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WARD SERVICE OFFICE
1447 W. MORSE AVE
CHICAGO, IL 60626
773-338-5796
www.49thward.org
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Neighbors,
Alderwoman Hadden is on medical leave through the end of 2025 following her hysterectomy in mid-November. She is on pace for her recovery and appreciates all the well-wishes she has received from everyone to date.
This week's newsletter includes important updates on property tax bills, including an appeals workshop the 49th Ward is partnering with the Board of Review to host on December 9. More details on the workshop are below in the ward updates section.
2026 budget negotiations are still underway. This week, Mayor Johnson issued a memo responding to potential amendments put forward by 23 alders last week. Committee meetings scheduled for Monday in the Committee on Finance and the Committee on Budget have been canceled as the Johnson administration, the Office of Budget and Management, and City Council continue talks on how to close the historic $1.18 billion budget gap. The legislative team is following budget discussions closely and will share updates as they become available.
In Alderwoman Hadden's 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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The New 400 Has a New Operator!
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Before the New 400 Theater closed in 2023, Alderwoman Hadden and our team supported multiple community-driven efforts to keep it open. Community programming, alternate uses for the space - every option was explored. After it closed, we continued to work closely with the building owner and former operator to respond to the community's wishes to reopen the theater!
We contacted independent theater operators all around the country to find someone who might be able to make our dreams come true. We worked with the building owners to think outside the box and gave input and support to several proposals. We're so excited to have one of those proposals make the cut.
Jordan Stancil brings with him years of experience from operating small, family-owned theaters in Michigan. He plans to revamp our local movie theater and bring in new projection technology. We're thrilled to have someone of his experience and vision choose Rogers Park and our theater for this new business. Make sure to give the rebranded The 400 Theater a follow on Facebook to stay in the loop on updates and the timeline for its re-opening!
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49th Ward Resident James Kern Receives
United Nations Association's 2025 Global Goals Award for Vine Trellis Project
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Network 49's James Kern was awarded the United Nations Association's 2025 Global Goals Award this week for his vine trellis project! The project was recognized for advancing the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Chicago by building a more sustainable, equitable, and united world.
James Kern has spearheaded the vine trellis project to document the beneficial climate mitigation effects of using “green” or “living” walls. Kern has partnered with a local school, Jordan Community School, to demonstrate the impact this can have right in our own backyard. The data generated by this project will help continue conversations on how we can effectively combat the impacts of rising temperatures driven by climate change.
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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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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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Live Love Shop Rogers Park this Holiday Season!
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Join the Rogers Park Business Alliance (RPBA) as it launches its annual Live Love Shop Rogers Park rebate program. This program encourages people to shop local for the holiday season while providing them with the opportunity to save big. Collect $150 or more in receipts from at least 4 different independently-owned businesses in Rogers Park between Saturday, November 26, and Saturday, December 31, and receive a $50 rebate (or a $75 rebate for collecting $200 in receipts).
Click here for details on the Live Love Shop Rogers Park rebate program.
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Board of Review Analyst Day December 9
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The Cook County Board of Review reopened the Rogers Park Township for property tax assessment appeals this week, which includes all of the 49th. The window to appeal will close next Friday, December 12. Successfully lowering your property's assessed value could result in tax relief in subsequent bills.
My office is partnering with the Board of Review, Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth, and Alderwoman Clay to host a property tax appeal workshop on Tuesday, December 9, from 5 pm to 8 pm at the Broadway Armory, 5917 N. Broadway. Up to ten Board of Review analysts will be on site to assist property owners with filing an appeal.
In addition to filing an appeal, 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.
Many property owners saw significant increases in their assessed values after the Rogers Park Township underwent its triennial reassessment in 2024. 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.
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Cook County Treasurer Launches Property Tax Payment Plan to Ease Financial Burden Ahead of Holidays
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Property owners unable to pay their tax bills in full by December 15th can opt into the Cook County Treasurer's free online financial planning tool to make smaller, more manageable payments over time. The Payment Plan Calculator:
- Set up a schedule to pay off a tax bill in smaller increments instead of all at once.
- Choose between making payments once or twice a month.
- Create a personalized plan for catching up on delinquent taxes if you owe more than $100.
And you don’t have to wait to sign up. You can register now at cookcountytreasurer.com. For more instructions, visit the Cook County Treasurer's website here.
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PB49: The Results are In!
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The votes are in for our 2025 Participatory Budgeting Cycle!
$540,000 will be allocated to street and alley resurfacing and sidewalk repairs. This figure is determined by taking an average of all the combined votes. The remaining funds will go to fund the top four projects: a nature play area at Kilmer School, more benches throughout the ward, sand fencing at Hartigan Beach, and bump-outs at New Field Elementary. The runner-up project for this year's cycle is resurfacing the tennis courts at Touhy Park.
Thank you to everyone who voted. I also want to give a special thank you to all of our dedicated volunteers, who spent time researching, developing, and finalizing so many wonderful proposals.
For more information on this year's cycle, visit the 49th Ward website at 49thward.org/pb49-cycle15.
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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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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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DWM Sewer Rehabilitation Work
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Neighbors, please be advised that the Department of Water Management (DWM) began 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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Rogers Park Taproom & Coffeehouse Now Offering Food
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The Rogers Park Taproom and Coffee House is now offering a full menu featuring appetizers, sandwich baskets, salads, and more. View their whole menu using this link or stop in to see what they have cooking in their kitchen. Have a taste of the local restaurant scene at Rogers Park Taproom and Coffee House while supporting small businesses this season.
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Shop Jarvis Square Holiday Market Today
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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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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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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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Businesses & Workers KYR Event December 9
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The Committee on Immigrant & Refugee Rights, along with my office, the United African Organization, ARISE Chicago, United Church of Rogers Park, and the office of 46th Ward Alderwoman Angela Clay, are partnering to host a virtual Know Your Rights training for businesses and workers, moderated in English. You can sign up to attend this training at this link.
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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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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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CDPH Vaccine Event December 8
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The Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) will be hosting a vaccine pop-up event this coming Monday, December 8th, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Vivent Health (5537 N Broadway). This event is being produced in partnership with CDPH and Rush. They will provide MPOX, Flu, and COVID-19 vaccines at no cost. Vaccines are available to the general public. An additional date for those receiving MPOX will be scheduled for second doses. HIV and Hep C testing will also be available.
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OEMC Winter Preparation Tips
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The Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) encourages residents to be prepared for the Winter Season. Public safety is the top priority, and staying safe during the winter months requires taking steps now to winterize our homes and cars and prepare our families when the cold, wind, ice, and snow come our way. You can find the warming center nearest you by visiting the Warming Center Portal (https://buff.ly/eVOZg7i)
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Sidewalk Shoveling Requirements
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As a reminder to all residents and businesses, per the Municipal Code of Chicago, property owners and occupants are responsible for keeping sidewalks clear of snow and ice. Many of our neighbors rely on walking and public transportation as their primary way to get around the city. Without a wide, clear path through the snow and ice, it makes it difficult for pedestrians (especially people with disabilities, seniors, and children) to walk to their destination safely.
If you have a neighbor who needs assistance clearing the sidewalk, pitch in to help out!
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Become an Election Judge for the March 17 Primary Election
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Are you interested in being a poll worker for the March 17, 2026, Midterm Primary Election? Go to pollworker.chicagoelections.gov to learn more and apply. You must be a US citizen and a registered voter in Cook County - and you can earn up to $230 for your service. If you are bilingual in Spanish, Chinese, Hindi, Polish, Korean or Tagalog, the Board of Elections is requesting your support. Do you know a high school junior or senior with a GPA above 3.0 and an interest in government? Let them know they can serve as an election judge and see how democracy works from behind the polling place curtain.
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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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Reminder: Winter Routes Began December 1st
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As a reminder, winter overnight parking bans began in the City on 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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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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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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Gale Community Academy's Holiday Toy Drive
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Are you looking to make a difference this holiday season? Gale Community Academy (1631 W Jonquil) is holding a holiday toy drive, accepting donations for its pre-K through 4th-grade students now through December 16th. They are accepting a variety of gifts this season, all of which you can find in the flyer. Questions? Contact 773-534-2100 or [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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Black Student Achievement Committee Currently Accepting Applications
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The Board of Education for the City of Chicago (Board) Black Student Achievement Committee (BSAC) is currently accepting membership applications. The BSAC will appoint 14 members to each serve a 1-year term. Applicants must reside within the city of Chicago and, if selected, complete the CPS New Volunteer Application.
Those who successfully complete the volunteer application will complete an onboarding process before their names are released publicly. Committee onboarding includes, but is not limited to, participation in CPS’ Mandated Reporter, Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), Open Meetings Act (OMA), and Ethics trainings. The BSAC plans to appoint its new members in early 2026.
Apply online beginning Monday, Nov. 24 to Monday, Dec. 15, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. Click HERE to access the application.
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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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ONE Northside and Communities Partnering 4 Peace will be holding a toy drive this holiday season for kids impacted by gun violence, and you can help! Order gifts for kids ages newborn to 16 years old online and ship them directly to arrive before December 11th, drop off at ONE Northside (4750 N Sheridan, Ste 200) on December 13 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., or donate directly to their team at bit.ly/cp4pgive.
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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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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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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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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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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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