Rhonda loves people, especially children. All the work she does involves community and individual empowerment. Even though she is a single mother of four, she adopted her niece, who was born addicted to crack cocaine. Every year she organizes a "wish list" program, in collaboration with a local church and other organizations, and helping to provide toys to needy children during the holidays. This year, Rhonda not only helped to provide gifts for over 300 children from the Rogers Park community, but also provided gifts to other needy children in a community on the South Side.

This past fall, Rhonda took the initiative to start up an after-school mentoring and academic support program. Rhonda is also involved in a program that teaches individuals about financial strategies and home ownership. Every year Rhonda rallies churches, organizations, and businesses to donate supplies and money to run a two-week children's summer program. At the end of the two weeks, each child receives a book bag filled with school supplies.

Rhonda knows what it means to struggle economically and how to counter adversity through resourcefulness. She dedicates her talents toward helping communities at risk, and especially children.

In addition to working two part-time jobs in order to make ends meet, Rhonda currently attends college, working toward her Associate's Degree.

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