Richard J. Daley College Receives Community Project Funding Secured by Congressman Jesús "Chuy" García to Create Inclusive Classrooms and Strengthen its After 22 Program, Expanding Opportunities for all Students

Pictured from the left: Interim President of Richard J. Daley College Peggy Korellis, Chancellor Juan Salgado, U.S. Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García, and Associate Vice Chancellor of Government Affairs & Civic Engagement Iris Millán

CHICAGO — Richard J. Daley College is proud to share that is has received $446,250 in Community Project Funding (CPF), secured by U.S. Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García (4th District – IL), to enhance classrooms for greater accessibility, inclusion, and opportunity for students with disabilities, including those in the College’s After 22 program.

“I’m incredibly thankful to Congressman Jesús ‘Chuy’ García’s for his leadership and vision. Because of him, Richard J. Daley College has received Community Project Funds that will enhance inclusive classrooms and strengthen our After 22 program, which expands opportunity for students with cognitive and developmental disabilities. By further investing in our students, together, we are reaffirming their potential, strengthening our workforce, and building a more inclusive Chicago where everyone has the opportunity to succeed,” said Chancellor Juan Salgado, City Colleges of Chicago.

The full CPF awards were announced during a press conference on February 19 and attended by City Colleges of Chicago Chancellor Juan Salgado and Peggy Korellis, interim president of Richard J. Daley College.

“We are so thankful to Congressman Garcia for this investment in Daley College, and we will use the Community Project Funds to make meaningful classroom upgrades and accessibility improvements,” said Peggy Korellis, interim president of Richard J. Daley College. “These enhancements will go a long way to ensure that students of all abilities have access to the tools and resources they need to succeed.”

The After 22 program is designed for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities who have aged out of the Chicago Public Schools system after the age of 22. The program offers a comprehensive pathway that bridges education and independence, providing the following supports:

• Academic coursework tailored to student needs
• Life-skills development
• Job-readiness training
• Internship opportunities that connect students to real-world work experience

Through After 22, students gain confidence, skills, and the support needed to pursue employment and greater independence.