As we head towards August, I’m pleased to see three critical measures – Treatment Not Trauma, Bring Chicago Home, and Plow the Sidewalks – are beginning to move forward. 

Earlier this week, the Council Committee I chair, Health and Human Relations, held a subject matter hearing on Treatment Not Trauma. The committee also unanimously passed a resolution on Treatment Not Trauma that will go to the full City Council meeting on September 13.

The first draft of Treatment Not Trauma was written in the wake of George Floyd’s murder and amid the racial reckoning that pushed us to imagine humane ways to keep us all safe. We needed to acknowledge the urgency to create systems of care that could protect the lives of people experiencing crisis by using the right behavioral health support instead of armed police. Since then, countless Chicagoans and I have built a strong movement to advocate for the creation of a model that can provide the proactive mental health care our communities need and respond to instances of mental health crisis.

I was deeply moved by the public comment, particularly the young people who came to share the deeply distressing stories of how many of their friends and family have been impacted by mental health crises, the lack of access to public mental health resources, and the urgent need for non-police crisis response. 

The Committee heard testimony from people around the country including Dr. Arturo Carrillo, LCSW (Brighton Park Neighborhood Council), Dr. David Chokshi (former New York City public health commissioner), Candace Coleman (Access Living), Mike Frome (Portland Deputy Police Chief), Mariela Ruiz-Angel (Director of the Albuquerque Community Safety Department), Sam Rabins, LCSW (WellPower/Denver STAR), and Dr. Eric Reinhert (Northwestern University). Even though it has taken years of organizing just to get to this week’s hearing, we have the people and the expertise to figure out how to create these much needed systems of care together. I’m excited to partner with Mayor Johnson, the Chicago Department of Public Health, my colleagues on the City Council, and the movement to begin to care for people in the way that they need to be cared for. You can read recaps of my first meeting as a Committee chair at a variety of outlets including WTTW Chicago Tonight, Block Club, and WBEZ/Chicago Sun-Times. 

Legislation regarding Bring Chicago Home and Plow the Sidewalks have both seen progress in the last few weeks as well. The Committee on Housing and Real Estate, which I serve on, held a subject matter hearing on Bring Chicago Home earlier this week. The proposal would slightly increase the real estate transfer tax on properties sold for more than $1 million dollars (just over four percent of properties citywide) and generate nearly $160 million annually to support the more than 65,000 Chicagoans who are homeless. After passage by the full City Council, the proposal would become a ballot referendum and be voted on by the people of Chicago. 

Last, but not least, 48 of my colleagues and I voted to create a working group to develop recommendations for implementing a Plow the Sidewalks pilot program. Plow the Sidewalks is an effort to create the city’s first municipal sidewalk snow plowing program. When sidewalks are not plowed, it makes it increasingly difficult for seniors, people with low mobility and people with disabilities, and parents with young children to go about their lives. 

Together, these three proposals are emblematic of our vision of building more communities of care throughout the city of Chicago. We’re just at the beginning of this work, but we have the momentum with us as we move towards building a more caring city that works for all of us. 

Read on to learn more about the upcoming August 3rd public community meeting for 100% affordable housing on Irving Park Road, Kedzie Avenue complete streets improvements, a number of city grant programs, and a whole lot more. 

In This Week’s Newsletter

Quick Links 

*Want more information on community opportunities and job postings? Check out our Community Bulletin!

*Block party applications are open! Read more under “Forms” on the Neighborhood Services page, and apply here!

Ward Night Out

Ward Night Out is an opportunity to bring your questions or concerns to the Alderwoman in a one-on-one meeting. Each Ward Night Out is first come, first serve. Walk-ins will be taken until 6:45 pm. For more information, please contact our office at info@33rdward.org or 773-840-7880.

Zoning Update

The 33rd Ward will hold a virtual public community meeting regarding a 100% affordable housing proposal at 2907-2917 W Irving Park Road. The virtual public community meeting will begin at 6 pm on Thursday, August 3rd. This will be an opportunity for residents to learn about the proposal from the development team, get a better understanding of why the Irving Park area needs more affordable housing, how challenging it can be to construct affordable housing, and hear from the Department of Planning and Development about updated Equitable Transit Oriented Development ordinance that passed last year. 

You can sign-up to attend the virtual public community meeting here.

You can review the proposal on our website. You can submit a question in advance of the meeting here and provide feedback on the proposal here. All of these links are also available on our website.

Our office will be accepting public feedback for two weeks following the public meeting.

Kedzie Avenue Complete Streets Realignment Update

The Chicago Department of Transportation is in the final stages of a new Complete Streets curb alignment along Kedzie Avenue that further shields both bikes and pedestrians from car traffic. Within the 33rd Ward, this new alignment is in place for four blocks from Belmont Avenue to Addison Street. 

This new parking configuration will likely take some time to socialize because it is new to many residents and business owners and customers; in the long term this will make Kedzie safer for all users of the road. CDOT has prepared instructional materials with how to park in this new alignment. Our office also encourages drivers to familiarize themselves with “The Dutch Reach” when exiting a vehicle. This way of exiting a vehicle encourages drivers and passengers to open a car door with their far-hand. This gives a person exiting the vehicle a better line of sight of oncoming traffic. This technique has saved the lives of countless bike riders and pedestrians around the world who might otherwise have been doored and can also be extremely helpful for keeping people exiting vehicles safe from oncoming traffic.  

Respair Media Debuts New Podcast on the Life of Hazel Johnson

Damon Williams and Daniel Kisslinger of Respair Media released a new audio documentary this week entitled, “Let this Garden Grow.” The documentary tells the story of Hazel Johnson. Johnson, who passed away in 2011, was an Altgeld Gardens resident and founded People for Community Recovery. She is considered by many to be a key steward and “the mother” of the contemporary environmental justice movement in the United States. You can listen to “Let this Garden Grow” here.

Neighborhood Events

1. Kelvyn Park’s Annual Mercado & Back to School Fair, August 12th

2. Back 2 School Fiesta, August 19th

3. Transforming Community Safety Collective’s Pop-Up Skatepark, August 20th

4. Clean & Green, August 26th

5. Self Defense & Empowerment Seminar, August 26th

6. River Park Summer Event Calendar

Youth Opportunities

1. 2023 Community Services Block Grant Scholarship Program

The Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) is currently accepting applications for its 2023 Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) Scholarship Program.

The CSBG scholarship program provides financial assistance to Chicago residents attending post-secondary education programs during the fall semester of 2023 and has minimum income requirements to meet the eligibility criteria. DFSS is dedicated and committed to making resources available to residents that build stability, support their well-being, and empower them to thrive. To learn more, click here. 

Applications must be received by DFSS via the web-based CSBG Scholarship Application Platform on Friday, August 25, 2023, by 5:00 p.m. DFSS will host webinars on August 2nd and August 9th at 10:00 a.m to discuss the program. To register for a webinar, applicants should email their choice of date and time to:  DFSScsbgscholarship@cityofchicago.org. For additional questions or concerns, please contact us at DFSScsbgscholarship@cityofchicago.org.

2. 2023 Empowerment Scholarship, Application Due August 6th

Chicago City Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin and the Chicago Treasurer’s Office (CTO) will award first-ever Empowerment Scholarships to first-year students entering a two or four-year accredited institution in the fall of 2023. The one-time, $5,000 award will be presented to students residing in Chicago during the CTO’s “Financial Youth Symposium and Step Show” program at Chicago State University on August 31.

The Empowerment Scholarship is the first being awarded to Chicago students as part of the CTO’s 2023-2024 college scholarship program sponsored by community partners BMO, Discover, and Providence Bank & Trust. To be eligible for the $5,000 award, which can be used to pay for any education-related expenses, a student must be enrolled in an institution of higher learning in the fall of 2023 and submit a completed application, including an essay, high school transcripts and other materials, to monique.cook-bey@cityofchicago.org by 11:59 pm on Sunday, August 6.

Scholarship Essay Questions:

• Submit a typed essay (no more than 500 words in length) answering your choice of any one of the four following questions:
  • The CTO aims to foster financial literacy and empowerment among residents. Describe a personal experience that highlights the importance of financial education and explain how you might benefit from financial services and resources in your community.
  • The CTO emphasizes the importance of technology and innovation in financial services and banking. Describe an innovative idea to make financial services, such as loans for a new home or to grow a small business, more accessible to more people in communities of color.
  • The CTO places great importance on community engagement and outreach. Share a significant community service or volunteer experience that you had and explain what inspired you to make a difference in your community and to help others.
  • Describe how your personal experiences and aspirations align with the mission of the CTO to promote racial and economic equity. Explain how the Empowerment Scholarship will enable you to help create a more equitable and inclusive society.

Documents required to be submitted with the application:

• One letter of recommendation from either a teacher, advisor, employer, or another who can speak to academic ability, character, and potential (family and relatives are excluded)
• Proof of Chicago residency (i.e., Driver’s License, State ID, or Academic Letter)
• Resume
• Unofficial transcript from high school, such as a print-out from student portal
• Enrollment verification from a two- or four-year accredited college or university

For additional information about this scholarship program and the Chicago Youth Symposium, contact monique.cook-bey@cityofchicago.org.

3. Roosevelt High School Registration Days

4. Chicago Fire Student Discount

Chicago Fire is offering student passes to all CPS and local college students in Chicago. Click here to get yours today.

5. Align Your Inner Self Youth Program (16-24), Now through September 2023

Black Alphabet started as an organization founded to encourage story telling and educate communities about the cultural and social contributions Black LGBTQ+ identified people have made upon the world. Now the organization has transformed and they are focused on creating and spreading awareness on issues that have an impact on the Black LGBT+ community.

Their new program, Aligning Your Inner Self, for youth ages 16-24 is to help those who are looking to align their inner voice or conscience through the use of art. The program started in March and they will have monthly sessions through September 2023.

Click here to register for a session!

Israel’s Gifts of Hope Annual Back to School Drive- Donations Needed

The start of a new school year is right around the corner! Join Israel’s Gifts of Hope in supporting local students gear up for a successful school year by donating to their Annual Back to School Drive. Donations can be dropped off at 4504 N Albany Ave until August 10, 2023. Contact them at israelsgiftsofhope@gmail.com to coordinate a donation drop off.

Items needed include:

• Book Bags
• Notebooks/ Loose Leaf Paper
• Folders
• Binders
• Pens/Pencils
• Scissors/ Glue
• Crayons/Color Pencils/Markers
• Gift Cards

You can also check out their Amazon Wishlist here. 

Gender-Based Violence & Our Community, August 3rd

The Kedzie Center will be hosting a FREE workshop about Gender-Based Violence on August 3rd, 2023 from 6:00 PM-8:00 PM. You will get the opportunity to learn about why Gender-Based Violence is a community issue, how you can be an ally, and ways we can support our community. This workshop is co-sponsored by Healing to Action and the Kedzie Center.

If interested, you can contact romina@healingtoaction.org to sign up!

Financial Health Workshop, August 9th

Join North River Commission, Wintrust Bank, and The Friendship Center for a free in-person workshop on financial health on Wednesday, August 9 at 6 pm

In this workshop you will learn how to:

• Protect your financial info online
• Benefits and programs offered by Wintrust
• Online banking

RSVP with Erika via email at erika@northrivercommission.org or text at 872-257-8773.

Adopt a Pet from Chicago Animal Care

Chicago Animal Care and Control is experiencing very high intake numbers, and had 222 cats and dogs surrendered THIS MONTH alone!

They currently have have over 460 cats and dogs in the building and there are more arriving daily. They are running out of space for new animals in search of their forever home. 

If you or anyone you know is interested in adopting a new furry pal, please consider adopting from Chicago Animal Care and Control. Adoption hours are from 12pm to 6pm at 2741 S Western Ave.

Department of Planning and Development Grant Programs, Applications Due August 18th

The City of Chicago’s Department of Planning and Development is currently accepting applications for its Community Development, Climate Infrastructure Fund, and Equitable Transit-Oriented Development grant programs. You can review the criteria for each of the programs here. Applications are due by Friday, August 18th.

Police District Councilors Host Know Your Rights, August 5th

Police District Councilors from the 10th, 11th, 12th, 14th, 15th, 17th, and 25th Districts will hold the first in a series of Know Your Rights events on Saturday, August 5th from 1 pm to 3 pm at the Lawndale Christian Legal Center at 1530 S Hamlin. Representatives from the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) will be on hand.

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) Fall Registration

Are you intellectually curious? Or looking for engagement and social connection? OLLI invites you to join this vibrant learning community at Northwestern University, specially designed for adults age 50+. In stimulating discussions, you’ll explore a wide range of your favorite subjects, including history, literature, creative arts, contemporary issues, science, technology, and more–with no tests or grades. Registration is August 7-21 for 14-week study groups that begin September 5th in Evanston, downtown Chicago, or online. To view ourfall catalog of 100 study groups, email olli@northwestern.edu. And join us for “A Taste of OLLI,” our free online information session on August 1^st (Register here ). 

Small Business Spotlight: Maman Zari

A new restaurant has joined the bustling Kedzie Avenue Persian food corridor. Maman Zari (4639 N Kedzie), named after co-owner Mariam Shahsavarani’s grandmother, aims to “expand peoples’ idea of Persian food” and offers dishes that are “authentic to their origins and modern in preparation.” The new spot boasts a pair of seasonal nine-course tasting menus. You can learn more about Maman Zari and make a reservation by visiting their website.

Business Resources

1. Business Grant Applications

• WomensNet’s Grants: Offers several grants, including the monthly $10,000 Amber Grant and quarterly Startup Grant. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
• Fresh Start Business Grant: A program that offers entrepreneurs a $2,500 grant to put toward startup and free business formation services. Deadline is September 30th. 

For more business grant information please, visit North River Commission’s website.

Employment Opportunities

1. CTA Second Chance Program

2. Job Fair & Open House at HANA Center, August 11th

HANA Center is excited to invite you to their 2023 in-person Job Fair!

Come prepared to connect with employers from various industries – please bring multiple copies of your resume and cover letter, or sign up for their resume writing workshop before the event (Contact Rubi at rzamudio-rivera@hanacenter.org or 847-250-7348)

This is a free event to both job seekers and employers. Plus, get a professional haircut or get your professional headshot taken at NO COST!

Click here to RSVP today!

3. North River Commission is Seeking an ESL Teacher

North River Commission’s FORGE program is looking for an Adult ESL teacher for classes starting in September 2023. Interested candidates do not need a formal teaching license or ESL certificate, only a solid grasp of the English language and comfortability teaching others. Classes will take place at Palmer Elementary School, likely 2 – 3 hours per week. Pay is $50/hr. Please reach out to Stef Coleman at stefcoleman@northrivercommission.org if you’re interested!

NRC’s FORGE program is a before and after-school program funded by a 21st Century Community Learning Centers grant, and is located at four schools on the northwest side: Albany Park Multicultural Academy, Bateman Elementary, Palmer Elementary, and Von Steuben High School. The program is free for students who attend those schools and includes frequent, free parent and family components, such as ESL classes!

4. CTA’s Find a Job Fridays

COVID-19 Resources

1. At-Home Vaccinations:

Get your whole family vaccinated at home! CDPH is offering vaccination appointments at home for up to 10 family members. Click here to set up your appointment!

2. Receive Your Updated COVID-19 Vaccine At Home!

3. Vaccinations

CPS Students: 

– Permanent sites
– Mobile Events
– School-Based Health Centers
–  Sign up for weekly COVID testing at CPS

33rd Ward Vaccination Events

1. Theodore Roosevelt High School

2. Swedish Hospital: Walk-In’s Welcome

* More information on City testing sites here!

Community Safety Updates

1. 17th District CAPS Meetings

The 17th District has resumed beat meetings in-person. 

Information about Beat Meetings here.

Please contact the 17th District Community Policing Office / CAPS, if there are any questions or concerns.

Email: caps.017district@chicagopolice.org

Telephone: 312-742-4588