Pan-African Association

The mission of the Pan-African Association (PAA) is to serve, empower, and promote the integration of refugees, asylees, and immigrants from Africa and around the world.

Formed in 2002, the Pan-African Association (PAA) is dedicated to providing adjustment, economic, and cultural programs in order to assist individuals towards achieving self-reliance and successful integration into American society.

Staffed primarily by those of African descent with the support of volunteers, the Pan-African Association encourages and promotes understanding between individuals of African descent and the community at large.

Our Programs and Services

Adjustment & Integration Services PAA empowers communities by providing Adjustment and Integration services, so that new comers can learn how to navigate life in the US, and gain an understanding of the American culture.

Volunteer/Mentoring ProgramPAA builds bridges to sefl-sufficiency, cross-cultural understanding, and stronger communities by matching newcomers who are in need of guidance with specially-trained volunteer mentors. Mentors provide English language tutoring, friendship, community orientation, computer instruction and general support. Volunteers also provide support throughout PAA’s program areas assisting with day to day tasks, classes, and events.

Workforce Development PAA’s holistic Workforce Development service assists program participants in obtaining employment and success in the US workforce. Its services include: job readiness, employment counseling, job placement, and job upgrades.

Citizenship/Civic Education & Immigration Program PAA provides education and application services to eligible people so that they may realize their dream of becoming citizens of the United States of America. As a BIA recognized organiztion, PAA is able to assist the community at large with most immigration issues.

Health & Wellness Program PAA helps clients live healthier lives through medical interpretation services, distribution of educational material, group discussions, health workshops and fairs, and health counseling.

Cultural Programs PAA celebrates rich culutural heritage while enabling newcomers of African descent to build bridges of friendship within the greater Chicagoland community through musical performances, and dance and drumming classes.