Lia Ramirez, from Orland Park, has undergone a significant transformation. Two years ago, she described herself as extremely shy, unable to speak in front of others. Even communicating with instructors was daunting when she faced academic challenges. At 20, this Sandburg High School graduate attended Moraine Valley Community College for a year, followed by a gap year with the Tinley Park-based iCan Dream Center.
Ramirez is now enrolled at Prairie State College. She delivered a speech at a ceremony marking the iCan Center’s new classroom at this Chicago Heights college. “Oh, my goodness, I’ve changed so much since then,” she shared post-ceremony. “I used to feel lost and confused. Speaking in front of people was impossible for me.”
The event, titled a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Room 3230, included no actual ribbon or cutting. Instead, Michael Anthony, Prairie State President, presented iCan founder Evisha Ford with a symbolic key to the campus. “This is so special,” Anthony remarked. “We’re thrilled about iCan’s work here and throughout this region.”
The iCan Dream Center is a nonprofit therapeutic school and community organization serving neurodiverse individuals in Cook and Will counties. It focuses on special education, behavioral health services, workforce development, and more. Its goal is empowering individuals to uncover strengths, gain independence, and create meaningful futures.
Founded in 2013, the center has developed a network of businesses to support and hire its students. The partnership with Prairie State reflects a shared belief that all students deserve access to college life, independence, and future opportunities.
“This is not about cutting ribbons, it’s about cutting assumptions,” Ford declared. “Neurodiverse individuals shouldn’t be relegated to separate spaces. We offer experiences that remind them of their purpose and belonging.”
Ford humorously dubbed the new classroom “iCan Dream Center East,” introducing Cherie Jones as its lead teacher. Jones shared, “This is exciting for me. But initially, I felt apprehensive about being away from the center.”
Jones realized the opportunity was a gift. “We’re opening a space for students to dream big,” she said. “They gain exposure to peers and programs they never imagined. We’ve crafted something truly special and peaceful.”
The expansion was inspired by students whose potential often exceeded available support. Scott Gonzalez, 20, from Homewood, reflected on this impact. “I now experience college life,” he said. “I’m discovering more potential at Prairie State and look forward to new job opportunities.”
Shawn Shumate, 19, from Lynwood, described the experience as a blessing, highlighting compassion. Ramirez, during her speech, recounted the role iCan Dream and Prairie State played in her growth. “I was extremely shy,” she explained. “At iCan, I connected with others and had an incredible experience.”
Through this journey, Ramirez learned to seek help. She realized asking for help wasn’t a failure. “Growing up, I needed to step out and explore my desires in life,” she said. This program motivated her to pursue her fine arts degree. “I balance work with relaxing activities because adult responsibilities come first.”