Her Story
About Elaina
Elaina Mohead is a dedicated family advocate based in the Greater Chicago Area, specializing in supporting families of children with disabilities. As a Family Advocate at La Rabida Children’s Hospital, she helps parents navigate the IEP and 504 processes, advocates for appropriate special education services, conducts intakes, attends school meetings, and communicates with educators and case managers. Her approach is grounded in empathy, determination, and a strong commitment to ensuring that children receive the educational support they need.
Elaina has also built extensive experience in education, community outreach, and program coordination. Through AmeriCorps and AmeriCorps VISTA, she developed tutoring and mentorship programs, supported adult students with learning disabilities, coordinated community outreach initiatives, recruited volunteers, and created individualized learning plans. She previously worked in customer coordination at Capital One and has additional experience as a tutor and program coordinator supporting literacy and English-language learners.
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Elaina is committed to community service and advocacy. She serves as a community board member for Legal Aid Chicago, helping support access to legal resources for families, and is involved with the Sisterhood Organization, which supports mothers who have lost children to gun violence. A licensed cosmetologist and hairstylist, Elaina brings a diverse range of skills and experiences to her work. Her dedication to advocacy is driven by a passion for children's needs and families' well-being, while her personal philosophy emphasizes determination, self-discipline, staying focused, and never giving up.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Elaina
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my genuine passion for helping children and their families, along with determination and strong self-discipline.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
I’ve learned to be self-motivated and take initiative in my own growth. Being self-taught has taught me to stay curious, seek knowledge independently, and continuously develop my skills.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering my industry to never give up and to stay focused on their goals. Believe in yourself, remain determined, and keep moving forward even when challenges arise.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges right now are school district budget cuts and ensuring that staff have the proper qualifications. These challenges can affect the quality and availability of services, making it important to remain adaptable and committed to supporting students and families.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I value advocating for children’s needs and making sure their families have the support and resources they need. My work is guided by compassion, dedication, and a commitment to helping children and families thrive.
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