Many of you have likely seen reporting in the news about the humanitarian crisis unfolding in our city as more people seeking asylum migrate to our country's souther border. Last fall, Governor Abbott of Texas began busing migrants to a few cities led by mayors who belong to the Democratic Party. He sent tens of thousands of adults and children to cities on busses with false promises of what would await them when they arrived. He also did so without coordinating with the receiving cities with local authorities often only have a few hours notice of a bus arrival and no manifest letting us know how many people we should expect. This political stunt endangered lives and now he's told us he plans to begin again.
In recent weeks, we've seen an increase in the numbers of migrants arriving in Chicago. Some are making their own way to the city from locations where they were bussed previously, but some are arriving on planes sent by nonprofits funded by the State of Texas. The City is struggling to find spaces for respite and shelter while also preparing for the anticipated surge after a change in Federal policy beginning May 12. While the federal government is planning FEMA funding for impacted cities including border towns, the City and the State are working on solutions locally to this challenging situation.
Locally, my office, community members and nonprofit organizations are working on a relief plan for the 24th District Police Station where this week we had as many as 33 adults and children staying in the lobby while awaiting placement in a respite center. The district has been a welcoming environment for the asylum seekers with both officers and civilian staff providing migrants with food and supplies at their own expense, but this is not the appropriate place for people to be expected to shelter in this manner. Right now we are working with United Church of Rogers Park, Family Empowerment Center, and Northside Community Resources to provide spaces for the migrants to go during the day for food, showers, and services while they away placement in a City facility.
The field house at Leone Beach Park is still being used as a respite center for families. Respite centers are meant to be a temporary space where new arrivals await placement into shelter facilities. We really appreciate all of the support the community has been providing to individuals and the groups that are helping in this effort. You can listen to an update from earlier this week here: Video update from May 3. Thank you all for your patience as we work on this swiftly evolving situation.
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49th Ward Town Hall May 10
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Join Alderwoman Hadden and the 49th Ward team for the next monthly virtual town hall on Wednesday, May 10, at 6 pm. During the town hall, attendees will hear important updates for the ward and the city, as well as have the opportunity to ask questions.
Register to attend the meeting by visiting bit.ly/2023TownHalls. Spanish translation will be available.
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Community Alert: Attempted Child Luring
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The 24th District issued a community alert this week about a child luring attempt. On Monday, May 1, at approximately 9:05 am, a male in a white Jeep Cherokee pulled up alongside two female juveniles who were walking near the school at 7300 N. Chase. The unknown male in the vehicle asked the two juvenile females if they wanted a ride. They declined the offer and continued walking along the 7000 block of North Ashland. The unknown male offender approached them again, asking if they were sure that they didn't want a ride. The girls then ran into Eugene Field Elementary School, where they let adults know about the incident.
The suspect is described as a white male between the ages of 50-60 years old. He was clean-shaven and had a crew haircut. He was heavy set with a distinct double chin. At the time of the incident, he was wearing a collared gray buttoned shirt and a black coat. He was driving a newer model of a white Jeep Cherokee; the license plate number is unknown.
Police are asking anyone with information about this incident to contact the Area Three Bureau of Detectives at 312-744-8261. Anonymous tips can be submitted to TIPSOFT.com. Please reference RD# JG244548 when conveying information to the police on this incident.
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Share Your Feedback on the
Affordable Housing Proposal at Howard & Paulina
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On April 26, our office hosted a community meeting to discuss Housing For All's proposal to develop a mixed-use, 100% affordable workforce housing development at the corner of Howard and Paulina. The proposal is required to go through the Planned Development process due to the size and scope of the project.
The proposal includes plans to construct 104 units, 82 of which would be set aside for households earning at or below 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI). The remaining 22 would be set aside for households earning at or below 30% AMI. 10% of the units would be set aside as type A fully accessible units, with another 20% set aside as easily adaptable to fully accessible.
There will be a total of 14,968 square feet of rentable retail space upon completion of the project. The developer will work closely with the existing businesses so as not to displace them, including the post office on Paulina. They will also explore new market tax credits, which could help them pass cost savings to potential commercial tenants to keep prices affordable and encourage economic development in the area.
We would like to hear residents' feedback on the proposal. Please take a moment to complete the online feedback form at bit.ly/HowardPaulinaFeedback. Feedback will be accepted through May 14, 2023.
More information on the proposal and Housing for All's plans are available on the 49th Ward website at 49thward.org/howardandpaulina. A recording of the community meeting is available to view by clicking here.
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Update on Perception Cannabis Dispensary Proposal
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After a long search for a suitable space to open its dispensary, Perception Cannabis settled on the former currency exchange located at 7000 N. Clark. While the proposal doesn't require a zoning change, Perception Cannabis would be required to obtain a Special Use Permit from the Zoning Board of Appeals in order to operate.
As the community input process for this proposal progressed, many constituents expressed concern about Lunt Auto & Tire having to close and relocate. The plans include demolishing the building at the site to provide parking for the retail space. Many of our constituents, understandably, expressed concern that this proposal would displace a long-term, minority-owned local business in the ward.
In learning about the situation with Lunt Auto & Tire, I began conversations with the business owner and the property owner leasing him the space. In those conversations, I learned that Lunt Auto & Tire had inadvertently let their lease lapse in December and have been on a month-to-month lease since January. The landlord had initiated conversations with them beginning in January to let them know that they were having issues finding a tenant for the retail space without offering parking. They let the tenant know that if they found a viable tenant, they would look to transform the space Lunt Auto & Tire occupies into a parking lot as they could not afford to keep the large retail space on Clark vacant. Those conversations pre-dated Perception Cannabis expressing interest in the storefront, meaning that the plans to create parking for the retail space were not tied to any specific business or tenant.
I've been working with all parties to see if we could come to an amicable solution to help meet everyone's needs. In conversations I had with the owner of Lunt Auto & Tire, he expressed that he needed time and some financial breaks in order to find a new location for his business. The property owner has indicated she is willing to grant some financial relief in the form of two months of rent reimbursement for Lunt Auto & Tire to help them with costs associated with relocating. Lunt Auto & Tire has also already found a new location for their business to continue and I've reached out to the Alderman of that ward to ask for his support in some permitting approvals they'll need; those requests have been granted.
The location that Perception Cannabis selected for its dispensary is in the heart of a critical commercial corridor in the 49th Ward. The dispensary, coupled with the opening of the Wild Onion Market, creates the potential to anchor the area and encourage additional economic development throughout the corridor. Additionally, Perception Cannabis is a social equity license holder with roots already in the Rogers Park community. Its CEO, Charles Cherqui, is a long-term 49th Ward resident who wants to grow his business in his own backyard and provide employment opportunities within his community.
Based on the community response to the proposal and the concessions the landlord is willing to offer the owner of Lunt Auto & Tire, I am supporting Perception Cannabis' request for a Special Use Permit.
To learn more about the proposal, visit the 49th Ward website at 49thward.org/perceptioncannabis. To view the granular breakdown of all community feedback, visit bit.ly/PerceptionFeedbackResults.
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ZenLeaf Dispensary Proposal Update
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The decision for ZenLeaf's request to open a dispensary at 7541 N. Clark is pending at this time. After ZenLeaf joined the 49th Ward Office on March 8 to share their plans to relocate to a vacant storefront in the Gateway Center, we learned that a social equity applicant, OKAY Cannabis, was further along in the approval process to open just one block north at Chicago and Howard in Evanston. A decision will be made on May 8 on whether or not OKAY Cannabis will be given the green light to open at this location.
In Illinois, State law generally prohibits cannabis dispensaries from locating within 1,500 feet of another dispensary. There are some exceptions in the law that allow social equity dispensaries to open within 1,500 feet of non-social equity adult-use cannabis dispensaries. With OKAY Cannabis farther along in the process, however, that could prevent ZenLeaf from being able to open at this location since it is not a social equity license holder and it is within 1,500 feet of another dispensary.
Additionally, in reviewing the feedback results for ZenLeaf's proposal, we saw some common themes of concern about this particular location. Neighbors expressed concern that there were three dispensary proposals in close proximity to each other (all three proposals fall within one mile of each other). Another common theme that came up in the survey were concerns about a multi-state conglomerate operating and how that could impact the viability of social equity operators. We have heard anecdotal experiences from social equity license holders about the challenges they have faced in opening up while continuing to see multi-billion dollar multi-state conglomerates proliferate throughout the state.
After a decision is made on OKAY Cannabis on May 8, we will revisit ZenLeaf's proposal to open in the Gateway Center. Should OKAY Cannabis be given the proper approvals, ZenLeaf would need to find an alternative location since it would fall within 1,500 feet of another adult-use dispensary.
To learn more about the proposal, visit the 49th Ward website at 49thward.org/zenleaf. To view the granular breakdown of all community feedback, visit bit.ly/ZenleafSurveyResults.
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File a Property Tax Appeal by May 25 for the Rogers Park Township
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The Rogers Park Township is now open for property tax appeals through the Cook County Assessor's Office. Filing an appeal is one way that property owners can lower their property tax bill.
When a property owner files an appeal, they are not appealing the taxing bodies' levies; rather, they are appealing the assessed value of their property. Filing an appeal will never result in a higher assessed value of the property, and property owners should file an appeal every year. If a property owner's appeal is accepted, the changes to the property's assessed value will be reflected in the second installment property tax bill received in 2024.
Property owners have until Thursday, May 25, to file an appeal with the Cook County Assessor. The Assessor's Office has created a user-friendly online portal to help property owners file an appeal. You can access more information and file an appeal online by clicking here.
For any questions, please contact my office at 773-338-5796, or contact Cook County Commissioner Josina Morita's Office at 312-603-6383.
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Loyola University Move-Out Days Scheduled for May 5-8
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Loyola University has scheduled its student move-out days for May 5-8. In preparing for the move-out, Loyola has worked closely with the Department of Transportation and the Office of Emergency Management and Communications to try and make the process easier for neighbors living in the Loyola area.
During the move-out dates, you will see "No Parking" signs posted in the following areas from 8 am to 5 pm:
- 1000-1150 W Loyola Avenue from Sheridan to the lake (north side only)
- 1201-1220 W Northshore, from Sheridan to the Alley (both sides)
- 6201-6259 N Kenmore from Rosemont to Granville (East side only)
- 6200-6259 N. Winthrop from Rosemont to Granville (Both sides)
- 6300-6359 N Winthrop from Sheridan to Rosemont (Both sides)
Please be advised that upper-class students rent apartments in the area that are not operated by the university. While Loyola does not make special arrangements for those moves, they have requested special attention to no-parking areas around Loyola with Streets and Sanitation. This means that students who park in the tow zones, block fire hydrants, or block driveways and alleys will face the same consequences as residents living in the Loyola area.
Loyola University has made itself available to discuss Loyola students and their presence in the neighborhood to try and foster a positive relationship between the school and its neighbors. They can be contacted during business hours at 773-508-8840 or via email at deanofstudents@luc.edu. If it is after business hours and you need to report an issue, their Campus Safety office can be reached at 773-508-6039.
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One Howard Street Community Survey
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What’s your big idea for Howard Street? The One Howard Street Community Survey will help the One Howard Street team understand how the community currently uses the street and develop a shared vision for its future. Take the survey to share your vision for Howard Street and enter for a chance to win a $25 gift card! The survey is open until Monday, May 15, 2023.
Take the online survey here.
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Order Your Official 2023 Artists of the Wall Poster
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The Loyola Park Advisory Council has unveiled this year's 30th-anniversary poster, designed by teen artist Maude Hovey-Bradshaw! You'll see this poster promoting the 30th annual Artists of the Wall Festival. Pre-order posters and t-shirts here!
REGISTRATION - Registration will open on May 1, 3, and 5 at 8 AM at this link. Please only purchase one space per household. This year's event will be on June 17 and 18, 2023, from 9 AM-3 PM, with music from 12-3 each day.
VOLUNTEER - Volunteer for AOTW and the Loyola Park Advisory Council by filing out this form.
SPONSOR - Join as a sponsor before May 15 to be on promotional materials. Information here.
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Rogers Park Business Alliance Mural RFP
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Rogers Park Business Alliance, a service provider for Clark/Morse/Glenwood Special Service Area #24, is seeking proposals for a single artist or artist team to paint a mural on Clark St. in Rogers Park.
Proposals must be emailed to Ana Bermudez, abermudez@rpba.org no later than Friday, May 12, 2023. Proposals received after this date will not be accepted. Preference will be given to artists from Rogers Park and with bicultural backgrounds.
Vision Mural RFP 2023
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Temporary Reroute for CTA Bus #147
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Due to ongoing work in the Rogers/Howard area, the CTA has rerouted the #147 bus route until work in the area is complete (which is anticipated to occur in mid-May). The route will now be the following:
NB) #147 Outer Drive Express
Operate regular route to Sheridan/Touhy, (turn left) West on Touhy to Clark, (turn right) North on Clark to Rogers, (turn right) Northeast on Rogers to Paulina, (turn left) North on Paulina into Howard Terminal. Exit Howard Terminal onto Howard, (turn left) West on Howard to Clark, (turn left) South on Clark to Touhy, (turn left) East on Touhy to Sheridan, (turn right) South on Sheridan over the regular route.
SB) #147 OuterDriveExpress
Exit Howard Terminal onto Howard, (turn left)
West on Howard to Clark, (turn left)
South on Clark to Touhy, (turn left)
East on Touhy to Sheridan, (turn right)
South on Sheridan over the regular route.
Operate regular route to Sheridan/Touhy, (turn left) West on Touhy to Clark, (turn right) North on Clark to Rogers, (turn right) Northeast on Rogers to Paulina, (turn left) North on Paulina into Howard Terminal. Exit Howard Terminal onto Howard, (turn left) West on Howard to Clark, (turn left) South on Clark to Touhy, (turn left) East on Touhy to Sheridan, (turn right) South on Sheridan over the regular route.SB)
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Sewer Main Replacement Project (PN7439):
ComEd is working at the intersection of Rogers, Greenview, and Howard to restore its conduit ducts. This has caused a delay in the reopening of the intersection, and it will remain closed beyond May 1. As soon as ComEd finished up its work, crews will be able to pour a concrete base to reopen the intersection. Please continue to plan your commute around the closure of this major intersection.
On Monday, the water crews will perform a water main cut and cap at Greenview and Birchwood. The sewer installation on Greenview is ongoing.
Continue to keep your eye on this space for updates on this project. Chicagoans may also visit BuildingANewChicago.org to register for notifications. You will need to enter your name, email address, and project identification number (7439) to sign up.
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Theatre Above the Law Mother's Day Special
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Treat your mom to live theater this Mother's Day! Theatre Above the Law, 1439 W. Jarvis, is running a special Moteher's Day weekend, May 12-14. Mom's get in free to watch the current play, The Importance of Being Earnest.
To take advantage of this deal, visit Theatre Above the Law's website and use coupon code "C-ButMama" at checkout. The promotion is limited to online sales only.
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YOUNG KRONES Presents: A Drama in Rogers Park
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YOUNG KRONES, a local theater-making duo, would like to invite you to attend a performance of its new site-specific work, A Drama in Rogers Park, this May.
This community-driven play charts twelve stormy hours in the life of a local family as they grieve the dissolution of a long-term polyamorous relationship. Taking the architecture of Jarvis Square as its stage, A Drama in Rogers Park intervenes into private and public space in order to drive the convention of the kitchen sink play to a hysterically real extreme.
Performances will take place Thursdays through Sundays at 7:30 pm every weekend in May in a two-bedroom apartment in Rogers Park for audiences of 10 at a time. If you would like to attend, you can make a reservation through this form.
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Register for Chicago Park District Summer Programs
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The Chicago Park District is looking forward to providing Chicagoans with a fun-filled summer through its summer programs, including Summer Day Camp. You can start planning your summer by viewing all of its summer programs, which are now available to browse online.
Registration opens online at 9 am on Monday, May 1, for parks west of California, and at 9 am on Tuesday, May 2, for parks east of California. In-person registration will start on May 6 for most parks with openings. Visit the Chicago Park District's day camp page for more information!
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Pottawattomie Park Spring Plant Sale May 6
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The Pottawattomie Park Advisory Council is hosting its annual Spring Plant Sale. Annuals, perennials, and houseplants will be for sale; all proceeds will support programs and landscape improvements in the park.
The sale be held at the park, 7340 N. Rogers, the weekend before Mother's Day on Saturday, May 6th, from 11:00 am - 2:00 pm.
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Leone Beach Park Advisory Council Spring Programming
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The Leone Beach Park Advisory Council announced its nature programming for Spring 2023, including the return of many neighborhood favorites. All programs are free and open to the public. They begin near the Leone Beach Park fieldhouse at Touhy and the Lake, 1222 W. Touhy.
Spring Mindfulness in Nature with Sharon Naylor
Saturday, May 6th, at 11 am
Being mindful of our senses and the natural environment lets us sink into the present moment. By listening to the sounds of nature and feeling the sensations of the sun and ground beneath our feet, we will spend time being and relaxing at the lakefront. Sharon Naylor is a mindfulness teacher and Loyola Park dunes steward who is combining these two passions to lead this series of gatherings.
Spring Migration Bird Walk with Scott Judd and John Cawood
Saturday, May 13th, from 8 am - 10 am (rain date, May 14th)
Want to learn more about birds and birdwatching? Spring is a great time to see interesting birds as they migrate through Chicago. Join us for an engaging, accessible bird walk through Leone and Loyola parks, led by experienced local birders Scott Judd and John Cawood.
Conservation Work Day in the Oak Savana and Sand Prairie
Sunday, May 28th, at 9:30 am
Be part of stewarding Rogers Park's rare local ecologies at Leone Beach! All work days start at 9:30 am and meet at the Leone Beach Park fieldhouse at 1222 W. Touhy. The Park Advisory Council will provide gloves, tools, and instruction (and plants!). Please check the weather beforehand in order to dress accordingly.
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Senior Film Series Presents: Iron Jawed Angels
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The 24th District's Senior Film Series will present Iron Jawed Angels in May. This will be the last film in the Senior Film Series until September.
The screening will take place on Wednesday, May 10, at 1 pm. Free parking is available on Schreiber Avenue just south of the station, and parking restrictions will temporarily be lifted during the event. Pre-registration is required to attend this film due to a 30-person limit. Please email Officer DeWinter in the 24th District Community Policing Office to RSVP at caroline.dewinter@chicagopolice.org.
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Adolescents Can Get Paid to Sleep!
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The Promoting Urban Adolescent Sleep Health (PUSH) Study aims to better understand individual, family, and neighborhood factors that impact adolescent sleep health-- with an emphasis on stress and discrimination experiences. The study involves one in-person session where an adolescent and parent will each complete a 1-hour survey. Adolescents will be given a watch to track their sleep and will then answer short surveys twice a day for a week regarding their sleep. After successfully completing the entire study, parents can be compensated up to $55 and adolescents up to $180.
You can learn more about the research study and sign up at pushstudychicago.com.
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Celebrate Lifeline Theatre's 40th Anniversary May 18!
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Celebrate the past 40 Years of Big Stories, Up Close, and help support a bright future for Lifeline at the theatre company's annual benefit that marks its 40th Anniversary, a significant milestone in Chicago Theater history. The event will feature music, food and drink, entertainment, an auction, and the fellowship of others who appreciate this valued asset in our community.
The anniversary benefit will take place on Thursday, May 18, at 6:30 pm at Venue West, 221 N. Paulina. For more information and tickets, click here.
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Lifeline Theatre Presents: From the Mississippi Delta
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Lifeline Theatre presents From the Mississippi Delta. A compelling tale of tenacity and resilience, this Pulitzer Prize-nominated drama explores the incredible journey of a young woman from her hardscrabble Mississippi origins through the civil rights era and beyond. Dr. Endesha Ida Mae Holland's self-described journey is told through the lens of only three actresses.
The show runs April 27 through June 18 at Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood. For more information and to purchase tickets, click here.
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Theatre Above the Law Presents: The Importance of Being Earnest: A Trivial Comedy for Serious People
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Theatre Above the Law reimagines The Importance of Being Earnest: A Trivial Comedy for Serious People by Oscar Wilde by leaning into the author’s own description of “trivial”. Edited to come in at 90 minutes, this production will feature clown work, main characters as non-binary and, of course, plenty of cucumber sandwiches and muffins."
April 21-May 21 Jarvis Square Theatre 1439 W. Jarvis
Rogers Park and Ward 49 coupon code for online pre-sales only. Use the code C-PinkRose for $15 tickets. A limited amount are available for each performance.
This production is sponsored by R Public House, The Jarvis Square Tavern, The Howard Street and Jarvis Square SSA, and Taste Food and Wine.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit Theatre Above the Law's website.
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Events at the Rogers Park Branch Library
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The Rogers Park Branch Library, 6907 N. Clark, offers a variety of events and programming for people of all ages. Make sure to check out a list of their upcoming events and register to attend one. More information is available on its website here.
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Donate to the Late Thomas Kong's GoFundMe
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On May 1, 2023, the artist of the people, Thomas Kong, passed away. Thomas Kong operated his store, Kim’s Corner Food, as a convenience store for the local Rogers Park community in Chicago. He simultaneously used the store as a studio and project space, opening his doors to local community members, art workers, and artists alike. His work has been exhibited in galleries and institutions. He was also shown internationally.
Evoked by his commitment to life and art - life as art, the owner of Kim’s Corner Food has been a vital part of Chicago’s art scene.
To support the family in funeral expenses and the long road to sustaining Kim’s Corner Food, the family is requesting your support to keep his vision alive. Consider making an online contribution by clicking here.
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Volunteer for Animal Care and Control
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Chicago Animal Care and Control (CACC) is seeking volunteers to help connect families with pets, walk and play with dogs, care for cats, provide one-on-one enrichment, and assist at special events. All volunteers must be at least 18 years old and attend an orientation. For more information, click here.
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Volunteer at Howard Area Community Center
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Howard Area Community Center has a variety of volunteer opportunities to help give back to our community. Their volunteer opportunities include food pantry shifts, adult education tutoring, reading programs, and with the youth.
For more information and to sign up, call 773-262-6622 ext 106, email volunteers@howardarea.org, or click here.
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Sponsor Refugees through Welcome Corps
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The Welcome Corps is a new service opportunity for Americans to welcome refugees seeking freedom and safety and, in turn, make a difference in their own communities. Together, sponsor groups welcome refugee newcomers by securing and preparing initial housing, greeting refugee newcomers at the airport, enrolling children in school, and helping adults to find employment. You already have the most important skill you need to succeed—knowledge about daily life in your community. Experts will be there to guide you each step of the way.
Learn more at welcomecorps.org.
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Connect with Your Elected Officials
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Want to get connected with your other elected officials? Find links to sign up to their newsletters and website information below!
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Neighborhood Access Program Accepting Idea Submissions
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DCASE is now accepting idea submissions for the 2023 Neighborhood Access Program. This program provides grants for all types of neighborhood-based arts and cultural activities taking place in Chicago between October 1, 2023, and December 31, 2024. Individuals and nonprofit organizations may apply. The deadline to submit an idea is Friday, May 19th, at 5 pm Central. For eligibility criteria and other details, visit ChicagoCulturalGrants.org.
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Applications for 2022 Property Tax Exemptions Now Open
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Mark your calendar! The Cook County Assessor tax year 2022 exemption applicaitons will open on Monday, April 10! Exemptions are savings that contribute to lowering a homeowner’s property tax bill. The most common is the Homeowner Exemption, which saves a Cook County property owner an average of $973 dollars each year.
Before existing and new homeowners apply, there are a few things to know that will save them time and effort.
First, existing homeowners should determine which exemptions they received last year (tax year 2021) and determine if they will automatically renew this year (tax year 2022). The Assessor’s Office will continue the automatic renewal of the Homeowner, Senior, Senior Freeze, Veterans with Disabilities, and Persons with Disabilities Exemptions. Homeowners can check their exemptions by visiting the Cook County Portal and reviewing the Exemption History section.
Next, new homeowners, first-time applicants, or those that need to reapply can now do so online using a new form that consolidates the five most common exemptions into a single application. This allows homeowners to simply check mark the exemptions they want to apply for, only having to submit required documents once.
Homeowners are strongly encouraged to apply online. Not only will they save trees, but they will also have a digital record that allows Assessor staff to provide a status update.
More information is available on the Assessor's website.
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Complete the Tapestry360 Health Equity Survey
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Tapestry360 has launched a Holistic Needs Assessment Questionnaire as part of a Health Equity project for the city of Chicago. They are collaborating with community members and organizations to identify and dismantle barriers that would improve social and physical health in our community.
Please take a moment to complete the community needs survey to help inform recommendations and solutions.
English survey: https://forms.gle/qy9TYiLKHAG8cdsJ6
Spanish survey: https://forms.gle/JRXkP1EXr4YHMgeb7
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The federal government is reopened its program to offer free COVID-19 tests. People can visit COVIDtests.gov to request four tests for free.
Public health officials recommend people test themselves when they have symptoms and before visiting family.
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Updated Bivalent Boosters Now Available!
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The City of Chicago received the free updated bivalent COVID boosters this week.
The new boosters offer greater protection against common COVID-19 variants than the original shots and are available to anyone aged 12 and older who have already received their initial vaccine shots. People age 12 and up who have completed a primary vaccine series should receive a bivalent booster two months after the second dose of their last booster shot.
The updated booster is widely available throughout the city, including at doctors' offices, hospitals, pharmacies, and community health centers. To find a location where you can receive the bivalent booster shot, visit the Chicago Department of Public Health's website.
For more information and answers to frequently asked questions, click here.
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Latest Information on COVID-19 from the
Chicago Department of Public Health
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For the latest information on COVID-19 in Chicago, visit the Chicago Department of Health's (CDPH) website at chicago.gov/coronavirus. For the latest information on COVID-19 in Illinois, visit the Illinois Department of Public Health's (IDPH) website.
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IHDA Mortgage Assistance Program
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The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) has extended its mortgage assistance program designed to assist homeowners financially impacted by the pandemic. The Illinois Homeowner Assistance Fund (ILHAF) provides up to $60,000 in mortgage assistance to eligible homeowners—paid directly to the servicer, taxing body, or other approved entity—while homeowners work to regain their financial footing. Whether homeowners have a mortgage, a reverse mortgage, or are mortgage-free, the program can fund past due housing payments and up to three months of prospective mortgage payments.
The program is free, and funds do not need to be repaid. Application, program information, and updates can be found at illinoishousinghelp.org or by calling the ILHAF hotline at 1-866-IL-HELP (866-454-3571).
The HANA Center can also assist homeowners with their application. To contact the HANA Center, call 773-583-5501 or email housing@hanacenter.org
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ComEd Launches New Assistance Programs
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ComEd recently issued the attached news release to announce new and enhanced customer assistance options that will make more customers aware of the help available, provide more grants to help with electric bills, and remove barriers customers sometimes face when accessing assistance options.
ComEd’s new assistance offerings include:
- Catch Up and Save: A two-part program that first provides monthly credits to a customer’s bill to eliminate past-due balances. To help families save on future energy bills, the program also provides a free energy savings kit while supplies last. Each kit includes home products designed to help lower home energy use while improving the efficiency of the home.
- Fresh Start Services: To help customers become aware of and navigate the options available to manage bills and energy use, ComEd offers both online and person-to-person help. This service also offers customers tools that will alert them when their energy use is trending higher than usual and help them be aware of financial assistance programs they may be eligible for.
- Your Neighbor Fund: To be funded by donations from ComEd’s 6,000 employees who proudly work and live in the communities the energy company serves. This fund, managed in collaboration with Neighborhood Housing Services, provides another needed source of grant money to help limited-income families pay their ComEd bill.
For more information and to enroll, visit comed.com/sam.
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Back to Business (B2B) Grants for Creative Arts, Hotels & Restaurants
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The Back to Business (B2B) grant program provides recovery grants for businesses in the hardest-hit industries. Through the state’s B2B and Business Interruption Grant (BIG) Programs, DCEO has provided more than $535 million to more than 15,000 businesses since the start of the pandemic.
Eligible restaurants, hotels, and creative arts businesses are eligible to apply for $175 million in available grant funding as part of our efforts to support ongoing recovery in hard-hit industries. All applicants will receive a grant as long as they meet eligibility requirements, and submit proper documentation and attestations required by the program.
Applications will be open from April 5 to May 10, 2023, and there are informational webinars scheduled for March 24, March 30, and April 6, 2023. For more information and to apply, click here.
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Host an Event in an Alfresco Space!
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Spring is here, which means it's a great time to start thinking about events for our community alfresco spaces! In Rogers Park, we have two public spaces available for community use. Both spaces, one on Glenwood between Morse & Lunt and the other at Jarvis Square (Jarvis Red Line) are available for anyone in the community, including businesses in the area, to use.
Because both spaces are open to the public and are located in the public way, admission to any events must be free. Food, drinks, or merchandise can be sold with proper permitting and licensing.
Request event approval a minimum of 2 weeks in advance. Learn more about hosting an event here.
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Sign-Up to be a Vendor at Chalk Howard Street Festival
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Are you a vendor interested in participating at Chalk Howard Street? The Rogers Park Business Alliance just launched the vendor sign-up forms. These are available for artists, merchants, and food vendors. The deadline to apply is July 14th; priority will be given to Rogers Park vendors.
Learn more and apply by clicking here.
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ARPA Funding Opportunities
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Information about all active city, county, and state ARPA RFPs and grant opportunities can be found at greaterchicagotogether.org. Information on City programs can be by clicking here.
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Park District Seeking Youth Lifeguards
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Get paid $375 stipend for lifeguard training  ! New this year, swimmers  will receive the necessary training to become a Chicago Park District lifeguard during Sunday classes, starting April 16, at 5 park pools.
Registration is open NOW.  www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/waterfront-lifeguard-academy
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One Summer Chicago Now Accepting Applications
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The Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) welcomes Chicago youth with new summer opportunities as we reopen the application portal for One Summer Chicago (OSC) at www.onesummerchicago.org.
This year, there are thousands of opportunities available for young people ages 14-24, with opportunities in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Young people can apply at www.onesummerchicago.org up until the June 2nd deadline.
- Summer Youth Employment Program provides employment and internship opportunities for 16 to 24 year-olds, earning $15.40 an hour while working with partners like the Chicago Park District, the Lincoln Park Zoo, and Lurie’s Children’s Hospital.
- For our 14–15-year-olds who are not quite old enough to work, our Chicagobility program helps young people explore career pathways, participate in project-based learning and field trips, and earn a $450 stipend for the summer.
Apply here!
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Free English and GED Classes at Howard Area Community Center
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Howard Area Community Center is offering free English and GED classes. Online, in-person, and one-on-one options are available. For more information, contact Moon Parker at mparker@howardarea.org or Katherine Erickson at kerickson@howardarea.org.
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Chicago Youth Service Corps Program
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Are you between the ages of 16-24 and interested in youth-led public service? Apply to the Chicago Youth Service Corps, a year-round program that provides paid opportunities for youth to engage in community services, project-based learning, and leadership development.
For more information and to apply, click here.
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The Chicago Public Schools Talent Office will host its monthly CPS Job Paraprofessional Fari on Wednesday, May 17, from 10 am to 1 pm at Truman College, 1145 W. Wilson.
To register for the event, visit bit.ly/CPSJobFair51723.
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Airport Expo and Job Fair May 24
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The Chicago Department of Aviation is hosting its semi-annual Airport Expo and Job Fair at the UIC Forum located at 725 W. Roosevelt Road, Chicago, IL 60607, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, May 24, 2023. The Airport Expo and Job Fair is an opportunity for local entrepreneurs and job seekers to learn how their careers can take off at Chicago’s airports.
At the Expo, entrepreneurs will have exclusive access to critical workshops on various topics about doing business with CDA. Workshops include a detailed overview of our procurement process, how to contract with the Construction Managers at Risk (CMAR's), and how to obtain certification from Department of Procurement Services. Additionally, business owners will have unique opportunities to network with key stakeholders in a variety of industries.
At the Job Fair, job seekers of all experience levels will be able to attend career building workshops, connect with support agencies and apply directly with businesses. Book an appointment with on-site workforce professionals to learn how to build your resume for success and nail your next interview.
Please visit FlyChicago.com/AirportExpo, where you can register and find the latest information about the event.
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Apply for a Summer Job with the Chicago Park District
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This summer, have fun, help others, and make your community a better place while earning money! Job openings for Lifeguard, Recreation Leader, and Junior Laborer positions are now available for qualified candidates, ages 16 and older, to apply. The District’s summer jobs offer competitive wages, life-skill-building opportunities, flexible work schedules, and pathways to careers and full-time employment. Apply now for your perfect summer job at the Chicago Park District!
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Chicago Urban League Workforce Development Center Information Sessions
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The Chicago Urban League has launched a workforce development program, which aims to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to secure employment opportunities in various fields. Every Thursday at 10 am, they are hosting information sessions where prospective employees can learn how to elevate their careers in a range of fields.
To register to attend an information session, visit bit.ly/culsuccessstrategies.
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Swissport Chicago is Hiring
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Swissport Chicago is looking to hire key passenger services positions at O'Hare airport. They are especially in need of representatives that speak Spanish. To learn more about openings, visit its website here.
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Heartland Alliance Medical Interpreter Program
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Heartland Alliance has launched a medical interpreter training program. As one of the services of the RICS College and Career Pathways program, participants can complete this independent medical interpreting course with support provided by Heartland Alliance. This course is free to eligible participants and is a first step to prepare for work as an interpreter.
Heartland Alliance is now enrolling new participants.
Some important notes:
- Enrollees need to be completely fluent in both languages they will use for interpreting.
- The course materials are in English.
- The course is completely online and independent.
- Basic computer skills are necessary as participants will need to navigate through the online materials independently
- No medical experience is needed.
- The College and Career Pathways program covers the cost of the course for eligible participants
For more information, contact Dionn McDonald at 708-943-8664 or dimcdonald@heartlandalliance.org.
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Free Online English Classes at Howard Area Community Center
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Howard Area Community Center, 7648 N. Paulina, is offering free online English classes to help individuals in the workforce. The classes will help participants with their communication skills for the workplace and provide support in job training and searches.
The classes meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6-8 pm. To sign up, click here. For more information, contact Moon Parker at mparker@howardarea.org or 312-768-8046.
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Free Culinary Arts Training Program
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Howard Area Community Center is opening registration for the Spring cohort of its Culinary Arts Program. The program provides a free, paid 12-week job training program to prepare students for success in Chicagoland's vibrant food service industry.
The training dates are April 10 - June 30. Individuals who may be interested can sign up for one of two information sessions (Feb 20 or Mar 6) by scanning the QR code on the attached flyer or by clicking here.
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Trilogy Behavioral Health is Hiring!
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Trilogy Behavioral Health is looking to hire key mental health positions in its organization. Trilogy offers generous benefits and training opportunities. To learn more about openings, visit its website here.
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Interested in landscaping, construction, or ecological restoration? Greencorps Chicago is the City of Chicago’s green-industry employment program with on-the-job training for individuals with barriers to employment. Apply to their 10-month green industry employment opportunity, where you will receive training, earn licenses, certifications, and more!
For more information and to apply, click here.
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Are you looking for a career change, a new job, or know someone who is? Look to the CTA each Friday to see newly posted positions as you seek a new career opportunity! Visit transitchicago.com/careers to find a full list of jobs!
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Misericordia is Now Hiring
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Misericordia seeks to hire for several key positions within the organization.
Misericordia is home to over 600 children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It has a 31-acre campus that provides around-the-clock care to support its residents. They strive to find compassionate and hardworking individuals to join its team. Misericordia offers competitive pay rates and excellent employee benefits.
For more information on current job openings, visit Misericordia's Careers website.
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Greater Chicago Food Depository Job Training Programs
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The Greater Chicago Food Depository now offers free and paid hospitality and supply chain career path training programs. These programs are available to unemployed and underemployed adults living in Cook County. Programs are background friendly and welcoming to those without a high school diploma or GED.
More information on the program is available on the Greater Chicago Food Depository's website by clicking here.
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CTA Second Chance Program
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The CTA Second Chance Program allows individuals with a barrier to employment an opportunity for a fulfilling and stable career with the CTA. Those interested in the program should complete a survey of interest by clicking here. More information on the Second Chance Program is available on the CTA's website here.
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Join the Chicago Park District Team
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The Chicago Park District is seeking to hire several key year-round and seasonal positions. To view all openings, visit ChicagoParkDistrict.com/Jobs.
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Pace Bus is hiring for bus operator and mechanic positions at its facilities across the suburbs to ensure that it can provide the level of bus service that our regional economy depends on. Working for Pace has many advantages:
- Competitive starting pay
- Paid on-the-job and ongoing training
- Promotion from within
- Working close to home
- Health insurance benefits
- Retirement benefits
- Paid vacation and other paid time off
- Safe, clean work environment (visit PaceBus.com/health to see all of our COVID-related safety precautions in place to protect personnel)
Applications and a list of open positions can be found at PaceBus.com/Careers.
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CPS is Hiring Substitute Teachers
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Chicago Public Schools is seeking committed substitute teachers to ensure our students receive quality instruction in the absence of their teacher. To apply, visit cps.edu/iwanttosub.
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CPS is Hiring Board Custodians
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CPS is hiring Board Custodians. To apply for the position, click here. To register for an interview, click here. For more information, call 773-553-2100 or email HRFacilities@cps.edu.
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Getir Chicago is Now Hiring
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Getir Chicago is now hiring delivery drivers and order packers for its locations throughout the city. Learn more and apply on their website.
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Collective Resource is Hiring
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Collective Resource Compost, a specialty waste hauler that collects food scraps for composting, is hiring. They work out of a site just over the border in Skokie (near McCormick, between Howard and Touhy). The Driver / Compost Service Specialist job starts at $16 per hour and goes to $17 after a 90-day review. They're looking for people who are reliable, hard-working, tech-capable, and committed to reducing environmental harm.
Learn more at: collectiveresource.us/join-our-team/.
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CPS is Hiring Lunch Attendants
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CPS is hiring lunch attendants across the district! Employees get to work a regular Monday to Friday schedule with holidays off. Positions include medical, dental, and pension benefits.
For more information and to apply, visit cps.edu/careers.
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Apply to be a Crossing Guard
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Earlier this year, the City of Chicago transferred the crossing guard program from OEMC to Chicago Public Schools. During this transition, many crossing guards decided to retire or resign while school was not operating in person due to the pandemic.
As we have CPS has returned to in-person learning, they have been working hard to fill vacant positions. They are still seeking applicants to fill the positions to help families and children safely get to and from school.
To apply to become a crossing guard, please follow the steps below:
- Please visit the CPS Careers Website at cps.edu/careers
- Click on "CPS Job Board" at the bottom of the page.
- On the top of the next page, click on "Basic Search."
- Type "Crossing Guard" into the "Keywords" field.
- Click on the Crossing Guard job posting for the location you want to apply to, and follow the instructions to fill out the applications.
If you have any questions, please contact Crossingguard@cps.edu.
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Greater West Town Training Programs
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Greater West Town Community Development and Project has over 30 years of expanding economic opportunities in education, job training, and job placement for Chicagoans. Check out the academic and location opportunities available to Chicago residents now, then schedule your orientation today. For more information, please call 312-563-9044 or visit http://GWTP.org
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Find a Career with S&C Electric Company
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S&C Electric in Rogers Park is seeking to hire team members for several key positions in their organization. S&C Electric is a 100% employee-owned team seeking several team members in the Rogers Park community to keep the lights on across the globe.
To learn more and apply, visit ww.sandc.com/careers.
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Heartland Alliance Job Openings
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Heartland Alliance has several positions open across Chicago. These positions include a bilingual mental health clinical practitioner, a clinical supervisor, an LPN, case managers, and more.
Heartland Alliance works to advance human rights and champion human dignity by providing services and promoting solutions to achieve a more just global society. Heartland Alliance's mission is to advance human rights and respond to the human needs of endangered populations—particularly the poor, the isolated, and the displaced—through the provision of comprehensive and respectful services and the promotion of permanent solutions leading to a more just global society. Its approach is multi-faceted and intentional and intersects through three focus areas: health and healing, safety and justice, and economic opportunity.
For more information on job openings, visit Heartland Alliance's Careers website by clicking here.
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