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.
Vanessa Cervantes, BS
Operations Manager
Vanessa 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.
Michelle Desideri, MA, LCPC, CCTP
Director of ProgramsMichelle 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.
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.
CLINICAL MENTAL HEALTH SERVICE
Tayra Romo, MA, LCPC
Associate Director of Clinical 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.
Nicholas Miller, LSW
School Based Mental Health ClinicianNicholas 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 Mental Health ClinicianKelsie 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
School Based Mental Health ClinicianMonica 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.
Cristina Robles, LSW
School Based Mental Health ClinicianCristina 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.
Jessica Ruiz, LCSW
School Based Mental Health ClinicianJessica 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 Mental Health ClinicianKristin 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, LSW
School Based Mental Health ClinicianAfter 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.
MariaAnna Anastos, MSc
School Based Mental Health ClinicianMariaAnna originally completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in Creative Writing with a minor in Education Policy from Knox College (2017). Upon graduation she worked with state agency Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) as an Outreach Worker (2017-2019) mentoring and educating first-generation youth, families, and communities on college access and affordability. Drawing from her own struggles as a child and adolescent, MariaAnna decided to return to school to fulfill her true passion in psychology. Completing a MSc in Counseling Psychology & Psychotherapy from The American College of Greece, Deree (2024), MariaAnna returned to Chicago excited to begin her career joining Youth Crossroads as a School-Based Mental Health Clinician. She is currently working with middle school youth and families while fulfilling requirements for full licensure. MariaAnna’s clinical mission is to explore specializing in somatic trauma-based practices, particularly in developmental and attachment trauma. She hopes to make a lasting impact for the lives of young people far beyond their time at George Washington Middle School.
Natalia Dorsz, MA, LCPC
Community Based Mental Health Clinician / Clinical SupervisorNatalia 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. And as a clinical supervisor, Natalia provides clinical supervision to MA interns and is thrilled to support and guide future counseling interns toward success.
Cindy Guadarrama, BA
Community Based Mental Health ClinicianCindy graduated from Concordia University Chicago in May 2022 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Education. Cindy continued her graduate education with New England College and will earn a Master of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2024. Cindy interned for Youth Crossroads in 2024 and is now happy to be part of the community counseling team and serve the community.
PROJECT PEACE TEAM
Natalie Palm, MA, LCPC
Associate Director of Project PeaceNatalie 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
Project Peace Outreach Worker / CoachDeJonna “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.
Allyson Spiva, MA
Project Peace Coach / Mental Health clinicianAllyson received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Oklahoma State University in 2022. After moving to Chicago, Allyson continued her education at The Chicago School and completed her master’s in Forensic Psychology in June 2024. Allyson completed her clinical internship at Youth Crossroads in school-based counseling. Following graduation, Allyson joined the Youth Crossroads Project Peace team as a counselor and coach. Allyson is passionate about criminal justice reform and working with youth involved in the juvenile justice system. She is excited to continue working with youth and families while working toward professional licensure.
Giamani Moore, AA
Project Peace CoachGiamani “Mani” Moore recently completed her associate’s degree in psychology at Harry S. Truman College and will be making the transition to a university in the upcoming spring semester (Spring 2025) to pursue her bachelor’s degree. Mani has a strong background in working with youth, which includes experience in Coaching and Youth Development. She has a deep passion for supporting and empowering young people and is eagerly looking forward to collaborating with her colleagues in Project Peace!
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.
Max Hernandez, MA
Project Peace Coach / Mental Health clinicianMax Hernandez graduated from Northern Illinois University with a BA in Sociology in 2012 and received an MA from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Forensic Psychology this month. Max has experience working with undocumented minors, and has worked with juveniles in a detention center and recently worked as a counselor with middle school and high school youth. Max wants to be the person he needed growing up.
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
Jacqueline Medrano, BA
Workforce Development 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.
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.
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.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
Ashley Shropshire, MSW, LSW
Associate Director of Youth DevelopmentAshley 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. After working in youth leadership programming in Chicago, Ashley returned to Youth Crossroads in November of 2023 in the role of Alumni Coordinator, and she now serves as the Associate Director of Youth Development. She is passionate about positive youth development, providing new learning experiences for students outside of the classroom, and empowering youth to be leaders in their community.
Mohamad Jaber
YD STEM Program CoordinatorMohamad holds a Master’s degree in Mathematics (2017) and has experience in education, youth development, and program coordination. He has taught Introduction to Econometrics at IUL University and worked as an assistant with SHEILD, supporting various initiatives.
As the co-founder and president of Yohmor Youth Club, Mohamad has been actively engaged in youth empowerment. He was also a CSP Fellow with IREX, where he collaborated with Youth Crossroads in Berwyn, Illinois, to develop and implement STEM-focused after-school programs. Now, as the YD STEM Program Coordinator at SHEILD, he is dedicated to creating impactful STEM initiatives that inspire and equip young people with critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Domingo Rueda, BA
Teen Reach High School 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.
Stavros Kossenakis, BSW, MSW
Teen Reach Middle School CoordinatorStavros 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 Leadership Program CoordinatorTracey 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.
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.
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.
Monique Arguello, BA
Youth Development SpecialistMonique was raised in Berwyn and interned at YC before becoming a Youth Development Specialist for Teen Reach. She received her bachelor’s degree in Applied Psychology and a Minor in Entrepreneurship from University of Illinois Chicago in 2024. She is passionate about empowering and inspiring youth to become successful individuals. Inspired by YC, she plans to return to school to get a PhD in Community and Applied Developmental Psychology with a goal to commit to reflection, research, and action to advance social justice.
Briana Tapia, BA
Case Manager / Youth Development SpecialistBriana Tapia received a BA in Applied Psychology with a minor in Disabilities and Human Development from the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) in May 2024. A lifelong Berwyn resident, Briana was an intern at YC and later served as a Youth Development Specialist. She is passionate about having a positive impact on children.
Jazmin Guzman-Ruiz, BA
Intake Administrator and Youth Development SpecialistJazmin Guzman-Ruiz received her BA in Social Work from Concordia University in May 2024 and will pursue her master’s degree at Dominican University in Fall 2024. Born and raised in Cicero, Jazmin served as a Youth Development intern this past Spring. She enjoys working with children and making a positive change in their lives.
Allyson Spiva, MA
Teen Reach Part-Time SpecialistAllyson received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Oklahoma State University in 2022. After moving to Chicago, Allyson continued her education at The Chicago School and completed her master’s in Forensic Psychology in June 2024. Allyson completed her clinical internship at Youth Crossroads in school-based counseling. Following graduation, Allyson joined the Youth Crossroads Project Peace team as a counselor and coach. Allyson is passionate about criminal justice reform and working with youth involved in the juvenile justice system. She is excited to continue working with youth and families while working toward professional licensure.
Wendy Arroyo
Teen Reach Part-Time SpecialistWendy is currently pursuing their associate’s degree in education at Morton College. Having been a part of Youth Crossroads’ after school programs during her last two years of high school, she excitedly joins Youth Crossroads as a staff member. They love helping the youth learn to keep an open mind about things they might not know. Whenever she has time, she’s always reading a book or learning a new topic.
Lisbet Ortiz
Teen Reach Part-Time SpecialistLisbet Angelica was raised in Cicero and has grown up exploring all the surrounding neighborhoods. She is currently in her first year at Morton College, working towards her Associates in Applied Science. During her early high school years, Lisbet was involved in the Workforce Development Program, where she enjoyed her time acquiring extremely valuable skills such as professional communication, teamwork, and community outreach. Lisbet’s goal is to give back to the community and organizations that have provided her with many opportunities to grow and succeed. She is dedicated to ensuring the successful future of the community by providing the youth in the Cicero and Berwyn areas with the resources they need to grow and thrive. In her free time Lisbet loves listening to her favorite music and indulging in their subcultures, she also loves to watch silents and horror movies.
Magalie Mandujano
Teen Reach Part-Time SpecialistMaggie interned here at YC for the summer and enjoyed being part of such an involved organization and now works here as a youth development specialist. She is currently obtaining her bachelor’s in psychology at Concordia University and plans to graduate this fall. She wishes to continue her education and receive her masters/license in clinical mental health counseling. Being able to intern for a nonprofit organization allowed her to see the passion she has for helping and being there for others who are in need and deserve it.
Zuzanna Zeler
Social Media and Marketing / Youth DevelopmentBorn in Poland and raised in Chicago, Zuzanna graduated in 2023 with a degree in Psychology from North Park University. As is Social Media and Marketing/ Youth Development, she combines her passion for youth development with expertise in social media and marketing to create engaging content and supportive environments for young people. Zuzanna is committed to empowering youth to build resilience and achieve their potential. In her free time, she enjoys art, hiking, and kayaking.
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 Liaison / Parent Mentor Program OrganizerJanette Andrade was raised in the South Side of Chicago in the Back of the Yards neighborhood. Her family is from Jalisco, Mexico and she is a first-generation college student and received her bachelor’s in criminology and political science from UIC in 2019. Janette has dedicated her work to working in the communities within the city of Chicago and outside the city to help promote different resources to the community. Her work has focused on working with the youth as she recognizes the importance of creating programming’s to help the youth progress in life. Prior to this role, Janette has worked in different political campaigns in the state of Illinois and has been actively engaged in her community.
ALL OUR KIDS NETWORK
Linda Rios
All Our Kids Network of Cicero-Berwyn DirectorLinda 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 20+ 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 and improve child and family outcomes. Linda recognizes the importance and the positive impact of providing families with the tools, supports, resources and information needed which lead to improved family, child and community successes.
Michelle N. Ramírez, BA
Family Engagement SpecialistAll Our Kids Network of Cicero-Berwyn
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
Kim Grigsby (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.
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.
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.
Sandra Oestman
Loyola Medicine-MacNeal HospitalSandy is a dedicated nurse leader with 18 years of experience in the healthcare industry, currently serving as the Inpatient Director of Nursing at Loyola Medicine-MacNeal Hospital. She holds a Master’s in Nursing Leadership from Aspen University and is certified in nursing leadership. Sandy is an active member of the Illinois Organization of Nurse Leaders (IONL) and the American Nurses Association (ANA), and she is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Nursing Practice in Systems Leadership at Loyola University, further advancing her expertise in healthcare management. Throughout her career, Sandy has shown a strong commitment to enhancing patient care in acute settings, leading high-performing nursing teams, and implementing innovative healthcare solutions.
Jennifer Rojas
Byline BankJennifer is currently the Assistant Vice President, Senior Branch Manager for Byline Bank right here in Berwyn. Jennifer’s role is helping our local businesses and community achieve their financial goals. She has been in community banking the past 27 years and has a passion for what she does. She has been in leadership roles for various nonprofits during her career and joined Youth Crossroads as a Board Member in 2024. She is excited to be part of a growing organization that helps prepare and empower our next generation. Together we can all make a difference.
Amit Advani
Amit Advani has worked as an engineer and manager with disruptive networking technology for Cisco Systems, JP Morgan Chase, and Discover Financial Services. Amit graduated from Washington University (St. Louis) and holds an MBA from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Him and his wife reside in Oak Park and have two children.
In past engagements, Amit has worked with local several non-profits and film festivals. In his free time, he enjoys cycling, photography, and pickleball.