Leading with Purpose: Creating Safe, Supportive Communities for Arlington Heights
Public service isn’t about reacting to problems—it’s about proactively building solutions that protect, uplift, and empower the people in our communities.
That’s exactly what we did when we broke ground on Illinois’ first DCFS-licensed home for survivors of Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children (CSEC)—a project that brings together innovative thinking, collaboration, and a commitment to public safety.
These same principles are what I will bring to Arlington Heights as Village Trustee.
Proactive Leadership to Address Community Needs
One of the biggest challenges in public service is identifying critical gaps in support systems and finding solutions before issues escalate. The CSEC home groundbreaking was a perfect example of this:
Recognizing an urgent, unaddressed need – Illinois had no dedicated housing for child trafficking survivors. Similarly, in Arlington Heights, we need to ensure we are anticipating future needs, whether in public safety, infrastructure, or housing.
Bringing the right people to the table – This project involved partnerships with nonprofits, government agencies, and private organizations—just as strong village leadership requires collaboration between residents, businesses, and local officials.
Securing funding and resources to make solutions happen – Just as I worked with state leaders and philanthropic organizations to secure funding for this project, I will work to ensure Arlington Heights is maximizing grants, partnerships, and budgetary planning to strengthen our community.
As Village Trustee, I will take the same forward-thinking, action-oriented approach to identify issues early and work toward solutions that keep our village safe, vibrant, and prepared for the future.
Prioritizing Public Safety & Community Well-Being
At its core, government leadership is about ensuring people feel safe in their homes, schools, and neighborhoods. Through my work on the CSEC home, I’ve seen firsthand how public-private partnerships, smart policy-making, and advocacy can make a real difference.
As Village Trustee, I will:
Support proactive public safety initiatives – Arlington Heights must be a place where residents feel protected. I will work with law enforcement, community leaders, and local organizations to ensure we are taking preventative approaches to safety and well-being.
Strengthen community support systems – Just as we built a home with wraparound services for survivors, I will work to ensure our village prioritizes mental health, crisis intervention, and accessible resources for residents facing hardships.
Foster a culture of transparency and collaboration – The success of the CSEC home relied on open communication and partnerships. I will bring that same spirit of accountability and cooperation to Arlington Heights leadership, ensuring residents are informed and involved in decisions that affect them.
A Community Effort That Made This Possible
This project didn’t happen overnight. It took the dedicated support of our partners, funders, and community leaders who saw the urgent need and took action.
Generous funding from the Foglia Family Foundation, The Canning Foundation, The Fitzgerald Family Foundation, and a $5.1 million grant from DCFS made this project possible.
Advocacy and leadership from local officials, including IL State Senator Mark Walker and IL State Representatives Mary Beth Canty, Nicolle Grasse, and Michelle Mussman, helped ensure this project moved forward.
The incredible work of our partners, HODC and SI Container Build, Inc., who are making this home a reality.
We came together as a community with a shared purpose—to protect and uplift the most vulnerable among us.
Looking Ahead: A Future of Healing & Resilience
This is only the beginning. The home is set to open in 2025, and when it does, it will change the lives of countless survivors who deserve a second chance.
I am beyond proud to be part of this groundbreaking moment and fully committed to seeing this project through. Because every child deserves a safe place to heal, rebuild, and dream again.
To follow the progress of this project, visit HODC’s website.
Together, We Are Building More Than a Home—We Are Building Hope.
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Get Involved – Volunteer, share your ideas, and help spread the word.
Make Your Voice Heard – Vote and be a part of shaping Arlington Heights’ future.
Thank you for your support—I’m excited to serve you.
With gratitude,
