Conversations, Cocktails y El Grito 2025- Postponed 

Protecting Our Community Comes First 

In light of heightened immigration enforcement in Chicago, PODER has chosen to postpone this year’s celebration.

Our top priority is the safety, dignity, and empowerment of immigrant families. We know this event is a moment of joy and unity each year but, at this time, standing with our community comes before celebration. 

We will gather again soon, stronger, more united, and ready to celebrate our resilience. 

Stay tuned for updates on the new date.

Our work continues without pause. For more than 25 years, PODER has been an anchor on the Southwest Side, and that will not change. Our societal and workforce integration programming, that empowers individuals and strengthens families and communities, will remain in full operation. This moment calls on us to double down on our support for immigrant families, and we are preparing to do just that. 

We need your partnership now more than ever.  Your support allows us to respond quickly and provide critical resources for immigrant families during this uncertain time.

Donate Today via the donate button on the right.

$15 – Seed of Hope

Plants the first seed of opportunity by providing classroom supplies, materials, and books that show every learner their dreams are worth investing in.

$25 – Bridge Builder

Builds a bridge of support by helping students gain confidence and belonging. Your gift powers community events and resources that help students thrive.

$50 – Pathway Partner

Provides grounding support so our 1:1 Advisors can continue to remove barriers, like transportation, childcare, or basic needs, and ensure our members can stay fully present and committed to their path of growth.

$100 – Community Ally

Helps raise awareness of “Know Your Rights”, educational materials and workshops for immigrant families navigating fear and uncertainty. 

$250 – Empowerment Advocate

Covers the cost of English language and workforce training sessions that empower community members to keep building their futures despite external threats. 

$500 – Family Strength Builder 

Supports access and referrals to wraparound services that keep families stable and strong while facing immigration enforcement pressures. 

$1,000 – Community Protector 

Funds ensure PODER remains ready to activate emergency protocols that involve HQ security measures and communicating critical, real-time updates to inform immigrant families and remind them of their rights.  

$2,500+ – Resilience Champion 

Makes it possible for PODER to double down on long-term support: scaling workforce programs, expanding civic engagement, and sustaining PODER as a trusted anchor for Chicago’s immigrant community. 

Thank you for standing with PODER and the immigrant community. Together, we will continue to protect, empower, and uplift every family we serve.