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Neighbors,
This week has stretched my office in many different directions. From the mid-year budget committee meetings, to activate our NWS Rapid Response Team daily, to hosting property tax appeals, we’ve been all over the Ward. |
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Immigration Know Your Rights As you may know, this week the Supreme Court overturned the a federal judge’s order that had prohibited federal agents in Los Angeles from stopping people and questioning them about their immigration status solely on interpretation of their ethnicity. We were able to address the impacts of this harmful change during our Know Your Rights training in partnership with City Council’s Committee on Immigration & Refugee Rights. While 103 people learned about the ongoing changes, we know that there are so many more questions left unanswered. See below for more information on immigration rights and how you can contribute. |
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Cook County Commissioner Jessica Vásquez Property Tax Appeals Shout out to Cesareo for assisting 16 homeowners on their property tax appeals! Jefferson Township is still open, so if you need assistance, schedule a visit the 8th District office by calling 312-603-6386. |
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Free Mobile Mammograms in Humboldt Park Help 219 Women Access Lifesaving Screenings |
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Thanks to a strong community partnership, 219 women in Humboldt Park received free mammogram screenings earlier this month through the Rush MD Anderson Cancer Center’s mobile unit. Despite a few equipment challenges early on, the event was a major success, connecting women not only to breast cancer screening, but also to Rush’s personalized breast and lunch cancer risk assessment program. Many participants also signed up for cervical cancer screenings through their partner, Equal Hope.
This effort shows the power of community. Signage and social media spread the word, but is was the local organizations and neighbors who made sure women knew these screenings were available. Screenings save lives only when people can access them, and this event proved what’s possible when institutions and the community work together. |
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Young Lords at DePaul Art Museum On Thursday, I had the chance to attend the opening of Tengo Lincoln Park en mi Corazón: Young Lords in Chicago at the DePaul Art Museum (935 W. Fullerton Ave). Curated by DePaul professor Dr. Jacqueline Lazú, the exhibit tells the story of how the Young Lords grew into a powerful civil rights movement, fighting gentrification and urban renewal in Lincoln Park and lifting up Puerto Rican identity through art, photography, and community organizing. A community legend, Carlos Flores, also has work featured in the show, alongside powerful new pieces by artists like Sam Kirk and Rebel Betty. It’s a moving reminder of how our history shapes the struggles we continue today. The exhibit runs from September 11, 2025 through February 8, 2026. I hope you’ll make time to see it! |
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In Solidarity,
Alderperson Jessie Fuentes |
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KYR Community Canvass Every Wednesday |
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Join our offices every Wednesday to distribute Know Your Rights materials with neighbors. Register at bit.ly/kyrcanvass4th
To share possible ICE sightings, call ICIRR’s Family Support 24-hour Hotline at 855-435-7693
Want General Updates? Sign up for our newsletter at bit.ly/NWSupdates |
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Cicero Avenue Land Study Open House 9/16 |
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 Share your ideas to help shape the future of Cicero Avenue! Join us and the Chicago Department of Planning and Development for a community open house for the Cicero Avenue Land Use Study.
 Tuesday, September 16
 6–8 p.m.
 Lloyd Elementary School, 2103 N. Lamon Ave
This study will develop recommendations for land use improvements that support economic vitality, safety, and other local priorities—guided by input from community partners, business owners, residents, and elected officials. Learn more at Chicago.gov/CiceroAve |
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| Meet Alma from Alma’s Way 🗓️ Saturday, September 20 ⏰ 10:30am to 2:30pm on 📍 Humboldt Park Field House
1440 N. Humboldt Blvd
Learn about places families can explore throughout Chicago via public transportation, like the local park district, forest preserve, theatre, planetarium, zoo, culinary school, and more! Participate in educational activities, try out new instruments, add to a community mural, and enjoy games, crafts, and giveaways. Sensory friendly activities available, with a special performance by Chicago Children’s Theatre’s Ride Kit Friends Tour! |
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Unhoused Solidarity Day 10/6 |
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| We are proud to welcome the Streetwork Collective to Humboldt Park for Solidarity Day, a World Homeless Day celebration of service and care. This wrap-around resource fair will bring together organizations like Heartland Alliance, The Night Ministry, and Shower Up to support neighbors experiencing houselessness. Join at the Humboldt Park Boathouse from 9 AM to 5 PM for food, clean clothing, document support, showers, medical care, harm reduction services, housing and benefits assistance, and opportunities to get involved. For info, email: RSpangler@hahhealth.org or Morgan@orangetentproject.org |
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Join Parents for Peace and Justice for a safe and healing space for families impacted by gun violence. |
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Get a Free Water Lead Test Kit |
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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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| 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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3446 W. North Ave 1701 North Kimball 1751-53 N Spaulding Ave
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| 1739 N Drake 1616 N Saint Louis 3652 W North Ave
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NOW HIRING: Healthy Hood Internship |
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| Healthy Hood is hiring youth interns for 2–3 month cohorts, ages 16–24. Gain hands-on experience in nonprofit work, community advocacy, media, arts and culture, health and wellness, and customer service at some of Chicago’s amazing small businesses.
This is a paid opportunity to build skills, grow your network, and make a real impact in your community. Apply here. |
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NOW HIRING: ASM Teen Positions |
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| After School Matters’ fall application for Chicago teens is open! This fall, ASM will offer hundreds of programs across the city from September 23 through December 13.
Programs are available to Chicago high school teens ages 14-18. Every program encourages teens to pursue a new passion, build community, and earn money simultaneously. |
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Teen Lit Night UNBOUND 9/19 |
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| A night celebrating YA literature, art, and culture at Teen Lit Night!
This one-of-a-kind event will feature:
🪩A silent disco party with Mo MAMI
🎵Lo-Fi beats with Backpack Beatz
😋Book-themed mocktails and food
👕Custom t-shirt and DIY totes with artist Clue Chicago
📚Free pop-up library to build your personal library
✍️Teen lounge with authors K. Ancrum and Jamia Wilson
For teens and young adults, 13-22.
Don’t miss it! |
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Young Women’s Youth Summit 9/25 |
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| 📢 NACOPRW is hosting a young women’s youth summit for high school juniors and seniors.
Thursday, Sept 25 10am-2pm NEIU El Centro 3390 N Avondale Avenue
Register by emailing nacoprwnorthernil@gmail.com
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Next Up Workshops at Humboldt Park Library Starting 9/28 |
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| 📢 Attention high school freshmen! Enrollment is now OPEN for the House of Hope Anti-Violence Youth Foundation’s Operation Clean Youth program. 💪✨
This program offers:
✔️ Valuable job and life skills
✔️ Supportive mentors
✔️ A weekly stipend (paid check)
✔️ A chance to make a real difference in your community
Apply today at 👉 nokidsdieinthechi.org
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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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Chicago Park District Fall Events |
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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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CTA Town Halls Starting 9/16 |
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| The CTA Budget Town hall meetings will take place from 5:30-7PM. Doors open at 5PM.
Tuesday, September 16 Imani Village 901 E. 95th St
Thursday, September 18 Truman College 1145 W. Wilson Ave
Tuesday, September 25 Malcolm X College 1900 W. Van Buren St
CTA is at a critical point for transit funding for the region, and the input and partnership with the community will be vital in navigating the challenges ahead. |
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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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Viva Free Flu Shots at Participating Jewel Pharmacies Starting 9/18 |
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Viva La Cultura Fest 9/20 |
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Financial Literacy Workshop 9/24 |
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| Title: Financial Literacy Workshop – Budgeting, Saving, and Credit Management
Date: Wednesday, September 24th, 2025
Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Workshop 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM: Networking & Expert Q&A
Location: ¡WEPA! Mercado del Pueblo, 2559 W Division St, Chicago, IL 60622
Cost: No cost to the public.
Details:
Huntington National Bank will lead the workshop, during which participants will learn practical tools for budgeting, saving, and credit management. |
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Affordable Homebuying Roadshow 9/27 |
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| 🏡 Ready to take the next step toward owning a home? Join LUCHA and the Association House of Chicago for the Affordable Homebuying Roadshow, powered by PNC
Saturday, September 27, 10 AM - 2 PM National Museum of Mexican Art
This event will walk first-time and low- to moderate-income buyers through homebuying with expert guidance, workshops, and information on flexible lending programs.
👉 Register today: https://tinyurl.com/lucharoadshow |
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Domestic Violence Awareness Month 10/1 |
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| Join the HAS ¡BASTA! Team for a day of food, games, and resources to raise awareness and support
Blackhawk Park 2138 N Lavergne Ave
Wednesday, October 1 11 AM - 4 PM |
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Second Chance Summit 10/11 |
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Community Support Youth Soccer |
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| Calling all emerging real estate developers in Chicago! Ready to grow your business? The Chicago EDI Program will give you the skills, mentorship, and network to take the next step. ✨ Hands-on training and advising ✨ One-on-one mentorship ✨ Connections to peers and partners ✨ Pathways to financing Brought to you by Chicago Community Loan Fund and Community Investment Corporation, with Capital Impact Partners, and funded by MacArthur Foundation and U.S. Bank. Spots are limited 👉 Apply today |
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| Every child deserves a safe and loving home. 💙 Association House’s Foster Care Program ensures that children in our community are cared for, supported, and connected to families who will walk with them toward healing and stability. Learn more about becoming a foster parent or supporting the program at
👉 associationhouse.org/foster |
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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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Domestic Violence Resources |
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CEDA Utility Relief Programs |
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Seniors Community Care Program |
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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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| Greater West Town Project is offering a Shipping and Receiving Training Program with full-time classes that run for 12 weeks. Illinois residents who are 18 years old or over and low-income eligible can train at no cost. For 33 years, Greater West Town programs have successfully equipped community residents with in-demand job skills and placed them in jobs in industry with recent wages averaging $18-20 per hour. Apply here. |
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| CEDA’s Virtual Career Fair Informational is on Tuesday, September 23 from 10:00am to 12:30pm. This online session is a wonderful opportunity for job seekers to connect with CEDA, explore meaningful career paths, and learn about the impact of their work. Click here to register and check out CEDA's Career Page to apply for open roles. |
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| The Illinois Department of Human Services is hosting virtual and in-person recruitment events in English and Spanish. Register here, and apply for open positions here. |
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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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| 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
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
