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THE FOUNDERS

Jasmine & Jeremy Lopez | The founders

Jasmine and Jeremy are both creatives who each bring over 20 years of experience to the table. Since working in the creative field, they both believe in how much opportunity there is for other’s to thrive and be a part of the over $900B that the creative economy brings in annually. Jasmine’s dream of a creative studio space in Maywood, IL was something that Jeremy would partner with. He personally invested hundreds of DIY hours to turn the studio into a welcoming space for the community. Jeremy continues to serves on the board and volunteers his time to lead workshops on film production, as Jasmine leads the day to day. She deeply believes that in order to build thriving businesses, we must have a healthy relationship with self, the world, and money, which is why The Firehouse Dream doesn’t just teach about creative entrepreneurship, but partners with each youth to identify their creative talents and skills and helps them to the take steps towards their collective and individual thriving.

OUR BOARD

Karina Mora-Metts

“I believe the more we share our stories, the more we can become connected, celebrate each other and create positive change for the generations to follow.”

Karina Mora-Metts | president

Karina is a photographer who desires to help educate people to see beyond margaritas, tacos, and the stereotypes, to the heart of Mexico, one piece of art at a time. She brings you beauty from Mexico to cultivate meaningful conversation with ready to hang framed photos, stickers, puzzles and downloadable calendars.

She is also the podcast host of Elevating la Cultura; a podcast featuring stories from 1st and 2nd generation Latinas working hard, pursuing their passions and pouring into the next generation.

What are you excited most for The Firehouse Dream?

I'm so excited for The Firehouse Dream to grow and provide more opportunities for youth to explore new artistic ways of expression. I'm also excited for The Firehouse Dream to provide opportunities for generational change through conversations, building relationships, and giving back to the community.

ADRIANA GALVAN

Adriana Galvan, the formidable force behind Adriana Talks Dinero, LLC, wears multiple hats with grace and determination. By day, she serves as the Regional Human Resources Business Partner for the Midwest and Northeast at a metals company, playing a vital role in supporting the aerospace industry. Simultaneously, she's the driving force behind her own business venture.

Adriana's journey is rooted in humble beginnings, being the eldest daughter of immigrant parents from Tamaulipas and Oaxaca, Mexico. As a dual citizen of the United States and Mexico, she has called the suburbs of Chicago home. In her household, education held a paramount place, leading her to pursue and successfully attain a double MBA in her 20s. Entrepreneurship runs deep in her veins, prompting her to embark on the journey of founding her own business a year and a half ago.

Her passion lies in breaking the silence around the often-taboo topic of money. Adriana finds immense joy in helping women and the BIPOC community empower themselves financially. Through her platform, she imparts valuable knowledge on budgeting, investing, travel hacking, negotiating pay, and safeguarding assets. In doing so, she not only educates but also inspires others to take control of their financial destinies.

IrMarie Rios

*Passionate about breaking down barriers to mental health care, particularly within BIPOC communities, where stigma often hinders access to necessary support.*

Irmarie’s story begins in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico, where she was born. At the tender age of seven, she embarked on a new journey, leaving behind her beloved island to embrace a new life in Connecticut. From a young age, Irmarie was recognized as the consejera de la familia. due to her exceptional empathy and her natural ability to connect with others.

Irmarie's educational journey was marked by a keen interest in understanding human behavior and emotions. She pursued studies that complemented her natural inclinations, further equipping her with the tools to help and guide others.

Over the past 12 years, Irmarie has gathered experience in community mental health settings. Her work has spanned across age groups, serving children, adolescents, and adults. She is passionate about breaking down barriers to mental health care, particularly within BIPOC communities, where stigma often hinders access to necessary support. A year ago, Irmarie took a significant step in her career by opening her own practice. This venture was driven by her desire to continue providing quality mental health services to her community, maintaining a focus on inclusivity and empowerment. Through her practice, Irmarie aims to create a safe and welcoming environment for all individuals seeking mental health support.

Our Staff

Jasmine | Executive Director

jasmine@THEFIREHOUSEDREAM.ORG

As a Latina Creative and Mental Health Advocate, Jasmine believes that in order to build thriving lives we must have a healthy relationship with self, the world and money. She spends her days at TFD casting vision, dreaming BIG with and for the community, building strong relationships and partnerships, while partnering with the next generation of Creatives. Outside of TFD, she spends her time with her family, and being actively present with her neighbors.

Jessica | Community Engagement Coordinator

jessica@THEFIREHOUSEDREAM.ORG

Jessica is the Community Engagement Coordinator, where she helps manage all of our programming at TFD! She loves to plan events and bring people together. Jessica is a wife and mom of 3 and finds joy in serving her family, friends, and community. Outside of TFD, she loves spending time with family, coffee dates with friends, playing soccer, and softball.

Meztli | Development Coordinator

meztli@thefirehousedream.org

Meztli Doles is the Development Coordinator and helps with the grant side of things at TFD (feel free to edit this). She likes to collaborate and connect people to programming that is available for the community. Meztli is a wife and a mom of two little girls. Outside of TFD she loves spending time with family at Wrigley watching the Cubs!

Maya Hill | Executive Assistant

MAYA@THEFIREHOUSEDREAM.ORG

Maya is Jasmine’s partner and assistant. She works on communications, admin, and sustaining growth within The Firehouse Dream. Maya was also a past mentee from the Spring ‘21 Cohort. Additionally, she is also training to become a Physician’s Assistant. She is passionate about making health care equitable for all and giving this knowledge back to her community. In her free time, she likes to read and play on her Nintendo Switch.

Liz | Program Assistant

liz@thefirehousedream.org

Liz implements planning and hosting workshops along with Jessica! Liz is a mom of three, a sports Mom, and robotics Mom. She is also a Community Member who volunteers her time with District 89 with their annual musical, helping where she can. She loves comedy, coffee, and road trips. Liz has a passion for uplifting people and sharing positivity in a world of uncertainty.

Melina | Content Creator & Storyteller

melina@thefirehousedream.org

Melina is the Content Creator and Storyteller at TFD. Telling a story through her work is something she is proud of and implements daily. Melina is also a student majoring in both of her passions; Graphic Design and Photography.