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Neighbors,
This past weekend offered a powerful reminder of what’s possible when women come together with purpose, pride, and deep love for their community. Celebrating 5 Years of Las Damas
This past weekend our Director of Communications Lisa Avila joined Las Damas for their 5th anniversary celebration at Mi Hacienda Linda. Over a delicious lunch, we heard stories of everything this intergenerational, affirming, and powerful group of women has accomplished, from reading to youth at family events to organizing neighborhood cleanups and building stronger connections between neighbors. They even quizzed attendees on city resources and gave prizes to members who had the 311 app on their phones, because civic engagement should be fun and empowering. Las Damas is a shining example of what happens when women lead with heart, and when community care is at the center of everything. Here’s to many more years of impact. |
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Mercy Home + 26th Ward Interns visit to City Hall On Monday, City Clerk Valencia’s team invited Alderwoman Jeanette Taylor and I to speak to interns from 26th Ward and Mercy Home. These opportunities to pull back the curtain of government are powerful and allow young people to see themselves as agents of change. Thank you to the interns for all of their questions, specifically about how alders gather feedback from teens. Know that my office is here for you and any concerns or inquiries you may have. |
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Community Safety Committee This week, the Community Safety Committee met to discuss community wellbeing and forge collaborations across the 26th Ward. CBS recently interviewed me about how we work together to prevent violence. I specifically spoke about the great work conducted by our community organization and residents. We also celebrated the success of the Colombian Festival in Humboldt Park. I want to thank everyone who helped create a peaceful and joyful event! Local organizations like New Life Centers and BUILD continue to bring us together. Their recent event welcomed over 450 people and showed what’s possible when we collaborate with each other. We also work closely with the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability. Alise Buford asked us to provide feedback on new traffic stop policies and COPA leadership. Please complete the community surveys. Your voice matters in shaping safety and accountability. |
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We also reviewed monthly crime stats that continue to show an increase in domestic violence cases. Below we provide a list of support for DV survivors. Looking ahead, we are excited to host Fiesta Boricua on August 30–31! Let’s make this a safe and welcoming celebration for all. Groups like Rincón, PRCC, and ALSO continue to offer vital support in the community, from grief services to job training, back-to-school events, and youth activities. In recognition of their vital role in promoting safety, we awarded Certified Violence Prevention Professional certificates to the leaders of our Safety Committee member organizations. Let’s keep showing up, looking out for each other, and building the neighborhood we deserve. Together, We Keep Us Safe! |
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Peace Kickback End of Summer Graduation & Hip Hop Celebration This afternoon, I joined GoodKids MadCity peacekeepers to celebrate the amazing work they completed this summer, including 60 hours of training in conflict resolution, restorative justice, and community organization, along with 60 hours of peace-building and community service-oriented work throughout the south and west sides of Chicago. Congrats to Blocks Together, Cannabis Equity IL Coalition, Global Love Organization, Healing Hands Resource Center, Nikolas Lee Foundation, Urban Innovators, and Legacy Disciples for all your transformative work. |
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Back to School Bash Last but not least, we’re having a Bash, and you’re invited! We’ve been working all week to fill backpacks and organize our sponsors and vendors. Join us Thursday, August 7, from 2 to 5 PM for our 3rd Annual Back to School Bash at MLA (1920 N. Hamlin Ave). In partnership with Representative Lilian Jiménez and Senator Omar Aquino, we’re making sure our students have what they need to start the school year with joy and confidence. We’ll be offering: Free backpacks and school supplies Free haircuts and dental screenings Games, music, food, and fun for the whole family
Students must be present to receive supplies.
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From Las Damas’ grassroots leadership to BUILD’s youth-driven safety work and the many neighbors, interns, and community partners who showed up this week, the 26th Ward continues to demonstrate that lasting change is possible when we invest in each other, organize with heart, and lead from the ground up. |
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In Solidarity,
Alderperson Jessie Fuentes |
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Coffee With Your Alderperson 8/2 |
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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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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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CPD National Night Out - 8/5 |
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Nurse Summer Job Fair - 8/7 |
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Birdwatching event - 8/10 |
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TRILLIUM WILDS PRESENTA
TOUR DE OBSERVACIÓN DE PAJAROS
📅 Domingo, 10 de agosto
🕖 7-9 de la mañana
📍 Humboldt Park Boathouse
1301 N. Humboldt Dr, Chicago IL 60622
¡Pasa tu mañana de domingo aprendiendo sobre pajaros locales con el equipo de Trillium Wilds!
📲 Regístrate para este evento gratuito escaneando el código QR.
¡Cupos limitados!
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Solar Energy Workshop - 8/11 |
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🌞 ¡Listos, Preparados, Solar! 🌞
Aprende cómo usar la energía solar en tu hogar o negocio. Únete a un taller gratuito organizado por la Ciudad de Chicago y obtén respuestas a todas tus preguntas sobre energía solar.
📅 Próxima Fecha:
🔗 Más información: chi.gov/ReadySetSolar
¡Construyamos juntos un Chicago más verde! ♻️
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New Life Tuesdays Community Meals |
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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 |
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| AYUDA PARA COMPRADORES DE CASA POR PRIMERA VEZ (VIRTUAL)
FECHAS: Sesión 1: Sábado, 23 de agosto de 2025 Sesión 2: Sábado, 30 de agosto de 2025
🕙 HORA: 10 AM – 1 PM
💻 UBICACIÓN: En línea por Zoom (abierto al público)
✔️ Incluye: Certificado de educación para compradores de vivienda aprobado por HUD
📌 Para recibir el certificado, debe completar ambas sesiones del taller y una sesión de consejería individual obligatoria.
¿LISTO PARA REGISTRARTE?
📧 Correo electrónico: epinto@northwestcenterchicago.org
📱 Texto (preferido): 708-669-6820
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| 🍷 ¡Sangria Festival Chicago celebra 10 años! 🎉
Disfruta de música en vivo, arte, comida, compras, y por supuesto… ¡sabores artesanales de sangría!
📍 Humboldt Park
📅 23 y 24 de agosto
🎟️ ¡Boletos ya a la venta!
🔗 SangriaFestivalChicago.com
🎨 +21 | ¡Pinta, prueba y celebra en grande!
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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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Domestic Violence Resources |
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City Financial Support Services |
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Unite for Trans Youth Lives with a rally - 8/10 |
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🎉 ¡Acompáñanos para celebrar el regreso a clases con algo dulce!
@nwheap está organizando una Social de Helados GRATIS para dar la bienvenida al nuevo año escolar. ¡Ven a disfrutar de paletas, dulces, útiles escolares y más!
📅 15 de agosto
🕚 11AM–1PM
📍 3234 N. Central Ave. #102, Chicago, IL 60634
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Unite for Trans Youth Lives with a rally - 8/10 |
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ÚNETE POR LAS VIDAS DE LA JUVENTUD TRANS
Haz frente a los ataques contra
la atención médica afirmativa de género
y los servicios de salud mental
📅 Domingo, 10 de agosto a la 1PM
📍 Federal Plaza, Chicago
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| 📣 Hermosa Homeowners: Who will inherit your home?
Join us on Wednesday, August 13, for a special opportunity to meet with a lawyer and complete a Transfer on Death Instrument (TODI)—a simple legal document that ensures your home is passed on without the cost and delay of probate.
🕒 Appointments available from 3–7 PM
📍 Only available for homeowners in the Hermosa neighborhood
📧 To register, email Lucy Gomez Feliciano at lgomez@heretostayclt.org
Protect your legacy. Make a plan that reflects your love and your values. |
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CEDA Utility Relief Programs |
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Seniors Community Care Program |
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Call for Vendors: Pop Up Market |
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Heat Resilience Policy & Program Community Survey |
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Donate to Meals on Wheels |
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| 🍽️ Hunger Takes No Summer Vacation
Funding cuts are putting Meals on Wheels Chicago at risk—while demand keeps growing. Help us keep the doors open for homebound seniors.
💙 Start a virtual pantry drive or become a monthly Meal Maker today: www.mowc.org/donate
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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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| 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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