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Fred Long

At age 10, Fred became a ward of the state due to his parents drug use and inability to care for him. His maternal grandmother raised him and his eight siblings until he turned 18. At this time, Fred entered Uhlichs Independent Living (ILA) Program. Fred notes ILA was a stepping stone for me to be the total opposite of what was the norm in my neighborhood. Through the male support group SYMBL, I learned how to set goals, make decisions for myself and that [my] choices are always up to [me].

  Through hard work to keep him and his eight siblings together as a family, Fred credits his grandmother for showing him stability and instilling his desire to help others, as well as not following his siblings examples of teen parenting and gang membership. He prides himself on being open-minded, saying this has been key to his success both as a new member of the ILA program and in all new situations he encounters.

  Fred interned with Job Corps for four months doing entry-level receptionist/ office work. Likes to give back, help the unfortunate, those who are in similar situations. He has spoken to a local elementary school class about the importance of school and what to expect upon graduation; he has spoken with elected officials and various community groups about growing up in the system, experiences that helped him become who he is, and about the value of having a mentor at any age. As a client, Fred became the first recipient of UCANs Youth Advocacy Award, for his outstanding work in communities and the great impact he had on other young people like himself.

  Fred attended East-West University from 1998-2001. He currently is working to obtain his undergraduate degree in Political Science from Chicago State University. Fred was a part of UCANs S.T.A.R.S (Striving To Achieve Realistic Success) program, where former clients of UCAN get the opportunity to work within the organization. Through this career development and training program, Fred gained skills and experience. Once he successfully completed the STARS program, he was hired as a full-time employee of UCAN. Fred now works in UCANs youth development department where he responsible for directing and managing the programs: Youth Advisory Boards, Uhlich Voices, and Project Visible Man.

  His personal mission statement is to Spread love to whoever I meet, help those less fortunate than myself, and make a connection with someone to help them see their purpose.