mr. and Mrs. Smith. The Smiths raised their own children and did the older couple thing. They went to movies, cruises and had dinner with friends, however they felt a void in their life. That is when Roland came into their lives. Roland has a number of medical problems. He requires occupational therapy, physical therapy and developmental therapy. In order to be there for Roland 24/7, Mrs. Smith took early retirement. Mr. Smith looks forward to coming home to play and spend time with Roland. They are overcome with joy every time they speak about him. They hope to have another special needs child placed in their home to give Roland a sibling. We don't often see foster parents who are so obviously and genuinely committed to the care of their foster children. Way to go!
Project A.S.T.R.O (Art Studies Toward Real Opportunities)
Project A.S.T.R.O. is an arts training program developed by the Cook County Public Guardian's Office for its teenage clients who live in foster homes, group homes and residential facilities. It is geared towards teenagers between the ages of 13 through 18. Clients interested in acting, writing, drawing or singing are referred to the program by attorneys and social workers. The program runs for 12 weeks with sessions held twice a week. A final performance is held at the end of the session. Last year the performance of
"Tales from the Hood (when superheros came calling)" was a huge success! If you are interested in learning more about the program
leave a message on the program's voice mail at 312-603-0876.
Special Thanks!
Our clients send special thanks to:
