Free Resource Directory

Every Resource Listed Here
Is 100% Free

No income limits. No credit checks. No applications that go nowhere. Just real resources, on the South Side, for South Side residents.

All programs listed are free of charge

Not sure where to start?

Call or text Dorthy at 773.824.7606 — she'll help you find exactly what you need.

Reach Out Now
Job Training & Certification
Free vocational training programs open to residents 16 and older
OSHA
Free Certification
OSHA Safety Certification

Get OSHA certified at no cost. Required for most construction and industrial jobs — opens doors to real employment on day one.

Open ages 18+
Get Connected
Forklift
Free Certification
Forklift Operator Certification

Forklift certified workers are in high demand in warehouses and logistics across Chicago. Get certified free and start earning.

Open ages 18+
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HVAC
Free Program
HVAC Training

Train to become a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning technician — one of the most in-demand skilled trades in Chicago.

Open ages 18+
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CNA
Free Certification
CNA — Certified Nursing Assistant

Become a Certified Nursing Assistant for free. CNA roles are available at hospitals, nursing homes, and home care agencies across the city.

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Security
Free Certification
Security Officer Certification

Get your Illinois security certificate free. Security roles are steady, local, and hiring now across the South Side and citywide.

Open ages 18+
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Education & Back to School
Free pathways to go back to school, at any age
GED
Free Program
Adult Education & GED

It's not too late to finish school. We have free GED prep and adult education resources available to South Side residents at any age.

All ages welcome
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Trade school
Free Program
Vocational & Trade School

Skip the 4-year degree. We have connections to free vocational school programs in skilled trades that lead directly to employment.

Open ages 18+
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City of Chicago youth programs
City of Chicago
City of Chicago Youth Programs

The City of Chicago offers workforce development, paid internships, and job readiness programs for young residents starting at 16. Dorthy will connect you directly to the right program.

Open ages 16+
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Legal Aid
Your past doesn't have to define your future
Expungement
Free Legal Service
Marijuana Expungement Clinic

Get marijuana-related charges cleared from your record — for free. A clear record opens the door to housing, employment, and financial aid you've been locked out of.

Get Connected
Financial Access
Take control of your money — starting today
BMO Bank
BMO Bank Partner
Open a Bank Account

Through our partnership with BMO Bank, we help South Side residents open real bank accounts — no credit check needed. Stop relying on check-cashing places and start building.

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Women & Youth Support
For women rebuilding and young people getting started
Shelter
Shelter Support
Women's Shelter Connections

Dorthy volunteers directly at a women's shelter on the South Side. She works with case managers to connect women to housing, jobs, and next steps.

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Youth
Youth Program
Resources for Youth (16+)

Many of our job training and certification programs are open to residents starting at 16. If you're young and want a head start, we have a path for you.

Starting at age 16
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Health & Wellness
Mental health and counseling support
Mental health
Mental Health
CAPS — Counseling Resources

We have connections to CAPS (Counseling and Psychological Services) resources for South Side residents who need mental health support.

Get Connected

Don't See What You Need?

Dorthy may still have a resource for you. Reach out directly and she'll help you find what you're looking for — that's what the village is for.

Reach Out to Dorthy