In 2004, residents of the low-income and primarily Latino neighborhood of Little Village joined with administrators from nearby Saint Anthony Hospital to address the critical lack of accessible health services on the Southwest Side. Realizing that thousands of residents lacked quality medical services and relied on the emergency department for routine care, they decided to open a primary care clinic on South California Avenue and name it Esperanza, the Spanish word for hope.

Today, with seven sites and a team of more than 400 dedicated staff, Esperanza is one of the most respected Federally Qualified Health Centers in the nation, delivering accessible, bilingual care to more than 50,000 patients every year. From adult medicine, women's health and pediatrics to behavioral health services and wellness programs, Esperanza meets the needs of its community with innovation and a sterling commitment to quality.

I will be running the Chicago Marathon on October 12, 2025 in support of Esperanza's mission. Please join me and other members of "2025 Team Esperanza Chicago Marathon" in reaching our goals. Your support will help Esperanza continue providing essential health services to those who need them most. Please consider making a donation today.