ASPIRA, Inc. of Illinois is a historically Puerto Rican, not-for-profit organization committed to the self-determination of Latino and other underserved youth and families through education, leadership development and cultural awareness. In 1968, ASPIRA, Inc. of Illinois was established as a 501(c)(3) organization in Chicago's West Town community area in response to the daunting dropout rates in the Hispanic community. It was created to address the growing social and educational needs of youth in the Puerto Rican community in Chicago. During its forty seven (47) years of serving youth and families, ASPIRA has helped thousands of high school students enter college (many were the first in their family to do so); hundreds of parents understand the complex educational process; and numerous families strengthen their capacity through programs and services. ASPIRA's programs are successful because staff deliver services through a comprehensive approach that addresses all family members’ needs, in collaboration with other social service agencies, health care providers, public schools, higher education institutions and government agencies. Please follow us on social media at @ASPIRAIllinois to learn more and read stories of our ASPIRANTES.