GETTING TO KNOW US
Hi, I’m Dena Mendes. I am a graduate of Arizona State University with a B.A. in Journalism and a minor in Public Health. I worked as a medical news reporter for KPNX TV 12 in Arizona before moving to Chicago. I have written and produced children’s books. My first one, “Princess Paris Pink and her Colorful Kingdom” is featured on The Princess Paris Pink Cow that was in Chicago’s “Cows on Parade” and is now prominently displayed in the “Face to Face” exhibit, an interactive exhibit that teaches kids about equality, at the Chicago Children’s Museum, Navy Pier. My second book, “Peachy Keen”, is an integral part of the “Healthy Alternatives” program.
Hi, I'm Claudia Lubin. I am a graduate of the University of Illinois with a B.S. in Early Childhood and Elementary Education. I taught for six years in Schaumburg School District 54, before raising my own family. I returned to teaching at the Glencoe Park District where I co-developed and taught several preschool enrichment programs. I have written two children’s books regarding social sensitivity and social awareness.
Our journey began 3 years ago when we saw the need to develop and inform children's awareness about the foods they eat. We realized that they were making compromising choices because they were uninformed. We were certain that when given the facts, kids would make healthier choices. Our hunch was correct! Not only did the students hunger for the truth, but so did the teachers and faculty. They were fascinated with our presentation and information and wanted more, more, more! This led to the expansion of our programming; there was a hunger for adult education too. Currently, we teach at Northwestern University’s S.E.P. Program. We have taught at numerous Chicago area schools, hospitals, community organizations and corporations. We are a not-for-profit organization and are thrilled to be able to spread the news!
