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Neighbors,
With spring in full bloom, I am filled with gratitude for the energy moving through our neighborhoods. Whether it is planting new roots, repairing our streets, or coming together to reimagine how we share space, this season reminds us what is possible when we care for our community together. This week’s updates reflect the spirit of that work and the joy in doing it with all of you. |
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La Esquina Verde (The Green Corner) These Earth Day celebrations got me thinking about the herbs and vegetables I'm going to grow this summer. I've always grown tomatoes and peppers on my deck, but this year I've decided to share my love for gardening and growing with you all. My team and I started over 100 seeds in Juanita’s grow tent. Growing strong are cherry, heirloom, and beefsteak tomatoes, jalapeños, cilantro, and arugula. The seedlings are in their second week of incubation and looking really good. We will be giving away these seedlings and starter plants for free at our Memorial Day Peace Walk and Cookout at the Boathouse on May 24th. I’m also starting to prep my backyard for some summertime enjoyment, including a new edible garden. I would love to hear what you’re growing at home too. We’re setting up a Google Form where you can share your home garden plans and updates. Stay tuned for the link. Check out some pictures of our seedlings below. |
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Community Meeting on Traffic Safety in Humboldt Park The Chicago Department of Transportation is proposing traffic safety improvements in and around Humboldt Park and they want to hear from you. Our office is helping facilitate this meeting to make sure you have the opportunity to learn, ask questions, and share your thoughts. The meeting will take place on Tuesday April 30 from 6 to 7 PM at the Humboldt Park Fieldhouse, located at 1440 North Humboldt Boulevard.
CDOT will present changes being considered on Division Street from Central Park to Kedzie, and on Humboldt Drive from Grand to North. This is a chance to help shape how we move through our neighborhood safely.You can RSVP at bit.ly/divisionstmeet. |
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Connecting Neighborhoods Bike Ride Our Connecting Neighborhoods bike ride is back! Thanks to West Town Bikes and Equiticity, we will be taking our ride through our boulevard system. Dust off your bicycle, and meet us at Koz Park. Not sure if you’re bike is ready? West Town Bikes’ youth will be available to show you the ABC’s of preparing your bike for a ride. This family friendly event will feature multiple stops at a 10-12 mph pace. The first 100 riders who show up will receive a special edition sticker, and we’ll end at Humboldt Park Boathouse for some food and a bouncy house, courtesy of ALSO. If you’re able to help bike marshall the ride, reach out to marie@the26thward.org. Final route will be posted to our instagram! |
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Planning for Youth Safety Ahead of the curfew vote, my legislative aide Marie attended the Mayor’s Office of Community Safety (MOCS) for a collaborative table to discuss large gatherings, support for youth, and building a comprehensive strategy to ensure that our residents, neighbors, and visitors can enjoy all we have to offer this summer in our city. MOCS, CDP, CFP, and OEMC share their current plans, and city departments, community-based organization, faith, and violence intervention leaders developed creative and holistic solutions that center youth voice and accountability. Some ideas include activating youth peacekeepers, deploying CDPH, and community-based youth pop-ups. After our second meeting on May 6th, we will share the City of Chicago’s safety plan. |
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Pothole Survey Day On Wednesday, our office was closed so that staff could survey the ward for road infrastructure requests. Every single street was surveyed! We reviewed upcoming CDOT work, future CDOT work, and constituent requests in order to best assess what to submit to 311. This resulted in nearly 200 requests, including sewer obstructions, potholes, missing alley keycuts, and more. This work will take all summer to complete, so please be patient as city agencies prioritize their work. |
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Recycling and Alley Cleanliness Tips Clean alleys are part of a safe and beautiful community. Simple practices like covering your bins, putting them out the night before pickup, and only placing recyclables in the blue cart go a long way in helping our city function better and avoiding fines.
Hazardous materials such as oil and paint should be dropped off at 1150 North North Branch Street. You can also use 311 to report illegal dumping, schedule yard waste pickup, or request a new cart if yours is broken or missing. See our graphic below for more tips.
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This season reminds us that new growth starts with small acts of care like planting a seed, riding together, listening to one another. I hope to see you all at any one of the park clean-ups in the 26th ward tomorrow.
In solidarity, Alderperson Jessie Fuentes |
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Earth Day Cleanup TOMORROW! |
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Ward Night @ the YMCA 4/28 |
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26th Ward Traffic Safety Projects 4/30 |
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The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) is presenting plans for traffic safety projects on: - Division Street from Central Park to Kedzie - Humboldt Drive from Grand to North These improvements aim to provide increased access, traffic safety, and mobility to and within Humboldt Park. Scan the QR code to RSVP or go to: bit.ly/divisionstmeet |
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| Having a criminal record shouldn’t hold you back from opportunity.
Join us on May 7 at Mozart Park Doors open at 6PM, and the program runs from 6:30 to 8PM
We have a free, informative workshop with Cabrini Green Legal Aid. We’ll break down how record relief works, what options are available, and how to begin the process.
Refreshments will be served. Let's make sure our neighbors have the tools they need to move forward with dignity and support. |
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Spring Employment Expo Job Fair for Youth 5/15 |
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Walk for Peace & Cook Out 5/24 |
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| Join us on Saturday, May 24 from 1 to 5 PM at Division and California for ALSO’s 30th Annual Walk for Peace and Cookout. This is not just an event. It is a movement for safety, unity, and joy in our streets.
Come through for the music, the art, the food, the free t shirts, but most of all, come for each other. |
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🏟️ Humboldt Park Turf Field Renovation. We’re excited to share that the large artificial turf field at Humboldt Park has begun and expected to last two months. The work is part of a larger Chicago Park District project to upgrade turf fields at parks across the city.
⛏️ All school groups and renters have already been notified. We appreciate your patience to improve spaces for our youth and community. |
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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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| 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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1000 N Francisco Ave 1739 N Drake Ave 3208-3214 W Armitage 1807 & 1805 N. Lawndale
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| 1751-53 N Spaulding Ave 3330 W Armitage Ave 3300 W. Pierce Avenue
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Rename Marine Leadership Academy 5/1 |
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Inclusive Summer Job Expo (TOMORROW) |
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| Are you a young person who identifies as having a disability?
Would you like to learn more about One Summer Chicago and other employment opportunities? The Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities, The Department of Family and Support Services, and One Summer Chicago are excited to announce the Inclusive Summer Jobs Expo on April 26, 2025 from 12-3PM located at the Little Italy Branch of the Chicago Public Library at 1336 West Taylor Street! SIGN UP HERE |
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| This event is for high school students, recent grads, young adults starting college, and anyone figuring out what comes next.
Businesses looking to hire will be in attendance, volunteer and leadership opportunities, and free headshots
Register early to get your free headshot. |
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| 🎭 Calling all youth performers! Collabration is casting for The Light 2025 Ensemble 🌟
Are you 13–18 and passionate about using your voice for social change? Whether you’re a singer, poet, actor, dancer, or musician — this is your moment to shine and speak truth on issues like racism, mental health, body positivity, and more.
🎤 learn more and Apply HERE
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El Rescate: Support for Homeless Youth |
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| El Rescate: Supporting Homeless Youth (18-24) Are you or someone you know in need of safe, supportive housing? El Rescate offers:
✅ Independent Transitional Living Program
✅ Wraparound Services for LGBTQ+ and HIV+ youth
📍 Location: 2703 W Division St
📞 Intake Line: 872-829-2662 Empowering our youth with the resources they need to thrive.
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Bike Adjustments - TOMORROW 5/26 |
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Hermosa Park Community Cleanups |
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| 🌿 Let’s keep Hermosa beautiful! Join the Hermosa Park & Community Cleanups happening on select Saturdays from 9–11AM.
🗓️ Next up: April 26 – Mulch Day at Hermosa Park!
Bring water, dress for the weather, and help us care for our green spaces.
📍 Full schedule & locations: OurHermosa.org
🧤 All are welcome — community power starts with clean streets! |
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🎭 Upcoming Events at SRBCC! 🎶 A Fundraiser with Los Pleneros de la Cresta (May 10), supporting SRBCC & Acción Valerosa. With arts funding uncertain, this event is critical to sustaining our cultural hub and supporting independent artists. 🎼 Los Pleneros de la Cresta - May 10th 🎫 GET TICKETS HERE |
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Center for Changing Lives April Workshops |
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Airport Expo & Job Fair 5/1 |
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|  Mark your calendar—it’s Time to Take Flight!
Join the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) for the Airport Expo and Job Fair 🗓️Thurs 5/1, 2025, 10 - 2 p.m. 📍UIC Forum registration opens Monday 3/17 Visit flychicago.com/AirportExpo |
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Art Exhibit: Osamenta 5/2 |
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Oliva Gallery is honored to present Osamenta, a powerful photographic exhibition by Herminio Rodríguez that explores the landscapes of decay and resilience across Puerto Rico. Rodríguez’s work captures a profound narrative of socioeconomic hardship, offering audiences a deep look into the often-overlooked aftermath of economic recession, governmental debt, and natural disasters on the island.
Opening Reception: May 2, 2025 | 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM Exhibition Dates: May 2, 2025 – June 1, 2025 Oliva Gallery: 3816 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647 |
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Human Resources Business Workshops 5/8 |
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Spring Makers Market 5/10 |
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| The Humboldt Park Advisory Council is hosting a Spring Market in an effort to raise funds for the council. If you are interested in vending, volunteering or facilitating a workshop, click on the link below that applies.
Vendor Application Volunteer Form |
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Free Self Defense Workshop 5/10 |
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| Looking to build confidence and learn real-life skills to protect yourself and your loved ones?
Join the 14th District Council and Thousand Waves for a free self defense workshop on Saturday, May 10 from 1 to 4 PM at Pulaski Park Fieldhouse. Open to adults and teens 12 and up.
Sign up for the workshop
Let’s keep each other safe by staying ready and informed. |
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Mommy Mental Health & Me 5/10 |
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| 💚 Join us for Mommy, Mental Health & Me — an empowering event supporting moms and maternal wellness! 🍼💬
🗓️ Saturday, May 10 | 🕚 11AM–3PM
📍 Kelly Hall YMCA, 824 N Hamlin Ave, Chicago
✨ Free self-care + baby items, resource fair & expert panel!
🎟️ Register HERE
Limited supply—arrive early!
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Race Your Heart for the Arts 5/17 |
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| ChiArts first ever 5K on May 17 in Humboldt Park, Race Your Hearts for the Arts!
The Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts) was founded on the belief that arts education and the transformative power of the arts should be accessible to all youth in Chicago. As the city’s first public arts high school, ChiArts nurtures young talent, diversifies the city’s cultural landscape, and prepares scholar-artists to lead with creativity and purpose. We’re thrilled to announce that this year, we’re “Racing Our Hearts for the Arts” with our very first 5K Run/Walk in Humboldt Park on May 17, 2025 at 8am! |
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Wellness Walks starting 5/21 |
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|  PUERTO RICAN FESTIVAL!
 Parade Day On La Division St.
Stay Tuned! Updates Everyday!
 JUNE THURSDAY 12th COMMUNITY DAY!
 JUNE FRIDAY THE 13th!! GET READY!
 JUNE SATURDAY 14th PARADE DAY!
 JUNE 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!!
 PuertoRicanFest.com
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| 🚨New Pantry Alert! 🚨
The Food pantry at Le Moyne Church of God, 3301 W Le Moyne is now open.
Thursdays: 3pm to 6pm Saturdays: 1pm to 4pm
Participants must live in one of the following zip codes: 60651, 60639, and 60647 |
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| Jumping Jack Portal opens Tuesday, April 15 at 8:00 AM! The free inflatable bounce house is available for residential block parties within Chicago city limits from May 24 – August 31. 📌 Important Guidelines:
✅ Block parties only (No private properties, parks, schools, or festivals).
✅ Applicants must live on the block where the party is taking place.
✅ One request per block, per season (Saturdays & Sundays only).
✅ First-come, first-served! Submit your request ASAP. 📥 How to Apply:
➡️ Use Google Chrome to complete the application.
➡️ Manually enter all info (avoid autofill errors).
➡️ Click "SUBMIT" to receive an auto-confirmation.
➡️ Permit required from your Aldermanic Ward office. 💡 Need to correct your date? Email JumpingJack@cityofchicago.org—last-minute changes not honored. 🔗 Apply here: ChicagoNeighborhoodFestivals.us |
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| 📢 Mentors Needed! Make a Difference Today! 🌟
YouthBuild is looking for dedicated mentors to support youth ages 16-19 in navigating school, work, and life challenges. Your guidance can help shape their future!
💙 Passionate about youth empowerment? Join us!
📩 Contact: kellyc@pachs-chicago.org | anaisa@pachs-chicago.org
🔗 Sign-up HERE
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Senior Computer Confidence Program |
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| Did you know only 25% of seniors report feeling confident when using computers and smartphones? That's why we're launching our newest Tech Ready course, Senior Planet, for a comfortably-paced computer class designed specifically for adults over 60.
Students will learn to browse the web safely, confidently connect with their loved ones, and expand their knowledge well beyond the basics. Learn more HERE |
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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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Inherent Homes - Affordable Housing |
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What Nonprofits Should Know - KYR |
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| Watch the What Nonprofit Workers Need to Know webinar on immigration, civil rights, and mental health. discussion and access key resources by watching the recording here
✅ Immigration policies & legal rights
✅ Civil rights protections
✅ Mental health support for immigrant communitiesincluding details on the DHS settlement for unlawful ICE stops & arrests: More Info |
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City of Chicago - Know Your Rights Guide |
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The City of Chicago’s Office of Immigrant, Migrants and Refugee Rights has created a comprehensive guide to help families navigate the detention of a loved one by immigration authorities. This resource provides: ✅ Step-by-step guidance on what to do if someone is detained
✅ Legal and community resources for support
✅ Information on visitation, bond, and legal rights Empower yourself and your community—ACCESS GUIDES HERE
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OCAD - Raid Immigration Resources |
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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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Administrative ICE Warrant VS. Judicial Warrant |
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🔹 Administrative ICE Warrant (First Image - SAMPLE) Issued by: DHS, not a court. Purpose: Allows ICE to arrest for immigration violations. Limitations: Does not allow entry into your home without consent. Key Detail: Signed by an immigration officer, not a judge.
🔹 Judicial Warrant (Second Image) Issued by: A U.S. District Court. Purpose: Authorizes law enforcement to enter, search, or seize property/individuals. Authority: Signed by a judge, allows entry without consent.
⚠️ Why It Matters:
An ICE administrative warrant does not grant officers the right to enter your home—only a judicial warrant does. Always ask to see the warrant, verify details, and seek legal help if needed. For assistance, contact legal professionals or trusted community organizations. |
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5k Delinquent Tax Program |
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| 🏡 Delinquent Tax Program – Get Up to $5K in Assistance!
Struggling with property taxes? The Northwest Home Equity Assurance Program (NWHEAP) and Northwest Center are offering grants up to $5,000 to help homeowners on Chicago’s Northwest Side pay off delinquent property taxes and keep their homes.
📍 Eligibility: Must live within NWHEAP boundaries
📞 Apply today! Call 773-622-0700 or 773-283-3888 for more details. 🔗 Learn more: nwheap.com |
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City of Chicago Resources |
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| The Chicago Empowerment Fund (CEF) was a pilot program supporting low-income Chicago residents facing economic hardships. While it’s not funded in 2025, alternative resources are available for residents to explore. If you have questions, or need further assistance, please contact DFSS at (312) 743-0300, or visit the Department of Family and Support Services
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| As the temperatures drop, it’s important to keep an eye out for animals in need of care and support. Chicago Animal Care & Control (CACC) is here to help with wildlife, stray animals, abandoned pets, and more. 📞 How to Get Help: Call 311 to report any animal-related issues. Be sure to provide as much detail as possible, including your contact info, to ensure quick assistance. 📍 CACC Location: 2741 S. Western Ave. 🐾 Animal Intake Hours: 3 PM–7 PM daily |
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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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The Court-Based Rental Assistance Program (CBRAP) offers up to $15,000 for households facing eviction due to unpaid rent. Funds cover past due rent, court costs (up to $500), and two months of future rent. Payments go directly to landlords, who must agree to dismiss eviction cases—helping tenants stay housed. No repayment required. 📌 Eligibility: ✔ Live in Illinois ✔ Earn at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI) ✔One-time assistance only 🔗 Apply Now: www.illinoishousinghelp.org |
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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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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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| 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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