Our signature workforce readiness program that focuses on personal and professional development through intensive and flexible training models. Founded in 1991.

Our flagship social enterprise that transforms the landscape of our communities by providing transitional jobs in exterior maintenance. Founded in 2005.

Our mission-driven staffing firm connecting top talent with jobs at leading Chicago companies. Founded in 2013.

Our expansion arm that works with employers and nonprofits across the nation to build, deploy, and grow viable workforce development solutions. Founded in 2019.

Cara’s 2020 Jesse Teverbaugh Distinguished Alumni Award honoree Philile Mabuza shares her story of having to flee her native country to save her and her children’s lives, the difficulties of acclimating to a new world, and the community she found at Cara.

Life dealt Emmett some rough cards early on during his childhood. When he was 9 years old, his mother died. To cope with the loss, Emmett turned to drugs and alcohol, which led to the next four decades of his life in addiction and in and out of the prison system. Emmett knew he wasn’t a bad man, he was just making bad choices.

April devoted herself to taking care of her mother, who battled dementia for more than a decade. When her mother passed away, April was left devastated, lost, and homeless. She came to Cara to find a community that would help her launch a career, and today, she is a proud Guest Service Agent at Claridge House, as well as a licensed Illinois leasing agent.

“I am motivated by finding my purpose. I hope to find a job where I can work with people and motivate them to accomplish anything they want in life.”

Michelle landed a job as the Administration Coordinator with our friends at Chicago Cares. Way to go, Michelle! This is the perfect role for you to live out your passion for motivating others.

Alejandra partnered with Cara Connects to not only find a job, but to unlock a renewed sense of hope and self-confidence. Two years into her job at HHPLIFT, she has already been promoted twice after taking lead on multiple major marketing campaigns.

Dian refused to be defined by her past. She joined Cara in 2008, determined to create a promising future for her newborn son. She found her first job through Cleanslate and has been building an incredible career ever since.