PODER HQ Immigration Integration Center

PODER, an integration center that helps Spanish-speaking immigrants overcome barriers to success, transformed a vacant warehouse into a 16,670-square-foot headquarters building comprising 17 usable spaces that include meeting rooms, training spaces, flex offices, a staff lounge and a file/print room. Designed to exude a sense of openness, inspiration and possibility, the Gage Park building features ample natural light in its classrooms and open spaces, while the outdoor plaza serves as a communal gathering spot, offering free Wi-Fi and an event space to foster community engagement. With the new building, PODER was able to double its number of Integrated English classes and instructors and welcome more community partners on site, allowing the organization to expand its impact in Chicago.