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Neighbors,
This month has been full of action, celebration, and community care across the 26th Ward, from preparing our young people for the school year to creating safer streets to uplifting the next generation of leaders.
Connecting at Block Parties Every weekend, my team and I visit block parties across the 26th Ward, connecting with neighbors, sharing resources, and enjoying the incredible energy of our community. These visits are also an excellent opportunity for me to see you if we did not connect while walking the ward. It gives us a chance to take stock of any issues happening on your block and put in the service requests needed to address them. From family barbecues to games for the kids, these block parties remind us that strong neighborhoods are built one conversation at a time. Thank you to every host who has welcomed us into their celebration. We look forward to seeing more of you at block parties throughout the rest of the season. |
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Bloomingdale Cleanup Short Pause From conversations on your block to maintenance along our shared paths, keeping our community vibrant and safe takes all of us. My Ward Superintendent Jorge has been working hard to trim down the greenery on both sides of the Bloomingdale Trail. While he had to pause his work to join laborers in cleaning the damage of an alleged arson attack at the Division Street viaduct, he will return to finishing Bloomingdale in the next few weeks. |
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Participatory budgeting is open! Just as we invest in maintaining what we have, we also plan for the future, and you have a direct say in what comes next. I am excited to re-introduce the 26th Ward Participatory Budgeting process, which gives YOU the power to influence how our ward’s infrastructure budget is spent directly. Through PB, you can design, submit, and vote on projects that address our community’s needs, improving public spaces, expanding resources, or more. This process reflects our values of community empowerment, transparency, and equity. Submit your 2026 ideas here! |
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Last year, Moos Elementary’s playground idea won, with Central Park & Potomac’s pedestrian safety idea in second place. We are currently working with CPS to stand up Moos’ new playground. For Central Park & Potomac, we revealed a new mural in June, and the traffic calming measures are coming. This is participatory democracy in action! |
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Progressive Caucus Updates Our work in the ward is strengthened by the partnerships and ideas we share citywide, like those from our recent Progressive Caucus meeting. The most recent City Council Progressive Caucus meeting was hosted by Chicago CRED, where we met with violence reduction leaders and youth peacekeepers who have significantly contributed to reducing violence in Chicago. Since my days as a high school Dean of Students, I’ve been working closely with violence prevention organizations to understand and interrupt violence. In fact, during this meeting, some of the mentors and I shared heartfelt stories about Gwain, a student I lost to gun violence in 2019. They shared that they still keep in contact with his mom and have been providing continued emotional support to her and her youngest son since the tragedy. Chicago CRED and ALSO’s work is 10 years in the making, and it has saved countless lives. They were able to share the data from Humboldt Park that illustrates how targeted their investments are. Proud to bring their experience to the 26th Ward Community Safety Committee. |
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| Is Your Water Safe? Find Out for Free Citywide change is essential, but we can take simple, meaningful steps at home to protect our health and neighborhoods. As we work together for change at City Hall, we can take small but powerful steps at home to keep our families and communities safe. You can now request a free water lead test kit through the CHI 311 app from the comfort of your home. The kit comes with three bottles and simple instructions. After you collect your samples, schedule a pick up or drop them off, and the City will send you the results. |
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If your water shows high lead levels, the Department of Water Management will follow up with the next steps to help keep your household safe. This is a quick and powerful way to protect your health and your family’s future. |
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Cheering On Our Students and Schools from Day One As we work to keep our homes safe, we also celebrate the new school year and the people who make our classrooms strong. As we celebrate the final weekend before school starts, I thank the educational leaders, teachers, support staff, families, and students for their commitment to ensuring Chicago’s bright future! Shoutout to all my 26th Ward schools! Association House High School, Pablo Casals School of Excellence, Chicago High School for the Arts, Dr. Pedro Albizu Campos Puerto Rican High School, Erie Elementary Chart School, Funston Elementary School, Lloyd Elementary School, Lowell Elementary, Marine Leadership Academy, McAuliffe Elementary, Moos Elementary, Noble Pritzker High School, North-Grand High School, Pathways Humboldt Park, Stowe Elementary, and Yates Elementary: stand proud to represent a vibrant and resilient community! Students, Lock in! Hang in there! Stay Sharp. |
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In Solidarity,
Alderperson Jessie Fuentes |
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⛔️ Hermosa Park located at 2240 N Kilbourn is under construction and CLOSED to the public. All programming has been moved to Blackhawk Park, including day camps. For more information, call 312-746-5014. |
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Cicero Ave. Land Use Study |
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We need to hear from YOU! Please take a few minutes to complete the community survey for the Cicero Avenue Land Use Study. English and Spanish versions are available. The Department of Planning and Development, is evaluating existing conditions along Cicero Avenue between West Irving Park Road and West Grand Avenue. Encompassing 2.75 miles, the study will determine recommendations for land use improvements along the corridor that foster economic vitality, cohesion, safety and other local goals, based on input from community partners, business owners, residents and elected officials. The study area includes portions of the Portage Park and Belmont Cragin community areas. Click here to learn more. |
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| Construction season has begun! Don't forget to check out ChiStreetWork for updates on upcoming work in your neighborhood. |
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Street Sweeping Map & Schedule |
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Street Sweeping takes place between April and November. |
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Boulevard Landmark District Extension Project |
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The “Logan Square Boulevards District” is a significant part of our community's history and character. An extension of this Landmark District is currently being considered. This process typically takes 6 to 9 months and includes communication and notices throughout the process.
This project builds on decades of historic preservation work and reflects the ongoing commitment of the 26th Ward to encouraging sustainable development and maintaining the unique identity of our neighborhoods.
You can learn more about the project, review FAQs, and submit your thoughts at the26thward.org/boulevard-landmarking. |
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The 26th Ward's zoning process requires anyone requesting a zoning change to first complete a zoning intake form. After review, they present their request to the Zoning Advisory Committee and answer questions. In some cases, they may also present at a community input meeting. |
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| Updated Proposal for 3300 W Pierce – We Want Your Input!
The development team for the former Pierce Church has submitted an updated proposal to convert the building into a 26-unit apartment complex. In response to community concerns, they’ve secured 20 off-site parking spaces near the property. We’re asking neighbors for new feedback. |
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We are currently reviewing zoning change requests for the following properties. |
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1801 N. Central Park 1701 North Kimball 1751-53 N Spaulding Ave 3652 W North Ave
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| 1739 N Drake 2708 W Crystal 1616 N Saint Louis
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Be a Student Election Judge |
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| High school students, your voice matters, even before you can vote! 🗳️
Serve as a Student Election Judge in the 2026 Election and help run your local precinct. Gain leadership experience, earn community service credit, and make an impact in your community. You can also pre-register to vote at 16 so you are ready on Election Day.
Find out more |
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College Application Workshop 9/28 |
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The Care & Water Show 8/16 |
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| Care & Water Show kicks off! ❤️ Join us for a day of summer fun, second chances, & new beginnings. Every adoption means another open kennel for an animal in need.
📍 2741 S Western Ave 🕛 Saturday, August 16 | 12–6 p.m. (Arrive by 4:30 p.m. to adopt) 📸 Water backdrop • 🐶 Kiddie pools • 💦 Splash zones • ❤️ Cats & dogs ready for homes
If you can’t adopt, foster or share… because that share COULD CHANGE EVERYTHING for one of our animals. |
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| Chilombia: A Cultural Pop Up Experience 🇨🇴✨ Join us for an afternoon celebrating the vibrant blend of Chicago and Colombia! 🛍 Streetwear and Art Vendors
🎶 Sounds by DJ Escobae & Friends
🎨 Live Painting + Colombian Food Vendors 📅 Saturday, August 16
⏰ 3–7 PM
📍 Humble Bar, 3018 W. North Ave Presented by Más Colectivo and Come Correct Bae.
RSVP and be part of this one of a kind cultural experience.
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First Day of School-Pop up Health Fair - 8/18 |
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Town Hall Meeting with Congresswoman Delia Ramirez-8/19 |
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Financial Workshop - 8/20 |
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| Financial Success: Building Strong Financial Relationships For New Businesses 🎤 Presenter: Jeanette Torres, Vice President and Bank Manager 📅 WORKSHOP DETAILS: Wednesday, August 20, 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. 📍 Location: 2559 W Division St, Chicago, IL 60622 🍽️ A light lunch will be provided. 💲 NO COST TO ATTEND! 📞 Contact: 939-644-9004 🌐 https://sbdcprcc.org |
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HNA Presents: Workshop 4200 Open House and the Hermosa Children's Market – Where kids learn to be their own bosses! 📅 Friday, August 23, 2025 Join us for a day filled with creativity and empowerment at Workshop 4200—the perfect space to connect with neighbors, explore local art studios, and discover what makes our community thrive. 🔗 More information and free registration on Eventbrite:
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| 🎨 Join us for the Battle4TheCity Mural Festival!
Experience a day of art, culture, and community along the Bloomingdale Trail between Kedzie and Humboldt Boulevard. 🗓 Saturday, August 23, 2025
🕗 8 AM to 8 PM
📍 Bloomingdale Trail – Between Kedzie & Humboldt Blvd
🔗 Scan the QR code or visit www.battle4thecity.com to learn more! Hosted by Momentum Art Tech, the Bloomingdale Trail, and Alderperson Jessie Fuentes.
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First-Time Homebuyer Workshops-8/23, 8/30 |
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| First-Time Homebuyer Assistance (VIRTUAL) DATES: Session 1: Saturday, August 23, 2025 Session 2: Saturday, August 30, 2025 🕙 TIME: 10 AM – 1 PM 💻 LOCATION: Online via Zoom (open to the public) ✔️ Includes: HUD-approved Homebuyer Education Certificate. 📌 To receive the certificate, you must complete both workshop sessions and a mandatory individual counseling session. READY TO REGISTER? 📧 Email: epinto@northwestcenterchicago.org 📱 Text (preferred): 708-669-6820
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🍷 Sangria Festival Chicago celebrates 10 years! 🎉 Enjoy live music, art, food, shopping, and of course… handcrafted sangria flavors!📍 Humboldt Park 📅 August 23 & 24 🎟️ Tickets on sale now! 🔗 SangriaFestivalChicago.com 🎨 21+ | Paint, taste, and celebrate!
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Free Mammogram - No Insurance Needed 8/25 |
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| Early detection saves lives.
The Rush MD Anderson Cancer Center is offering FREE mobile mammogram screenings in Humboldt Park from August 25–29 and September 2–5, right at the Boathouse parking lot (1301 N Humboldt Dr). No insurance is required just show up if you're a woman age 40 or older. Walk-ins welcome, but appointments encouraged. 📞 Call (312) 924-3225 for more info.
🩷 Tag a friend and spread the word. our health matters!
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Veteran’s Resource Fair 9/13 |
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| Veteran’s Resource Fair at New Life Covenant Church  Date: Saturday, September 13th
 Time: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
 Location: New Life Covenant Church, 3400 W. Division
This event is a meaningful opportunity to support veterans and their families by connecting them with valuable resources. |
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| Looking for the freshest blooms in Chicago? Chicago Flower Market is a farmers market for local Midwest flowers. Stroll the market, buy yourself a bouquet, grab a bite or coffee and sing along with bilingual early childhood music duo, Little Parade. www.chiflowermarket.com
¿Buscas las flores más frescas de Chicago? Chicago Flower Market es un mercado de flores locales de esta región del país. Date una vuelta por el mercado, cómprate un ramo, cómete algo o tómate un café y canta junto con el dúo bilingue www.chiflowermarket.com Se habla Español. |
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Homeowner Exemptions Workshop-9/17 |
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🏡 Homeowner in Cook County? Don’t Miss This Workshop!
Join the Cook County Assessor’s Office on Wednesday, September 17 from 6:00–7:30 PM at the Humboldt Park Branch (1605 N Troy St) for a Homeowner Exemptions Workshop. Learn how property tax exemptions work, which ones renew automatically, and how to check if they were applied to your home. The session will also include a live Q&A, so you can get your specific questions answered. 🔍 Great for homeowners looking to understand their property taxes and save money.
📚 For more info, ask your librarian or visit chipublib.org.
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Public Safety Community Fair - 9/27 |
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| Come Celebrate Public Safety Awareness And Preparedness Month! 🎉 Free Admission 📅 Saturday, September 27, 2025 🕚 From 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. 📍 At the Public Safety Headquarters, 3510 S. Michigan Ave 📲 Scan the QR code to register: https://forms.office.com/g/8C11zcPWGW🔗 For more information about Public Safety: www.chicago.gov/PSA
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| Seniors 60+ — Need help at home?
The City of Chicago offers free chore services to help you stay safe and independent: Light help like cleaning, laundry, errands, or personal care after an illness One‑time heavy‑duty fixes like deep cleaning, clutter removal, moving furniture, or major tidying Find eligibility info and how to apply on the City’s Help In Your Home page. Or call 312-744-4016 or email aging@cityofchicago.org for more help |
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New Life Tuesdays Community Meals |
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Domestic Violence Resources |
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CEDA Utility Relief Programs |
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Seniors Community Care Program |
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Heat Resilience Policy & Program Community Survey |
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🌼 Help Keep Hermosa Beautiful! 🌼
Join your neighbors in beautifying Hermosa by adopting a traffic circle or corner! Let’s work together to keep Hermosa vibrant, safe, and welcoming!
📩 Email: info@ourhermosa.org | 🌐 ourhermosa.org | 📱 773-295-7790
Let’s make our community shine! ✨ |
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NEW Illinois Immigration Info Hub |
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Cannabis Expungement Project |
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| New Leaf Cannabis Expungement Project is a network of 17 nonprofits that helps anyone ever charged with a cannabis offense anywhere in Illinois clear eligible cannabis and non-cannabis cases from their record.
Our services are free.
New Leaf is state-funded and was formed after the Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act was passed in 2019. |
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Avoid Bird Alert: Protect Yourself & Your Pets |
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| 🐦 H5N1 Bird Flu: What You Need to Know 🦠 Protect yourself and your pets from H5N1 bird flu by avoiding contact with sick or dead birds and their droppings. If handling is necessary, wear protective gear like gloves, goggles, and an N95 mask. 🐾 Keep pets safe! Don’t let dogs or cats interact with wild birds or contaminated areas. If they come into contact, wash them immediately and monitor for symptoms. 🍗 Always cook poultry and eggs thoroughly to kill any potential virus. For more info, visit: Chicago Department of Public Health |
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City of Chicago - Know Your Rights Guide |
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The Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR) provides this Rights Card to protect you during interactions with law enforcement or immigration officials. 📞 Family Support Hotline:
Call 1-855-HELP-MY-FAMILY (1-855-435-7693) for assistance in English, Spanish, Korean, or Polish. ✅The right to remain silent. ✅The right to refuse answering questions without legal representation. ✅The right to contact an attorney or organization for help. Print and carry this card to assert your rights and ensure your safety in uncertain situations. For more information, visit www.icirr.org/family-support |
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Intake for People Experiencing Homelessness |
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| 🏠 24/7 Intake Location for People Experiencing Homelessness
For single adults in need of shelter, the Shelter Placement and Resource Center (SPARC) offers:
✅ Open 24/7 with a 200-person capacity
✅ Meals, showers, laundry, and shelter placement services
✅ On-site assistance and 3-1-1 shelter requests available around the clock
📍 Location: 2241 S. Halsted St. (S Halsted St. & W 23rd) |
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Court-Based Rental Assistance Program |
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Chicago Senior Risk Assessment Program |
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| The Chicago Seniors At Risk Assessment Program provides free fire/fall safety assessments for individuals ages 65 or over and those with a disability.
Chicago Fire Department members will assess the home for smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, as well as other fire and fall hazards.
Call to schedule an appointment. Phone: (312) 747-6691 |
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Chicago Rents connects landlords with tenants through various housing subsidy programs, offering guaranteed rent, vacancy filling, and personalized support. Created in response to COVID-19, it centralizes property partner relationships and helps Chicagoans in need of housing. If you are a landlord interested in joining the Chicago Rents program, you can click here to apply. |
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12 District Police Oversight |
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The Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA) has introduced a new and improved interactive calendar, which you can click here to access. One of the key features of this calendar is the inclusion of the yearly meeting calendar for both the Commission for Public Safety and your Local District Councils. By simply visiting this website, you can find the dates, times, and locations of all scheduled meetings. 14th Police District Council Join elected District Councilors every first Saturday of the month at 1pm to work for better police accountability, restorative justice, and evidence based approaches to public safety. |
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| HIRE360 is recruiting candidates into union trades apprenticeship program and preparing them for work opportunities in upcoming Chicago construction projects. This 8-week program is for Illinois residents 17 and a half or older that are authorized to work in the U.S., have a flexible schedule, a high school diploma or GED, a valid driver’s license and the ability to travel to various locations. More information here. |
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Ready to start your culinary career? 🍳
Impact Culinary Training is now recruiting for August 2025!
✅ No cost job training
✅ Open to young adults in Chicago’s West Side, ages 18–24
✅ 8 weeks of kitchen training
✅ 4 week paid internship
Apply today at www.impactculinary.org/apply-now or scan the QR code to get started.
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| Chicago Board of Elections is HIRING!
Various full-time positions avilable.
Apply by sending your resume to HR@CHICAGOELECTIONS.GOV
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| OEMC currently has four job postings on the City’s website ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Salary: $50,424 Annually Job Posting:Jun 12, 2025 | Requisition ID:410015 GENERAL SUPERINTENDENT OF SPECIAL TRAFFIC SERVICES Salary: $94,992 Annually Job Posting:Jun 9, 2025 | Requisition ID:409282 TRAFFIC CONTROL AIDE-HOURLY Salary: $22.04 Job Posting:Mar 19, 2025 | Requisition ID:411598
Apply HERE |
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| Ready for a new career?
GWTP has trained over 2,000 people for good jobs with real career paths. No high school diploma or GED required, and programs are free for eligible applicants.
✔️ Short-term training
✔️ Industry certifications
✔️ Job placement support
✔️ Background friendly
✔️ Transportation and other services included
📲 Call 312-563-9570 to schedule a tour or register online today!
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| Are you a skilled and passionate healthcare professional looking to make a meaningful impact in the community? Humboldt Park Health (HPH) is seeking dedicated Physicians and Advanced Practice Nurses (APNs) to join our team.
View open position HERE |
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| Click Here to view and apply for Chicago Department of Public Health jobs |
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If you know someone looking for reproductive justice resources in Chicago, they can go to this Department of Public Health resource page to use the City’s digital community resource directory. There is also a free talkline (1-888-493-0092) where operators are available to share information on various reproductive justice options. |
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| If you need assistance with a city service, let us know! You can submit your request through our website, by giving us a call, or submitting a request directly to 311.chicago.gov. Our team is here to provide the support you need and ensure our community thrives. |
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Requirements:
HS diploma or equivalent
