| 33RD WARD WEEKLY NEWSLETTER - June 26, 2026 |
|
| Translate // Traducir // 번역하다 |
|
| Dear 33rd Ward Community, |
|
| The two driving forces for my approach to public safety have consistently involved approaching it through a harm reduction lens in which we address the humanity of all people, and that we implement policies based on verifiable evidence. This is what inspired me to champion the Treatment Not Trauma campaign, which has helped us to create and expand the Crisis Assistance Response and Engagement (CARE) program where the city will send mental health specialists to respond to mental and behavioural health emergencies.
This week at City Hall, I was able to participate in two conversations related to public safety: a subject matter hearing hosted by my colleague Alderperson Jessie Fuentes in the Council’s Subcommittee on Youth Employment related to the topic of “teen trends,” and the signing of an Executive Order to establish the Mayor’s Office of Gun Violence Reduction (OGVR).
The subject matter hearing centered the lived experiences of young people, moving beyond the simplification of “good kids and bad kids”. Our young neighbors took time to communicate their own needs, such as more places to gather together with other young people and opportunities to be creative and have their ideas invested in. The hearing highlighted the fact that many young people in Chicago have nowhere to be together with their peers, and these “teen trends” highlight the extreme need for more investment in youth-centered spaces and youth-focused programming in our neighborhoods.
I recall my time as a teacher at Pedro Albizu Campos High School, working with youth who could be classified as “bad kids”. But when you sat down with them and listened to their struggles, it was heartbreaking to hear the burdens they had to carry. At Pedro Albizu, we would bear witness to their struggle and support them as best we could. By providing them with that support, those kids classified as “bad” are now doing really great in life.
What we need now is to invest in our youth, and provide more opportunities for mentorship. What we don’t need is more punishment and criminalization of young people who are simply in need of support, encouragement, and guidance. This is what our City Council has the responsibility to provide.
Humanizing and evidence-based leadership is exactly why I was honored to support the Executive Order establishing the Office of Gun Violence Reduction (OGVR). I worked through my first term advocating for this important work, uplifting the organizing that has been taking place for over a decade. Community members, faith leaders, and more have called on the city to create a permanent structure dedicated to preventing violence and coordinating violence reduction efforts across government.
The OGVR will serve as Chicago’s central coordinating entity for violence prevention, violence intervention, victim services, community safety investments, and gun violence reduction initiatives. The Office is intended to institutionalize Chicago’s community-centered public safety strategy and serve as a transition body for a future Department of Gun Violence Prevention. While violence reduction programs currently exist across multiple departments, no office currently has clear authority to align strategy, coordinate investments, oversee implementation, measure outcomes, and drive accountability across the entire enterprise. Congratulations to all of the organizers that have fought for this, and thanks to Major Johnson for his leadership.
This was also a wonderful week as our ward was able to celebrate Flavors of Albany Park! We are so grateful to the North River Commission for organizing the 17th annual culinary tour of our beautiful neighborhood. And thank you to all the amazing business that participated and visitors who went restaurant to restaurant tasting their way through Albany Park.
We also had a special guest this year: Mayor Brandon Johnson! It was such a pleasure showing him around and introducing him to neighbors and local businesses, showing off all the diversity, community, and culinary wonder that we have to offer.
Last but not least, this weekend marks the anniversary of the Stonewall Riot, which is considered by many to be the start of the gay rights movement in the United States. This particular demonstration evolved into what we now know as the Pride Parades. You can learn more about the history of Stonewall Inn through one of many documentaries including The Life and Death of Marsha P. Johnson on Netflix or the PBS documentary called Stonewall Uprising.
I hope everyone enjoys a safe and fun Pride this weekend and I’ll see you there! |
|
| Thank you for doing this work with me. Please take a moment this week to help out a neighbor in need. You can always contact my office if you have any questions. We are here to help.
In solidarity, Rossana Rodríguez Sánchez 33rd Ward Alderperson |
|
| 33rd Ward Spring resources: Clean and Greens: Please email [email protected] to request resources to help clean up your block, like garbage bags, grippers, and gloves. Street Sweeping began April 1. You can view our interactive sweeping schedule and map by clicking here. To apply for a block party permit, please fill out this form. You can also get small whistle kits for your neighbors if you wish to include them in your block party festivities to encourage safety and support in your community during these difficult times. To apply for a yard sale, please stop by our office or fill out this form.
|
|
| | 33RD WARD OFFICE INFORMATION |
|
| | | | Event details are listed in the newsletter below. June 29 — Neighbor Night will be at our ward office, 4747 N Sawyer Ave. Appointments with the alderwoman available by email at [email protected] from 4:30-5:45pm.
July 11 — Clean & Green with our ward staff and neighbors! Stop by anytime from 9am - 11am at the corner of Bernard St and Ainslie St.
July 16 — Join us for a special office hours event with State Senator Graciela Guzmán! We will have a joint event to discuss Snap Benefits, All Kids and Familycare health programs, Dept of Aging programs, and more!
|
|
| | | Seasonal Tree Care Tips from the Urban Forestry Advisory Board Education Working Group Show Your Trees Some Love: Mulch Like a Donut, Not a Volcano
Proper mulching is one of the simplest ways to care for a tree. Follow the 3-3-3 Rule: apply mulch 3 inches deep, in a 3-foot-wide circle, while keeping it 3 inches away from the trunk. This creates a donut-shaped mulch ring that helps trees thrive.
A properly mulched tree benefits from improved moisture retention, moderated soil temperatures, reduced weed competition, and protection from damage caused by lawnmowers and string trimmers.
Avoid creating "mulch volcanoes" by piling mulch against the trunk. Excess mulch around the base of a tree can trap moisture against the bark, encourage decay, promote circling roots, and create conditions favorable to pests and diseases.
Spending a few minutes flattening a mulch volcano into a donut-shaped ring can help prevent common tree health issues and support long-term growth.
Watering Reminder for Newly Planted Trees
Newly planted trees need regular watering to establish strong, healthy root systems and give them the best chance of long-term survival—especially during dry periods and drought conditions.
To support healthy growth and establishment, provide 10–15 gallons of water each week at the base of the tree—about 2–3 five-gallon buckets. Water slowly and deeply so the moisture penetrates the soil and reaches the developing roots rather than running off the surface. During drought periods, watering can also help established trees stay healthy.
Consistent watering during the first few years after planting is one of the most important steps you can take to help your tree thrive.
More information can be found here. |
|
| Hantavirus Information For ChicagoansCDPH is monitoring the recent cruise ship outbreak of Andes strain hantavirus, along with our local and national partners. None of the passengers from the cruise ship outbreak will be returning to Illinois, and the risk to Chicagoans remains very low. The Andes strain of hantavirus is the only strain known to transmit from person-to-person, and the rodents known to carry the Andes strain do not live in the United States. The state of Illinois has reported 7 cases of hantavirus since 1993; none were the Andes strain, and none were in a Chicago resident.
In the U.S., hantavirus generally spreads from the droppings of the deer mouse. The best way to avoid hantavirus is to avoid contact with rodent urine, droppings, saliva, and nesting materials. If you have mice or rats in your home, clean up after them safely using gloves and disinfectant. CDPH continually monitors for 70+ different infectious diseases, including hantavirus, and coordinates with state, local, and national public health partners to prepare for emerging infectious diseases - visit the CDPH website to learn more. |
|
| Ronan Park UpdatesIn March, we have received many residents from the former Legion Park encampment into our ward as they wait for their assigned housing. I understand that this encampment has caused great concern for many neighbors. When this community moved into our local park, my office began working in close, daily collaboration with many local organizations, mutual aid groups, nonprofit agencies, and government partners to ensure that our neighbors most in need receive the care, attention, and resources they deserve.
For updates, please check in on our website. |
|
| Cars in AlleysWe recognize that you may sometimes need to temporarily station your vehicle in an alley to load/unload things. However, it is illegal to park a car in an alley. Please be aware of when your garbage days are so that you do not prevent the sanitation workers from picking up your garbage. We are providing a map to help find when your block has garbage pickup! |
|
| Immigrant Rights and Deportation Defense Resources: If you see immigration enforcement or suspect immigration enforcement, first call the Family Support Network (FSN) at 855-435-7693. We encourage you to save this number in your phone. |
|
| Foster Bus Service Extension#92 Foster: You can now travel westbound later on the weekends as service has been extended through 10:30 p.m. Eastbound weekend service has also been extended until 9:55 p.m. on Saturdays and 9:50 p.m. on Sundays/holidays.Sundays/holidays begin service at 5:00 a.m. |
|
| VOLUNTEER WITH THE WARD OFFICE |
|
| Volunteer with the 33rd Ward OfficeJoin us in strengthening our community! We are excited to offer a range of community engagement opportunities with our office. Whether you’re passionate about connecting neighbors or eager to make a positive impact, we’d love for you to volunteer with us. Help us build bridges and foster a stronger, more connected community. Your involvement can make a real difference.
Our office maintains several programs for neighbors to come together to care for each other and to learn about resources available to our communities. You can sign up to volunteer with our office by filling out our volunteer form by clicking here. |
|
| | Irving Park Community Food PantryIrving Park Community Food Pantry provides food to neighbors in need in the 60641 and 60618 zip codes. In addition to providing clients a 3-5 day food supply of fresh produce, dairy, bread, meat, and canned goods. They provide toiletries, pet food and diapers, and offer special distributions such as a coat drive, school supplies, holiday gifts, and homebound deliveries.
The food pantry also needs volunteers for these distributions, so stop on by to lend a hand! We are losing two volunteers and will need to find new recruits to fill the gaps.
Volunteering would be once a month from 7:30am - 9:30am to help bag groceries.
4256 N Ridgeway Ave Open: Wednesdays, 9am - 12pm and the second Tuesday of each month from 6pm - 7pm. Wednesday, June 24 Wednesday, July 29 Wednesday, August 26 |
|
|
Join the Whistle Alert Response Network (WARN)Looking for a lower-risk way to help protect your neighbors from ICE?
The Northwest Side Rapid Response Network is launching a new neighborhood-based, people powered alert system. To join the Whistle Alert Response Network (WARN), download the Telegram app on your phone. Then, join the channel using this link.
How does WARN work? We are increasingly seeing ICE agents staking out our communities before they begin detaining people. As soon as our teams confirm the presence of agents/ vehicles, we’ll send notice to the Whistle Alert Response Network (WARN) on Telegram.
When you get a WARN alert in your immediate area, go outside and walk around your block, blowing a whistle. This will warn at-risk neighbors that ICE is nearby.
Once you’ve warned your neighbors, get inside to safety BEFORE ICE activity begins. WARN is not rapid response; it complements the work that trained rapid responders are already doing by creating a lower-risk way for anyone in our community to proactively warn neighbors that immigration agents are in the area.
Only administrators can send messages to the WARN channel; administrators are all vetted and trained leads within Northwest Side Rapid Response Network.
Join WARN today to help keep our neighbors safe, here.
WARN is open to everyone, so please don't hesitate to share. 
|
|
| | | Community Driven Zoning and Development
Please follow our Facebook and other social media accounts for the most up to date notices on public meetings and input surveys regarding zoning changes in the ward. You can also regularly check our Zoning page on our website by clicking here. |
|
| Current Proposals in Review
3007-11 W Irving Park Rd– Project Website Status: Community Meeting will be held Date: TBA Application Type: Type 1 Change Request: B3-1 to B3-3
3446 W Irving Park Rd– Project Website Status: Community Meeting will be held Date: TBA Application Type: Type 1 Change Request: B3-1 to B3-3
4634-36 N Avers Ave– Project Website Status: Feedback is in Review Application Type: Type 1 Change Request: RS-3 to RT-4 |
|
| Irving Park Road Study Surveys - Community and Business The Department of Planning and Development has launched two surveys for the Irving Park Road Study as a follow-up to last month's open house.
The community survey, which is open to anyone who resides, works, studies, or travels along Irving Park Road, shares key findings from the first phase of the study and asks for input on priorities moving forward. The business survey, which is open to business owners who are currently operating or interested in operating on Irving Park Road, invites participants to share more about their experience along the corridor.
Both surveys are available on the Irving Park Road Study website (Chicago.gov/IrvingPark) and will be open through Wednesday, June 24. |
|
| | INFRASTRUCTURE ANNOUNCEMENTS |
|
|
You can report any major debris or trash collection issues to 3-1-1 or give our ward office a call for assistance.
We also appreciate all of the outreach we are receiving about neighbors wanting supplies to start helping to clean up. If you are in need of large trash bags or trash grabbers, please reach out.
Street Sweeping season will officially begin on April 1st. Here is the interactive map our Ward Superintendent made to keep track of scheduled street sweepings! |
|
| ChiStreetWorksWondering what construction is taking place near you? Try the ChiStreetWork tool which allows you to view all the construction work happening anywhere in Chicago. The ChiStreetWork tool allows you to view all the active and permitted construction work taking place near you. You are also able to opt into updates to receive real-time notifications related to construction work. |
|
| Grid-Based Tree TrimmingCurrent Grid Area: N044, W032
4400-4700 N St Louis (Block)
4400 N Bernard (Block)
4500 N Drake (Block)
The Bureau of Forestry is no longer receiving individual tree trimming requests and has shifted to a grid-based maintenance schedule similar to the street sweeping schedule. You can view the map here. If you’re worried about the immediate safety of the area around a given tree due to its conditions, you can reach out to 311 or our office so the appropriate service request can be made.
|
|
| | ANNOUNCEMENTS AND RESOURCES |
|
| Neighbors in NeedWe are currently accepting donations of any non-perishable food items, including bottled water. As the summer heat sets in, we anticipate more of our neighbors visiting our office for relief from the heat. Many of whom may be unhoused neighbors also in need of a meal. As always, thank you for your kindness, generosity, and solidarity.
|
|
| Job Opening with Cook County Assessor’s Office |
|
| | Bickerdike Apartment OpeningsFor 58 years, Bickerdike has been a member-based, nonprofit community development corporation working for the development of communities on the northwest side of Chicago.
Bickerdike works with our residents, members, other organizations, and key stakeholders who share our vision that the community should control its destiny.
Applications open for some newly available apartments at 9am on Monday, June 29. Please apply here. |
|
| |
Horner Park Neighbors Block Party Join Horner Park Neighbors for our annual Block Party on Saturday, June 27, from 3:00–10:00 PM on the 4100 block of North Mozart! This free neighborhood celebration brings residents together for an afternoon and evening of fun, featuring a 22-foot water slide, lawn games, music, pizza, and plenty of opportunities to meet your neighbors.
Guests are encouraged to bring a favorite side dish, snack, or dessert to share as we celebrate the community spirit that makes Horner Park such a special place to live. Horner Park Neighbors is a volunteer-led organization, and donations are appreciated to help support future neighborhood events and programming. Come out, make new connections, and help us build a stronger neighborhood—better together! |
|
| |
Call All Artists and Performers The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is excited to announce the expansion of its arts program to support new opportunities for temporary art installations, performances, and cultural activations across the transit system. Through this new initiative, CTA is seeking to fund organizations, artists, and performers up to $50,000 to create community-driven temporary exhibits and programming. The goal of the program is to create more welcoming, vibrant, and engaging station environments while reflecting the character of surrounding communities. Proposals are being accepted for 2026 activations at the following stations: Applications are now open and due Wednesday, July 1. Apply here. |
|
|
Concordia Place Teen Leadership Programs
Concordia Place Teen Leadership programs is excited to offer our summer program for teens 13-17 years old - Emerging Leaders! The Emerging Leaders program is FREE for teens!
The Emerging Leaders program takes place from June 15 - August 6 — that's 8 weeks of programming! We will meet Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from 10:00am-3:00pm.
Register here. |
|
| | Ronan Park Gateway — Ribbon CuttingJoin the Chicago Park District for the ribbon cutting of the newly-renovated Ronan Park Sculpture Park & Healing Garden! Following the ribbon cutting, please join us for a tour of the Global Gardens and the improvements along River Park.
Wednesday, July 8 @ 5:30pm 2900 W Lawrence Ave |
|
| | Brain Health & Fitness DemonstrationYou’re invited to a free Brain Health & Fitness Demonstration at JASC on Thursday, July 9, 6–7 p.m. at 5700 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago. Participants will learn how movement supports memory and brain health and try simple, safe chair exercises, plus a brief fall risk screening with personalized tips.
Thursday, July 9 6:00 - 7:00pm 5700 N Lincoln Ave Register here |
|
| | Chicago Mayor’s Youth SummitDo you know any young people with big ideas and a passion for making a difference? We are excited to announce that registration is now open for the 2026 Youth Voice, Real Change Summit, hosted by the Mayor's Youth Commission!
This dynamic event invites young Chicagoans ages 14-19 to come together for an inspiring afternoon of youth-led discussion, networking and opportunities to make their voices heard.
Event Details
Event Schedule 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Lunch + Networking Hour 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM | Youth Voice, Real Change Summit 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM | Resource Fair
Lunch, snacks and drinks will be provided. Bonus: Youth attendees will have a chance to win 4-day general admission Lollapalooza wristbands!
Any interested youth must register by July 17. Space is limited. |
|
| | Impact for Equity — Property Tax AppealsThe property tax appeal system in Cook County is complex and difficult to navigate, so few homeowners appeal and even fewer succeed. Impact for Equity has developed a set of checklists and resources to simplify the process and empower homeowners to challenge inequitable property tax practices. (Available in English, Spanish, Chinese, and Tagalog at this website.) |
|
| My CHI. My Future: Get Into Summer 2026On behalf of the Mayor's Office Education and Youth Services team, check out the Get Into Summer 2026 flyer which highlights multiple helpful youth resources and opportunities lasting throughout the summer, and we hope it can be a helpful tool as you communicate with community and residents about what is available for youth this summer.
In collaboration with the Mayor's Office of Community Safety team, the Mayor's Office is consistently updating the My CHI. My Future website and mobile app with community safe space events, open safe spaces for youth, summer opportunities, jobs, and resources on a daily basis. As it stands, the My CHI. My Future. Digital resources currently have over 8,000 youth opportunities available.
You can easily see safe spaces supported by MOCS, EDYS and others here as well as overall summer events here. The My CHI. My Future. mobile app includes interactive maps to view these opportunities as well.
|
|
| | Get Medicaid FactsThe Cook County Medicaid Impact Workgroup, a coalition convened by Cook County Health, has launched “Get Medicaid Facts," a new website and communications toolkit designed to help people understand upcoming changes to Medicaid eligibility and what steps they can take now to keep their coverage. These resources come at a critical time. Federal policy changes are expected to significantly impact Medicaid, and an estimated 400,000 Illinois residents could lose coverage in the coming years if they are not prepared or informed.
https://getmedicaidfacts.com/ |
|
| Gather Together Free Meal Neighbors cooking and eating together each 2nd Friday 5:30pm - 7:00pm Located in Christ Lutheran Church basement, 4541 N Spaulding |
|
| Horner Park Brew FestFor local craft beer lovers, the wait is almost over. Tickets are now on sale for the summer's big event: the 8th Annual Craft Brew Festival in Horner Park on Friday evening, July 17th. Sponsored by the Horner Park Advisory Council, The Horner Brew Fest is the largest of its kind on the northwest side of Chicago – this year featuring 40 local craft brewers, live music and an array of food trucks.
Save the Date: Friday, July 17, 2026; 6-10 PM. For more information, visit the Horner BrewFest website.
The last four festivals have sold out so don't wait too long to secure your admission. Tickets are available on Eventbrite: |
|
| | | | Our 33rd Ward Office maintains resources pages on our website as a helpful starting point for anyone that needs support. We are also available by phone call or email to help you explore any options that work best for you.
If for any reason our office is unavailable, please call 2-1-1 or visit www.211metrochicago.org. 2-1-1 is a hotline that is staffed 24/7 by trained resources navigators to help you find information and programs related to a wide variety of needs including utility billing relief and housing assistance. |
|
| Albany Park Mutual Aid - Free StoreLocated at 3000 W. Lawrence
Hours: Mondays 5-9pm, Wednesdays 5-9pm, Saturdays 12-4pm
You can learn more about Albany Park Mutual Aid, support their work, or find help at www.albanyparkmutualaid.com. |
|
| The 33rd Ward Office Has a Notary on Staff
If you are in need of notary services, our team is happy to help. Please reach out to [email protected] or give us a call at 773-840-7880 to set up an appointment. |
|
| Free Narcan and Drug Test Strips Available at Our Ward Office
They are available free of charge by visiting our office at 4747 N Sawyer Ave. |
|
| Free Gun Safety Locks Available at Our Ward OfficeLocks are available free of charge by visiting our office at 4747 N Sawyer Ave. |
|
| Connect with our local Chamber of CommerceSign up for the Albany Park Chamber of Commerce newsletter by clicking here. |
|
| | Monthly Newsletter for “Service Members, Veterans, their Families, and Supporters”We are happy to feature the following community-managed resources guides for service members, veterans, their families, and supporters including events and services for veterans in Chicago and surrounding municipalities. Please email: [email protected] to be added to their monthly emails. You can view this month’s updates, a calendar, and fliers by clicking here. |
|
| | | Meet our 33rd Ward Office Staff Jonathan Nagy, Chief of Staff John Cruz-Barcenas, Deputy Chief of Staff Rebecca Rios, Director of Zoning Abraham Espino, Neighborhood and Business Services Coordinator Camila Garcia, Neighborhood Services Intake Coordinator Ariana Aguilar, Neighborhood Services Representative Eric Ramos, Ward Superintendent
|
|
| | |
|
|
|
| |
|
