While taking time off from medical school in 2003, Karen took a part-time job tutoring at-risk teens, an experience that ignited her passion for youth development. Realizing there was a need in the community for a safe place that youth could call their own and get the support and guidance they need, Karen founded Project: VISION with a few fellow volunteers. In 2009, she assumed the role of Executive Director on a volunteer basis, managing many facets of operations including administration, fundraising, and board development. However, her favorite part of this experience continues to be working directly with the students whether it be tutoring, teaching ACT, or doing service projects alongside them. She believes that positive after school programs go a long way in helping kids succeed, and she looks forward to helping PV continue to grow in order to bring these programs to even more students in the coming years.

Sandy has a degree in Public Relations/Advertising and Psychology from DePaul University. She joined Project: VISION in 2013 as Development Intern and has since taken on the role of Director of Development and now the Director of Strategic Initiatives. She uses her past experiences with the Red Cross and other nonprofit organizations to help Project: VISION secure the resources it needs to support its growing youth programs. Sandy’s role also allows her to watch PV youth develop and grow firsthand, and better tell their stories. She is proud to be able to provide students an important part of growing up: chances to learn something new every day.

Elvina graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign with a degree in Chemical Engineering in 2012. During her 4 years working at the Chicago Chinatown Chamber of Commerce, Elvina developed a passion for helping the community. After working at the Chamber, she realized the impact that nonprofits have within the community. She joined Project: VISION in 2018 because she felt that her experience at the Chinatown Chamber was meaningful and that it could be used towards her position as the Operations Manager at PV. Elvina is excited to be able to watch the PV youth not only grow academically, but to become leaders of their generation.

Emily graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign with a Bachelor’s in Operations Management and in Information Systems and then a Master’s in Management. Growing up in the Chinatown and Bridgeport area, she has always felt connected with her Asian American culture and hopes to be a positive influence on the community that raised her. Emily has many years of experience in childcare and teaching with various age groups, which inspired her to continue her involvement with the youth in the Chinatown area!

Emily is a soon-to-be graduate from Columbia College Chicago with a BA in Animation. She serves as an Information Technology Specialist in the U.S. Army Reserve, which sparked her passion for tech. Born and raised in the Armour Square neighborhood, Emily has always loved telling meaningful stories through the arts and serving her community. She dreams of helping and leading others to further discover/develop their true selves. Helping the youth further their education and knowledge of technology is a passion for Emily, and now she can do so at Project: VISION. She hopes to inspire others with her stories and to teach students to never give up on their dreams.

Yuen is a Chicago-based artist with a BFA in Studio Arts from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Growing up in Chinatown and Bridgeport, she discovered her passion for youth development through her involvement with Project: VISION from 2013 to 2016 as a student. By combining her passion for art and youth development, Yuen actively collaborates with community organizations and other creative initiatives to integrate art into after-school programs. With her artistic skills and commitment to empowering young people, Yuen aspires to help students navigate their academic and personal journeys confidently and creatively.

Dori earned her BA in Sociology with a minor in Educational Psychology from McGill University in 2019 before relocating to Chicago. Her passion is informed by her Master’s degree in Art Therapy and Counseling from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and years of experience providing mental health services to students, immigrants, adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities, and older adults. Dori is excited to build meaningful collaborations with youth and provide support that centers on wellness, empowerment, and community building.

Ben graduated from the University of Illinois at Chicago with degrees in Psychology and Criminology and is currently pursuing a master’s in Mental Health Counseling at DePaul University. With a background as a classroom tutor and a year spent working with at-risk youth, Ben is dedicated to serving back his community. He’s excited to channel his passion into his role as Parent Engagement Coordinator at Project: VISION. Ben eagerly anticipates being an integral part of the community’s growth and progress.

Born and raised in Chicago’s Chinatown and Bridgeport neighborhoods, Shawn has long been searching for a way to serve his community. He earned a BFA in Film Production from DePaul University with the goal of supporting and promoting the work of marginalized communities. Although he has left the film industry, the importance of story-telling continues to inform his approach toward community work. He believes that exploring each other’s personal narratives is critical in developing confident and empathic young minds. At PV, Shawn aims to implement programming that places emphasis on creative expression, exploring self-identity and community building.