• Posted: June 21, 2024
• better communities, better construction, Chicago Fire Department, Christopher Garza, Contractors, cooling systems, IBEW Local 134, Ken Cheatham, Oak Leyden, R.J. McMahon, StayLitt Electric

 

For over six decades, Oak Leyden has been providing essential services and opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. However, the organization recently faced a significant challenge when its dated cooling systems struggled to keep up with the demands of the summer heat. Recognizing the urgent need for action, Powering Chicago member contractor StayLitt Electric stepped in to make a difference.

“One of our participants’ brother-in-law was a member of the Chicago Fire Department. He and I were talking, and he said, ‘You know what? This can’t be. We’ve got to do better.’ So he said, ‘I’m going to reach out to the IBEW, and we’re going to make this happen,'” said Oak Leyden CEO R.J. McMahon.

The collaboration with StayLitt Electric and IBEW Local 134 was a game-changer for Oak Leyden. The skilled electricians recognized the importance of creating a comfortable and accommodating environment for the individuals Oak Leyden serves. 

“The people that we serve here have special needs, so we have to make sure that we accommodate their needs by way of their environment. Not being too stimulating. Not being too challenging in terms of either stress or heat or cold,” said Oak Leyden Director of Special Projects Ken Cheatham.

StayLitt Electric was committed to providing this environment for Oak Leyden and making a positive impact on the people and families they serve. 

“I agreed to do this work because I strongly believe anyone can make a buck, but not anyone can make a difference,” said StayLitt Electric Owner & President Christopher Garza.

The ultimate goal of the project was to create a space where the individuals at Oak Leyden can thrive and be the best version of themselves. 

“Our ultimate goal is to create a space where they can be the best people they can be. But in order to do that, you need a space that you’re comfortable in,” said McMahon.

The impact of the improved cooling system extends beyond physical comfort. It provides a reprieve from the challenges of everyday life. 

“I hope that all Oak Leyden staff and participants are able to come in and optimize the learning and teaching in a temperature-controlled environment, a little reprieve from reality when you could turn the AC up to 62 on the hottest day of the summer,” said Garza.

Powering Chicago’s partnership with Oak Leyden demonstrates the power of collaboration and its impact on others’ lives. 

“Partnering with Powering Chicago, IBEW really allows us to create an environment for the individuals we support so that we can really serve and create their best lives. It’s a game-changer. We’re impacting lives,” said McMahon.

At Powering Chicago, we are committed to creating better communities by giving back. StayLitt Electric’s work at Oak Leyden is an example of the impact a qualified, licensed electrical contractor and highly-skilled IBEW Local 134 electricians have on the communities across Chicagoland. Learn more about Powering Chicago members, our commitment to better construction, better careers and better communities, and explore our library of resources on our website.