About | History | Who We Serve
The mission of Howard Area Community Center is to assist low-income individuals and families in and near Rogers Park to stabilize their lives and develop the skills necessary to become productive community members.
The Howard Area Community Center now operates five core programs at seven locations in Rogers Park, serving people of all ages. Clients benefit from our uniquely dedicated staff, who provide the leadership and mentoring essential to overcoming obstacles and achieving self-sufficiency.
Early Childhood
- offers year-round on-site care and education to 116 children at our NAEYC-accredited Sheila Reynolds Berner Family Center. Family Support Workers provide support and education to expectant parents and families with young children.
Adult Education & Employment
- assists over 500 adults annually to improve their basic literacy skills and workforce readiness. Our computer lab provides over 3,000 additional visitors with internet access to search and apply for jobs.
Youth Services
- provides academic and enrichment activities for more than 350 youth in the Rogers Park area through a combination of school-based and community-based programs.
Howard Area Leadership Academy
- a Youth Connection Charter School, gives 120 youth ages 16-21 a second chance to earn a high school diploma. Staff mentors provide additional support to help students tay on track and prepare for college or the workforce.
Health & Human Services
- helps clients achieve stability in housing, health and safety. Our Dental Clinic is one of the few in Chicago serving un-insured children and patients with HIV/AIDS. Clients in crisis can receive emergency assistance with rent and utilities in addition to visiting our Food Pantry.
For locations and contact information for all of our programs, visit the Contact page.
A Chicago Leader
As a leader among Chicago human services agencies, we offer several exclusive initiatives including one of the only Early Head Start programs on Chicago’s north side and a proprietary curriculum guiding ex-offenders as they seek employment. The organization was also selected as one of only four Chicago-area centers to host the Computer Clubhouse, where young people explore digital creativity while learning cutting-edge technology.
Annual Report
Click below to download the most recent Howard Area Community Center Annual Report as a PDF.





