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WARD SERVICE OFFICE
1447 W. MORSE AVE
CHICAGO, IL 60626
773-338-5796
www.49thward.org
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ALDERWOMAN HADDEN IS ON MEDICAL LEAVE
In her absence, Shenicka Hohenkirk, the Director of Ward Services, and Leslie Perkins, the Chief of Staff and Policy Director, will be managing the ward. Continue to contact our amazing team at [email protected] or 773-338-5796 with all your service requests and community questions. Maria will be out through the end of the year, but will be checking in with the team on a weekly basis for any urgent matters.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Click the links below to select the section that you want to read!
- CELEBRATIONS & APPRECIATIONS - good news for the week!
- WARD UPDATES - Community announcements, city services, and zoning/development updates
- INFRASTRUCTURE UPDATES - City services and infrastructure notices
- COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT - local events and ways to get involved
-NEED TO KNOW INFO - alerts, services, and government resources
- ROGERS PARK ARTS - events, theatre, and other public arts news
- YOUTH SHINE IN 49 - school news, scholarship opportunities, and youth employment offerings
- COMMUNITY AID - organizational and personal requests for support,
-VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES - Opportunities to give back to the community
- ADDITIONAL RESOURCES - links to resources included in previous sections of the newsletter
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Celebrations & Appreciations
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Happy Thanksgiving from the 49th Ward team! We wish you a joyous and belly-filling Thanksgiving. Our office will not be sending out a newsletter next Saturday, as our team will be off for the holiday, but make sure to grab important Thanksgiving events and information from this week's edition.
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Remembering Native & Indigenous Perspectives on Thanksgiving
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While Thanksgiving is a joyous occasion that brings families and friends together, it is also a complex holiday rooted in our country's history of colonialism. The City of Chicago is located on the traditional unceded homelands of the Council of the Three Fires: the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi Nations. Many other tribes, such as the Miami, Ho-Chunk, Menominee, and Sac and Fox, also called this area home. The region has long been a center for Indigenous people to gather, trade, and maintain kinship ties. Today, one of the largest urban American Indian communities in the United States resides in Chicago.
For many Native Americans & Indigenous peoples, the 4th Thursday in November is recognized as a National Day of Mourning, as the U.S. Thanksgiving holiday is a reminder of the genocide of millions of their people, the theft of their lands, and the relentless assault on their culture. It is a day of remembrance and spiritual connection as well as a protest of the racism and oppression which Native Americans and Indigenous peoples continue to experience.
This year, in addition to giving thanks, spending time with family, and enjoying delicious food, we encourage all neighbors to remember Native and Indigenous perspectives. You can read more about these perspectives on the website of the National Museum of the American Indian here, and on the website of Native Hope, a national nonprofit dedicated to dismantling barriers for Native people, by clicking here.
Consider your relationships with the land, water, animals, community, and your relationships with the people that have been here since time immemorial.
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49th Ward Shops in Solidarity with Clerk Valencia
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This week, 49th Ward staff, the Rogers Park Business Alliance, State Rep. Cassidy, Commissioner Morita, the hosts of 77 Flavors of Chicago, and neighbors joined City Clerk Anna Valencia for her Shopping in Solidarity program. As part of this initiative, Clerk Valencia is visiting different neighborhoods to use her platform to showcase local businesses affected by ICE raids. We spent the afternoon visiting businesses and spending money in the Clark Street corridor. Thank you to Clerk Valencia for organizing and spearheading this event, and to all the neighbors who came out to rally around our small local businesses, which are the fabric of our community.
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Congratulations, Commissioner Angela Tovar!
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We are so happy to hear that Crain's Chicago Business has recognized Department of Environment (DOE) Commissioner Angela Tovar as a Notable Leader in Sustainability! Under Commissioner Tovar’s leadership, DOE has helped the City take big steps toward creating a more equitable, greener Chicago. One of the biggest milestones this year was the transition of municipal facilities to 100% renewable energy.
Congratulations on this fantastic achievement, Commissioner Tovar!
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Neighbors, please be advised that the 49th Ward Service Office will be closed for the Thanksgiving holiday from Wednesday, November 26th, through Friday, November 28th. We will be back in the office on Monday, December 1st.
Please email [email protected] or call 773-338-5796 to leave a message. We will respond as soon as possible. Thank you, and we hope that you have a joyful holiday weekend! |
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KNOW YOUR RIGHTS RESOURCES
As Operation Midway Blitz continues and ICE agents have been active around the City, we want to remind neighbors of our Fighting Against Fascist Occupation resources. Know your rights, stay safe, and stay informed. Find our guide here. |
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FOOD ACCESS RESOURCES
Our office recently published a special edition of the newsletter with expanded resources for those experiencing food insecurity in the wake of SNAP cuts due the Trump Administration refusing to continue services. Find our guide here. |
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Thanksgiving Holiday Refuse & Recycling Schedule
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Please be aware that due to the Thanksgiving holiday, your refuse and recycling schedule will be altered. The Department of Streets and Sanitation has provided our office with a personalized refuse and recycling schedule for each address in our city. You can view the collection schedule by visiting the trash and recycling service schedule Link (here) and at ChicagoRecycles.org.
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7644 N Sheridan Community Survey Open
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On November 19th, Alderwoman Hadden and the 49th Ward Office hosted a community meeting regarding a proposed development for the property located at 7644 N. Sheridan. You can watch a recording of the community meeting here. To view the presentation slides, please click here.
The applicant, 5T Management, plans to build a five-story, mixed-use building containing 44 residential units and ground-floor commercial space. The unit breakdown includes 4 one-bedroom units, 28 two-bedroom units, and 12 three-bedroom units. All units will remain affordable, with three units set aside for households earning 30% of the Area Median Income (AMI), twenty-four set aside for households earning 60% AMI, and the remaining (seventeen units) for households earning 80% AMI. 5T will use Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) issued by the Department of Housing to finance the building, locking in its affordability for a minimum of 30 years.
In its 2024 Reassessment Report, the Cook County Assessor provided data on real estate trends over the past half-decade across the city, leading to increased property values in many of Chicago's 77 neighborhoods, including Rogers Park. In Rogers Park, the average single-family home prices rose by 13% since 2020, condo prices by 33%, and multi-family unit prices by 18%.
These increases are passed on to tenants in rental units, who have seen rent spikes since 2020. In 2020, the average one-bedroom apartment in Chicago cost a tenant $1,948/month. In 2025, a one-bedroom apartment costs a tenant an average of $2,357/month. The median household income for Chicago from 2019 to 2025 is $75,134. For the Rogers Park community, however, the median household income from 2019 to 2025 is significantly lower than the Chicagoland average, at just $58,876. This means that wages are not keeping up with the cost of living, leading to an increase in households that are rent-burdened, spending more than 30% of their income on rent and utilities. This has contributed to Chicago's growing affordable housing crisis, with more than 100,000 fewer affordable units than households in need of affordable housing.
The proposal also includes 13 parking spaces and 50 bike parking spaces. The site is considered a transit-oriented development given its proximity to major transit hubs, including the Howard L station, and just steps from the Outer DuSable Lake Shore Express 147 bus. Additionally, as part of the tax credit negotiations with the Department of Housing, the developer was asked to reduce the typical number of parking spaces required for a TOD site to increase the number of affordable units.
The proposal does not trigger a zoning change, meaning the builder plans to develop the site by-right within the allowances of its B3-5 zoning designation. The site was previously a Planned Development (PD) under the previous owner. However, the PD sunset in 2011. Typically, when a PD sunsets, it reverts to its underlying zoning, which was B3-5 for this parcel. With her commitment to community-driven processes and transparency, however, Alderwoman Hadden still had the site go through the zoning change process after entering office in 2019. At the time, we had a troubled landlord who allowed the building to deteriorate and remain vacant for several years. Through our community engagement process, neighbors were given three zoning designations to weigh in on. The community was eager to see the property change ownership and believed that reverting it to its original B3-5 zoning designation would make it more attractive to a potential buyer.
While the property does not trigger a zoning change, it must go through the Lakefront Protection Review process due to its proximity to Lake Michigan. The Chicago Plan Commission will review the developer's submission and either approve or deny the plans. If approved, the item will go before the full City Council for a final vote. The developers anticipate submitting their Lakefront Protection Review in January 2026.
5T Management and Alderwoman Hadden would like to hear from you. Please take a moment to complete the community survey, available here. The survey will remain open until December 7th at midnight.
If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to our Infrastructure and Communications Coordinator, Zach Joseph, at [email protected], or call our office at 773-338-5796.
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PB Voting for this year has now concluded! Thank you to everyone who voted and to the volunteers who contributed to this cycle. We will be announcing the results in the December 6th edition of the newsletter. Please stay tuned until then!
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Effective December 31, 2025, the Glenwood Alfresco, located on the west side of Glenwood Ave between Lunt and Morse Ave, will be completely dismantled, and the program will end. We have been in contact with the Chicago Department of Transportation, the Chicago Police Department, and the Rogers Park Business Alliance over the future of this alfresco. This was not an easy decision, as we know the project was initially conceived with positive intentions for the Rogers Park community. However, due to the lack of programming and management by the participating businesses and community concerns about public safety, my office has concluded that it is time for the program to end.
Once the alfresco is dismantled and closed, Glenwood will revert to an open street with regular traffic flow. However, my office will work alongside the Chicago Department of Transportation to establish temporary closures on Saturdays and Sundays during the Glenwood Market season, which runs from June to October. During these closures, the street will be entirely blocked to vehicular traffic and open to the public, much as when the alfresco was in place. Apart from Saturday and Sunday closures, the street will remain open for regular traffic. Parking will remain restricted on the street.
Please contact my office with any questions at 773-338-5796 or by email at [email protected].
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When: Sat, Nov 22, 10 a.m. -3 p.m.
Where: GROW/PROGRESANDO, 7056 N. Clark St.
Shop local and discover one-of-a-kind treasures at Mercadito, Rogers Park’s creative marketplace celebrating the culture, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurial spirit of Camino Clark. Enjoy free gift wrapping (10:30 a.m. - 3 p.m., courtesy of St. Jerome Church) and free poncho from La Casa Vieja while supplies last!
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Small Business Saturday Welcome Station
November 29
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When: Sat, Nov 29, 10 a.m. -1 p.m.
Where: Alexander’s Restaurant, 6764 N. Sheridan Rd
Stop by RPBA's Welcome Station for:
- Free coffee, hot chocolate, and pastries from Alexander’s
- A free tote bag filled with local goodies + business specials
- Live music by Becca Jaffe
- Photos with a 3-D snow globe
- Spin-the-Wheel prizes worth up to $100 from local businesses
Then explore exclusive specials and events at Rogers Park favorites all day long. Bundle up and join RPBA outdoors. If it’s below 25°, they will move inside!
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Property Tax Payments Due December 15
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The Cook County Treasurer's Office mailed property owners their second installment property tax bill for 2024 last week. Property owners must pay these bills by December 15. Bills were delayed for months due to a new technology rollout at the Cook County Clerk and Treasurer's Offices.
The second installment bill reflects property owners' new assessed values after the Rogers Park Township underwent its triennial reassessment in 2024. The Cook County Assessor's Office published its Reassessment Report earlier this year, which explains its methodology in determining a property's assessed value. It also provides market condition data on the Rogers Park Township, which factors into a property's assessed value. In Rogers Park, the average single-family home prices rose by 13% since 2020, condo prices by 33%, and multi-family unit prices by 18%.
A report from Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas found that a drop in commercial taxes in Chicago (primarily in the Loop) shifted much of the tax burden onto residential homeowners. This resulted in a 30-year record-high median increase of 16.7% in residential property taxes. The triennial reassessment has especially hit lower-income neighborhoods on Chicago's south and west sides the hardest.
The report cited a low supply of houses for sale in Chicago over the past few years, pushing buyers into more affordable neighborhoods, which consequently increased the area's property values. In contrast, some of Chicago's most affluent neighborhoods–such as Lakeview– saw the smallest home sale price increases. The shift in assessed values and total amounts billed varies from township to township.
Given the historic increases in this year's bills, compounded by the four-month delay in mailing them, the Cook County Board of Review announced that it will open all townships so that property owners can file appeals. Filing an appeal could potentially lower a property's assessed value, resulting in a lower bill. The Board of Review said it will have more information in the coming days, which my office will share once it's available.
Additionally, property owners should review the bottom left corner of their property tax bill to confirm they are receiving all exemptions for which they are eligible. This can result in additional savings on your property tax bill each year. The most common exemptions are the Homeowners Exemption and the Senior Exemption. However, some property owners may be eligible for other exemptions, such as the senior freeze or veteran's exemption.
If you are missing an exemption, you can submit a Certificate of Error application through the Assessor's Office. For more information and to view all exemptions available to property owners, visit cookcountyassessoril.gov/exemptions.
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Need assistance with snow shoveling this winter?
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The 49th Ward is proud to bring back its Snow Squad for this winter season! This program will connect interested volunteers and those who need assistance to shovel walkways and keep sidewalks safe this winter.
If you are a senior or a person living with a disability and you are a 49th Ward resident who needs help with shoveling snow this winter, please complete this form.
If you would be interested in volunteering to shovel snow for your fellow neighbors, please complete this form.
Note: This does NOT GUARANTEE snow will be shoveled; rather, our office will share the location you submit with our Snow Squad Volunteers. Once someone is available, they will stop by to shovel for you.
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Reminder: Winter Routes Begin December 1st
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As a reminder, winter overnight parking bans will begin in the City on Sunday, December 1st (overnight Saturday to Sunday), and are in effect through April 1st, 2025. The City’s winter overnight parking ban helps ensure public safety each winter by allowing emergency vehicles and public transportation to move freely and reducing hazardous conditions for motorists, pedestrians, and other travelers.
The overnight ban is enforced on 107 miles of vital arterial streets from 3 am to 7 am, starting December 1st through April 1st, regardless of snow. A separate snow-related parking ban exists for another 500 miles of main streets and can be activated after there are at least two inches of snow on the street, no matter the time of day or the calendar date.
Motorists who ignore this permanently posted seasonal tow zone face a $150 towing fee (minimum) in addition to a $60 ticket and an initial $25 daily storage fee. If you suspect that your vehicle was towed, you can search for it on the website of the Department of Streets & Sanitation by clicking here.
In our ward, the only street that has an overnight parking ban is N. Clark St. from W. Devon Ave. to W. Howard St. N Clark Street south of Devon Avenue has a 2-inch snow parking ban.
Streets in our ward that have the 2-inch snow parking ban are as follows:
- W. Devon Ave. from N. Broadway to N. Ridge (Devon ban extends beyond the boundary of the Ward)
- W. Pratt Blvd. from N. Ashland Blvd. to N. Sheridan Rd.
- W. Howard St, from N. Ridge Blvd. to N. Greenview Ave.
- W. Touhy Ave. from N. Ridge Blvd. to N. Oakley Ave. (Touhy ban extends further beyond boundaries of the Ward)
- N. Sheridan Rd. from W. Devon Ave. to W. Juneway Ter. (Sheridan ban extends further beyond the boundary of the Ward)
- N. Ridge Blvd. from W. Devon Ave. to W. Howard St.
- N. Ashland Ave. from W. Devon Ave. to N. Rogers Ave.
- N. Rogers Ave. from N. Ridge Blvd. to N. Sheridan Rd.
- N. Western Ave from W. Birchwood Ave. to W. Howard St. (Western ban extends further beyond boundary of the Ward)
For an updated and interactive map of all snow routes in the City, please access the City’s snow plow tracker by clicking here. This same map will also show the locations of all snow plows once deployed.
As a general reminder, plows will focus first on vital arterial routes before plowing residential streets. We wish all motorists safe travel this winter season!
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Tree Trimming Occurring November 24
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The Bureau of Forestry, a division of the Division of Streets and Sanitation, will be returning to conduct tree trimming for the 6900 block of N Ravenswood, the 1600 block of W Pratt, the 7100 block of N Paulina, the 6900, 7000, and 7100 blocks of N Wolcott, the 1800 block of W Morse, the 1900 block of W Farwell, the 6400 and 6500 blocks of N Greenview, and the 6700 block of N Glenwood on Monday, November 24th. Similar to street sweeping notifications, trees will be posted with signage in advance of tree trimming.
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DWM Sewer Rehabilitation Work
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Neighbors, please be advised that the Department of Water Management (DWM) will begin a Sewer Lining project on November 24, 2025, and will have 75 calendar days to complete their work. This work will occur on the sewer west of N Greenview Ave from the alley south of W Pratt to W North Shore.
DWM will be sending letters to residents located in the immediate area to provide notification of the work once they begin lining the sewer mains. No parking signs will be posted in the immediate area one workday prior to the start of any scheduled work. It will be necessary to close some lanes, but the streets will remain open to traffic. Work is typically completed during working hours, and Cure In Place Pipe (CIPP) is non-destructive and requires little to no excavation, limiting the impact to residents.
The rehabilitation work includes cleaning the sewers and the installation of CIPP. The installation of CIPP consists of lining the existing sewers and generally does not require excavation, except when repairs are required prior to lining of the sewer main, catch basin lateral connections, catch basin structures, or manhole structures.
Typical work includes the following:
• Main sewer cleaning and televising
• Catch Basin (drainage structures on the curbside) cleaning, televising, and lining of the pipe connections to the main sewer
• Catch Basin and Sewer Manhole structures lining
• Main Sewer Lining immediately followed by the reinstatement of house drain services and catch basin pipe connections
• The lined sewer will be televised to ensure that the work was done properly
If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to our office at [email protected] or at 773-338-5796.
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A Just Harvest Turkey Giveaway Today
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A Just Harvest (7649 N Paulina St) will be hosting a Thanksgiving giveaway today. Make sure to stop by anytime between 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., and remember to bring your own cart or shopping bag. First-come, first-served, so get there early!
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24th District Council Meeting November 23
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The next meeting of the 24th District Council will take place on Sunday, November 23, at 3:00 p.m. at Edgewater Library (6000 N Broadway). The agenda will include an open call for community rapid response and school patrol teams to share information & for neighbors to get engaged.
RSVP for Teams & Patrols:
Zoom option available:
Anyone may submit written public comment by delivering it at the public meeting or by emailing it to [email protected]
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St. Jerome Parish Free Thanksgiving Dinner
November 24
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St. Jerome Parish Center (1709 W Lunt Ave) will be hosting a free pre-Thanksgiving dinner event on Monday, November 24th, at 4:00 p.m. for neighbors in need. Make sure to stop by if you are in need of food assistance this holiday season!
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Culture of Safety Open House November 29
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Mark your calendars for Culture of Safety's Small Business Saturday Open House on November 29. Free karate classes, shiatsu bodywork demos, a demo Self-Defense class, and more! Check out their schedule and Small Biz Saturday discounts: https://cultureofsafetychi.com/sbs2025/. The classes will be held at 6961 N Clark St.
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Empowerment Self-Defense Workshop
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The next Empowerment Self-Defense class from Culture of Safety is Saturday, December 6th, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. . The class will be held at the Culture of Safety Dojo & Wellness Center (6961 N Clark St).
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Shop Jarvis Square Holiday Market December 6
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Jarvis Square, the historic commercial district in Chicago’s Rogers Park neighborhood, announced the return of its beloved holiday tradition: the 17th Annual Shop Jarvis Square Holiday Market. The one-day-only event will take place on Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, bringing together over 40 local artisans, festive food, and family-friendly entertainment.
- What: 17th Annual Shop Jarvis Square Holiday Market
- When: Saturday, December 6, 2025, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Where: Jarvis Square (Intersection of Jarvis and Greenview), Rogers Park, Chicago, IL 60626
- Admission: Free and open to the public.
Be sure to stop by!
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Winter Wrap-Up: Plate & Pathways Clothes & Food Giveaway
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Join Plate & Pathways on Saturday, December 6th, 2025, at Pottawatomie Park for the Winter Wrap-Up: a free community event offering winter clothes, coats, nonperishable food items, and light refreshments to our neighbors and families in need. With SNAP benefits not being fully reinstated, many households are struggling to afford basic groceries. The Winter Wrap-Up aims to bring relief and connection to our community this season. All are welcome to attend, donate, or volunteer.
Learn more at plateandpathways.org
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State Rep. Cassidy Mobile City Hall Event December 10
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The office of State Representative Kelly Cassidy is excited to share that their office is partnering with the Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias and the Chicago City Clerk Anna M. Valencia to host a Mobile DMV + City Key event on December 10th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at their office located at 1507 W Morse! The Secretary of State's office will be available for appointments to apply for or renew IL State or Real IDs, renew IL driver's licenses, and get vehicle registration stickers. The City Clerk’s Office will be available to print City Keys, a handy identification card that doubles as a library card and Ventra card! This has always been a very popular event, and each office requires an appointment. Please reach out to District Office Manager Rauly Luna by email at [email protected] or by phone at (773) 784 2002 to schedule an appointment.
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Chicago Kurdish Film Festival December 14
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The second edition of the Chicago Kurdish Film Festival will be taking place on December 14th at Damen Cinema, Loyola University (6511 N Sheridan Rd).
This festival, organized by the Kurdish Cultural Center of Illinois (KCCI)—a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization—will feature a selection of Kurdish films that celebrate the rich culture, history, and artistic expression of the Kurdish people. The event aims to foster cultural exchange, raise awareness, and promote unity within Chicago’s diverse communities. For more info, click here.
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Rogers Park Singers Looking For Members
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The Rogers Park Singers is a small group of 15+ individuals with a variety of vocal ranges and experience levels who love to sing together. Our goal is to provide an opportunity for singers to participate in a choral community, improve individual vocal skills, and experience choral performances. RPS is an inclusive group that practices and performs a variety of genres, both sacred and secular. Members are not just from Rogers Park but come from across the city. The choir has developed a supportive and fun community while working hard on improving their skills and creating beautiful music. The choir rehearses on Saturdays from 12pm-1:30pm at Immanuel Lutheran Church (1500 W. Elmdale) and performs occasionally at local community events and concerts. Anyone interested in the choir is encouraged to check out our website and fill out an interest form. Each 10 week session costs $120, but no interested members will be turned away for lack of experience or inability to pay the session fee.
Fall 2025 Session Dates: October 25, November 1, 8, 15, 22
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Chicago Tap Theatre Winter Tap Classes
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Join CTT in their 7-week Winter Session of tap classes at Loyola Park Fieldhouse (1230 W. Greenleaf Ave) on Tuesdays, January 6th-February 17th!
YOUTH
4:15-5 PM - Ages 6-8 with Molly Smith
5-5:45 PM - Ages 3-5 with Molly Smith
These classes are beginner-focused and will develop a love of dance and music to last a lifetime! Have a little one who loves to move or make noise, but needs an outlet? Enroll for a session to grow, learn, have fun, and exercise both mind and body!
*Youth Classes are a full session registration only, but if you decide to join partway through the session, you can email [email protected] for a prorated fee!
ADULT
6 p.m.-7 p.m. - Adult Beginner with Kelsey Nickens
7 p.m.-8 p.m. - Adult Intermediate with Kelsey Nickens
Join us for Adult Beginner (6 p.m.) or Adult Intermediate (7 p.m.) on Tuesdays to learn tap dance skills, history, and musicality, and to be a part of a welcoming community!
*Adult classes are available as a full session or drop-in class registration!
LINK TO REGISTER/MORE INFORMATION
https://chicagotaptheatre.com/take-a-class/#loyola
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Events at the Rogers Park Branch Library
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The Rogers Park Branch Library (6907 N. Clark) offers a variety of events and programming for people of all ages. Make sure to check out a list of their upcoming events and register to attend one. More information is available on its website here.
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Mobile ID Now Available On iPhone!
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Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias' office has announced that you can now access your Illinois ID on your iPhone! You can use this new ID at O'Hare, Midway, and Lambert airports and over 250 airports nationwide. They are also working with stadiums, retailers, and restaurants across the state to accept virtual IDs as well. You can learn more here.
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The Department of Streets and Sanitation is conducting outreach activities to inform residents about the importance of keeping city streets clean and safe as trees begin shedding leaves during the fall season. Consult this graphic for a list of dos and don'ts this fall to keep our infrastructure operating smoothly!
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Chicago Heat Ordinance Reminder
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The Chicago Heat Ordinance mandates that landlords supply heat to any unit in which residents do not have individual control of the thermostat during cold weather months. From September 15 - June 1, the temperature inside a rental residence is required to be at least 68 degrees from 8:30 am - 10:30 pm and at least 66 degrees from 10:30 pm - 8:30 am. Landlords face fines of up to $1000 per day, per violation, for each day they do not supply adequate heat. If you are a renter and your landlord is not providing adequate heat, you may file a No Heat Complaint through 311. The Department of Buildings will inspect your home and will take action against delinquent owners. .
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Get Your Flu Shot With CDPH
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Flu season is here! The Chicago Department of Public Health is offering FREE flu shots and other vaccines this season for all Chicago residents ages 6 months and up. Check out this list of vaccine clinics to see when the next one closest to you will be!
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Help shape OIG’s project priorities for 2026!
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The City of Chicago Office of Inspector General (OIG) has published two draft documents that share details of proposed projects under consideration for 2026. Both documents are posted on OIG’s website for public review and comment.
Community feedback helps OIG prioritize projects for the coming year to align with what is of most concern and importance to all Chicagoans. OIG invites you to explore both draft plans and encourages you to provide your feedback by taking the community feedback survey at igchicago.org/survey.
OIG is accepting community prioritization feedback through December 31, 2025.
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Mayor's Office of Reentry Survey
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The Mayor's Office of Reentry is conducting a survey to understand the current barriers for residents returning from incarceration and system-impacted individuals for their transition back to the City of Chicago. The results of this survey will help guide our office in shaping policies for reentry, ensuring that community input is at the forefront of all recommendations. This survey will guide our department in building on work that was started for the Office of Reentry and continuing to develop innovative solutions for the City of Chicago. You can access the survey here.
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CDOT EV Framework Public Survey Open
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Your voice matters. The Chicago Department of Transportation is asking residents to share their feedback through a short community survey. The results will guide future decisions and help us better serve you. Take the survey here.
Thank you for sharing your perspective and helping shape our community’s future.
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CPD Community Feedback Survey
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Annually, the Chicago Police Department (CPD) conducts training for its officers to ensure their safe and equitable performance of their duties. CPD is requesting your feedback to ensure that officers are benefiting from their training in an effective manner. You can access the voluntary and confidential survey here.
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CDOT E-Scooter Tips & Tricks!
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The Chicago Department of Transportation promotes safe and responsible scooter use across Chicago. Helmets are strongly encouraged for all scooter riders. Ride scooters in bike lanes or streets, not on sidewalks. Always park upright, to a fixed object, and leave at least five feet of sidewalk space. Divvy and Lime riders must be 18 or older (or 16+ on Divvy with parental consent). If you have experienced a crash or collision on your scooter and are injured, call 911 immediately. Report scooters blocking sidewalks or other parking issues through 311. Learn more at chicago.gov/scooters.
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DOH Emergency Heating Repair Program Now Available!
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The Chicago Department of Housing has launched its Emergency Heating Repair Program (EHRP), which offers income-eligible Chicagoland properties with repairs or replacement of their furnace or boiler. The property must be the homeowner’s primary, owner-occupied residence within the city of Chicago. Qualified contractors perform the work at no cost to the homeowner, with funding provided through the Department of Housing (DOH). For more information on eligibility and applying for the EHRP, call 311 or visit www.chicago.gov/ehrp.
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2025 marks the 6th year that the Chatham Business Association (CBA) has been in partnership with ComEd. Their team of Community Energy Assistant Ambassadors (CEAAs) offers residents bill payment assistance & energy efficient programs for those who qualify, as well as tips on how to manage energy use. Check out these programs that the CBA offers! Please visit ComEd.com/SAM
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CEDA Utility Assistance Resources
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The Community and Economic Development Association of Cook County (CEDA) has provided us with resources for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)! Apply here and reach out to their office for more questions.
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Access Supplemental Nutrition Programs through WIC CEDA
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If you are pregnant, a caregiver, or a mom with a child under 5, you can get access to supplemental nutrition programs through WIC CEDA (1516 W Howard). Reach out via phone at (773) 338-7334 or by email at [email protected].
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Choose The Theme For Artists of The Wall 2026
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The Loyola Park Advisory Council is beginning planning for Artists of the Wall 2026, and they need your help choosing this year’s theme!
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Theatre Above The Law Presents: Black Comedy
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Theatre Above the Law presents Black Comedy, a farce by Peter Schafer at the Jarvis Square Theater (1439 W. Jarvis), November 21 - December 21.
Tickets available at theatreatl.org
Struggling sculptor Brindsley Miller and his fiancée, Carol, are having a party with the aim of impressing Carol's bombastic father, Colonel Melkett, and millionaire Georg Bamberger. They hope the two men might purchase some of Brindsley's sculptures. Without permission, they have borrowed the furniture of their fussy neighbor, Harold, to make their own flat more presentable. Just before the guests arrive, the main fuse blows, plunging the flat into darkness. What follows is a frantic romp with unexpected visitors, mistaken identities, and surprises lurking in every dark corner. Only we, the audience, can see the action that ensues in the dark. As you might expect, the results are chaotic, disastrous, and downright hysterical.
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Lifetime Theater: 2025/26 Season Showings
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Lifeline Theater's artistic ensemble announces its 2025-26 season of Big Stories, Up Close. This 43rd year for the Rogers Park nonprofit theater begins in September 2025 and includes three MainStage productions, three KidSeries productions, and three concert readings, as well as the fourth annual BIPOC Showcase.
Main Stage Season:
- Jacob Marley's A Christmas Carol, Nov. 28-Dec. 21 (opens 11/30/25 at 2:30 p.m.)
KidSeries Season:
- The Conducters, in association with Kerfuffle, December 6-21 (opens 12/6/25 at 11am)
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DanceWear Share Library Offers Free Dance Apparel
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Synapse Arts is excited to share their DanceWear Share Library! Hosted by Synapse and Loyola Park, the library has new and gently used dance shoes, leotards, and other apparel and accessories available for the young generation of dancers - free of charge. The library works on the honor system; community members are invited to take what they need and anyone is welcome to donate gently used dance shoes or apparel, except tights. For more information, and to request dance apparel, please contact Synapse Arts at [email protected].
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Support Kilmer Performing Arts
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Kilmer Elementary School is developing a thriving performing arts program, from annual musical theater shows to school-wide music, dance and dramatic performances at school assemblies. Our students have so many skills and talents, but our outdated sound system can't keep up with them! Help us replace the auditorium sound system and let our students' voices ring out loud and clear! Funds will be used to purchase updated sound equipment, including speakers, monitors, a mixing board and microphones. Any excess funds after equipment purchases will directly support student and family programming at Joyce Kilmer Elementary School. Visit https://givebutter.com/SX16vj to donate.
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Fight Like a Girl is a boxing and leadership development program that helps girls aged 10 and up build confidence, develop a growth mindset, and, build healthy habits. Participants will learn the fundamentals of boxing and how to transfer lessons from boxing into other areas of their lives. Fight Like a Girl is run by Box United, a nonprofit on a mission to help girls use boxing to build physical and mental well-being.
The following locations are free programs for all Chicago girls.
North Side: Rogers Park
Sign up here!
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Loyola University Center for Research and Child Development Seeks Volunteers
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The Center for Research on Child Development (CRCD) at Loyola University Chicago. The CRCD is providing families in our community with the opportunity to take an active part in science by participating with their children in research at Loyola. They are seeking interested families to volunteer for studies on infant and toddler development. To learn more about their work, you can view their website at loyolacrcd.org.
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Family Matters Enrollment
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Family Matters (7731 N. Marshfield) is accepting new students from PreK - 3rd grade. Your student will receive individualized instruction, opportunities for music, theater, German wheel gymnastics, Latin dance and so much more!
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Chicago Youth Service Corps
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Chicago Youth Service Corps is a year-round program that provides paid opportunities for youth ages 16-24 to engage in community service, project-based learning, and leadership development. Chicago Youth Service Corps celebrates and welcomes diverse backgrounds and encourages you to bring your experience, background, and traditions to your service.
For more information and to apply, click here!
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Mary Crane Center Rogers Park - Enrollment Available for Free Head Start Program
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Mary Crane Center's Rogers Park location at 1545 W Morse Ave is currently accepting applications for enrollment in their Head Start program! The free services include year-round childcare for working families and/or students, scholarship opportunities, free nutritional meals and snacks, and much more! Mary Crane Center's services are available all year round, including when school is not in session.
If you're interested in learning more, you may call the Mary Crane Center team at 773-262-1390
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State Sen. Mike Simmons Mutual Aid Food Drive
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Senator Mike Simmons’ office is accepting donations of non-perishable food, reusable grocery bags, and new toiletries/diapers/cleaning supplies. Drop off donations Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. -3 p.m. at 1040 W Bryn Mawr. For questions, email s[email protected] or call 773-769-1717.
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Circles & Cyphers Benefit Concert December 5th
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Join Circles & Cyphers at Juliana's (3001 W. Peterson Ave) on December 5th for Goin’ Legit: In Circles We Trust – From $urvival to $ustainability, a benefit concert fueling C&C’s next phase. This event will last from 7:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., and you can get tickets and donate at this link.
The night will merge theatre and hip-hop performances with an orchestral vibe, served up C&C-style: bold, creative, and unapologetically fly. Expect live artistry, food and refreshments, a walk through the history of Circles & Ciphers, and recognition of the youth and legacy leaders who keep the movement alive.
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Praxis Team Business Coalition
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The Praxis team and other Rogers Park businesses have created a business coalition against ICE that is partnering with community members to provide trainings, supplies, and gathering spaces. Here's more information on Instagram!
If your business wants to sign on, please fill out https://praxischi.com/no-ice/#sign. If you're a community member or group who wants to partner to host a workshop or gathering space, please fill out https://praxischi.com/no-ice-rp/#request
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Local School Table Tennis GoFundMe Available
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Robert Owens, from Move Your Feet Sports, is currently hosting a GoFundMe to raise money for three table tennis tables for both New Field Elementary and Jordan Community School. This is a fantastic community effort, and you can donate at this link if you are financially able to do so.
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Community Care Program Through JASC
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The Japanese American Service Committee (JASC) is partnering with the Illinois Department of Aging to support seniors through their Community Care Program (CCP). The CCP provides free or low-cost services to eligible older adults, such as homemaking services, adult day services, and emergency home response systems. If you would like more information or want to help, call JASC at 773-275-0097 or email [email protected].
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Hamdard Health Alliance Offering PrEP Resources
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Hamdard Health Alliance is a Federally Qualified Health Center offering free and confidential PrEP navigation to help people prevent HIV and stay on top of their sexual health. They offer personalized support, affordable care through a sliding scale fee, and a discount pharmacy right next door. You can find them at 1542 W Devon Ave, and can contact them at either 773-465-4600 or at [email protected].
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GoFundMe for 10 ONENorthside Parent Mentor Families!
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ONE Northside is home to 60 Parent Mentors who volunteer inside CPS elementary classrooms across 8 Far North Side schools, building stronger relationships between parents, teachers, and students. Currently, 10 Parent Mentor families are at risk of being unable to pay rent at the end of this month due to missing work out of fear for their safety and the delayed voucher payments resulting from the federal shutdown.
Local organizers are raising emergency funds to cover urgent rent payments for 10 Parent Mentor families. If you are able, please donate and share this with the community. It is crucial that we support our community members during this unstable and fearful time. You can access their GoFundMe here.
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Whistles Available at Red Vault
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Red Vault, located at 6534 N Clark St, is offering free whistles to warn the community when ICE is in the neighborhood. They will be open Monday - Saturday: 10am - 10pm, and Sunday: 11am - 10pm.
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Loyola University ICE Map Tracker Live!
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The Loyola Phoenix, the official student newspaper of Loyola University Chicago, has launched an ICE tracker where constituents can report ICE sightings in the ward. You can access the map here and read more about using the map here.
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New Medical Lending Closet!
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We’re excited to share that our community now has a new Medical Loan Closet at 2495 W Howard St, Evanston, IL! This is a free resource where neighbors can obtain items like walkers, wheelchairs, shower chairs, and other medical equipment. Some equipment we currently have includes tub benches, shower chairs, knee scooters, toilet risers and toilet rails, ice boxes, and rollators!
It’s all about neighbors helping neighbors—making sure that no one has to go without the equipment they need to stay safe and comfortable at home. Items are available by appointment, and the closet also welcomes donations of gently used equipment.
If you’d like to borrow, donate, volunteer, or learn more, call 312-620-7136 or email [email protected].
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Protecting Chicago Resources Available!
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As part of Mayor Johnson's Executive Order 2025-6 Establishing the Protecting Chicago Initiative, the Mayor's Office has launched the Protecting Chicago website, which can be found at: chicago.gov/protect Protecting Chicago aims to make available information and resources that allow every resident—regardless of background, immigration status, or neighborhood—to live with safety, dignity, and peace of mind. This initiative is Chicago’s commitment to promote the well-being of our communities and to safeguard the rights of all Chicagoans.
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Trilogy Winter Clothing Drive 2025
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Trilogy Behavioral Healthcare is accepting donations at their Winter Clothing Drive now through February 2026! You can drop off any gently used winter clothing at their building, located at 1400 W Greenleaf Ave.
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Free Legal Services for Chicagoans
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The Criminal Justice Legal Services Initiative (CJLSI) aims to increase access to free legal services for Chicagoans who need them most right within your community areas. Led by Cabrini Green Legal Aid (CGLA) in partnership with the Department of Family and Support Services, this initiative provides vital legal education on topics such as criminal record sealing and expungement (for both adults and juveniles), constitutional rights under the 4th, 5th, and 6th Amendments, and navigating interactions with law enforcement.
If you have a criminal record or want to better understand your rights, the Criminal Justice Legal Services Initiative (CJLSI) is here to help. This free program—offered by Cabrini Green Legal Aid (CGLA) provides legal education on topics like sealing or expunging adult and juvenile records, education on your 4th, 5th, and 6th Amendment rights, and what to do when interacting with police. If you're interested in clearing your record, CGLA can also connect you with a free attorney to help start the petition process or if you are interested in having a professional come speak to your community about this topic, contact Cabrini Green Legal Services today to get started, www.cgla.net (312) 738-2452.
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Tanggol Migrante Offering Resources for Filipino Migrants
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Tanggol Migrante (Defend Migrants) Chicago is a grassroots campaign alliance dedicated to defending the rights and welfare of Filipino migrants. They do know your rights trainings, rapid response and legal defense, and organize to directly support migrants in the Midwest. Tanggol Migrante has achieved recent victories, such as the release of detained migrants Aunty Lynn and Max Lodonio.
Currently, Tanggol Migrante Chicago is campaigning to directly support 2 Filipino migrants in detention in the Midwest - Tito E and Tita R. You can learn more about them, sign on to letters of support, and donate to support legal fees and the families' living expenses.
Tito E:
- Sign onto their petition & share supportive words tinyurl.com/justice4titoe
- Donate to legal fees, bond and living expense at tinyurl.com/titoe
Tita R:
- Sign-on to the letter of support & demands at tinyurl.com/freetitar
- Donate to Tita R’s legal expenses, communications, and other necessities at tinyurl.com/tita-r
If you or someone. you know needs support or would like to volunteer with Tanggol Migrante Chicago, please contact them at 872-246-0392 or [email protected]. You can also find them on Facebook: Tanggol Migrante-Chicago.
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If you or your organization is in need of Know Your Rights resources, scan the QR code on the flyer above to request a workshop!
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Food Drive for Swedish Hospital Community Cupboard
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The Endeavor Health Swedish Hospital Community Cupboard is in need of donations for their food drive! Requested items include canned vegetables, canned chicken, peanut butter, and more. You can learn more about their food drive and other opportunities at this link.
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Opportunities to Volunteer for Our Office!
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Our office needs you! We have a variety of events coming up and will need your help! If you would like to help our office with tabling, flyering and upcoming events you can sign up to volunteer here.
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Help Senn High School Students With Work-Based Learning!
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Invest in the future of our community and connect with students at Senn High School! Senn is looking to connect our motivated students with local professionals for valuable work-based learning and career experiences.
We are compiling a directory of local professionals interested in:
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Speaking at career day events
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Mentoring students one-on-one
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Providing job shadow or internship opportunities (some students may be able to leave school up to two hours early for these experiences)
If you are eager to build partnerships and connect with talented students, please take a moment to share your interest through this quick form: https://forms.gle/FJGXnJjDXaukAqkK6
We look forward to helping students find success within our community. For questions, please reach out to Dr. Fink at [email protected]
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Volunteer to be a Partner In Learning Tutor/Mentor!
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Now recruiting volunteers for Family Matters' Partners in Learning one-to-one tutor/mentoring program!
Adult volunteer tutors/mentors meet with their individually matched youth partner for one 90-minute session per week. All experience levels are welcome. Program staff create a personalized lesson plan for every session, and all training and materials are provided.
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Volunteering with Seniors with H.O.M.E
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Do you enjoy bringing joy to older adults and their families? Come and volunteer with H.O.M.E.!
Sharing your Time, Talent, and Joy makes all the Difference in our Intergenerational Senior Communities in Edgewater and Rogers Park. Sit and Knit, sing a song, or help our staff with a party or activity. Anyone can participate and share a talent, skill or interest in something special with our community members. H.O.M.E. may be able to provide materials if needed.
Please contact Nikki Moustafa at [email protected] or 773.262.3389
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Howard & Evanston Area Community Center Volunteer Opportunities
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Howard & Evanston Area Community Center has a variety of volunteer opportunities to help give back to our community. Their volunteer opportunities include food pantry shifts, adult education tutoring, and reading programs.
For more information and to sign up, call 773-262-6622 or click here.
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Be a Guest Chef for Seniors with H.O.M.E!
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Do you enjoy cooking? Do you enjoy bringing joy to older adults? Become a Guest Chef at H.O.M.E.!
Sharing your Time, Talent and Joy makes all the Difference in our Good Life Senior Living Communities in Edgewater and Rogers Park. Anyone can participate so bring yourself, your friends and family or your co-workers to cook for our community members (about 10-15ppl). If you need financial assistance, H.O.M.E. can provide ingredients.
Please contact Nikki Moustafa at [email protected] or 773.262.3389
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Volunteer for Animal Care and Control
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Chicago Animal Care and Control (CACC) is seeking volunteers to help connect families with pets, walk and play with dogs, care for cats, provide one-on-one enrichment, and assist at special events. All volunteers must be at least 18 years old and attend an orientation. For more information, click here.
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Nourishing Hope Needs Volunteer Drivers
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Nourishing Hope is one of the largest food pantries in Chicago that has been around for over 50 years. The Home Delivery program serves homebound folks who live in our community; many of these clients are elderly, disabled, chronically ill, and/or food insecure. Their program allows clients to receive pantry food by delivering it directly to them at their homes which eliminates barriers for them to receive fresh, quality food.
Nourishing Hope is in great need of more delivery drivers for their program. Drivers will get about 8 to 10 food orders for folks in the nearby community that need their food delivered. A typical shift lasts from about 10:30 - 12:30pm on a Saturday morning. The volunteers will show up with their car to our Hub location (located at 5151 N. Ravenswood), load up with their deliveries, and then be on their way to drop them off at each community members' house.
For more information and to sign up, please scan the above QR Code or email [email protected].
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GirlForward Seeks Volunteer Mentors
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GirlForward is seeking dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers for our Mentoring Program, which matches women mentors with girls resettled through the refugee resettlement program. As a mentor, you will be paired with a mentee in grades 9-12 and will meet with her for at least two hours per week to talk about school, relationships, and careers, and to do fun and engaging activities together. As a mentor, you will make a one-year commitment to GirlForward and will receive trainings to prepare you for this role.
To learn more and apply, click here!
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Access these resources by clicking the buttons below!
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Connect with Your Elected Officials
Want to get connected with your other elected officials? Find links to sign up to their newsletters and website information below!
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