These policy recommendations are not exhaustive but rather present the beginning of a roadmap for Illinois to formally re-value a role that represents an essential provider role in COVID-19 response and in improving overall community health.

Contact tracing positions will provide an opportunity to improve equity in our state if hiring is prioritized to those most impacted by COVID 19 including formerly incarcerated persons, people from geographically hardest hit neighborhoods, people of color, people with disabilities and those who have lost their jobs.

This resource from Chicago AHEC in collaboration with Keeayla Jones at Illinois Student Assistance Commission provides helpful information about FAFSA, MAP grants, and the other systems college applicants need to navigate to fund their education.