Chicago Bridges Office
Contact Information
Ken Upshaw
Director
Ph: 312-432-6240
Fax: 312-432-0230
TTY: 312-432-6248
kenneth.upshaw@marriott.com
The Chicago office of Bridges from School to Work matches youth with disabilities between the ages of 17 and 22 with entry-level job positions in local Chicago area businesses that are seeking workforce diversification solutions. Our site is designed to help you learn more about what we do and how we’re funded.
Who We Serve
The Chicago Bridges office serves:
- Employers in the Chicago metropolitan area
- Youth participants from the school districts listed below on this page
We also work closely with parents,guardians and local schools.
Age & Residency Requirements
- Are between the ages of 17-22
- Have a documented disability (psychiatric evaluation by a medical professional or IEP)
- Have a valid social security card (or other U.S. citizenship document)
- Are interested in employment
- Have reached a level of independence to work without intensive on-the-job coaching
School District Served
Partners
Chicago Department of Family and Support Services
Mayor's Office for Workforce Development
Board of Education of the City of Chicago
Ticket to Work
We also enjoy a wonderful partnership with Roosevelt University who not only provide mentors for our youth, but host a successful fundraiser on our behalf each year - they raised over $5400 in 2012! Click here to learn what the partnership means to both the youth AND their mentors.
Bridges Chicago is excited to co-sponsor the 2013 Play for Life Symposium , October 18-19 at the Marriott Chicago O'Hare. Past events have been extraordinary opportunities for participants and presenters to bond over their mutual belief in the power of play to positively impact people of all ages and abilities. We know this year's event will be just as incredible!
Visit facebook.com/InclusivePlaySymposium to learn more about this playful event and to receive updates as they become available.
How To Donate to the Chicago Office
Bridges relies on various sources for funding that includes financial support from foundations, institutions and individuals. We invite you to learn more about how to donate to the Chicago Bridges office by contacting Ken Upshaw at 312-432-6240, ext 30.
