Community Organizing Internship

I’m Alicia M. Bradford, a dedicated student pursuing a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree at Chicago State University. In addition to my academic pursuits, I’m actively engaged in the field as a passionate Case Manager for the University of Chicago, specializing in Enhanced Perinatal Care. With a heart dedicated to making a difference, I work tirelessly to support individuals and families facing the challenges of perinatal HIV, ensuring they receive the care and resources they need to thrive. As a mother myself, with an incredible 8-year-old by my side, I understand the importance of accessible healthcare and support for mothers and their children. My life’s mission is deeply rooted in promoting health equity, particularly for marginalized communities, and I’m resolute in my commitment to reducing maternal mortality rates, especially within communities of color. Through my education, work, and personal experiences, I aim to create a brighter and healthier future for all.

Abby is a senior at the University of Illinois at Chicago earning a degree in Urban Studies and a minor in Sustainable Cities. With primary talents in organizing, research, and writing – she strives to become an Urban Planner. Her goal is to advocate for quality, affordable housing and green spaces within disinvested communities. Passionate about change at the local level, she has experience in organizing community events- such as beach clean-ups and food rescues.

Salvador Delgado is a rising senior pursuing a degree in Public Policy at UIC and is interning with ONE Northside. He is an intersectional feminist passionate about addressing racial and social inequity through legislative and legal action. Salvador volunteers with many local nonprofits that address issues related to undocumented citizens, the LGBTQIA+ community, and affordable housing. He has extensive experience organizing events and programs on college campuses, professional environments, and the communities he is a part of. Salvador aspires to work in the public sector to advocate for better laws and policies to improve access and quality of life for all marginalized people.

Miguel Garcia is a senior enrolled in the College of Urban Planning and Public Affairs at the University of Illinois of Chicago, majoring in Public Policy and double minoring in Criminology, Justice and law, and Civic Analytics. Miguel is a community organizer with Palenque LSNA, as the new Housing Intern. He is from the Eastside neighborhood on the Far Southeast side of Chicago and was raised in a single-parent household. Miguel aspires to research, draft, and evaluate progressive policies in the public sector to advance racial justice, reduce income inequality, increase accessibility to affordable housing, enforce police accountability, and streamline immigration services. He is committed to alleviating the pressures of daily obstacles endured by working-class families and is deeply dedicated to protecting the livelihoods of those impacted by socio-economic disparities.

I’m currently a Junior in the UIC Urban Studies program. Being a die-hard Southsider, my goal in life has for a while been to become an Urban Planner in order to combat the systematic disinvestment I have realized in my own communities growing up. I firmly believe good city planning can be a gateway to prosperity on the Southside and throughout the country!

Wilma Mendoza, a proud Chicago native, holds a degree in Public Policy and Urban Studies from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Her profound affection for the city and its communities serves as the driving force behind her passionate commitment to understanding urban planning policy and land usage decisions. Currently, she serves as the Clerk for the Committee on Zoning, Landmarks, and Building Standards in the City of Chicago.

Wilma’s mission is to apply community organizing to her career to advocate for the well-being of all urban residents, regardless of their status. A pressing need exists for intersectional planning in the City of Chicago to both preserve and create safe and prosperous environments for everyone.