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Neighbors,
As we step into one of the most vibrant weeks in our ward, I’m filled with gratitude and pride. From celebrations of culture to bold conversations on safety and belonging, this past week reminded us of the power of community, voice, and action. Two brief updates: The Humboldt Park Library will open on Sunday and the pool and inland beach open June 21st. It’s feeling a lot like summer.
We’re kicking off this weekend with one of the most anticipated events of the year. TOMORROW Saturday, June 14, the Puerto Rican People’s Day Parade returns to Division Street. |
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This is one of the most powerful, joyful, and vibrant celebrations of culture in our city. I want to thank our Streets & Sanitation, Clean Slate, and Forestry departments for their hard work prepping the neighborhood
Bring your loved ones, wave your flags, and walk with pride through the heart of Barrio Borikén. We’ll see you in the street.
Parade Route: Division Street from Campbell to Sacramento NEW START TIME: 12:00 PM SHARP |
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While we gather in joy, we also remain rooted in purpose. On Saturday, I joined community leaders across the city to talk about what it really means to keep each other safe. The following are words from Alees Edwards, 11th Police District Councilwoman. “The 2nd Annual We Are Our Own Medicine Gun Violence Prevention Conference 2025 was a resounding success, uniting diverse voices from across Chicago in a powerful call for healing and safety. With Mayor Brandon Johnson, city leaders, and grassroots changemakers in attendance, the event fostered real collaboration between community members and policymakers. Attendees discussed actionable strategies that will drive year-round safety initiatives. We are deeply grateful to Ald. Jessie Fuentes for sharing her lived experience and wisdom, reminding us to look beyond the surface of our youth's struggles and instead focus on meaningful ways to reach, uplift, and empower them. Together, we proved that when communities come together, we truly are our own medicine.” |
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That same spirit of reflection and unity continued as we opened our Puerto Rican festivities with a powerful conversation at the National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts and Culture. On Tuesday I joined an incredible panel at the National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture to kick off our week of Puerto Rican celebration. Hosted by influencer Dean Huerta, “Bridging the Gap” created space for deep conversation about who we are, where we come from, and how we move forward as a people.
I was proud to sit alongside José E. López, Executive Director of the Puerto Rican Cultural Center, and Billy Ocasio, CEO of the Museum, to talk about the power of the diaspora and how we build solidarity across generations. We were reminded that our culture, our resistance, and our love for one another are what continue to sustain us. Thank you to Nellie’s Restaurant for keeping us fed, and to everyone who came out to listen, share, and build. |
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Listening is at the heart of everything we do, which is why I was so grateful to sit down with our elders this week alongside Representative Lilian Jiménez for two coffee gatherings with seniors in our ward this week. These conversations are essential opportunities to share state and city resources, hear directly from our elders, and deepen our commitment to building a community that listens and responds.
We were also joined by Andres Ramirez with the AI Safety Awareness Foundation, who shared critical information about how artificial intelligence is being used in scams targeting seniors. From fake texts and emails to deceptive calls and letters, the risks are real and growing. We must all stay informed, ask questions, and help each other spot what’s true and what isn’t. Thank you to everyone who welcomed us so warmly. We will continue showing up for our elders and ensuring they have the tools and support they need. |
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Art, like dialogue, is a form of power. On Wednesday, we celebrated the unveiling of a powerful new mural at the Potomac and Central Park viaduct, honoring public art, youth voice, and participatory democracy in the Ward. Created by José “Roots” Raíces of Utuado, Puerto Rico and managed by Humboldt Park native Samantha Smyser-De Leon, the mural features a vejigante character journeying from Puerto Rico to Chicago beneath the message, “In a society that profits from your silence, singing is rebellion”, reminding us that art is both liberatory and healing.
The mural was born through our Participatory Budgeting process, submitted by resident Viviana Ortiz, and is dedicated to the students of Pablo Casals and Cameron Elementary who walk this corridor daily. Special thanks to Principal Teresa Chavez, art teachers Alyx Farris and Elizabeth Cornell of Casals, student artists Simbelin, Aayden, Aarmani, Eliza, and Alexa, and Thomas Ross from ALSO for your contributions to this project and demonstrating that when we center youth, art, and community - we keep us safe! |
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We cannot claim to support young people if we fail to listen to them. Ahead of City Council, I’ll be standing in solidarity with youth who are organizing for real solutions—not punishment.
I will stand alongside GoodKids MadCity in a press conference about the curfew vote. There is plenty of evidence that a snap curfew ordinance does not directly address challenges faced by young people, so I, along with other community partners, will share why we will be voting no. |
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And finally, in moments of fear and uncertainty, let me be clear: the 26th Ward stands with our immigrant neighbors. We will continue to speak out, share resources, and make sure everyone knows their rights. In the 26th Ward, immigrants are our neighbors, our families, and the heart of our community. You belong here.
Chicago remains a sanctuary city, and I remain steadfast in my commitment to protect and support our immigrant residents. If you or someone you know is concerned about ICE presence, please review and share the Know Your Rights HERE . Knowledge is power, and we are stronger when we are informed and connected. Our strength lies in how we show up. Show up for each other, for justice, and for joy. Thank you for being part of this work. I’ll see you in the street. |
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In Solidarity,
Alderperson Jessie Fuentes |
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KYR Criminal Records Workshop: 6/25 |
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The San Juan 5K is hitting Humboldt Park, and I want you to run it with me! Whether you’re racing for time or just having a good time, this is a celebration of culture, community, and movement.
👟 Use code 26thwardruns for $5 off
🎯 Help us reach our goal of 1,000 runners
📍 Humboldt Park
🔗 Sign up to Run/Walk! |
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El Corillo Original de Humboldt Park |
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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.
Humboldt Park Pool and Inland Beach will open Saturday, 6/21 |
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| Humboldt Park Library will open Sunday, 6/15!
Seating is limited but all services are open.
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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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Parade & Festival Street Closure Notice |
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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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3300 W. Pierce Ave 1738 N St. Louis Ave 1631 N. Spaulding Ave 1751-53 N Spaulding Ave
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| 1701 North Kimball 1459 N. Talman Ave 2735 W North Ave
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Noble School Food Pantries |
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| Noble Schools will be hosting a Summer Food Service Program at several of our campuses across Chicago. This program provides free meals to all eligible children in the community and is part of our commitment to supporting students and families beyond the school year. |
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| 🎣🌿 Everyone Belongs Nature Festival
Join us for a fun-filled day of fishing, archery, canoeing, food, music, and more! 🗓️ Saturday, June 14, 2025
⏰ 9 AM – 1 PM
📍 William W. Powers State Rec Area (S. Avenue O & E. 126th) ✅ Free Youth Fishing Derby
🎁 First 300 guests get a FREE frisbee!
📲 Register HERE! Hosted by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. |
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Mayor’s Youth Commission: Deadline June 22nd |
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| 📣 Chicago youth ages 14–19: Applications are now open for the 2025–2026 Mayor’s Youth Commission!
Help shape city policy, connect with peers, and make your voice heard—plus receive a stipend for your leadership.
🗓️ Apply by June 22
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| My Block, My Hood, My City
Our third annual Downtown Day aims to bring 1,000 youth—primarily from Chicago’s South and West sides—into the heart of our cultural and business corridors for a day of exploration, belonging, and new opportunities!
Sign up to enjoy downtown! |
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Youth Summer Job Opportunities |
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| 🌟 Build Power with Palenque LSNA!
Looking for a meaningful summer job? Palenque LSNA’s Summer Youth Employment Program offers paid opportunities rooted in social justice, creativity, and community healing.
💼 Pay: $16.60/hr (June 23 – August 1)
✔️ Build your resume
✔️ Make a difference in your neighborhood
✔️ Connect with mentors and peers 📩 Contact: Arely Barrera – abarrera@palenquelsna.org
📲 Apply now!
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Fiestas Patronales Starting 6/12 - 6/15 |
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|  PUERTO RICAN FESTIVAL!
 Parade Day On La Division St.
Stay Tuned! Updates Everyday!
 THURSDAY JUNE 12th COMMUNITY DAY!
 FRIDAY JUNE 13th!! GET READY!
 SATURDAY 14th PARADE DAY!
 SUNDAY 15th PAPA DE LA SALSA! PICNIC
 Tickets On Sale NOW!!!! 
http://freestylefriday2025.eventbrite.com You Don’t Want To Miss All The New Attractions!!! Live Music Concerts, Talent Shows, Pop Ups!! |
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| New Life Community Church-East Humboldt Park located at 1651 N Kedzie is hosting a Versiti Blood Drive on Saturday, June 21st from 10am to 2pm. I was hoping you could include it in the community newsletter. You have the power to change a life.  
Blood donations support cancer patients, trauma victims, and surgical patients every single day.
Versiti is here to help—but we can’t do it without you.
 Join the fight. Make your appointment now. |
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Bally’s 2nd Annual Vendor Fair 6/25 |
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| Join an exciting opportunity to grow local businesses and make valuable connections! Wednesday, 6/25/25 10AM – 3PM Chicago Teachers Union – 1901 W Carroll Ave  Click here to RSVP today!
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LoSAH/ The Kedzie Center Fundraiser 6/26 |
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| 🎉 Celebrating 10 Years of Community Mental Health
Join us on Thursday, June 26, 2025 for a special evening honoring a decade of healing and resilience with EMHS, The Kedzie Center, and LoSAH.
📍 St. Augustine Hall, 1345 W Argyle
🕕 6 PM – 9 PM
Support the celebration by:
🎟️ Purchasing tickets: thekedziecenter.org or losahcenter.org
💌 Sponsoring or donating to our silent auction: contact development@thekedziecenter.org
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| Join us at Hairpin Arts Center for "On Being," a powerful group show exploring identity, emotion, and the human experience through layered works in various media. Curated by Ingrid TS Rodriguez and featuring artists Brianna Ortiz Van Schoyck, Cassidy Early, and TJ Kiser, this exhibition invites you to reflect, connect, and celebrate community.
Saturday, June 28 from 6–10 PM
On view: June 28 – August 2
2810 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
🔗 RSVP: eventbrite.com link
Don't miss this vibrant call to witness our inner and collective worlds through art.
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Humboldt Park Community Clean-Up 6/28 |
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| 🌿Join the Chicago Parks Foundation for a community clean-up at Humboldt Park and help us show love to the spaces that bring us joy. Bring your friends, your energy, and your commitment to care.🌿 🧹 Meet at the Boathouse: 1301 N Humboldt Dr at 10 AM to 2 PM. 🖐️ All ages welcome and supplies provided 📲 Sign up to clean the park! Let’s make this the first of many. We plan to continue clean-ups on the last Saturday of each month through September: 🗓️ May 31, June 28, July 26, August 30, and September 27 |
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City of Chicago Budget Engagement Roundtable 6/28 |
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| The City of Chicago invites you to join the City at one of three Budget Engagement Roundtables to receive an overview of the proposed budget and to share your insights and ask questions about the City’s priorities.
Sign up to participate |
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Transilience Humboldt Park Festival 7/10 |
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| 🌈 Chicago’s first-ever Trans Pride Festival is here!
Join us for Transilience on Thursday, July 10 from 6 to 8 PM at Humboldt Park (1440 N Humboldt Blvd) for an all-ages, joy-filled celebration of trans, nonbinary, and gender non-conforming brilliance. Expect dance, drag, circus arts, music, puppeteering, and more, all for free! Let’s uplift each other, create space, and celebrate community beyond the binary.
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Transfemicide Ordinance Community Meetings 7/10 |
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| 📣 The City of Chicago wants to hear from you. Join the Transfemicide Ordinance Community Meetings to share your experiences, uplift trans voices, and help shape a safer, more supportive city for all.
🗓️ Meetings run from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM at the following locations:
• July 10 – Jackson Park Fieldhouse
• July 30 – Broadway Armory Park
This is a safe space for open dialogue and community-driven solutions. Let’s build a better Chicago together. |
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Pride Community Night 7/17 |
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| Join us for PRIDE Community Night!
We're celebrating LGBTQ+ joy, connection, and community.
LoSAH Center of Hope (3555 W Armitage Ave) on Thursday, July 17 6 to 7:30 PM
Expect food, art, resources, and space to meet and connect with other queer folks. All ages and identities welcome! Free to attend—RSVP appreciated but not required. |
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Call for Vendors: Pop Up Market |
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Workforce Solutions Grant: Due June 16th |
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| 📣 The Workforce Solutions Grant opens citywide on June 16! Chicago employers can get reimbursed up to $250,000 for eligible workforce training—including on-the-job training, tech skills, leadership development, and more.
🔗 Apply for the grant
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Heat Resilience Policy & Program Community Survey |
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Share Feedback for a Healthier & Sustainable Community |
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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. For additional information, please visit: allchicago.org/chicagorents. If you are a landlord interested in joining the Chicago Rents program, you can click here to apply. |
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Traffic Stop Public Feedback Form |
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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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| 📣 Join us on June 28 for the Early Learning Careers & Education Pathways Expo at Malcolm X College!
Meet over 50 employers and education partners with job opportunities in teaching, family support, admin, and more.
🗓️ June 28, 2025 | ⏰ 10 AM–2 PM
📍 1900 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago
Limited space—register today!
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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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| Shipping & Receiving Training - visit sr.gwtp.org for more info 12-week training at no cost, includes supportive services once enrolled Average $18+/hour wage upon job placement Training Includes:
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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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Share Feedback for a Healthier & Sustainable Community |
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