Proviso Leyden Council for Community Action, Inc. (PLCCA) is delighted to announce the unveiling of the Merri Dee Youth Technology Lab, a tribute to the esteemed Merri Dee, an invaluable mentor and advocate for PLCCA. The dedication ceremony will be held on June 14 at 9 a.m., located on the lab’s second floor at 515 S. St. Charles Road, Maywood, IL 60153.

Distinguished guests slated to attend and speak at the dedication include the Speaker of the Illinois House of Representatives Emanuel Christopher Welch and the Illinois Senate Majority Leader Kimberly Ann Lightford.

Bishop Porter expressed profound gratitude, emphasizing, “Merri Dee was a beacon of light in our community, and her unwavering dedication to uplifting underrepresented youth will continue to inspire generations to come. The Merri Dee Youth Technology Lab is a testament to her legacy and the profound impact she made on the lives of countless young individuals.”

Known as “Chicago’s Very Own,” Merri Dee left an indelible mark on the broadcasting industry. From her early days as a WGN staff announcer to her hosting roles for parade telecasts, telethons, and the Illinois Lottery drawings, she became synonymous with WGN-TV. Beyond her groundbreaking work in broadcasting, Merri Dee was a sought-after philanthropist, keynote speaker, mistress of ceremonies and event hostess.

One of her most significant achievements was raising over $30 million for WGN-TV Children’s Charities, providing support to numerous organizations throughout the Chicagoland area, including PLCCA.

Often overlooked is Merri Dee’s illustrious career in technology. In the 1960s, she embarked on her professional journey at IBM, a prominent force in the tech industry at the time.

The Merri Dee Youth Technology Lab, named in honor of Merri Dee, represents her dedication to empowering underrepresented youth by granting them access to technology and opportunities.

This state-of-the-art facility will serve as a hub for innovation, education, and personal growth, providing a nurturing environment where young individuals can develop essential skills and unlock their full potential. Through this dedication, PLCCA aims to carry forward Merri Dee’s mission of uplifting underrepresented youth and equipping them with the tools to thrive in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

PLCCA, Inc., a nonprofit organization located at 411 West Madison Street in Maywood, Illinois, has been offering Outpatient Treatment: Opioid Treatment program (Adults) since 1971 and Outpatient Treatment: Mental Health (Adults) program in the Proviso Leyden area since 2012.

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