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llStand for Social Justiceand Make a Differencein the CommunityAt Adler University, we’re passionate about creating a more just andequitable society. If you’re committed to improving community well-being,we offer several graduate programs – both at our Chicago Campus andOnline – in counseling, psychology, public policy and other related fieldsthat can enhance your career and make a difference in the world.We stand for social justice. Will you stand with us?Contact us today: 312.662.4100 Connect with admissions@adler.eduLearn more at adler.edu/Reader 17 North Dearborn Street Chicago, IL 60602ChiReaderAd 9.75x4.8542.indd 29/29/2020 10:19:51 AMWe all needmental health.As one of the largest community mental healthand subtance use treatment providers in Illinois,Thresholds knows the power of recovery.We meet our clients where they are and helpget them to where they want to be. Everyonedeserves home, health, hope.4101 N Ravenswood Ave Chicago, IL773.572.5500 www.thresholds.orgSOCIALWORKS AND CHICAGO READER SPECIAL PULLOUT SECTION 39

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 248 - 10 p.m.7:30 pre-showVIRTUAL EVENTA SMASH HIT FOR FIVE YEARS, THE BIG ORANGEBALL IS SURE TO BE CHICAGO’S HOTTEST PARTYKICKING OFF THE 2020 HALLOWEEN SEASON!2020HALLOWEEN-LOVING PARTYGOERS WILL VENTUREINTO A FRIGHT-FILLED VIRTUAL EVENT TO ENJOYHALLOWEEN-THEMED TREATS, A DEAD-SILENTAUCTION, DANCING TO THE MUSIC OF LOCAL DJS,ANDThOTHERSPOOKY SURPRISES!eSimplifCitywide ied,MellowTIX & INFO:ChicagoBikeMapHOWARDBROWN.ORG/BOB2020Aguide toroutes in chill cyclingthe Windy CityBy John GreenfieldIllustrated by JoeMillsChicago Run is a nonprofit organization that providesyoung people across Chicago with inclusive runningand physical activity programs. Your support is crutial toensuring that Chicago Run remains a steadfast resourcefor our communities during these challening times.StoreShop the Readerchicagoreader.com/storeTune in for Chicago Run’s 12th Annual, 1st VirtualOctober 25 - October 30 , 2020A week-long celebration featuring NPR’s Peter SagalVisit www.chicagorun.org/LSBSfor more information on how youcan support programs that provideequitable access to physical activity.40 SOCIALWORKS AND CHICAGO READER SPECIAL PULLOUT SECTIONll

llCareers begin here.It’s time to make your goals a reality. Take back yourfuture with free career training at Job Corps.Joliet Job Corps CenterPaul Simon Job Corps CenterBuilding ConstructionTechnologyBricklayerCement MasonryOffice AdministrationPharmacy TechnicianSecurity and Protective ServicesCulinary ArtsHomeland SecurityPaintingCarpentryCertified Nurse AssistantPharmacy TechnicianSecurity and Protective ServicesMaterial HandlingVisit jobcorps.gov or call(800) 733-JOBS [5627].Distribution OperationsSOCIALWORKS AND CHICAGO READER SPECIAL PULLOUT SECTION 41

PAID ADVERTISEMENTNEW TIMES REQUIRE NEW THINKINGBetter read this if you are 62 or older and still making mortgage payments.It’s a well-known fact that for many older Americans,the home is their single biggest asset, often accountingfor more than 45% of their total net worth. And withinterest rates near all-time lows while home values arestill high, this combination creates the perfect dynamicfor getting the most out of your built-up equity.But, many aren’t taking advantage of thisunprecedented period. According to new statistics fromthe mortgage industry, senior homeowners in the U.S.are now sitting on more than 7.19 trillion dollars* ofunused home equity.Not only are people living longer than ever before,but there is also greater uncertainty in the economy.With home prices back up again, ignoring this “hiddenwealth” may prove to be short sighted when looking forthe best long-term outcome.All things considered, it’s not surprising that morethan a million homeowners have already used agovernment-insured Home Equity Conversion Mortgage(HECM) loan to turn their home equity into extra cash forretirement.It’s a fact: no monthly mortgage payments arerequired with a government-insured HECM loan;however the borrowers are still responsible for payingfor the maintenance of their home, property taxes,homeowner’s insurance and, if required, their HOA fees.Today, HECM loans are simply an effective way forhomeowners 62 and older to get the extra cash theyneed to enjoy retirement.Although today’s HECM loans have been improvedto provide even greater financial protection forhomeowners, there are still many misconceptions.For example, a lot of people mistakenly believe thehome must be paid off in full in order to qualify fora HECM loan, which is not the case. In fact, one keyadvantage of a HECM is that the proceeds will first beused to pay off any existing liens on the property, whichfrees up cash flow, a huge blessing for seniors living on afixed income. Unfortunately, many senior homeownerswho might be better off with a HECM loan don’t evenRequest a FREE Info Kit& DVD Today!Call 800-840-8013 now.bother to get more information because of rumorsthey’ve heard.In fact, a recent survey by American Advisors Group(AAG), the nation’s number one HECM lender, found thatover 98% of their clients are satisfied with their loans.While these special loans are not for everyone, they canbe a real lifesaver for senior homeowners - especially intimes like these.The cash from a HECM loan can be used for almostany purpose. Other common uses include making homeimprovements, paying off medical bills or helping otherfamily members. Some people simply need the extracash for everyday expenses while others are now usingit as a safety net for financial emergencies.If you’re a homeowner age 62 or older, you owe it toyourself to learn more so that you can make the bestdecision - for your financial future.We’re here and ready to help.Homeowners who are interested inlearning more can request a FREEReverse Mortgage Information Kitand DVD by calling toll-free at800-840-8013GuideYouretterato B entmretieReversng RestandiUnder e LoansagMortgFREEA Guide forChildren andCaregiversYour Guideto a BetterRetirementLearn how home equitycan help loved onesin retirement.Understanding ReverseMortgage LoansOur new Reverse Mortgage information guides & DVD are nowavailable featuring award-winning actor and paid AAG spokesman,Tom Selleck.U.S.A.’s #1Reverse Mortgage CompanyAs Featured on:ABC, CBS, CNN & Fox News*Source: onReverse mortgage loan terms include occupying the home as your primary residence, maintaining the home, paying property taxes and homeowners insurance. Although these costs may be substantial, AAG does not establish an escrowaccount for these payments. However, a set-aside account can be set up for taxes and insurance, and in some cases may be required. Not all interest on a reverse mortgage is tax-deductible and to the extent that it is, such deduction is notavailable until the loan is partially or fully repaid.AAG charges an origination fee, mortgage insurance premium (where required by HUD), closing costs and servicing fees, rolled into the balance of the loan. AAG charges interest on the balance, which ggrows over time. When the last borroweror eligible non-borrowing spouse dies, sells the home, permanently moves out, or fails to comply with the loan terms, the loan becomes due and payable (and the property may become subjectto foreclosure). When this happens, some or all of the equity in the property no longer belongs to the borrowers, who may need to sell the home or otherwise repay the loan balance. V2020.06.30NMLS# 9392 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org). American Advisors Group (AAG) is headquartered at3800 W. Chapman Ave., 3rd & 7th Floors, Orange CA, 92868. Licensed in 49 states.Please go to www.aag.com/legal-information for full state license information.These materials are not from HUD or FHA and were not approved by HUD or a government agency.325852 10 x 9.875.indd 142 SOCIALWORKS AND CHICAGO READER SPECIAL PULLOUT SECTION10/7/20 10:29 AMll

llHELP TODAYHOPE TOMORROWSINAI PSYCHIATRY, BEHAVIORAL HEALTH & SUBSTANCE ABUSE TREATMENTWe are pleased to provide comprehensive behavioral health services, including adult inpatienttreatment, Bilingual (Spanish) outpatient psychiatric, and mental health services for children,adolescents, and adults, offered in American Sign Language and culturally sensitive manner with atrauma-informed lens. We believe that quality, accessible care is vital to the communities we serve.Behavioral health services are available through telehealth and in-person.CHILDREN & ADOLESCENT PROGRAM,UNDER THE RAINBOW, SERVICES INCLUDE: Individual, Family, and Group Therapy 24/7 Mobile Crisis Assessments for Youth Medication Management Mental Health First Aid Training Advocacy through a Medical-Legal PartnershipINPATIENT SERVICES INCLUDE: Psychiatric Crisis Screening Dedicated Adult Unit Substance Use Screening, Assessments,Brief Intervention, and Referrals Medication Assisted Treatment Medical Detox, starting Fall 2020OUTPATIENT SERVICES INCLUDE: Therapy, including individual and group Psychiatric Assessment and PsychiatricMedication Management Clinic Substance Use Screen, Assessments, and Referrals Life Span Mobile Crisis Assessments Intensive Outpatient Program for Adults Free transportation services available foroutpatient patientsNeed help? Call 773-257-5300 to schedulea confidential assessment or receive moreinformation. Our Crisis Workers are available24/7 at Mount Sinai and Holy Cross Hospitalfor walk-ins.sinai.orgSOCIALWORKS AND CHICAGO READER SPECIAL PULLOUT SECTION 43

AdvertisingUnderstanding How Violence is Both a Consequenceand a Cause of the Mental Health CrisisFor many people, life is terrifying right nowequipped to process information, emotionsand grief. It includes adolescent youth whoare just starting out in life; their behaviors, attitudes and habits forming to last a lifetime.When a person is shot, there are hundreds ofpeople who are impacted.Donald J. Dew, MSW, ACSWThe pandemic, the recession, and generalsocial instability is a crisis like we have never seen before. So many people in our society have a newfound sense of powerlessnessagainst external forces that seem out of ourcontrol with no end in sight. Americans, ingeneral, are experiencing symptoms of depression at a number three times higher thanbefore the pandemic, according to a studypublished in August by JAMA Network Open.But imagine living with this kind of ever-present insecurity, uncertainty and foreboding –not for mere months – but as a permanentstate. What does that kind of sustained trauma do to a person’s psychological wellbeing?How does it impact the way a person interactswith the world? That is exactly what many ofChicago’s hardest hit communities and people face. Every day and night scores of ourchildren and families exist in poverty-stricken conditions; traumatized and paralyzed instates of fear, desperation, and uncertainty.And many of them know no other reality.The pandemic and its cascading consequences are making everything worse. A report released by the Chicago Department of PublicHealth (CDPH) shows a significant increasein opioid overdoses and opioid-related deathsin 2020, many on Chicago’s West Side. InCook County, there have been 71 suicidesin the Black community so far in 2020, compared to 56 in 2019. The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office says 2020 is on paceto be the worst year for suicides in the Blackcommunity in a decade.The Ongoing Cycle of Violence and TraumaViolence is, by far, the number one scourgein Chicago. Those who have lost their livesor have sustained catastrophic injuries arethe first – but not only – victims. The families of the direct victims are very much victims themselves. This includes children atthe most vulnerable age who are not well-Ask our children and they will tell you ofsomeone they know who has been shot orkilled. Some express their experiences withgreat empathy and emotions. Others seemnumb and desensitized, like they’ve watcheda movie or video game. The violence in someneighborhoods is so prevalent that residents,especially young men, see it as normal.And when the violence is at the hands of thepolice – the consequences become even greater. When a child does not (or cannot) trustthose in uniform who are ostensibly there toprotect, it creates deep wounds that are difficult to heal.Violence as a cause of traumaWe have all become familiar with the termPost-Traumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD.But for many in our society, there is nothing“Post” about the trauma they are facing. It isongoing. If some are asking about the year2020 “when will this madness end – it’s already been seven months”, imagine someonewho has faced a worse kind of instability foras long as they can remember. This kind oftrauma changes people in many different butalways destructive ways.What’s more, there is a growing body of research that severe trauma can cross generations in a family. Generational trauma, firstrecognized in the descendants of Holocaustvictims, is the concept that severe trauma experienced by parents can be unintentionallyand subconsciously transferred to their children.Trauma manifests in a variety of ways. Theemotions can include anger and a desire forrevenge for the loss of a loved. The emotionscan include hopelessness and depression,which can create a downward spiral of behaviors such as self-medicating drug addiction,lethargy or even suicide.Violence as a consequence of traumaThe reverse is also true. A great deal of theviolence can also be the result of mental illness; if not acutely in a specific diagnosis, thenover the longer term in the numbing of one’soutlook on life. While it is true that most individuals suffering from mental illness are NOTviolent, we can say that most perpetrators ofviolence do indeed have some underlying44 SOCIALWORKS AND CHICAGO READER SPECIAL PULLOUT SECTIONmental health issue. Whether it is domesticviolence, street violence or violence by police,trauma in an individual is a contributing factor to how they might act, think, and perceivetheir life circumstances.ioral Health Center to establish the WestsideCommunity Triage and Wellness Center toaddress this issue; thereby reducing unnecessary incarceration, institutionalization andemergency room visits.A Way ForwardChicago has a mental health crisis. In 2012,six of the City’s 12 public mental health clinicswere closed. This was already reduced fromthe 19 clinics that were once in place. This wasdrastically inadequate before 2020 ushered ina whole new host of problems.There is a growing movement in Chicago andthe nation to move some resources from police to mental health professionals. This islong overdue. Many circumstances that todayare handled by police would be more effectively handled by mental health professionals.Beyond individual programs, we need to keepup our work on removing the stigma aroundmental health. How is it that an eight year oldboy will tell an adult about a knee injury fromfalling off a bike but will not tell an adult aboutalarming emotions he is having after a friendof his is killed. In Chicago’s African-American communities, admitting the need formental health care remains one of the biggestchallenges.Nationally, at least 1 in 4 people killed by police have a severe mental illness, according tothe Treatment Advocacy Center’s 2015 report“Overlooked in the Undercounted: The Roleof Mental Illness in Fatal Law EnforcementEncounters.”This disconnect is funneling people into thejustice system when they don’t belong there.According to the National Alliance on MentalHealth, about 2 million people with seriousmental health illnesses are booked into jailsthroughout the country. As a general principle, we have failed people when they havetheir first experience of mental health serviceswithin the justice system. We have failed people when they have their first experience ofmental health services within an emergencyroom.Specifically, there is a proposal in Chicagoto develop a publicly funded and operated24-hour crisis hotline through the Office ofEmergency Management and Communications. This would include vans dispatchedfrom a network of public mental health clinics covering the full City of Chicago. One ofthe plan’s short-term initiatives is to create aco-responder pilot program, in which a mental health professional would respond to amental health situation with a Chicago policeofficer. The mental health professional wouldthen work to connect the person in crisis withadditional resources outside of the criminaljustice apparatus. This would be an enormousstep in the right direction.Yes, this will require public investment. Butcan we afford not to? Two municipalities inOregon were able to divert as much as 20 percent of calls from the Police department tomental health providers, say nothing for thesavings on other areas of government supportwhen a person is helped rather than jailed.Two and a half years ago, the Cook CountyHealth and Hospitals System funded Habilitative Systems, Inc. to work in partnership withthe Bobby E. Wright Comprehensive Behav-Most broadly, we need to commit to greaterinvestments in human services generally. Theecosystem of well-being is an interconnectedweb of education, employment, food security, physical safety, housing, and yes, mentalhealth. It is counter-productive to treat justone area and ignore the others.The social fabric of our society must be repaired for normal development to occur andreduce the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACE’s).We should all commit ourselves to doing whatwe can to make this decade of the “20’s”, whichhas started off so poorly, the decade when thiscountry and this city finally got on top of theills which have dogged us for so long. In 2020,let’s have a clearer vision and plan for an effective path forward.We have it within our power to create changeif only we have it within our will.Alcohol/Substance Abuse TreatmentMental Health ServicesDisability ServicesViolence Prevention and TraumaCoping StrategiesMentoring and Education SupportSenior HousingStress Management and Relaxation TrainingEx-Offender Re-Entry ServicesHalfway House and Recovery HomeCrisis, Psychiatric and/or Supportive Housing forPersons with Mental Illnesswww.habilitative.org415 S. Kilpatrick Ave.Chicago, Illinois 60644773-261-2252ll

llThewould like to thank our topsponsors for underwriting thecosts of printing this specialSocialWorks P

Brave Space Alliance (872) 333-5199 www.bravespacealliance.org Brave Space Alliance is the first Black-led, trans-led LGBTQ Center located on the South Side of Chicago, dedicated to creating and providing affirming, culturally competent, for-us by-us resources, programming, and services for LGBTQ individuals. 100 Black Men of Chicago aims to