Raised in Humboldt Park, Juanita grew up in a household rooted in service. Her parents turned their apartment into a community hub, tutoring neighborhood kids, teaching them how to garden, and sharing fresh produce with families in need. Even as renters, they showed Juanita that stable housing builds strong, connected families. 

Juanita knows firsthand what it’s like to lose a home. Skyrocketing rents forced her parents from their apartment, and years later, she and her spouse faced the same hardship when rent exploded. That’s why she dedicated her career to ensuring every family can afford a safe, stable home. She’s built affordable housing, led homeownership programs, and advocated for fair housing policies protecting renters, homeowners, and seniors.  

Juanita began her career at the Olive Branch Mission, providing food, counseling, and housing to unhoused individuals, before working with community groups to build affordable homes and remediate lead hazards.

Over her 35-year career, Juanita has served as a leader in the non-profit, philanthropic, and government sectors. A proud graduate of Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government, Juanita has taught college courses on urban planning, non-profit management, and community development. Today, she runs her own consulting business advising non-profits, housing organizations, and women of color leaders on how to create social impact. Juanita lives in Humboldt Park with her spouse and stepdaughter.