The Eleanor Network | Portrait of an Eleanor Woman: Crystal

A network of resources to support economic self-sufficiency

Empowering Women—
To Better Careers

Skilled healthcare workers are in high demand—and that's an avenue to better paying jobs for our women.

That's why the Eleanor Network includes a career development partnership with the Kinzie Industrial Development Corporation and Superior Ambulance Service. Our innovative program gives under-employed women, some of whom are single mothers, the opportunity to invest in their own education and to develop a viable career path without any financial burden. Read about the partnership here.

Training to Save Lives

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August 15, 2010

A network of resources to support economic self-sufficiency When Crystal's uncle had a heart attack, trained EMT help was too many minutes away. He died of a heart attack in a cab on his way to the hospital—and doctors said he could have survived if someone nearby had known CPR.

While working in security at a Chicago fire station, Crystal is training to become an EMT in the Eleanor Network partnership between the Kinzie Industrial Development Corporation and Superior Ambulance.

Crystal is inspired by the paramedics and firefighters she works with. "I want to help prevent accidents involving other people's loved ones," she says. "I'm most proud of becoming a part of this program."

Crystal's next step is formal training as a paramedic. Her advice for other single working women? "There will be road blocks ahead, but don't let anything stop you from your dreams."