Since November, we have been packing whistle kits for our community. These whistle kits are an accessible tool for safety and supporting our immigrant neighbors. Alongside the whistles, each kit includes resources and information. We want our community to be prepared, informed, and connected.
If you would like to request a whistle kit, please fill out this form: Whistle Kits Form
Our team went to Proviso West High School for another giveaway of the Mental Health Kits! We were able to give away 41 kits to students. We introduced the students to The Firehouse Dream, sharing how the space and the programs are intentional with creativity, healing, and empowerment. Our Community Engagement Coordinator, Jessica, connected directly with the students, explaining what’s inside the kits and how they can be used.
Thank you, Proviso West High School, for having us and partnering with us in supporting student wellness and emotional well-being.
This candle-making workshop was led by both Liz, our Program Coordinator, and Jess, our Community Engagement Coordinator. For this workshop, it was a 2-in-1, where candle making was mixed in with a check-in circle.
They started with introductions, as each neighbor wrote down their names and chose a word that started with the letter of their first name. Next, they had the choice to select from inspiring stickers, and paint markers to decorate their candles. This allowed them to add a personal touch that reflected themselves and their stories. Each person then shared the meaning of their candle with the group.
While the candles hardened, they shifted back into a check-in circle where they played games, and fostered deeper connection and belong as a community.
Be sure to check out some of our favorite photos from this workshop below!
This program is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council.
In our second weekend session for circle training, we shifted the focus toward individual leadership and how they wanted to lead their circle, and what that would look like. Keeping in mind what type of games would happen, and what centerpieces would be part of the healing circle. Also, going over what type of questions would be asked during these sessions. Helping prepare each person to feel confident in guiding their own circle!
Healing circles thrive when we lead with trust, intention, and care - and this training was a step forward to continuing to build spaces with trust and healing.
This program is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council.
Triton College had a community resource fair and invited other organizations to be a part of it. The fair created a space for students and community members to learn more about the different organizations. At our table, TFD gave out resources and additional information about any upcoming programming happening at The Firehouse Dream. We also talked about what TFD is about and how others can get involved with volunteering or being part of the workshops, while giving away mental health kits and fidget toys. We had the chance to connect with other organizations and learn more.
