ADMINISTRATION
Josephine DiCesare, MA
Executive DirectorJosephine DiCesare, Executive Director, joined Youth Crossroads in May 2021. With a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and a Bachelor’s in Sociology from Northeastern Illinois University, she has spent the last 17 years dedicated to the non-profit sector. This includes working with the homeless population at Pilsen’s former San Jose Obrero Mission and with performing arts and education at Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater. Bilingual in Spanish and Italian, Josephine has an extensive background in non-profit management, major event planning, strategic planning, and budgeting. Josephine is a proven professional with a record of accomplishment, including increasing resources for organizations. She has a passion for mission-driven work and looks forward to supporting youth and their families in Berwyn, Cicero and surrounding communities.
Norman Alexandroff, BA
Marketing and Development CoordinatorNorman is Marketing and Fundraising Coordinator for Youth Crossroads. Previously, he was the founding president of the Berwyn Public Art Initiative, which used the arts to create a healthier, more inclusive, and culturally vibrant community. He also helped create the Wabash Arts Corridor, which transformed Chicago’s South Loop from an island of urban forlorn into a destination neighborhood. Norman has extensive experience in marketing and fundraising, having started the offices of Media Relations, Publications, Student Communications, and Business and Community Partnerships at Columbia College Chicago, as well as the Chicago Center for Arts Policy. Norman has lived in Berwyn for nearly 20 years and is committed to strengthening the social and economic fabric of the city.
Vanessa Cervantes, BS
Human Resources / Administrative AssistantVanessa grew up in Berwyn and is a graduate of the local school districts. She obtained her Bachelors in Teaching and Learning from the University of Houston where she lived for five years. There she worked as a licensed teacher in the state of Texas. Vanessa is thrilled to be back in her hometown and is ready to serve the community that she loves. She spent her high school years as part of the Youth Leadership Program at Youth Crossroads so she is delighted to become part of the team and help the organization in every way that she can. She has a passion for service work, helping others learn and grow, and building positive relationships with community members.
Josh Harris, BA
Data SpecialistJoshua Harris is a Data Specialist at Youth Crossroads. He obtained his Bachelors Degree in Business Administration from Benedictine University in 2022. He is looking forward to helping and improving a community similar to his, with knowledge from his studies. He also aims to make technology easier for his staff to use.
COUNSELING
Michelle Desideri, MA, LCPC, CCTP
Director of Counseling ServicesMichelle is a former resident of Cicero and graduate of the local school districts. She obtained her Master of Arts degree in Counseling from Lewis University, is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the State of Illinois and most recently a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. She has 30 years of experience, specializing in the areas of youth, family and trauma. Michelle currently oversees all Counseling Services at Youth Crossroads, including the Counseling Training Program.
Tayra Romo, MA, LCPC
Associate Director of Counseling ServicesTayra received her Bachelors in Sociology from NPU Chicago (2008). She worked for JCFS as a Respite Worker (2008-2013), provided services to children with disabilities ages 2-16 yrs. Tayra worked for CPS for 6 years in ECE, supported low-income families. Graduated from Concordia University with a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Completed internship at Youth Crossroads (2017-18), provided counseling services at Morton West High School. Joined us during internship as a crisis counselor. She is passionate and excited to continue working with youth here at Youth Crossroads.
Katrina Diaz, MSW, SBC
School Based CounselorKatrina received her Degree in Bachelor of Social Work in 2019 and she received her Master’s in Social Work in 2020. She now works as a Youth Developmental Specialist at Youth Crossroads. Katrina comes with a wealth of experience in the private and non-profit world, partnering with grassroots organizations to bring awareness of social issues to her community in La Villita and advocating for families of undocumented citizens.
Having been part of a youth program herself and a volunteer in her community since a young age, Katrina is devoted to utilizing her experiences to serve, mentor, and inspire youth through life’s challenges. She lives in Cicero with her 9-year-old daughter and their two cats.
Nicholas Miller, LSW
School Based CounselorNicholas Miller is a resident of Berwyn and attended Northeastern Illinois University. He received his Bachelor of Social Work (2018) and interned for Youth Development. Then, Nicholas continued his education at Northeastern and earned his Master of Social Work (2019). He returned and completed his internship at Youth Crossroads to provide school-based counseling services to students at Heritage Middle School.
He is dedicated and ready to provide exemplary services to his community. Nicholas will continue to provide support and services to students at Heritage Middle School and families in the community.
Kelsie Madock, MSW, LCSW
School Based CounselorKelsie obtained both her Bachelor’s degree in Sociology, and Masters of Social Work from Dominican University. While receiving her master’s degree Kelsie interned at Youth Crossroads (2017-2018), providing counseling services at Morton West. Kelsie also has experience in medical social work, providing care and services to patients and their families. Upon graduation with her MSW, Kelsie accepted a job with Lutheran Social Services of Illinois. Where she provided crisis intervention services, and individual and family therapy to youth in crisis within the northwest side of Chicago. Kelsie is passionate to continue her work with youth and families. Kelsie returned to Youth Crossroads in 2021 as a school-based counselor at Lincoln Middle School. In 2022, Kelsie returned to Morton West as a school-based counselor and clinical supervisor with her LCSW – providing supervision to the MSW staff and interns. Kelsie continues to look forward to her work here at Youth Crossroads.
Monica Escarpita, MA, LPC
Community Based CounselorMonica obtained her Bachelor’s Degree from Northeastern Illinois University with a major in Psychology and a minor in Criminal Justice. She received her Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Concordia University, Chicago in August of 2022. Monica interned with Youth Crossroads as a School-based Counseling Intern at Lincoln Middle School, Berwyn during the 2021-2022 school year working with students from diverse backgrounds providing individual and group counseling services. She has over 7 years of experience as a licensed K-12 Substitute Teacher providing education to classrooms and personalized instruction and support for students with Individualized Education Plans. She also has experience as a Co-Director of a Youth Ministry for children 3-14 years old and co-leading parenting classes. She is passionate and dedicated to serving the adolescents and families within her community. Monica is currently a Community Counselor with Youth Crossroads providing counseling services and psychoeducation to students and families within the Berwyn/Cicero and surrounding areas.
Diana Villalobos, BS, MS
School Based CounselorDiana graduated in 2020 with her Bachelors degree at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign with a major in Community/Clinical Psychology and minor in Leadership Studies. She went on to obtain her Master’s degree in Psychology: Clinical Counseling at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, graduating June 2022. During her time here, Diana interned at Ascension Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital, working with groups of adolescents in the partial hospitalization program. She is passionate in working with adolescents as it is a crucial age group in developing identity. Diana is excited to continue to work with youth and families, while working towards full licensure and further developing her clinical skill.
Cristina Robles, LSW
School Based CounselorCristina received her bachelor’s degree, double major, in Criminal, Law, and Justice and Sociology from University of Illinois at Chicago in 2016. She went on to pursue her master’s degree in social work from the University Of Illinois at Chicago. Cristina is fluent in Spanish. Cristina did her internship at Youth Crossroads at Morton Freshman Center during the 2021- 2022 school year. Now she is the school-based counselor at Morton Freshman Center. She also supports at Morton East High School with the Spanish speaking clients. Cristina grew up in Cicero and graduated from Morton East High School, and wanted to serve and help the same community she grew up in. She is passionate to continue her work with youth and families in the community and being a support for them.
April Valenzuela, MA
School Based CounselorApril received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from St. Ambrose University in 2018. During her time at St. Ambrose she worked at Project Renewal and interned at Rick’s House of Hope. Two nonprofits in the Quad Cities that provided after school programming and counseling services to low SES families. It was through these experiences where April became passionate about working with youth and their families. April then went on to pursue her master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in counseling at Roosevelt University. While completing her master’s program April completed her practicum at SGA Youth and Family Services where she was a school based counseling intern. April is currently the Lincoln Middle School Based Counselor, where she is excited to continue providing counseling services to youth and their families.
Jessica Ruiz, MA
School Based CounselorJessica received her bachelor’s degree in Psychology (2020) and Master of Social Work (2021) from Dominican University. During her time at Dominican University, she interned with Youth Crossroads from 2019-2020 and with UCP Seguin from 2020-2021. Through these experiences her passion for working with youth in a self-rewarding field grew. Upon graduation, Jessica continued to work with UCP Seguin where she provided trauma informed therapy to foster youth. As of 2022, Jessica is a school-based counselor at Morton West High School where she is excited to continue her trauma informed counseling journey with the youth at west.
Kristin Norman, BA, MSW
School Based CounselorKristin obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology(2015) and Master of Social Work (2023) from Dominican University. While receiving her master’s degree, Kristin interned at Youth Crossroads (2022-2023), providing counseling services at Morton West. Kristin is now working in the Cross position at Freshman Center and Morton East High School. Kristin is excited to support youth and families on their journey to better well-being.
Michelle Patel, MSW
School Based CounselorAfter receiving her BA in Secondary Education and English from Northeastern Illinois University, Michelle spent several years teaching middle and high school students. Her experiences as an educator allowed her to develop an understanding of the unique issues that young people face during their formative years. This insight inspired her to pursue an MSW in Child and Adolescent Welfare at Dominican University so that she may provide more targeted support to students. Michelle joined Youth Crossroads as a counseling intern at Morton Freshman Center and is currently on staff as the site supervisor at Freedom Middle School. Her goal is to provide a safe and nurturing environment in which students can develop resilience and build the skills necessary for emotional wellness and a successful life.
Natalia Dorsz, MA, LPC
Community CounselorNatalia obtained her Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in May 2020 from Lewis University with a concentration in children and adolescents. Natalia interned with Youth Crossroads as a counseling intern from 2019-2020, and jumped as staff becoming a school- based counselor at Morton West High School for two years. Natalia has worked in a psychiatric hospital as a partial hospitalization program therapist working with children and adolescents from ages 4-17. Natalia has worked in a middle school providing restorative justice to help connect better with youth and to help prevent future harm in schools by developing positive relationships with students and staff. Natalia is excited to work as a community counselor to provide more mental health support within the community.
Jayanna Arnold, MA, MDiv
Community CounselorJayanna Arnold is a Community Counselor at Youth Crossroads. She started out in the Media/Arts field earning a BAA in Broadcast & Cinematic Arts and a Master of Arts in Global Media Management while living in the UK. Shortly after, she transitioned into Mental Health, she earned a Master of Divinity in Pastoral Counseling and a certification in Grief Counseling. Her current focus is utilizing media/arts studies, mental health studies, and theological studies to create a format that will eventually aid people in their healing journey.
Brittney Bastida, BA
Community CounselorBrittney graduated in 2023 with her bachelor’s degree from Dominican University, majoring in Sociology with a concentration in Social Services. She will be receiving her master’s degree in social work in May 2024. During her MSW program, Brittney has worked with community organizations that support youth through case management and counseling services, including Enlace Chicago and Youth Crossroads. Brittney is passionate about using her bilingual skills to provide Spanish counseling services to the Latine community.
VIOLENCE PREVENTION TEAM
Natalie Palm, MA, LCPC
Violence Prevention Team Associate DirectorNatalie graduated from Lewis University in May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Secondary Education. Natalie continued at Lewis University for graduate school, earning a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a child/adolescent concentration in August 2021.
Natalie interned for Youth Crossroads at Morton East High School during the 2020-2021 school year and is now a school-based counselor at Morton Alternative High School. Natalie is passionate about learning how trauma-informed and restorative practices can have a positive impact on youth in the community.
DeJonna Robinson, BSW
Outreach WorkerDeJonna “DJ” Robinson was born and raised in Chicago. DJ attended Western Illinois University where she received her Bachelor of Social Work degree in 2023. During that time, DJ completed her undergraduate practicum internship at Youth Crossroads as a Youth Development intern before officially joining the Youth Crossroads team as the Outreach worker. DJ has always been passionate about helping people and will continue to do so. In her spare time, DJ enjoys doing hair, shopping, and spending time with family and friends.
Laura Mena, BSW
Case ManagerLaura received a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Concordia University. She completed her internship at Youth Crossroads in 2016. Since then Laura has been serving as a Case Manager for over 6 years helping Seniors and their families get the help that they need in order to thrive in their communities. Laura is excited to work with the youth and their families via the Gun Violence Prevention program to help them succeed in building a better future.
Desmond Feltus, MHS/MHC
Trauma CounselorDesmond has served in communities all over the United States and has a passion for helping others in particular the youth. He received his Bachelor’s degree from Argosy University and graduated with honors. Desmond has worked as a BAM Counselor, violence interrupter, conflict resolution specialist, life skills coach, recovery coach and substance abuse counselor. He is heavily involved in the recovery community and travels across the country helping others find the freedom to live a successful and spiritual way of life. Desmond enjoys individual counseling and facilitating groups and helping our youth reach their full potential. He looks forward to helping the youth in our communities become the best version of themselves and to provide services that will stay with them for a lifetime.
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
Arafat Olori, MA
Workforce Development ManagerArafat graduated from Western Illinois University in May 2019 with a bachelor’s degree in biology. She received her master’s degree in December 2021 in public health from the University of Illinois in Chicago. Her two concentrations were Health Policy Administration and Global Health. Arafat enjoys working with youth and she has had the privilege to mentor and tutor many young people while working with David Philemon Ministries International, Upward Bound, Khan Academy and other organizations. She is currently the Workforce Development Manager at Youth Crossroads. She loves working with youth and is always ready to meet them right where they are at. She also enjoys serving at Church on Fire International’s outreach team located in Cicero and giving back to others.
Jacquilyn Frausto, BSW
Workforce Development CoordinatorJacquilyn “Jacquie” Frausto received her bachelor’s degree in social work and a dance minor at Western Illinois University in 2019, where she held leadership roles in her sorority, and planned numerous events on social issues. Jacquie grew up in Franklin Park where she developed considerable experience working with youth. Now, Jacquie is one of the new Middle School Coordinator at Heritage Middle School for the after-school program YCA. She is currently in the master’s program at Dominican University for social work.
Raquel Olivares, AA
Workforce Development Case ManagerRaquel Olivares received her Associate’s degree in Liberal Studies and is pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Business Management at National Louis University. Raquel has worked in Early Child education since 2016 and wants to pursue her experience working in youth development. Raquel’s favorite hobbies are enjoying time with her family and traveling. She is eager to work as a Case Manager within her community at Youth Crossroads and hopes to encourage young adults to find future job opportunities.
Jacqueline Medrano, BA
Workforce Development Specialist Community Outreach CoordinatorJacqueline “Jacky” Medrano was born and raised in Chicago and received her bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Criminology, Law and Justice from The University of Iowa in 2020. Jacky’s journey in youth development was ignited through her experience as a City Year Chicago AmeriCorps member, where she helped students build on their strengths, take risks in their learning and feel connected to their school communities. Since then, she has continued to work with youth in many roles including being a tutor and special education classroom assistant. She is currently the Workforce Development Specialist and Community Outreach Coordinator at Youth Crossroads. Jacky is passionate about supporting youth with access to resources that will guide them through their time with Youth Crossroads and beyond.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
Domingo Rueda, BA
Youth Leadership Program CoordinatorDomingo Rueda Jr. grew up on Chicago’s South Side and graduated from the University of Illinois at Chicago in 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Criminal justice. Domingo previously served as an intern with another youth program before joining Youth Crossroads in 2022. During his free time, he loves to go to concerts, try new restaurants, as well as just spending time with his family.
Mercedes Delgado, BSW
Youth Development Specialist and Parent LiaisonMercedes received her bachelor’s degree in social work from Loyola University in 2022. Previously, she attended Moraine Valley Community College where she received an associate degree and got certified as a nurse’s assistant. She volunteered at her childhood church in Gage Park, Mercedes has always tried to help her community and found her calling in youth development. She currently serves as the Youth Development Specialist at Freedom Middle School and is the Parent Liaison for Middle Schools and High Schools.
Stavros Kossenakis, BSW
Youth and Workforce Development SpecialistStavros got is bachelor’s degree in social work from Northeastern Illinois University in 2022. He interned at Youth Crossroads for Youth Development in 2021-2022 and is now Youth Development Specialist at Heritage Middle School. Stavros has volunteered tutoring children for two years and gets tremendous enjoyment supporting youth and helping them navigate through life. He plans to return to school in May 2023 to get a master’s degree in social work.
Tracey Luong, BA
Youth Development SpecialistTracey was born and raised on the Northside of Chicago. She attended the University of Illinois Chicago and completed her internship with the Youth Development team here at Youth Crossroads during that time. After receiving her bachelor’s degree in Applied Psychology and Criminal Justice, she joined as a Youth Development Specialist to continue her work with the community. Through her work here, she solidified her passion for providing youth with resources and skills that will stick with them and lead them to having a positive impact on their communities.
Cesar Juarez, BSW
Youth Development SpecialistCesar received his bachelor’s degree in social work in 2022 from Concordia University, while serving as Youth Crossroads intern. Upon graduation, he because a youth development specialist. Cesar loves the energy at Youth Crossroads and the amazing team he works with. He is very passionate in working with youth, particularly helping them build the skills needed to become successful leaders.
Maricela Nateras, BA
Youth Development SpecialistMaricela, a Cicero native, is passionate about enhancing the well-being of children. With years of experience working with youth and conducting counseling sessions as part of her internship, Maricela fosters a safe learning environment for children. Maricela earned her bachelor’s degree in applied psychology with a minor in Gender and Women’s Studies from UIC in 2022. Currently, she is pursuing her master’s degree in social work at UIC to continue empowering the Latino community.
Michelle Bahena, BSW
Middle School Program CoordinatorMichelle received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work with a minor in Spanish from Concordia University Chicago. She has worked with a wide age range of children for many years and her experience ranges from being a camp counselor to being a preschool teacher. Previously working as an intern, Michelle is now the Middle School Program Coordinator at Youth Crossroads. She is passionate and excited to work with the local youth!
Galilea Mendez, BS
Social Media Manager and Youth Development SpecialistGalilea Mendez grew up in Chicago and graduated from the University of Illinois in Urbana Champaign in 2022 with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. Galilea has worked with non profits before and is passionate about working with youth in her communities. Galilea has also worked as a freelance content creator since 2020 and loves creating content that is relevant, engaging, and fun. She is excited to give back to her community and empower its youth! In her free time, Galilea loves spending time with her family, friends, and dog.
Ashley Shropshire, MSW, LSW
Alumni Coordinator and Youth Development SpecialistAshley received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Augustana College and her Master of Social Work from Loyola University Chicago. During her time in the MSW program, Ashley was a Youth Development intern with Youth Crossroads, where she discovered her passion for positive youth development, afterschool programming, and non-profit work. Since graduating from Loyola in 2021, Ashley has been working with middle and high school students as a youth leadership program coordinator at a non-profit in Chicago. She is passionate about providing new learning experiences for students outside of the classroom, while also supporting youth’s wellbeing and social emotional development. Ashley is excited to return to YC in the new role of Alumni Coordinator and is looking forward to creating connections with the YC community, both past and present!
CICERO COMMUNITY COLLABORATIVE
Elida Ortiz, AA
Director, Cicero Community CollaborativeElida “Eli” Ortiz immigrated from Mexico with her parents and was raised in Rogers Park. She attended Lane Tech High School, and as a first-generation college student, she obtained a degree in Computer Science from Robert Morris University.
Eli’s passion has been community work and has worn many hats in this area, including ESL Facilitator at Universidad Popular in the Pilsen neighborhood, Parent Leader at two schools within the Cicero 99 School District, a Computer Instructor at Corazon Community Services, Parent Ambassador for the Neighborhood Recovery Initiative (NRI), Program Coordinator for the Criminal Violence Prevention Program (CVPP), Parent Coordinator for the Innovation Zones/ Escuelita Movil project at Confirmation Catechist at Mary Queen of Heaven Parish, and Coordinator to the Cicero Community Collaborative – United Way Neighborhood Network. Of the varied experiences that she has had, the common thread throughout is the gratification of helping others grow within themselves.
Janette Andrade, BA
Community Outreach Coordinator Parent Ambassador LiaisonJanette Andrade received her bachelor’s in criminology and Political Science from UIC in 2019. She was raised and born in the South Side of Chicago and has worked in different communities within the city and outside the city to help promote different resources. Prior to this role, Janette has worked in different campaigns in the state of Illinois and has been actively engaged in her community. She recognizes the importance of bringing resources to the youth in order for them to succeed in life and help create a better future.
ALL OUR KIDS NETWORK
Linda Rios
All Our Kids Network Coordinator: CiceroLinda is a former 19-year resident of Cicero, IL and graduated from local school districts. Linda attended UIC majoring in Latin American and Latinos Studies with a minor in Spanish. Her passion for addressing barriers families face is reflected in her 18 years of experience working with children, families, and the community. Trained in collective impact, systems change, strategic planning and facilitation Linda provides the community with the tools needed to identify barriers and create strategies in order to create equitable change. Linda provides families with the tools, resources and information needed for success.
Michelle N. Ramírez, BA
Family Engagement SpecialistAll Our Kids Network: Cicero
Michelle Ramírez has been a Cicero community member for 17 years. She obtained her BA from DePaul University in 2017 where she majored in Latin American and Latino Studies and Sociology, and minored in Peace, Justice, and Conflict Resolution. Upon graduation, Michelle started as an Americorps member with the Cicero Community Collaborative (CCC) at Youth Crossroads. She then began as a Case Manager at a local non-profit and became Lead Case Manager leading the Illinois Welcoming Center Program (IWC) as well as Immigrant Family Resource Programs (IFRP) in which she focused in being of support and guidance to families, provided crisis intervention, and translation and interpretation services. Michelle has obtained a Spanish Interpretation training from LARC at the DuPage Federation and loves being able to bridge language barriers allowing families to obtain the services they need. Michelle is also a published author. Her first publication was Libérate: Moments of Strength & Perseverance which published in July 2020 followed by it’s Spanish edition in August 2021. Michelle is also a contributing author for Today’s Inspired Young Latinas Volume III which published in May 2021. In her free time, Michelle enjoys reading, writing, and drinking a lot of hot coffee.. regardless of the weather outside!
BOARD
Gilbert Pena (President)
City of BerwynGilbert Pena is a dedicated community member of the City of Berwyn. A longtime resident, he is currently the Administrative Manager for the Office of the Mayor and the Commissioner for the Community Relations Commission. He also served on the board of the Berwyn Development Corporation for 6 years. Gilbert has a demonstrated history of working in the telecommunications field and attended the School of Architecture and Urban Planning at UIC. Gilbert is also a United States Marine Corp veteran. Gilbert has served on the Youth Crossroads Board since 2008. He recognizes the important services that Youth Crossroads provides to the community and the impact that positive male role models can have on young men.
Kim Grigsby (Vice President)
Ensemble Español Spanish Dance TheaterKim Grigsby, nonprofit professional, has been bridging the gap between opportunity and underutilized resources for the past 10 years. She serves as the development manager for Ensemble Español, where she leads efforts to facilitate philanthropic gifts and grants to advance the mission of the organization. Additionally, Kim is head of strategy for the Chicago Community ToolBank and is one of the founders and advisors of the Marvin L. Winans Educational Foundation as well as an advisor to the From the Bottom Up Foundation. Prior to working in the non-profit world, Kim served as a litigating attorney, both for the state of South Carolina and in private practice. In her spare time, Kim volunteers with young people and speaks to students on the value of education.
Amelia Orozco (Secretary)
Paralegal Supervisor / Office Manager at Walner LawAmelia Orozco has been a board director since 2015. Amelia is a Paralegal Supervisor / Office Manager at Walner Law. In addition, Amelia is co-owner of Zarape, LLC, a small business formed by her and two friends to publish books and greeting cards. Amelia holds a Bachelor of Arts degree with concentrations in Political Science, Hispanic Studies and Psychology from the University of Michigan-Dearborn, and a Master of Arts Degree from DePaul University in Writing and Publishing. She occasionally freelances and also hosts a podcast. Amelia loves the arts and working on social justice causes.
John Maduros (Treasurer)
TreasurerJohn Maduros has a multitude of experiences in financial leadership with a career spanning over three decades. John is known for his track record in commercial real estate, having held the role of Chief Financial Officer and Principal in various international organizations. He has managed financial operations, optimized investor relations, coordinated institutional financing and facilitated transactions within real estate industry. John holds a Bachelor of Science (BS) from Northern Illinois University and also is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Having retired from his professional career, John is now eager to dedicate his time to community outreach and youth development initiatives. He is excited to be actively involved with Youth Crossroads, where he can leverage his extensive financial expertise to empower the organization’s mission and the young individuals it serves.
Kathy Benjamin
Villa St. BenedictKathy grew up near Berwyn and began her nursing career at MacNeal Hospital employed there for over 30 years. While in the role as Chief Nurse Officer, she joined the Board in 2015 with a desire to give back to the community and help the youth. Kathy has witnessed Youth Crossroads grow and successfully move forward in the mission of making a positive difference in many lives. She has held numerous leadership roles in healthcare and currently serves as a Director at Villa St. Benedict in Lisle Illinois.
Nestor Corona
Aspira High SchoolNéstor Corona was born in Jalisco, Mexico and is a long time Berwyn resident. Previously he taught math at Mirta Ramirez High School in Chicago. He then has held various roles at Aspira Antonia Pantoja High School (APHS) including Dean of Students and Assistant Principal. Currently he is the school principal. Néstor graduated from Northeastern Illinois University with a Bachelor’s in Applied Mathematics and Minor in Economics. He also holds a Master’s in Education from Chicago State University and a Master’s in Leadership from Northeastern Illinois University. He has danced professionally with the Mexican Folkloric Dance Company of Chicago and Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater. In his spare time, you will find Néstor spending time with his wife and two daughters. As an educator, Néstor has seen the negative impact the COVID-19 pandemic has had on students and now, more than ever, youth need the types of services that Youth Crossroads provides. He is excited to support the mission and vision of this organization as it proactively serves and prepares our youth for the future.
David Miranda
Freelance journalistDavid Miranda is a bilingual journalist with 20 years of experience. He started his career at the age of 13 at a community radio station of the Boys & Girls Club (Radio Arte 90.5fm) that was eventually bought by the National Museum of Mexican Art. David also works in brand positioning, media relations, event planning and emcee services. If you put him to dance, he won’t say no! After performing with the Mexican Folkloric Dance Company of Chicago for 19 years, putting on a show becomes second nature. David is currently a producer and report at WGN Radio and serves as an instructional manager at the Illinois Media School. In addition, to helping Illinois Media School as instructional manager. When David is not working, you will find him eating, attending theater shows or catching up with family. David serves on the Necahual Foundation committee, a group that helps orphans in Mexico. David believes youth deserve opportunities in life. It is important to create activities for youth that will motivate them in the long run. Showing young people that it can be done goes a long way, especially when you lead by example.
Gina Parker
Berwyn North School District 98Gina Parker is an accomplished and highly experienced educator with a strong background in physical education, health, curriculum development, and program coordination. With a passion for promoting holistic well-being and inclusive education, Gina has dedicated her career to empowering students and fostering their personal growth. Beyond her contributions as Curriculum Specialist BN98, Gina has actively participated in professional associations and presented at both national and state conferences. She served as the President of the Illinois Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (IAHPERD), where she led meetings, oversaw budgets, and facilitated the annual convention. Gina holds several certifications and degrees, including a General Administrative Certification, Teaching Certification for Physical Education, Health, Safety, and Driver Education, and an English Language Learner Endorsement. She also completed a Master of Arts in School Leadership from Concordia University-Chicago and received an approval in Adapted Physical Education.
Bill Levy
Starwood Capital GroupBill Levy currently serves as U.S. Tax Counsel at Forecastle Advisory, an advisor to Starwood Capital Group. Prior to that, Bill was a partner in the U.S. Tax Group at Kirkland and Ellis, and previously served as a partner in the U.S. Tax Group at Mayer Brown. Bill has participated in thousands of transactions, led major client relationships (General Electric Capital Corporation, Illinois Tool Works and Starwood Capital Group), and played lead roles in many nationally significant transactions, including Caesar Hotel’s bankruptcy. A graduate of the University of Chicago Law School, Bill is an avid golfer, skier, and adventurer.
Elizabeth Slawin Trainor
JP MorganElizabeth Slawin Trainor is an Executive Director at JPMorgan, focusing her over 15- year career at the bank on helping auto and equipment finance companies efficiently fund and grow their businesses via securitized debt. She has also been responsible for recruiting, training and mentoring new hires on her team. Elizabeth graduated from the University of Notre Dame, cum laude, with a BBA in finance. Outside of JPM, she spends her free time with her husband and two daughters. In past engagements, Elizabeth has worked with several non-profit organizations in Chicago, and she is excited to now support the meaningful work that Youth Crossroads does to empower youth.