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Wie Organize! Fellows
The Wieboldt Foundation values not only providing funding to organizations but also building a sustainable movement. We developed a paid internship program for public and non-traditional institutions to provide access to the field of Community Organizing and to create a pipeline for more young people in Chicago into the movement. Our fellowship offers a 10-month program from August to May where students will be placed at one of our grantee sites to get the on-the-ground experience as a community organizer for 14 hrs/week. Interns are paid $1000/month for their work and time with our program. In addition, as part of the cohort, interns are provided monthly sessions and training, including an initial formal organizing training via the Midwest Academy.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact Vivien as well.
If you are a public or non-traditional university or college interested in partnering with our program, please email Vivien Tsou at vivien.tsou@wieboldt.org.
Meet Karen Muhammad, a passionate student at Governors State University majoring in Social Work. Alongside her studies, Karen holds the esteemed position of executive director at Ethel Mae’s and Daniel’s Homecare, where she spearheads a program catering to individuals with developmental disabilities. The organization is committed to providing top-tier healthcare services to underserved communities. Karen envisions a world where people with developmental disabilities are empowered to realize their full potential and lead enriching lives. On a personal front, Karen celebrates twenty-nine years of marital bliss and takes pride in her role as a parent to four children and a grandparent to eleven grandkids.
Marcos Ramirez is currently earning a BS degree in Criminology, Law, and Justice and Psychology with a minor in Public Policy at the University of Illinois at Chicago. While being a full time student he also serves at nonprofits helping his local community with quality of life matters such as food distribution. His goal is to one day go to law school and become a lawyer, with an emphasis on serving communities of color and immigrants. He aims to deepen his understanding of how he can better serve the needs and struggles of immigrant and minority communities, through service and engagement.
Maria Picazo holds a Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy and Political Science. Her undergraduate experience was filled with extracurricular involvement in a service-based organization as well as staff led research projects. Passionate about racial justice and immigrant rights, Maria strives to make an impact on historically marginalized communities. As she begins her Master’s in Public Policy, Maria is eager to both further her education and become involved in community organizing with Brighton Park Neighborhood Council.
Michael Nelson is a senior enrolled at Northeastern Illinois University, where he is majoring in Social Work. Michael has lived in Chicago all his life and is very passionate about battling the social issues that many in the city still struggle with. He aspires to eventually enter policy to help change things for the better at the top level. Michael has experience volunteering with multiple underprivileged groups, and most recently helped manage the Cyber Center at Center on Halsted, a community resource center for the LGBTQ+ community. In his free time, Michael loves to read and write, as well as ride his bike along one of Chicago’s many beautiful parks and trails.
Laniece Bradford is a Master’s in Social Work student at Chicago State University and holds a Bachelor’s in Counseling Psychology. She has a commitment to fostering empathy and understanding across diverse populations as the cornerstone of her professional approach. As a culturally adept and socially perceptive professional, she brings a broad background in youth services, personal development, and academic support. Her education and hands-on experience reflect this commitment. She has experience working in child development, case management, and administration. Outside of work, she is actively involved in community and religious activities. Her experiences have fueled her passion for continuous learning and making a meaningful impact in the field of social work and beyond.
Silia Martinez is currently a senior at Governors State University majoring in Social Work. She is a first-generation college student, and her goal is to pursue a career in social work once she graduates. She was born and raised in Mexico and just like many other families, immigrated to the United States at a young age. Her mission is to advocate for those most marginalized, and to fight for the dignity, safety, and inclusion of immigrants.
Sofia Sanchez is a senior at the University of Illinois Chicago. She is majoring in Political Science and minoring in Gendered Women’s Studies. Having previously worked as a medical assistant at an abortion clinic, she has become deeply passionate about women’s reproductive rights and related issues. In the future, she aspires to advocate for these rights and recognize their critical importance in the current climate, where they face constant jeopardy. This experience has solidified her desire to pursue a future career in non-profit/community organizing.
I’m Alicia M. Bradford, a dedicated student pursuing a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree at Chicago State University. In addition to my academic pursuits, I’m actively engaged in the field as a passionate Case Manager for the University of Chicago, specializing in Enhanced Perinatal Care. With a heart dedicated to making a difference, I work tirelessly to support individuals and families facing the challenges of perinatal HIV, ensuring they receive the care and resources they need to thrive. As a mother myself, with an incredible 8-year-old by my side, I understand the importance of accessible healthcare and support for mothers and their children. My life’s mission is deeply rooted in promoting health equity, particularly for marginalized communities, and I’m resolute in my commitment to reducing maternal mortality rates, especially within communities of color. Through my education, work, and personal experiences, I aim to create a brighter and healthier future for all.
Abby is a senior at the University of Illinois at Chicago earning a degree in Urban Studies and a minor in Sustainable Cities. With primary talents in organizing, research, and writing – she strives to become an Urban Planner. Her goal is to advocate for quality, affordable housing and green spaces within disinvested communities. Passionate about change at the local level, she has experience in organizing community events- such as beach clean-ups and food rescues.
Salvador Delgado is a rising senior pursuing a degree in Public Policy at UIC and is interning with ONE Northside. He is an intersectional feminist passionate about addressing racial and social inequity through legislative and legal action. Salvador volunteers with many local nonprofits that address issues related to undocumented citizens, the LGBTQIA+ community, and affordable housing. He has extensive experience organizing events and programs on college campuses, professional environments, and the communities he is a part of. Salvador aspires to work in the public sector to advocate for better laws and policies to improve access and quality of life for all marginalized people.
Miguel Garcia is a senior enrolled in the College of Urban Planning and Public Affairs at the University of Illinois of Chicago, majoring in Public Policy and double minoring in Criminology, Justice and law, and Civic Analytics. Miguel is a community organizer with Palenque LSNA, as the new Housing Intern. He is from the Eastside neighborhood on the Far Southeast side of Chicago and was raised in a single-parent household. Miguel aspires to research, draft, and evaluate progressive policies in the public sector to advance racial justice, reduce income inequality, increase accessibility to affordable housing, enforce police accountability, and streamline immigration services. He is committed to alleviating the pressures of daily obstacles endured by working-class families and is deeply dedicated to protecting the livelihoods of those impacted by socio-economic disparities.
I’m currently a Junior in the UIC Urban Studies program. Being a die-hard Southsider, my goal in life has for a while been to become an Urban Planner in order to combat the systematic disinvestment I have realized in my own communities growing up. I firmly believe good city planning can be a gateway to prosperity on the Southside and throughout the country!
Wilma Mendoza, a proud Chicago native, holds a degree in Public Policy and Urban Studies from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Her profound affection for the city and its communities serves as the driving force behind her passionate commitment to understanding urban planning policy and land usage decisions. Currently, she serves as the Clerk for the Committee on Zoning, Landmarks, and Building Standards in the City of Chicago.
Wilma’s mission is to apply community organizing to her career to advocate for the well-being of all urban residents, regardless of their status. A pressing need exists for intersectional planning in the City of Chicago to both preserve and create safe and prosperous environments for everyone.
