New Board Leadership at La Casa Norte
Leadership transitions are moments to reflect, give thanks, and reaffirm our mission. At La Casa Norte, we are doing just that as we mark the completion of Julio Rodriguez’s term as Board President and welcome Juan Morado, Jr. into this role.
Honoring Julio Rodriguez’s Enduring Leadership
Julio’s time as Board President leaves a lasting imprint on La Casa Norte. During his 15 year tenure on the board, he helped guide the organization through a period of significant growth, program expansion, and the realization of our state-of-the-art headquarters—milestones that strengthened our ability to serve youth and families with dignity and care.
His commitment to La Casa Norte was deeply personal. As a young person, he experienced homelessness while working full-time and sleeping in his workplace’s backroom—navigating instability while also coming of age as a gay man.
These lived experiences gave him a profound understanding of the barriers faced by young people who are disproportionately impacted by homelessness, and they continue to inform his leadership with empathy, urgency, and a steadfast belief in what young people can achieve when given support and opportunity.
While Julio has completed his term as Board President, he will continue serving on the Board of Directors, remaining an active part of La Casa Norte’s leadership and future.
His steady presence, institutional knowledge, and continued commitment ensure that the foundation he helped build will be carried forward. To honor Julio’s years of service and lasting impact, the City of Chicago granted an official resolution in his honor at the request of incoming Board President Juan Morado, Jr.
Welcoming Juan Morado, Jr. as Board President
With deep appreciation for the path laid before him, Juan Morado, Jr. has stepped into the role of Board President with a focus on continuity, partnership, and collaboration.
“I’m honored to share that I have stepped into the role of Board President of La Casa Norte following the completion of Julio Rodriguez’s term as Board President. I’m grateful for the trust placed in me and excited to serve the organization in this new capacity.” - Juan Morado, Jr.
Juan brings a collaborative and accessible approach to leadership and a clear commitment to supporting the organization’s operational strength.
Moving Forward, Together
With Juan’s stewardship as Board President, Julio’s continued service on the Board, and the unwavering commitment of staff and partners, La Casa Norte remains grounded in its mission and well positioned for the future.
We thank Julio for his leadership, welcome Juan into this role, and look ahead together—guided by our vision of a world where everyone has a place to call home.