Auburn Gresham Tax Site Makes The Number$!

The Chicago Center for Economic (CEP) Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, Auburn Gresham Tax site was held at the Greater Auburn Gresham Development Corporation (GADC), for the 9th year. GADCs Business Resource Center, was once again transformed into a client in-take area and managed by ... more

At GADC March Madness Was Not Just About the Brackets

At the Greater Auburn-Gresham Development Corporation (GADC) March Madness Was Not Just About the Brackets, take a moment and look at our teams win at Education, Health, Seniors, Technology for our residents and businesses.

Ms. Curry is Covered, It's Not Too Late!

Sometimes all you can do is close your eyes and give thanks. Thats what Ms. Curry expressed when she and certified navigator, Khayeem Anderson finished her "Get Covered Illinois" health insurance application, in record time! Initially she was shy and said no pictures. But she kept repeating how sh... more

GetCovered on March 27th It Is Not Too Late

Windy City Habitat for Humanity’s Neighborhood Engagement Event t The West Pullman Library!

Dear Community Member, On Wednesday, April 2nd, from 6pm to 7:30pm, you are invited to attend Windy City Habitat for Humanity’s Neighborhood Engagement Event at The West Pullman Library! The event is an opportunity to learn about neighborhood engagement work in your area! Windy City Habita... more

Planned and Delivered: Long March to Zapata Apts.

That’s how Miriam Rodriguez describes her new and affordable second-floor apartment at 3230 W. Armitage Ave. in the Logan Square neighborhood. Her sentiment parallels the sigh of relief expressed by Joy Aruguete when asked how it feels to have completed, finally, the Zapata Apartments after ... more

Continuar el debate sobre la secundaria Ames

Do you qualify for a free energy assessment? / Puede usted ser elegible para un evaluacion gratuita?

Breaking Down Quinn's State Budget Address

After months of being mum on the issue, Gov. Pat Quinn used his budget address Wednesday to announce his desire to keep the states temporary income tax hike in place — an idea many Republicans and business groups oppose. The Chicago Democrat, who is up for re-election this year and faces wh... more

Vitale demand for proof of community support is met by Ames Referendum success (Video)

Parents, lawyers and members of the school community reach CPS to prevent secondary militarize in Logan Square. Padres, abogados y miembros de la comunidad escolar llegan hasta CPS para evitar que se militarize la secundaria en Logan Square. ### Access Chicago SunTimes video here.

The Resurrection Project’s work covered by Univisión and The Gate Newspaper

The Resurrection Project (TRP) works to build relationships and create healthy communities, and we’re excited and grateful that our work has made the news again! On Friday, December 7, The Gate Newspaper ran a feature article on TRP and our work to stabilize Chicago’s Back of the Yards ... more

The Resurrection Project Applauds Wintrust’s Decision to Sell the Second Federal Deposits to Self-Help Federal Credit Union and The Resurrection Project

On November 28, 2012, Wintrust Financial Corp. agreed to sell Second Federal Savings and Loans’ three branches and deposits to The Resurrection Project (TRP) and Self-Help Federal Credit Union (Self-Help). You can read the Crain’s Chicago Business article here. TRP and Self-Help formed... more

The Resurrection Project and Self-Help Federal Credit Union joint venture acquires 1,100 loans to prevent massive foreclosures

On November 12, 2012, Self-Help Federal Credit Union (Self-Help) and The Resurrection Project (TRP) were successful in acquiring 1,100 loans totaling $141 million of face value from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). These loans are part of the former Second Federal Savings and Loan (... more

The New York Times features La Casa

La Casa Student Housing was featured in the Education Life section of the New York Times this weekend. The article is available online here, and was featured in the Sunday print edition on November 4, 2012. NYT reporter Michael Winerip visited with The Resurrection Project in September, and took ... more

La Casa Student Housing Media Coverage

The Resurrection Projects La Casa Student Housing Ribbon Cutting ceremony received great media coverage from national news outlets such as Univision, ABC, Azteca America and Fox News! See how they covered the event and La Casa below! Univision: Azteca America: WGN Chicago: Other media outl... more

South Side Eats: Unwrap the Fantastic Roti at Cafe Trinidad in Bronzeville

The two island country is one of the oldest inhabited areas of the Caribbean, so its cuisine is influenced by many flavors, including those from Africa, India, China, Britain, and others. For full article, CLICK HERE.

The University of Chicago Launches UChicago Local

UChicago Local will offer programs and tools for business owners and job seekers in neighborhoods around the University. The first phase focuses on local business support, including efforts to make local vendors a larger part of University and UChicago Medicine procurement. That includes an intensiv... more

Chicago Unveils New Small Business Push

The Emanuel administration today announced a new program intended to increase the number of contracts that neighborhood businesses win from Chicagos largest employers. The initiative is being launched by World Business Chicago, the public-private partnership that more typically focuses on recruitin... more

DCASE Seeks Proposals from Qualified Food Service Companies

DCASE Seeks Proposals from Qualified Firms March 12, 2014 The City of Chicago, Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events seeks proposals from qualified firms to provide Concession Services at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park. For additional information or a copy of the Request F... more

Office of City Clerk Summer Internship Program

SUMMER JOB OPPORTUNITY FOR STUDENTS! The Office of the City Clerk is now accepting applications for its popular summer internship program. The Office hopes to hire at least 60 interns to help implement its summer programs, including City Vehicle Sticker sales. Students currently enrolled in an ac... more

National Interagency Community Reinvestment Conference

The annual National Interagency Community Reinvestment Conference (NICRC) was held in Chicago March 31-April 2nd. The Chicago Federal Reserve Bank, one of conference hosts organized tours of various communities. Englewood was chosen as one of the communities to be visited for the community develop... more

LARGE LOTS APPLICATION DEADLINE APRIL 21ST

The City of Chicago announced the Large Lot Program as a new vehicle for homeowners to purchase City-owned vacant lots on their block for $1. The program is being piloted in Englewood, West Englewood, Washington Park, Woodlawn, and parts of Greater Grand Crossing and New City. The Large Lot Program... more

Englewood Housing Resource Meeting

Putting Houses Into Productive Use, And Housing Resources For Everyone... Wednesday, April 9, 2014 Held at the Englewood 7th District Police Station 1438 West 63rd Street, 6 pm to 8 pm Come hear about Housing resources - Target Forgiveable Grants up to $25K, Housing Grants up to $75K and Large ... more

Teamwork Englewood Launches LargeLots.org

Teamwork Englewood is pleased to announce the launch of LargeLots.org. On March 20, 2014 the City of Chicago announced the Large Lot Program as a new vehicle for homeowners to purchase City-owned vacant lots on their block for $1. The program is being piloted in Englewood, West Englewood, Washingt... more

The Clean Slate Petition

Do you believe that young people who are arrested but never charged deserve a clean slate? Join Mayor Emanuel, Senator Raoul, and Representative Turner by signing this petition to show your support. The Clean Slate Petition Join the Movement to Make Sure Every Youth ... more

WPC Announces Resignation of Executive Director

The Board of Directors for the Washington Park Consortium (WPC) announced today that executive director Brandon F. Johnson has resigned to pursue other opportunities. “I am tremendously proud of the strides Washington Park Consortium has made in support and technical assistance to Wa... more

Red Line South Reconstruction Project

Cermak-Chinatown to 95th/Dan Ryan • May 2013 – October 2013 CTA is rebuilding the south Red Line from just north of Cermak-Chinatown to 95th/Dan Ryan. The work will benefit Red Line riders for decades to come—through faster travel times, increased reliability, and spruced-up statio... more

The Crisis of Black Male Joblessness in Milwaukee: Trends, Explanations, and Policy Options

ABOUT THIS REPORT Since the late 1990s, issues surrounding race and employment have been a central research focus at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Center for Economic Development (UWMCED). In a series of reports, the Center has analyzed racial disparities in employment in the Milwaukee regio... more

Alderman Willie Cochran Discusses His Vote on on the Speed Zone Cameras and the Infrastructure Trust Ordinances

Greetings to all: Over the last two weeks the City Council has had two matters, Speed Zone Cameras and The Infrastructure Trust that were voted on. These matters have been in discussion for approximately six (6) weeks. Over that period of time thorough discussion were had and questions and ... more

Alderman Pat Dowell Discusses Her Vote on on the Speed Zone Cameras and the Infrastructure Trust Ordinances

At the two most recent City Council meetings, I cast votes on two ordinances that will affect all residents of the city. I cast a no vote for the ordinance authorizing placement of speed cameras near schools and parks and voted in favor of the Chicago Infrastructure Trust ordinance. (See ordinance ... more

Woodlawn Health and Human Services Community Information Meeting

Tuesday, July 16, 2013 July 15, 2013 Please join the Network of Woodlawn, the Woodlawn Health and Human Services Consortium (WHHC) , and other Woodlawn health and human services providers for a discussion about Woodlawn’s health and human services. Secretary Michelle Saddler, Illinois De... more

UIC Seeks Breast Cancer Research Study Volunteers

Tuesday, July 16, 2013 Wesley Walker Breast Cancer Survivors Move Forward Moving forward — that’s what researchers at the Institute for Health Research and Policy want to help African American breast cancer survivors do. Moving Forward is also the name of a community-based weight loss ... more

Woodlawn Rolls Out Network of Woodlawn's Education Strategy to Community Residents

Wednesday, October 17, 2012 Woodlawn residents, stakeholders invited to participate in community meeting to guide the future of local schools Network of Woodlawn and Woodlawn Children’s Promise Community to host 10/27 meeting, the first in the Future of Woodlawn series (Chicago) … Th... more

Woodlawn Public Safety Alliance Continues to Organize and Pray to Stop the Violence

Tuesday, October 16, 2012 W.Walker The Woodlawn Public Safety Alliance will be leading a prayer vigil and march around the 6300 block of S. Rhodes on Thursday, October 18th from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. The vigil and march is part of a response strategy to call attention to the escalation of youth violenc... more

State of Illinois Invests $2 million towards Decreasing the Digital Divide in South Side Communities

Tuesday, October 16, 2012 Governor Quinn Announces First Winner of Illinois Gigabit Communities Challenge State’s $2 Million Seed Investment Will Jumpstart Fiber Optic and Wireless Network in Mid-South Side Chicago Neighborhoods; Help Create Over 50 Jobs CHICAGO – October 16, 2012.... more

Hello Neighbor Campaign kicks off in South Chicago

Claretian Associates has kicked off a new program to help create new block clubs and build the capacity of existing block clubs to reduce crime, increase peace and promote community engagement. Click here for all the details! As part of the Block Clubs Breaking Bread Series through the Neighborhoo... more

Senior Providers Needed for Cinco de Mayo Fair

Its time for the 18th annual Cinco de Mayo Senior Health and Resource Fair and we need providers of health resources! The fair is set for Friday, May 2 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the South Chicago Senior Center and Victory Centre of South Chicago, 9233 South Burley. Last year, 45 vendors shared re... more

Available now - 2 bedroom apartments at 9100 South Burley Apts.

Claretian Associates has 2 2-bedrooms apartments ready to rent today at 9100 South Burley Apartments, an affordable multifamily housing development, part of the Neighborhood Stabilization Program. Know someone who needs a lovely new apartment renting for $749 per month? Click here for the flyer w... more

South Chicago featured at October's Chicago Artists Month

The 18th annual Chicago Artists Month celebrated artists "In the Neighborhood," with a focus on South Chicago and South Shore October 11-13 - and including events that run throughout the entire month. Starting September 27-29 and running through October, discover the work of hundreds of Chicago ar... more

Hurlock presents at Building Chicago Expo & African Festival of the Arts

Angela Hurlock, Executive Director, was pleased to represent Claretian Associates at the 24th annual African Festival of the Arts on September 1 and the BUILDINGChicago/Greening the Heartland Conference September 9. At the African Festival of the Arts, Angela presented as part of the Green Pavilio... more

SWOP’s "Reclaiming Southwest Chicago" Housing Campaign Moves Forward

SWOP SWOP continues to move on its effort to respond to the large numbers of vacant buildings plaguing the Southwest side by submitting a funding proposal to the Illinois Attorney General office as part of their request for proposals for the National Foreclosure Settlement Awards. Back in July 2012... more

SWOP LEADERS MAKE HISTORY AT DRIVER’S LICENSE BILL SIGNING

On January 28, SWOP leaders watched as Illinois Governor Pat Quinn signed the highway safety legislation into law. Illinois makes history by becoming the first state in over a decade that had the courage to work in a bipartisan manner to pass driver’s licenses for undocumented immigrants.... more

Southwest Organizing Project Gets The Word Out About Text4baby

Tuesday, September 4, 2012 Click here to watch the text4baby informational Video Having a child, whether your first or third, can be a time of great uncertainty, but more than 18,000 women in Illinois are finding stability and support through text4baby. Text4baby is the first ever free mo... more

SWOP’s Next NAI Citizenship Workshop is March 23rd at Daley Community College

Wednesday, February 27, 2013 Since 2005, the Southwest Organizing Project (SWOP) has been a lead organization in the in the New Americans Initiative (NAI). Through NAI, administered by the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR) in partnership with the Illinois Department of ... more

Two Greater Southwest Development Corporation (GSDC) Employees Become U.S. Citizens through SWOP’s New Americans Initiative (NAI)

Wednesday, July 13, 2011 Last month, Nick Kollias and Rob Navarro of the Greater Southwest Development Corporation (GSDC) became U.S. Citizens through the Southwest Organizing Project’s (SWOP) New Americans Initiative (NAI). SWOP’s NAI is a state program that educates and assists eligib... more

New Hoops in the Hood video

Monday, December 19, 2011 For the last several years, Tu Multimedia, through videos and audio slideshows, has been documenting Hoops in the Hood, the summer basketball program that LISC/Chicago supports in communities throughout the city. Heres the latest.....

Hoops in the Hood

Monday, December 19, 2011

Historic Gately Stadium Reopens
After Sweeping Renovation

Friday, November 11, 2011 Football players from eight public schools and South Side park districts that share decades-old Gately Stadium in Roseland gathered on Oct. 14 to celebrate a renovation that includes a new synthetic turf field, scoreboard, lighting and seating. They were joined just before ... more

Hoops in the Hood:
Profile of Volunteer Coach Darren Tillis

Friday, November 11, 2011 Community volunteers are an integral part of all successful neighborhood efforts – including Hoops in the Hood, a partnership of LISC/Chicago and organizations in 11 neighborhoods to offer summer sports programs focused on building youth engagement, leadership and co... more

From Learn and Earn to Slam and Jam

Friday, November 11, 2011 John McCarron “There’s no time to get in trouble.” If the Near North Unity Project needed a motto this summer, Shelby Tharpe surely nailed it. It was a sticky-hot Friday afternoon and the 13-year-old was conferring with his buddy, Leon Wilbut, near basketb... more

ComEd Volunteers Celebrate National Volunteer Week with Spring Cleaning at El Valor

Employee volunteers from ComEd partnered with the El Valor to honor National Volunteer Week on Saturday, April 12. The volunteers helped beautify the grounds of El Valor. As the weather improves, El Valor’s participants spend a lot of time in the common and garden areas. Volunteers assisted... more

Women In Pilsen-Patricia Bon

Our last profile on women in the Pilsen community is with Patricia Bon. She is originally from Brazil and has been volunteering with La Huerta Roots and Rays Community Garden. 1.) Pilsen Portal: You’re originally from Brazil. What attracted you to come to Chicago and to also live in the Pils... more

New tenant at La Casa Student Housing will help support student programs and scholarships

The Resurrection Project (TRP) is excited to announce that the Dunkin Donuts located in the 18th Street CTA Pink Line station will be relocating to the La Casa Student Housing retail space located at 1805 S. Paulina Street. The new Dunkin Donuts, which opens in two weeks, will play an important rol... more

Esquema de la propuesta de presupuesto del Gobernador para el año fiscal 2014-2015

El Gobernador presenta dos escenarios, uno “deseable” y otro “alternativo”. El “deseable” mantiene el impuesto al ingreso en los mismos niveles actuales, nivel que expirará por ley al término del 2014. Si la expiración ocurre, base del presup... more

Women in Pilsen-Alicia Rocha

Our third profile for Women’s History Month in Pilsen features Alicia Rocha. Originally from Durango, Mexico, she came to Chicago and settled in the Pilsen community. She has been active as a community leader working with St. Pius on various actions which includes community cleanup campaigns,... more

City's Small Business Center offers restaurant start-up workshop series

The City of Chicagos Small Business Center is now offering a workshop series exclusively for restaurant start-ups.

Putting it all “On the Table”

The concept is pretty simple – 10,000 Chicagoans eating, talking and discussing great ideas about how to make the region a better place to live. On May 12, The Chicago Community Trust will celebrate its 99th anniversary. To mark this milestone, they’re asking Chicagoans throughout the c... more

GSDC, SSA #3 look for responses to landscaping maintenance RFP

Greater Southwest Development Corporation (GSDC) invites the submission of responses for an RFP to maintain landscaping along 63rd Street and Pulaksi Road within Special Service Area #3. If your firm has demonstrated experience in the project description specified in the Scope of Services, and you ... more

GSDC, SSA #3 look for responses to community banner RFP

Greater Southwest Development Corporation (GSDC) invites the submission of responses for an RFP to install 600 Spring banners along 63rd Street and Pulaksi Road within Special Service Area #3. If your firm has demonstrated experience in the project description specified in the Scope of Services, an... more

GSDC, SSA #3 look for responses to coupon book RFP

Greater Southwest Development Corporation (GSDC) invites the submission of responses for an RFP to organize and supervise the collection of data for 48 businesses to design, print and distribute 7,500 coupon books during the 2014 Summer Season and 2014 Holiday Season. If your firm has demonstrated... more

CHICAGO TEENS SHOW OFF THEIR TALENTS AT AFTER SCHOOL MATTERS® CITYWIDE SHOWCASE

ASM CHICAGO TEEN SHOWCASE Full press release Contact: Michael Crowley, Communications Director 312-239-5233 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CHICAGO TEENS SHOW OFF THEIR TALENTS AT AFTER SCHOOL MATTERS® CITYWIDE SHOWCASE Diverse skills on display in performing and visual arts, science and technology C... more

THE URBAN HEALTH INITIATIVE SUMMIT

The Urban Health Initiative Summit is designed to engage the communit and University of Chicago in dialogue on the mutual issues, concerns and priorities identified in the University of Chicago Medicines Community Health Needs Assessment, specifically diabetes, childhood obesity, breast/colon cance... more

Putting it all “On the Table”

The concept is pretty simple – 10,000 Chicagoans eating, talking and discussing great ideas about how to make the region a better place to live. On May 12, The Chicago Community Trust will celebrate its 99th anniversary. To mark this milestone, they’re asking Chicagoans throughout the c... more

Seniors In the Community: A Personal Story

My name is Purscilla Roberts. I am 67 years old and reside in the Auburn Gresham community. I have lived and raised my family in the Auburn Gresham community for over 42 years. I have been an independent, responsible person and always have shown love towards others in need. I have worked in the medi... more

St. Sabina Empolyment Resource Cetner Annouces Immediate Job Openings Available

Need a Job? St. Sabina Employment Resource Center is assisting with hiring for many positions with immediate job openings! Bring a current resume or speak to a Career Counselor TODAY at 7909 S. Racine Ave. or call 773-783-3760 for an appointment. Currently hiring for many, many positions. See fly... more

National Interagency Community Reinvestment Conference

The annual National Interagency Community Reinvestment Conference (NICRC) was held in Chicago March 31-April 2nd. The Chicago Federal Reserve Bank, one of conference hosts organized tours of various communities. Englewood was chosen as one of the communities to be visited for the community develop... more

3rd Annual Community Clean-up Celebration & Concert

3rd Annual Community Cleanup Celebration and Concert!!! April 19, 2014 Powells Barber Shop 1139 w 63rd st (Off 63rd Racine) 9a-12p Community cleanup 12p-5p Free food, music by Englewoods own DJ DAP, Jumper and give aways 5p-7p Community Concert -Sponsored by: -Powells Barber Shop -The Conne... more

Englewood School Repurposing Retreat

On Friday, April 25th we are inviting experts, residents, property managers, educators, elected officials, community leaders and more to join us for a 5 hour lock down - Englewood School Repurposing Retreat. If you are interested in attending, please RSVP no later than April 18th at joinrage@gmail.c... more

ComEd Volunteers Provide Springtime Care in Hamilton Park

Employee volunteers from ComEd partnered with Friends of the Parks to commemorate National Volunteer Week with an environmental service project at Hamilton Park, located in the Englewood neighborhood. The volunteers picked up litter, mulched trees and flower beds, and provided much-needed springtime... more

LARGE LOTS APPLICATION DEADLINE APRIL 21ST

The City of Chicago announced the Large Lot Program as a new vehicle for homeowners to purchase City-owned vacant lots on their block for $1. The program is being piloted in Englewood, West Englewood, Washington Park, Woodlawn, and parts of Greater Grand Crossing and New City. The Large Lot Program... more

Little City Foster Care Spring Newsletter

As we wait for the weather to catch up with the calendar, Little City’s Foster Care and Adoption Program remains hard at work. We continue to engage with the community, bringing awareness to the need for more foster parents. This quarter’s newsletter brings you updates on our foster par... more

Presence Saints Mary and Elizabeth Hosts Open House for New FertilityCare Center

Physicians and employees at Presence Saints Mary and Elizabeth Medical Center (PSMEMC) attended a recent open house for the new FertilityCare Center to learn more about its services, meet the staff and tour the facility. More than 75 individuals attended the event, which included a blessing of the... more

One Summer Chicago NOW Accepting Applications!

Hey Folks-- The Online Application for One Summer Chicago, the citys summer youth employment program, opened April 4th and is available until May 16th. Youth aged 14-24 are encouraged to apply! Applications are online at www.onesummerchicago.org The application will provide youth and young adult... more

American Red Cross Provides Family Reconnnection

The American Red Cross Restoring Family Links program helps to locate and restore communication between families separated internationally by conflict, disaster or other humanitarian emergencies, and we do this by working within our global Red Cross network. Annually the American Red Cross assists m... more

Putting it all “On the Table”

The concept is pretty simple – 10,000 Chicagoans eating, talking and discussing great ideas about how to make the region a better place to live. On May 12, The Chicago Community Trust will celebrate its 99th anniversary. To mark this milestone, they’re asking Chicagoans throughout the c... more

Three more portals for Smart Communities

The three Southwest neighborhoods in Chicagos Smart Communities program launched their portals yesterday, creating a wide new avenue for interaction among residents, businesses and organizations.They are works in progress, with some empty spaces yet to fill, but already the portals offer new stories... more

Peirce on Daley

Syndicated state and local government columnist Neal Peirces recent summary of Mayor Daleys legacy on the Citistates site will seem fawning to Daleys critics. There is only a brief mention at the end about patronage and corruption, and no mention at all about the privatization controversies that hav... more

Preview: Humboldt Park Launches Its Portal

Its still a work in progress, according to the team that made it happen, but the Humboldt Park Portal, a day after its "soft" launch, looks pretty good to me. It features a nice selection of stories from various contributors and organizations, a packed calendar (Movies in the Park, Jens Jensen birth... more

Take a Tour of Pilsen - by Video or Phone

Weve written here before about how neighborhoods are using multimedia tools to promote their work and their neighborhoods, but couldnt have imagined, even six months ago, how far the groups would come, and how fast.Audio slideshows are now available for 10 neighborhoods as part of the Chicago Commun... more

Front-Yard Signs Call Out Banks on Foreclosures

Southwest Organizing Project (SWOP) is "naming names" of banks that are foreclosing on properties on Chicagos Southwest Side, where 7,300 foreclosures have been filed over two years in four area ZIP Codes. The bank names are prominently featured on yard signs that say "Deutsch Bank (or Citibank or J... more

Planned and Delivered: Long March to Zapata Apts.

“The answer to our prayers.” That’s how Miriam Rodriguez describes her new and affordable second-floor apartment at 3230 W. Armitage Ave. in the Logan Square neighborhood. Her sentiment parallels the sigh of relief expressed by Joy Aruguete when asked how it feels to have comple... more

Portals Project: Add More Community Voices

When Rashanah Baldwin told the teens in her digital media class that they could write for the Englewood Portal, at first they didn’t believe her. “They told me, ‘We have to get permission from someone to be a writer, to write about Englewood.’ I said, ‘No you don&rsqu... more

Chicago Southwest Rehabs … One Family at a Time

It’s an innovative coming together of the public, private and community-based sectors to begin repairing widespread damage caused by the epidemic of home foreclosures on Chicago’s Southwest Side. But for the Lindo family on South Rockwell Street, it’s simply a chance to raise the... more

In 22nd Ward, Residents Get Say in ‘Menu’ Money

Every ward in Chicago gets “menu money” for local improvements, but traditionally the only person able to choose off that menu has been the local alderman. The process, perhaps unsurprisingly, has left many Chicagoans feeling powerless to advocate for neighborhood improvements they consi... more

As Deadline Looms, ACA Enrollments Pick Up

Neighborhood “navigators” are out in force this week as many Americans face a March 31 deadline for enrollment in new health insurance programs under the Affordable Care Act. LISC’s 21 neighborhood-based partner organizations have already helped residents complete more than 1,881 ... more

Low Wage Workers Forum, TONIGHT 2/11, 6 p.m.

The surge of groups speaking today for low wage workers is unprecedented in Chicago. What do they want? Who are they? What’s likely to happen? Tonight – Tuesday, Feb. 11 at 6 p.m. these workers, the groups that represent them, and the community organizations and others that are standing behind... more

Students promote Martin Luther King’s values

Uplift High students participating in the Peace Ambassadors program will be honored Friday, January 17, 9:30 a.m., at 900 W. Wilson.

The Obama tour

Marking the fifth anniversary of Barack Obamas election as president, Forgotten Chicago is offering a tour of the Chicago sites from Obamas life in Chicago on November 10.

Ames parent mobilize

Ames Middle School parents will canvas the neighborhood Saturday morning to spread the word about community meetings at the school Tuesday at 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Foreclosures and the black community

Author Laura Gottesdiener will discuss her new book, "A Dream Foreclosed: Black America and the Fight for a Place to Call Home," joined by activists from the Chicago Anti-Eviction Campaign and Residents Association of Greater Englewood, on Wednesday, October 30, 6 p.m., at the Center for the Study o... more

Crime in River North

Jason Erkes says River North is a safe neighborhood, but night life brings crime to the area. “The late night crowd and intoxication can bring out the worst in people, he said. “Crime takes place even in the safest areas, and River North is no exception, said Erkes who is a marketing executive for S... more

Pilsen Residents Speak Out against Pure Metal Recycling.

Pilsen residents spoke out against a planned metal recycling plant at a community meeting organized by the Pilsen Environmental Rights and Reform Organization (PERRO) on April 5. The plant will be built at Cermak Road and Ashland Avenue, across from Benito Juarez Community Academy. Citing pollution ... more

Chicago’s Ukrainian Community is Uneasy

“When I die, bury me—in my beloved Ukraine, wrote the Ukrainian poet Taras Shevchenko in 1845. Although the days of freedom from Russia had yet to come, the writer from the village of Morintsy was already addressing the importance of a united country. The path toward unification started in 1994 with... more

Chicago’s Own Country Star

Steve Grand didn’t think there was anything special about his song on love between two men, a blazing campfire and the American flag. But Grand’s song was the first country and western melody about same-sex love between two men. Soon after the release of the song and video on YouTube, Grand found hi... more

Record Store Day is Third Saturday in April

Support local business, liven up your Saturday, and hear good music on April 19th, which is Record Store Day around the world. Localize your experience at Jazz Record Mart, Reggie’s, or one of the other record stores in Chicago. Go to the Record Store Day site to search for the nearest record ... more

In the News: Lewis says she's not stepping down

Karen Lewis, president of the Chicago Teachers Union, says she isn’t stepping down over an “inappropriate joke she made about Education Secretary Arne Duncan. While her remarks were insensitive, they were just 120 seconds of her 35-minute speech at a social justice event in Seattle last month, Lewi... more

CPS moves forward on principal prep program, single hs application

At a low-key board meeting, district officials told members they are formally looking for partners to better prepare principals. Also, board members approved a contract for the development of a singular application for high schools to take the place of the hodge podge of applications that parents mu... more

No time to waste on longer day

 Chicago’s children deserve better. The majority of the city’s public school students today are not being prepared for success in this increasingly competitive global economy. Without dramatic change, it is unlikely that Chicago students living in poverty today will even have the chance to live a mi... more

In the News: Groups ready to battle over closings

Community groups around Chicago have begun revving up for what likely will be a fierce battle to keep neighborhood schools open as CPS prepares to announce this years list of school closings and consolidations. (Tribune) All prospective Chicago Public Schools students would have to go through an ap... more

In the News: City schools face Common Core struggle

Some of the best Chicago public schools are struggling to measure up to the recently adopted tougher Common Core curriculum, according to the Tribune. Also, Mayor Rahm Emanuel and CPS CEO Jean-Claude Brizard announced Monday a new online tool that will allow the public to read school reports for ea... more

Dozens of schools meet closings criteria

About 140 schools, most on the South Side, meet all the key components of the district’s draft criteria to be eligible for closing. This week, the district is holding community forums on the proposed criteria. Sometime after Nov. 21, CEO Jean-Claude Brizard will issue final guidelines. A week and a... more

Ready to buy your CSA? Great! Find your pick up location, choose your season(s), and CSA size (for Summer, there’s individual and family sized). The 2431 Sawyer pick-up location is SOLD OUT for the year, but there’s more room... Read More

Get your tickets to our one-of-a-kind Spring fundraiser!

Growing Home is proud to host our 12th Annual Benefit Dinner and Auction at Salvage One on May 20th, 2014 from 5:30-9:30 pm. Join us for an exciting evening to celebrate our innovative community development in Chicago over the... Read More

Javier’s great news

Javier, a 2011 Growing Home grad, is now working full-time at East Balt, a commercial bakery on Chicago’s south side that’s been around more than 50 years.  It’s a good-paying union job with full benefits, year-round. Javier came... Read More

The Future of Cook County Boot Camp

“Boot camp is what did it for me.  It gave me better insight into life, and I respect the values it left in me. —DeAndre Brooks, 2012 Growing Home graduate and current Urban Farm Assistant “I don’t think... Read More

We need equality in the criminal justice system

The Chicago Tribune recently published a letter to the editor by Growing Home’s executive director Harry Rhodes. The letter demands equality in the criminal justice system, as exemplified by the recent ruling not to send Beanie Baby executive... Read More

CTA financial statements reflect positive steps in efficiency and emissions

A push to lower emissions and some smart commodity buying led the CTA to a drastic reduction in operating costs.

A raw idea: Owners changing up pets' diets

Before dogs were domesticated, they ate what they killed -- and they certainly didnt cook it. Now, a new diet designed with that simple philosophy in mind is picking up steam in the pet industry. Some dog owners say it makes their pups healthier and happier, but others say its just not worth the... more

Cancer survivor’s difficult road to hit smooth pavement across America

Evan Bartlett’s life began with a huge challenge. At four months old, he was diagnosed with a life-threatening form of cancer and given a 65 percent chance of surviving.

Color Jam brings back vinyl

Have you noticed the pop of color in Chicagos Loop? You may have touched it and not even realized. Color Jam, an art installation by multimedia artist Jessica Stockholder, blankets the corner of State and Adams.

Last chance to see Venus phenomenon, in this lifetime

Last chance to see Venus phenomenon, in this lifetime venuschicago Venus Transit Venussplash Transit of Venus dazzles thousands at Adler Planetarium Venus trek across the sun tracked by thousands at the Adler

"Arts-based Community Development: Mapping the Terrain"

Bill Cleveland has been working in community-based arts for more than three decades. In this paper, a refreshed version of a piece done in 2002, he gives his perspective on the growth of arts-based community development. Published by Animating Democracy, the 12-page primer looks at the movement&rs... more

Community-led art: What it takes

I was able to spend a couple of days last week at All My Relations Gallery, an initiative of the Native American Community Development Institute that anchors the American Indian Cultural Corridor in Minneapolis. It presents work by contemporary native artists as a way of not just helping artists, bu... more

Creative Placemaking: Thinking Out Loud

In late 2013,to build a better understanding of how creative placemaking can be a driving force in community development, LISC delved into its ongoing connection and commitment to creative placemaking in communities around the country. Creative placemaking is a relatively new term that describes a ... more

The people in the place

I was fortunate enough to be asked to attend a summit of ArtPlace grantees in Los Angeles last month, where Jamie Bennett, ArtPlace’s new executive director, noted that in a few short years we’ve been able to remove the “air quotes” from around creative placemaking. Creative... more

New resource for integrated services delivery

Theres a new website dedicated to helping practitioners understand and become proficient in integrated services delivery (ISD), the type of program run in LISCs Financial Opportunity Centers. The site is a partnership between LISC, MDC and the United Way, each of which supports a network of ISD pr... more

New day dawns in Pullman

George Pullman had a couple of good reasons for building his railcar manufacturing plant and workers’ village on Chicago’s far South Side in 1881. One, land was cheaper there than near the city center. And, two, it was so far from downtown that his employees would be isolated from the &l... more

Homebuyer Fair Taps Instinct to Buy

They arrived, often two-by-two, like pilgrims to Mecca, drawn by the dream of homeownership to the soaring architecture of West Pullman’s Kroc Community Center on 119th Street. They came from Back of the Yards, Cicero, Chatham, Humboldt Park, and a handful of other neighborhoods, from one end ... more

In Logan Square and Hermosa, home buyers on the hunt

Vanessa Valentin and James Rudyk aren’t exactly salesmen – they’re respectively a community organizer and executive director for the Northwest Side Housing Center – but they recently demonstrated the art of persuasion while leading a trolley-full of potential home buyers thro... more

NSP: Where it's been, where it's going

Katie Ludwig discussing the Neighborhood Stabilization Program at a public meeting on Chicagos South Side. Gordon Walek Writer Bill Healy recently spoke with Katie Ludwig, an assistant commissioner dealing with foreclosure mitigation in the Chicago’s Department of Housing and Economic Deve... more

Mayor hails first fruit of foreclosure fight

Alicia Ivy is fed up with the foreclosure blight dragging down her block in West Humboldt Park and was only too happy, on the sunny first Friday of 2012, to give Mayor Rahm Emanuel a walking tour of the lowlights. “This is what we’re up against,” Ivy said, waving at a boarded-up, g... more

Measuring an Era

Demond Drummer wasn’t at all shocked to get such a heartfelt endorsement of the impact of what he teaches as the tech organizer at Teamwork Englewood. But how it was delivered was a bit of a surprise. One afternoon, while walking down the street in Englewood, one of his former students from a... more

Job Search 2.0

A hard-working student at Kennedy-King College in Englewood, Gabrielle Thompkins has turned to the Smart Communities program in a lot of ways. Help finding a job is just the most recent example. Thompkins is one of thousands of residents in the five Smart Communities who’ve taken computer tra... more

Report: Web Use Way Up in Smart Communities

Residents participating in LISC Chicagos Smart Communities program are using high-speed Internet more frequently, but greater access to affordable broadband at home remains an issue for at-risk communities, according to new research released by Broadband Illinois. The "Measuring Change in Internet ... more

Small, Smart and Ready

At Reciclarte Studio, Leticia Rodarte’s art gallery on Ashland Avenue, almost everything for sale is made from recycled materials, much of it by Rodarte herself. It’s a fun, funky kind of store—the type of place that brings in visitors from across Chicago to Pilsen. But Rodarte k... more

Lessons for Life

It’s yet another mercilessly hot July day in Chicago—the temperature hovers at 94 degrees outside—yet class is in session. More than a dozen local residents are sitting at computer workstations in Englewood’s FamilyNet Center at Kennedy-King College for a free, 90-minute co... more