While Patrick has worked tirelessly behind the scenes providing support to a number of community groups as a valued member, he has always been concerned about the Haitian-American community. Therefore, in May 2009, Patrick co-founded the Haitian-American Professional Network (HAPN), and with the many relationships developed during his years in public service, the organization has been able to work closely with civic groups and leaders, resulting in it quickly being recognized as one of the lead organizations in the community. Patrick is a leading advocate on the Dominican deportation policy which is an ongoing human rights issue facing Dominicans of Haitian descent. He has appeared on national and local media discussing this crisis and is a leading advocate on this issue both in Illinois as well as nationally.
Patrick Brutus is an award-winning proven leader with 20 years of experience in the public sector serving the people of Illinois. While he previously spent 11 years with the Illinois Department of Transportation working on infrastructure projects while in the Division of Highways and Division of Aeronautics, he currently works for the City of Chicago managing business development programs that increase the economic vibrancy in Chicago’s business districts. During his 9 years in the Department, he has also led projects that transformed communities, addressed affordable housing issues and leveraged public resources to create opportunities for job training and job creation with Chicago companies.
Patrick, who also ran to become a member of the U.S. Congress in the Democratic Primary in 2013, has successfully applied his knowledge gained in the public sector to helping those in need at the local community level by working together with area stakeholders on economic and community development concerns and policy issues. With Patrick’s strong ability to work with decision-makers and the many relationships developed during his years in service, Patrick has been able to make an impact with civic groups and leaders, resulting in significant assistance provided to the Haitian-American community in the Chicagoland region; resulting in him being a frequent expert speaker/panelist at various events and forums.
He and his wife Rachelle, who is on staff at Mt. Sinai Hospital, have been married for over 10 years and are the parents of three young active children under the age of 10.
Patrick’s current and past affiliations include:
Co-Founder/President – Haitian-American Professional Network (HAPN)
Member – Grand Crossing Park Advisory Council
Member – Henry Booth House, Board of Directors
Co-Chair – Urban Planning and Transportation Committee of the Coalition of African-American Leaders (COAL)
Member – Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO)
Area Commissioner – Christian Fellowship League
Elected member, Local School Council at Ray Elementary School Chicago’s Young & Powerful Group
Chicago Cares
DuSable Park Coalition
P.O. BOX 5096, Hillside, NJ 07205