Who We Are
ORGANIZATION MISSION, HISTORY & PURPOSE
The Mission of PLCCA is to advocate for social change — "Promoting community development and empowering people through education, training, and supportive services."
"Providing a Hand Up, Not a Handout."
ORGANIZATION HISTORY
PLCCA was established in 1968 by Bishop Dr. Claude Porter as a private State of Illinois, not-for-profit 501(c)3 corporation to serve low-income residents in Cook County's Proviso and Leyden Townships, the municipality of Norridge, and the Chicago metropolitan area. Bishop Dr. Claude Porter faithfully served the organization and the community until his passing in December of 2025. His legacy of service, advocacy, and commitment to empowering low-income communities continues to guide the mission and vision of PLCCA.
PLCCA continues to promote the enhancement, development, and implementation of practical approaches to serving low-income residents and the total community. As a community action agency, we recognize the results that can be achieved when every facet of the community voluntarily joins together in a partnership to address common concerns. PLCCA firmly believes the end result of our efforts will mean a family and community largely self-determined and therefore self-sufficient.
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Organization Purpose
As an acclaimed social service agency working relentlessly to eliminate poverty and the barriers low-income citizens face, PLCCA is comprised of affiliates, Partners for Progress, social service partners, faith-based institutions, corporate entities, and volunteers who operate innovative services with programmatic and financial internal controls under a Board of Director's oversight.
Our Approach
All services to PLCCA's clients are provided in a spirited manner, which reflects a profound understanding and respect for humanity and the rules governing confidentiality and integrity. Services provided are based on a commitment to two simple processes: helping people bring themselves toward self- sufficiency and community participation in PLCCA programs through volunteering.
Our Growth
Since the birth of PLCCA in 1968, the agency has grown from the operation of one initial grant providing employment and training in the amount of $38,000 to approximately thirty community need-based programs. PLCCA is an agency that believes in continuing to evolve as the community needs continue to change.
PLCCA Headquarters 411 Madison St., Maywood, IL 60153 www.plcca.org | @plccainc
Our Leadership
PLCCA is governed by an experienced Board of Directors and led by an executive leadership team committed to advancing the agency's mission and ensuring operational excellence across all service divisions.
Bishop Dr. Claude Porter FOUNDER & VISIONARY LEADER
Bishop Dr. Claude Porter founded PLCCA in 1968 with a singular vision: to create a self-sufficient community through education, advocacy, and compassionate service. His legacy of service continues to guide every program and initiative at PLCCA.
Ms. Claudette P. Harrell PRESIDENT & CEO
Ms. Claudette Harrell serves as President and CEO of PLCCA, providing strategic leadership and operational oversight across all divisions. Her commitment to community empowerment drives the agency's continued growth and impact throughout the Proviso and Leyden Townships and the Chicago Metropolitan Area.
Board of Directors & Governance
Mrs.
Beverly Porter Smith
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Mrs. Beverly Smith oversees the day-to-day operational functions of PLCCA, ensuring all service divisions operate with efficiency, accountability, and alignment to the agency's mission. Her leadership ensures that PLCCA's programs deliver measurable impact to the communities served.
PLCCA is governed by an experienced Board of Directors whose members represent a diverse cross-section of community leaders, professionals, and advocates. The Board provides strategic oversight, financial accountability, and policy guidance to ensure PLCCA remains a trusted and effective community action agency. Together, leadership and the Board uphold the agency's founding principles while driving innovation in service delivery to meet the evolving needs of the communities PLCCA serves.
Behavioral Health Services
411 Madison St., Maywood, IL 60153
Behavioral Health Clinic
psychological goals.
ISBE/TISS Reach Out
PLCCA in partnership with West 40, provides Screening, Referral, and Treatment Support (SRT) services through the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) Reach Out Program for school-aged students and their families experiencing trauma, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and behavioral health challenges.
Group Supportive Services
Provides cognitive behavioral therapy, behavior modification, and skills building services in a group setting for both youth and adults. We are dedicated to carrying on the legacy of the agency’s wraparound services.
180 Degrees Case Management
Provides personalized support to children and families in crisis by connecting them to essential resources, and guiding them toward stability, self-sufficiency, and long-term success. Services offered: Cognitive Behavioral and Behavioral Modification Therapy, Individual and Group Counseling.
"Mental wellness is the foundation of a thriving community. Our team provides compassionate, evidence- based care to help every individual and family achieve lasting well-being."
Contact Information:
Renee Lee, LCSW, CADC, Administrator BHS@plcca.org
Hours of Operation:
Monday, Wednesday, Friday
8:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M.
Tuesday & Thursday 8:00 A.M. - 7:00 P.M.
Saturdays
8:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M.
Medication Assisted Recovery
Division Overview - Our Focus
Our division delivers comprehensive programs designed to serve our community effectively, from direct service delivery to strategic coordination and outreach initiatives.
Service Delivery & Client Support
Program Coordination & Scheduling
Compliance Monitoring & Reporting
Stakeholder Communication
Resource Allocation & Management
Quality Assurance Reviews
Outpatient Medication Assisted Recovery
Services are available to teens (ages 16–17 with parental consent) and adults (18 and older) who self-report active substance use. Our goal is to provide individuals with the opportunity to break free from dependency and begin their journey toward recovery.
Level I Outpatient Services
Offer clients ongoing support through counseling and case management.
Level II Outpatient Services
Provides a more intensive level of care for individuals with higher needs and acuity.
West Cook Coalition
PLCCA MAR Clinic is part of a collaborative network of community partners dedicated to strengthing resources, services, and opportunites that promote the well-being of residents in West Cook County.
Treatment Services Include:
Medication Assisted Recovery
Methadone
Buprenorphine (suboxone)
Medical/Physical Assessment
DUI Services
Evaluations
Early Intervention
Level I and II Risk Education
Drug Free Services
Level I and II Outpatient
Hepatitis C Program
Substance Use Needs Assessment
Individual/Group/Family Counseling
Regular Outpatient
Resource Coordination & Referrals
Probation/Parole/WCC
MBOS, Inc.
West Cook Coalition
"Recovery is possible. Our team walks alongside every client toward freedom from dependency providing the tools, support, and hope needed to reclaim their lives."
Contact Information:
Phone: 708-343-1275
Clinic Hours:
Monday - Friday: 6:00 AM – 2:30 PM
Saturday: 7:00 AM – 10:30 AM
Sunday: Closed
Employment & Training Services
411 Madison St., Maywood, IL 60153
Division Overview - Who We Are
Employment & Training Services (ETS) helps individuals gain the skills, resources, certifications and employment opportunities needed to achieve long-term economic stability and career success.
Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act (WIOA)
Career coaching and case management
Employment placement assistance
Supportive services
Occupational training/ITA support
Job readiness and workforce preparation
Illinois Youth Investment Program (IYIP)
Paid work experiences for youth ages 16-24
Career exposure and soft skills development
Employer partnerships and youth placement
Orientation and onboarding support
Certification & Training Opportunities
OSHA 10
Forklift Certification
SCRUM Certification
HVAC Certification
Computer Literacy Training
Industry-recognized credential pathways
Career Readiness & Supportive Workforce Services
The Employment & Training Services (ETS) division provides vital career readiness and supportive workforce services designed to build participant confidence and long-term financial independence. Through the Job Club, individuals receive weekly, hands-on support with essential workforce skills, including resume development, interview preparation, and job search strategies. To bridge the digital divide and ensure economic stability, these sessions are paired with foundational Computer Literacy training and comprehensive Financial Literacy workshops that cover budgeting, banking basics, and credit building.
“Together, these holistic programs empower participants with the critical digital skills, financial management tools, and professional confidence needed to successfully enter and thrive in today's workforce.”
Contact Information:
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Children & Family Services
About Our Childcare
Child Care Partnership (EHS-CCP), Preschool for All Expansion (PFAE), Child Care Services, and the Prevention Initiative (PI), serving more than 226 children across our network.
Types of Programs
Early Head Start Child Care Partnership (EHS-CCP) children ages 0–3
Full day, full year early learning and care
Developmental screenings and individualized learning
Family engagement, health monitoring, and school readiness support Preschool for All Expansion (PFAE) children ages 3–5
Focus on kindergarten readiness
Literacy, social emotional development, and structured early learning experiences
Child Care Program / Action for Children (AFC)
Supports working families
Promotes healthy child development in a structured environment
Prevention Initiative (PI) children ages 0–3
Parent education and developmental guidance
Early intervention and family centered support services
Food Program
PLCCA participates in the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program which serves nutritious meals to the children in our EHS-CCP programs, middle school students in our ISBE afterschool programs, and all eligible community members during the summer months.
Together, these programs provide a unified, family centered approach that supports early learning, development, and school readiness while empowering parents as their child’s first teacher.
Maywood Child Care Development & Debra Ann Porter Center:
1100-1110 Madison Street Maywood, Illinois 60153
Contact Information:
Direct # (708) 865-0605
Licensed Childcare Partnerships
Rochelle’s Little Angels - Melrose Park
Honey Bear Day Care - Melrose Park
Creative Powers Learning Center - Bellwood
Jump for Joy South - Berwyn
Jump for Joy Roosevelt - Berwyn
Justice Child Development Center - Justice
Youth & Family Services
RPSA Reimagine 3416
Funded by IDHS, is designed to address six key deliverables including Civic Engagement, Improving Academic Performance, STEM, Sports & Arts, Life Skills, and Service Learning, with a primary focus on strengthening Civic Engagement opportunities for youth.
Joseph P. Abruzino Kidz N Klubz
Funded by the Proviso Township Mental Health Commission, uses golf instruction, goal setting, and self-assessment to promote mental health awareness, provide positive alternatives to gangs and substance use, and support youth with emotional and behavioral challenges.
District 209 Truancy
Funded by Proviso Township High Schools District 209 through its partnership with PLCCA, provides datadriven case management and ongoing communication to support chronically truant students and improve attendance outcomes.
Violence Prevention Reduction (VPR)
Funded by Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority, provides truancy case management, substance use and mental health awareness, civic engagement, restorative justice mediation, BHS referrals, and violence prevention education to support at-risk youth and reduce community violence.
Funded by ISBE in partnership with Bellwood School District 88, provides academic support in reading, writing, and math for 4th and 5th grade students through District 88 teachers, while PLCCA delivers enrichment-based programming across Grant, McKinley, Lincoln, and Thurgood schools.
"Our youth are our greatest asset. Through mentorship and opportunity, we invest in the next generation of community leaders — empowering young people to build futures full of promise."
- Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Empowering Young People, Strengthening Families
Intervention & Prevention Services
515 St. Charles Rd., Maywood, IL 60153
Division Overview - Our Focus
PLCCA’s Grant-funded and outcome-driven Intervention and Diversion programs aim to change life trajectories for at-risk and justice-involved individuals by addressing the root causes of problematic behavior and reducing involvement with formal systems such as courts or the juvenile justice system. These programs serve both voluntary and court-referred individuals which are housed under PLCCA’s Intervention & Prevention Services Division.
Services are designed to prevent escalation of behavioral issues and to divert individuals from arrest, detention, or adjudication by offering meaningful, rehabilitative alternatives rooted in education, support and community engagement.
Programs & Services
Illinois Access to Justice
JAC Reconnect Wraparound Services
Reimagine Violence Prevention Services
Reimagine Community Convener
Men’s Power Group
The Men's Power Group is a strength-based leadership and support initiative designed for fathers, brothers, and sons dedicated to building character, purpose, and positive community impact. Grounded in the core values of integrity, responsibility, and the protection of family and community, the group offers a supportive environment where men can reflect, grow, and lead with intention.
Providing a Hand Up: Community Outreach at 17th and Maywood
As a core pillar of PLCCA’s community outreach, our team maintains a consistent, trusted presence at 17th Avenue and Maywood Boulevard in Maywood. Through these regular engagement events, staff connect directly with residents to distribute essential items— including food, clothing, and hygiene products. Additionally, we share vital information regarding PLCCA’s wraparound services and collaborate closely with community conveners to maximize our outreach resources.
"Through prevention,intervention,and reentry support, we break cycles of incarceration and violence building safer, stronger communities one family at a time."
On-Site Program Hours:
Phone: 708-450-3500 ext 258
Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Sunday: Closed (available by phone)
Emergency or After-Hours Contact: 24/7 Phone Line: 708-434-2096
Supportive Services
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is funded by the United States Department of Health and Human Services and administered in Illinois by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) through the Community and Economic Development Association of Cook County (CEDA). LIHEAP provides assistance to clients to avoid disconnection of services due to unpaid monthly utility bills (gas and electric) for qualified low-income individuals.
Emergency Assistance
Through The Salvation Army we provide emergency assistance to residents in Countryside, Hinsdale (Cook County) Hodgkins, LaGrange, LaGrange Highlands, Western Springs, and Willow Springs. The goal is to provide supportive assistance to people during crises.
Community Outreach
Raising awareness of PLCCA’s program and services and connecting underserved Cook County and ProvisoLeyden residents with essential healthcare, Medicaid enrollment, and vital social services.
Pearson Vue
As a certified Pearson VUE Authorized Test Center, PLCCA offers a professional, quiet environment for high-stakes exams. Located in Classroom 4 at 411 Madison Street (Maywood, IL), we administer the GED, Evaluation Systems, CDA, and IT/corporate certifications (IBM, AT&T) to help you advance your career.
Programs We Offer:
Direct Vendor Payment (DVP)
Reconnection Assistance (RA)
Cash Assistance (CA)
Oil/Propane
Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP)
Furnace Assistance
Fuel Funds
Utility Bill Relief
Weatherization
CEDA - Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
"We provide a vital safety net and launchpad for our community. By balancing immediate relief with powerful opportunities for growth, we empower individuals and build a stronger, more resilient future together."
On-Site Program Hours:
Monday’s Remote Only 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM
Tuesday through Friday (Walk-ins) 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM until capacity is met
(Closed for lunch from 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
For remote applications please email documents to remoteintake@plcca.org
Affordable Housing Services
PLCCA maintains four properties with a total of 70 units to provide affordable housing to community members which serve as transitional housing for clients on the path to homeownership. PLCCA lead the development, construction, and sale of 23 single family homes in Maywood, IL known as “Peppers Path”. PLCCA provided a 72 unit senior housing facility to be a safe haven for seniors over twenty plus years.
Goodell Place Apartments - 617 S. 6 Ave. th
Named after the Chairman of the Board, the late Victor Goodell, Goodell Place is PLCCA’s only Maywood property with an elevator. It features 22 low-income apartments (4 one-bedroom and 18 two-bedroom layouts). For resident convenience, each unit includes individual heating and cooling, with a first-floor laundry room and multi-floor garbage chutes.
St. Charles Apartments
St. Charles Apartments (1705-1711 St. Charles Rd.)
This Maywood property features 24 two-bedroom, onebathroom units split across two three-story complexes. Each apartment offers a full kitchen and an open living/dining layout. Residents enjoy secure, keycontrolled entries with intercoms, basement laundry and storage, and 22 rear parking spaces (including handicap parking).
Lexington Manor Apartments
Located in Maywood, this 24-apartment property features a diverse mix of layouts, including one studio, one accessible independent living unit, 4 one-bedroom, 16 two-bedroom, and 2 three-bedroom apartments. Every apartment is equipped with its own individual heating and AC system for resident comfort. On-site amenities include a ground-floor laundry room and a rear porch that connects the property's two buildings, which are accessible through six separate entryways.
Contact Information:
Phone: (708) 450-3500 amccowan@plcca.org
Monday - Friday 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
95% occupied waiting list is closed and not accepting any new applications.
"Affordable housing is more than just a roof over someone's head; it is the foundation for stability, dignity, and a thriving community where everyone has the opportunity to build a better future."
