Photo Credit: Cristal Andrade
How long have you lived in Maywood?:
9 years
What are you loving about Maywood?:
The community atmosphere is really nice on our block. All of the neighbors look out for each other and each other's kids. I love the history that some of our neighbors carry about Maywood, and their excitement towards seeing Maywood grow and thrive once more.
Favorite memory in Maywood?:
When I was 9 months pregnant with my 4th child, me and my family would walk up and down the neighborhood at night. All of the neighbors would wave, cheer me on, and encourage us as the due date came closer and closer. It was one of the things that helped me get through that last month!
What opportunities has Maywood brought to your family?:
When we were looking for a home, we didn't qualify for very much. We looked all through Chicago and suburbs but everything in our price range was complete junk. When we found our home in Maywood we were so skeptical. We wondered what's the issue? Why is this house so inexpensive? This house has only gained equity over the years and has allowed us to expand, dream bigger, and get ahead. We've also been able to house roommates who have gone on to change careers, get debt free, prepare for marriage, and buy their own homes. It has blessed us and our growing family, as well as many around us.
What hopes do you have for your Maywood community?:
I hope for Maywood to thrive. To see the beautiful people of the community get ahead, not just one family here or there, but unified together. We have all the potential, we have an amazing location close to everything, we have incredible neighbors, teachers, and professionals in all fields, but we need our leadership to see the potential and walk Maywood towards that. Cause it's here, it just needs to be uncovered.
What is something that your family enjoys doing together?:
We love taking "adventure" walks. We go all around the neighborhood imagining fun crazy scenarios all year long and make up all kinds of silly things that could be happening.
Photo Credits: Cristal Andrade, Suha Kassar, Mya Frank, Jasmyn Scavella, Houmam Kassar
