Mental Health Kit Giveaway at Proviso West

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.

Candle Making at TFD

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!

Circle Training Day 3 & 4

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.

Triton College Area Planning Council Community Resource Fair

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.

Self Esteem in Clay

We gathered for a workshop called Self-Esteem in Clay, led by Yekseny Guerrero. Tables were set with clay and tools ready for sculpting. Yekseny began by introducing the workshop and inviting everyone to reflect on the connection between creativity and self-esteem. As the group settled in, each participant took a moment to introduce themselves.

With clay in hand, participants shaped and molded their ideas into form. The process wasn’t just about technique - it was about expression. When everyone was done, we went around and everyone shared what they had made and why. These reflections led to further conversations about emotions, identity, and the way we express ourselves.

A heartfelt thank you to all who joined us. Your openness, honesty, and willingness to share what each of you are going through made the workshop a meaningful one.