CHICAGO, IL / ACCESS Newswire / December 11, 2025 / Chicago UPS Store owner Jessica Lee has announced the launch of a new community-focused initiative to help immigrants and other underserved residents build financial stability and long-term success. Called "Pursue the Dream," the program offers resources, education, and practical guidance for those looking to explore greater economic opportunity in the city.

As a first-generation immigrant, Jessica Lee has firsthand experience with the challenges that new residents typically face. Her journey proves that no disability or disadvantage should prevent anyone from pursuing their dreams-it may take a little more effort and time, but the possibilities remain unlimited. Now a successful entrepreneur, she attributes her successful career to persistence and education.

Jessica currently owns two UPS Stores in Chicago's Northside business district. A Certified Public Accountant with an MBA, she has also operated several restaurants and nightclubs.

Programs Designed for Real-World Results

Jessica's extensive experience supporting business owners reflects her genuine passion for helping others. Pursue the Dream is the culmination of that passion, extending her personal advocacy to providing educational opportunities that open doors.

Among the program's core initiatives are financial literacy classes that educate individuals on taxes, loans, budgeting, and income planning. The knowledge gained from these classes can be invaluable for participants interested in purchasing homes, building savings, or starting businesses.

Another core pillar is English as a second language (ESL) instruction. This initiative addresses the community challenges many Chicago newcomers face, which often limit work opportunities and hinder community involvement. In addition to English proficiency, the program also focuses on communication skills that help individuals express themselves more confidently at home and in the workplace.

Housing and Homeownership Opportunities

Apart from education, Pursue the Dream also helps secure housing for program participants. Acknowledging housing security's importance for personal stability, health, employment, and future prospects, the program offers access to HUD resources, rental support, and other region-wide opportunities.

In addition, Pursue the Dream connects program members to experienced realtors and mortgage lending partners. Along with guidance on practical long-term saving strategies, this initiative aims to close wealth gaps and allow more families to invest in their future.

Creating an Effective Support Network

At the center of Pursue the Dream's operations is Jessica Lee's belief that everyone has the right to opportunity and a chance to pursue their goals. As the owner of two UPS stores in Chicago, she has often employed members of the LGBTQ+ community and other marginalized people facing personal challenges.

In all her endeavors, Jessica consistently focuses on helping people who need second chances in life. This is mirrored in her leadership approach, which prioritizes values such as belonging and respect, both of which can uplift individuals who may otherwise feel neglected or overlooked by society.

Aspiring for a Better Future for Chicago's Underserved Communities

Pursue the Dream is one of the few socio-civic organizations that encourages individuals to look toward the future and take tangible steps toward achieving their goals. The nonprofit embodies Jessica's core philosophy: disabilities and disadvantages should never deter anyone from pursuing their dreams.

For Jessica, education and financial knowledge are the keys to transforming lives. Consequently, she has committed herself to offering supportive programming and strong community partnerships via Pursue the Dream. Through the program, she hopes to make a measurable difference in the lives of the families and individuals who depend on these opportunities.

To learn more about Pursue the Dream or to support the organization's mission, visit www.pursuethedreamnfp.org.

Jessica Lee
Chicago UPS Store Owner
https://www.pursuethedreamnfp.org/
info@pursuethedreamnfp.org

SOURCE: Jessica Lee