Lia Ramirez’s Transformation
Lia Ramirez from Orland Park feels like a different person. Two years ago, she was extremely shy. The idea of speaking in front of others seemed impossible. Fear even kept her from speaking to instructors about academic struggles. After graduating from Sandburg High School, Ramirez spent a year at Moraine Valley Community College, followed by a gap year at the iCan Dream Center based in Tinley Park.
Steps Towards Empowerment
Now enrolled at Prairie State College, Ramirez showed newfound confidence during a ceremony as the iCan Center introduced a classroom at the college. “The change in me is immense,” said Ramirez. “I used to be lost and unsure, but now I can speak in front of people.” Prairie State President Michael Anthony welcomed iCan founder Evisha Ford with a key to the campus.
iCan Dream Center’s Mission
This is about cutting assumptions, not ribbons.
The iCan Dream Center is a non-profit serving neurodiverse children and families in Cook and Will counties. It offers special education, behavioral health services, workforce development, and community partnerships to empower individuals to create meaningful futures.
Established in 2013, the center has built connections with businesses that provide opportunities for its students. Ford emphasized giving neurodiverse students the chance to experience college life and contribute to society.
A New Educational Venture
The classroom, lightheartedly named “iCan Dream Center East,” will be led by teacher Cherie Jones. “At first, I was concerned about leaving the center,” Jones said. “But this is a chance for students to dream bigger, exposed to new people and programs.”
Student Experiences and Growth
Scott Gonzalez and Shawn Shumate, both Prairie State students, shared positive experiences from the partnership. Gonzalez highlighted the college experience and future job prospects, while Shumate found the program encouraging.
Reflecting on Personal Growth
Ramirez reflected on her progress, citing the supportive environment at iCan Dream and Prairie State that replaced fear with confidence. “I was shy, but the center helped me connect more,” she shared. “Asking for help is okay.”
Ramirez is now studying fine arts, driven to complete her degree despite occasional distractions. “I need to be productive and mature,” she said.