Earlier this week, a proposal to remediate the land at the First Nations Garden passed the City Council’s Finance Committee. It’s expected that the full City Council will vote on this next week. This is the first of its kind effort to use Tax Increment Financing funds to rehabilitate and remediate open space. I’m incredibly proud to see that this unique proposal is happening in the 33rd Ward and it’s for community members and stewards of and a space so dynamic as First Nations Garden. One need only look at Ben Joravsky’s extensive reporting on TIFs over the years to see the ways that TIFs have been improperly used over the years. I’m proud that TIF is being used as intended to provide additional assistance for critical community improvements – like Roosevelt High School’s new turf field or the beautiful First Nations Garden – benefits that we all can share in as community members and residents of the 33rd Ward.

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.

Friends of Roosevelt Raffle for the Cluster Program

Friends of Roosevelt are currently hosting a raffle for the Roosevelt High School Cluster Program. The Cluster Program is an Educational Program for students with a higher level of need. These are students who have been diagnosed with Autism, Intellectual Disabilities, or both and need more individualized support. The cluster Program continues to be underfunded, which creates a struggle to provide students with the resources and learning environment they need and deserve.

All of the Funds Raised From the Raffle will go to the RHS Cluster Program. By entering into the raffle you would have a chance to win tickets to see Beyoncé in concert on July 22nd! 

Click here for more information and to enter the raffle.

Sage Brigade Benefits Access Workshop, July 13th

Our Sage Brigade volunteers are hosting an event for seniors learn how to apply for senior benefits and discounts on July 13th! This event is requires RSVP, and you can do so by calling our office at 773-840-7880. 

Community Care Collective

f you’ve been looking for a way to make a positive impact and support recently arrived asylum seekers in our area, here’s an incredible opportunity for you. The Community Care Collective – 33 (CCC33) is doing outstanding work to fulfill the essential needs of our new neighbors and they need support.

Right now, the CCC’s main focus is on addressing immediate necessities such as food, phone connections, and money for laundry services.

To donate and join this incredible effort, simply visit their website. There, you’ll find all the information you need to offer your support, whether it’s through financial contributions or volunteering your time and skills. Every little bit counts! 

Neighborhood Events

1. East Avondale Block Party, July 8th

2. Climate Migration Joy Circle, July 8th

3. Free Kidney & Diabetes Screening, July 12th

4. 10th Annual Procurement Symposium, July 13th

5. Free Paper Shredding Event, July 14th

6. 17th District Council Meeting, July 15th

7. Thrive Together Annual Summer Fundraiser, July 20th

8. Horner Park Brewfest, July 21st

9. Summer Float Party, July 23rd

10. Back 2 School Fiesta, August 19th

11. Clean & Green, August 26th

Youth Opportunities

1. Roosevelt High School Registration Days

2. 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.

3. Summer Job Opportunities with Chicago Parks District

The Chicago Parks District has opened applications for summer job opportunities, and they have over 2500 open positions. Click here for more information.

4. 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!

Free Summer Events in Chicago Parks

The Chicago Park District is offering hundreds of free events in parks across the city this summer. Please visit their website for more information.

Affordable Housing Workshops in July

In July, the Spanish Coalition for Housing and facilitate workshops within Logan Square about CHA Affordable Housing. For more information about these events, please visit their website.

NAMI Chicago Hotline

NAMI Chicago is the local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, which is the largest grassroots mental health advocacy organization in the country. We operate a mental health helpline where residents can call for themselves or a loved one to receive help in accessing mental health services in their community. Their Helpline can help people navigate the mental health system based on their needs and goals.

Mental health affects everyone, no matter who they are or where they are from. That’s why NAMI Chicago is committed to showing up for everyone in the community—whether it’s Chicago’s first responders, students and school staff, a person on the other end of the phone, or in the community, meeting individuals where they are. NAMI Chicago knows healing is possible on a community level. Read their Roadmap to Wellness here.

Beat Facilitator Applications are Open

Apply today to become a Beat Facilitator.

Stand Up and Speak Out Chicago is a campaign organized by the Chicago Police Department to ask Community Residents and business stakeholders to unite efforts to work together to create change, build relationships and make Chicago safe.

They are now accepting applications. Click here for more information

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.
• U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Top Small Business Awards: Offers a $25,000 cash prize to startups with fewer than 250 employees or less than $20 million in gross revenues. Deadline to apply is TODAY. 
• 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. 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!

2. Concordia Place is hiring for President & CEO

Concordia Place is currently seeking a President and CEO. for more information about the role and how to apply, click here. 

3. Chicago Tool Library is Hiring!

The Chicago Tool Library is a 501(c)3 nonprofit whose mission is to provide equitable access to tools, equipment, and information to allow all Chicagoans to learn, share, and create. Located in the West Garfield Park neighborhood of Chicago, our lending library houses thousands of items that range from basic hand tools and table saws to ice cream makers and camping equipment. We are a forward-thinking organization hoping to help our city reshape its relationship to ownership, consumption, and creativity.

They are seeking 1-2 part-time Tool Librarians with an anticipated start in June. Click here for the full job description and to apply.

4. UR Chicago Alliance Employment Opportunities

UR Chicago Alliance is a faith-based work development program that unites and mobilizes churches, community organizations, and businesses to provide access to living-wage opportunities and long-term support through a network of Christ-centered relationships. URCA’s focus is on:

• Job Readiness and Life Skills Training: We provide 8-week training using the Chalmers Center job preparedness curriculum. We provide program participants with access to technology and coaching in digital literacy, resume building, interviewing, networking, and code switching.
• Long-Term Mentorship: Each program participant is paired with a mentor from the local community for 18 months who provides support as they pursue living-wage work.
• Community Partnerships: Our robust network of community partners helps address issues related to poverty and unemployment including adult education classes, counseling, financial literacy, and others.
• Employment Partnerships: URCA maintains an active pipeline of employer partnerships, and we regularly update Leaders on job opportunities. Once placed, our program participants earn wages ranging from $15 to $46 per hour with benefits for full-time positions.

5. CTA’s Find a Job Fridays

MPox (MonkeyPox) Resources

The MPox virus is spread through close contact with body fluids, sores, shared bedding or clothing, or respiratory droplets (kissing, coughing, sneezing, etc.).

Vaccinations for MPV are currently available in Chicago for adults 18 and up. Because of the limited availability of vaccines, you must meet the eligibility requirements outlined by the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH).

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