Children and Youth Programs (Including After-School Programs)

Children and Youth Programs is part of Casa Central’s network of services for children and youth. The program includes day care and after school sessions that support children and youth and help them build a strong foundation. Children and Youth Programs operates within a larger agency that also offers early education and homeless prevention programs for families.

Casa Central’s Children and Youth Programs are part of an agency that has served Chicago’s Hispanic community since the 1950s. Casa Central began in 1954 when a group of multi-denominational Hispanic pastors opened Casa Central Evangelica, and Reverend Daniel Alvarez became Director in 1964 and held the position for 25 years. In 1989, Ann R. Alvarez assumed the Presidency, and the agency has since grown into what is described as the largest Hispanic social service agency in the Midwest. The organization’s leadership includes President & CEO Martin R. Castro, Chief Operating Officer Nilda La Luz, Chief Financial Officer Dee Vyas, Vice President of Senior and Community Services Illeana Gomez, LCSW, Ph.D., Vice President of Children’s Services Nilsa Ramirez, and Vice President of Advancement Laura Reilly. Casa Central’s programs reach nearly 20,000 individuals each year and include early education, homeless prevention, senior services, Home Care Services, and the Adult Wellness Center day service. Casa Central is described as a cornerstone for the Hispanic community, with programs that have touched multiple generations, including children who received winter coats and doctor check-ups in the 1950s and 1960s and whose own children now attend after-school programs while their parents participate in senior programs. Casa Central President & CEO Martin R. Castro has been named a Notable Leader in Philanthropy by Crain's Chicago Business.

Last updated April 18, 2026.