Mission ASPIRA, Inc. of Illinois is a Puerto Rican not-for-profit organization committed to the self-determination of Latino and other underserved youth through education, leadership development and cultural awareness. History 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. The first office was located on the third floor of a bank at the corner of Chicago and Ogden Avenues in the community now known as River North. Mirta Ramirez became the first Executive Director followed by Sylvia Herrera de Fox, who would remain in the role for the next ten years... During its thirty-eight (38)) years of serving youth and families, ASPIRA has helped thousands of disadvantaged students enter college; hundreds of parents understand the complex educational process; and numerous families strengthen their relationships. The programs are successful because staff delivers services through a comprehensive approach and addresses all family members’ needs in collaboration with other social service agencies, health care providers, public schools, higher education institutions and government agencies. ASPIRA has been serving the needs of Latino and other economically disadvantaged youth and their families through educational, leadership and cultural development efforts to improve their quality of life. Since inception, over 60,000 families have been served through skilled and dedicated staff. ©2008-2009 Aspira Illinois