I often think about how lucky we are in the 33rd Ward to have such great school communities. One of the reasons our schools are so great is because of how much support they receive from our neighbors. 

This fall, our schools have prepared events that go from spooky to healing, and we would love for you to be a part of it. Please read this newsletter carefully to learn of all the great things our schools are doing this season. 

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 “Form” on the Neighborhood Services page, and apply here! 

Construction Notice for Addison St, Happening Now

IDOT recently began resurfacing Addison St and repairing the sidewalks to make them more accessible for everyone. This construction will cause lane lane closures and will prevent street parking from 8:30 am to 4:30pm. Please allow for additional time on commutes for potential traffic delays. For any questions, please email info@33rdward.org.

Virtual Budget Town Hall, November 1st

Join us Tuesday, November 1st for our Virtual Budget Town Hall from 6PM – 7PM via Zoom. This meeting will allow us to hear feedback from the community on the proposed budget before it is finalized. In order to attend you must register in order to attend this event.

Chicago Board of Election Commissioners Seeking Early Voting Poll Workers

The Chicago Board of Election Commissioners is seeking staff for Early Voting Site 33. By having more staff at this location it will cut down the early voting wait time and ensure more people are able to have a smooth voting experience. The early voting location for our ward is the American Indian Center.

The pay is $17.00 per hour and overtime is paid at time and a half. All Early Voting Officials must be COVID vaccinated and live within city limits. Click here to apply today!

Haunted High School, October 29th

Join Roosevelt High School and 33rd Ward Alderwoman Rodriguez for the first ever Haunted High School, a family friendly spooky event like no other on Saturday, October 29 from 10 am – 1 pm at 3436 W Wilson Ave. This event is FREE and welcome to all, minors must be accompanied by an adult. Pull out your costumes and enjoy some free scares and treats at this years Haunted High School.

Community Healing Village, November 5th

On Saturday, November 5th at Roosevelt High School, we will be hosting a community healing village. The purpose of this event is to build community with our students at Roosevelt, parents, and community members and to highlight the restorative justice initiatives at the school. Food and beverages will be provided and no RSVP is required.

Community Wealth Building Initiative

As a part of the Chicago Recovery Plan, the Department of Planning and Development (DPD) has partnered with The Mayor’s Office of Equity and Racial Justice (OERJ), to design the Community Wealth Ecosystem Building (Community WEB) Program. The Community WEB program will allow the city to invest in the organizations that start, sustain, and scale CWB models.

The Community WEB program will fund an interconnected network of advisors to provide high-quality, specialized, and culturally-relevant technical services for free to eligible non-profit and for-profit start-ups and operating businesses, such as worker cooperatives, limited-equity housing cooperatives, community land trusts, and community investment vehicles.

We are pleased to announce that the deadline for submission of applications for the CWEB RFP which was November 1st has been extended through November 15th. Click here for more information.

Neighborhood Events

1. Self Defense & Awareness Seminar, October 29th

2. Monster Mile fun Run, October 29th

Youth Opportunities

1. CPS Families Child Tax Credit

Chicago Public Schools families may be eligible for up to $3,600 per child through the expanded federal Child Tax Credit program.

To find out if you’re eligible, and to apply for this credit, visit GetCTC.org/chicagops, a simplified tax filing tool that takes just a few minutes to complete and does not require any tax documents. Some families may also be eligible for an additional $1,400 stimulus payment. Families have until mid-November to claim this money. More information can be found on this flier.

2. Little Explorers, Now – November 21st

The Kedzie Center is hosting another cycle of their parent-child play group called Little Explorers/Pequenos Exploradores for parents and young children (0-5) in our community. The program is bilingual and offered at no cost to community residents. Call them at (773)-754-0577 to reserve your spot. Masks and proof of vaccination required for adults.   

3. Free Street Theater Workshops, November 1st

Free Street Theater is hosting open workshops for youth ages 13-19 looking to start their training in creating theatre. Whether you have been doing theatre since you were 4, or have never stepped foot on stage, Free Street welcomes all youth looking to learn and collaborate with others. Masks required.

Free Street Theater creates original, joyful and thought-provoking theater by, for, about, with, and in Chicago’s diverse communities. They are hosting open workshops for any young people ages 13-19 interested in becoming involved in our youth theater ensemble. It is a paid opportunity and no experience is required. 

When: November 1st from 5pm-7pm

Where: 1419 W Blackhawk St. Floor 3

4. Skating, Hockey and Figure Skating Workshops, Sundays from Now – December 18th

Chicago Youth Foundation is a proud women-led initiative that brings the joy of ice sports to Chicago youth to improve their social and academic well-being and empowering them to find success through sportsmanship and teamwork. Below are the 3 FREE classes children can choose from.

Learn to Skate Workshop (for children that do not know how to skate)

• Students will learn the proper skating techniques needed to participate in our hockey or figure skating programs.
• Ice skates will be provided; Students must bring their own helmet, knee pads, elbow pads, and warm gloves
• Students should wear layers; including long sleeve shirt, light jacket, sweatshirt, with leggings, sweatpants, or jeans.

Hockey on your Block (for children that already know how to skate and would like to learn how to play hockey)

• Students will learn the proper techniques of advanced skating, stickhandling, passing, shooting, and playmaking.
• Hockey skates will be provided
• Students must bring their own hockey equipment and stick

Figure Skating on Your Block (for children that already know how to skate and would like to learn figure skating)

• Provides a safe and fun environment with group skating instruction that follows the framework of United States Figure Skating (USFS) to serve the needs of both recreational and competitive skaters.
• Figure skates can be provided 
• Helmets are optional.

Class size is limited to only the first 40 students who register online. If your children would like to participate in our 2022 fall workshops click this link.

Know Your Rights, Remedies, and Resources Seminar, October 31st

Safer Foundation is partnering with the Women’s Justice Institute (WJI) to conduct a series of webinars to help people who are incarcerated and people with arrest and conviction records know their rights, know their remedies and also help connect them to legal and reentry resources. Below is a list of their upcoming webinars. Registration is required.

• Monday, Oct 31, 2022 03:30 PM – 04:30 PM Housing and Driver’s License

North River Commission 2023 Shared Priorities Meeting, November 1st

North River Commission invites you to join your neighbors online to learn how to get involved in moving their shared priorities forward in 2023. Their discussions are focused on how you can get involved in community-building strategies.

Join them on Tuesday, November 1st at 6 PM to find out how you can get involved. 

When you RSVP, you can select to receive the slides in English or Spanish. Spanish speakers will be available to translate questions, also.

North River Commission serves the city-defined community areas of Albany Park, North Park, and Irving Park, from the Chicago River to the east, Cicero Avenue to the west, Addison Street to the south, and Devon Avenue to the north. North River Commission invites all who live, work and play within its service area to participate in its community-driven development.

This community meeting is open to ALL. Please feel free to invite your neighbors, associates, and fellow business owners to join. For more information and to RSVP, click here.

Citizen Utility Board Workshop, November 3rd

Join Citizens Utility Board (C.U.B.) and Bickerdike Redevelopment Corporation for a Citizens Utility Board workshop at 2550 W. North Ave on November 3rd 2022 from 6:00-7:00pm

Topics will include:

• Reducing your carbon footprint
• Free programs designed to save you energy and money
• Making your home more comfortable
• How to take advantage of solar power
• The benefits of building electrification

RSVP to this event by sending an email to mharvey@citizensutilityboard.org.

Queen of Angels School Open House, Fall & Winter 2022

Queen of Angels School is hosting several open house events November through January. If you are able to attend you must RSVP. 

Roosevelt High School Open house, November 7th

Roosevelt High School is hosting an Open House for Prospective Students (8th graders) on Monday, Nov 7, from 3:30 – 6:00 pm. This open house will give attendees that opportunity to meet students and staff, as well as hear presentations with more information.

ComEd Powering Lives Community Center Grand Opening, November 9th 

ComEd would like to invite the community to the grand opening of the Powering Lives Community Center at the ComEd Chicago North Headquarters.

The event will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony, tours and reception for community partners and local officials.

Please RSVP by November 2nd. 

CTA Virtual 2023 Public Budget Hearing, November 10th

CTA is hosting a virtual public budget hearing for 2023 on Thursday, November 10 at 6 PM. 

The proposed budget is available for review on CTA’s website in both pdf and plain text formats at transitchicago.com.

Physical copies are available at CTA Headquarters, on the first floor at the security desk and at select public libraries around the city.  

Anyone who registers for the event in advance will be called by CTA on the day of the event to learn how to join the public meeting online. those who do not register in advance can watch the hearing live on YouTube.

If you would like to speak at the public hearing you are encouraged to register prior to the meeting by completing a Request to Speak form online. Those who register to speak will have priority to speak at the virtual hearing.

Home Flooding & Energy Audit Workshop, November 16th

Join North River Commission in partnership with Elevate for a FREE workshop to learn about Elevate’s home flooding assessment and energy audit program. Learn about energy efficiency and flooding mitigation services available to you on Wednesday, November 16th at 6 PM via Zoom.  

To RSVP, contact Erika at erika@northrivercommission.org or text 872-257-8773.

Swedish Hospital Health & Wellness Events, Fall & Winter 

Below you can find a list of upcoming community events hosted by Swedish Hospital. All events are free and RSVP is required to attend. If there are any questions they ask that you give them a call at 773-878-6888 or visit their website at swedishcovenant.org/events. 

• Family Fridays: a two hour “open house style” event featuring fun activities, nutrition lessons, food samples, seasonal tips, and more for families. Stop by at anytime during the event time.
  • Friday, November 18: 4:30 – 6:30 PM
  • Friday, December 16: 4:30 – 6:30 PM
• “More Color” Nutrition Workshop: This one-hour interactive workshop is designed to help families with meal planning, cooking and healthy eating by focusing on tips and tricks to incorporate more color into every meal. Includes hands-on nutrition activities for parents and kids along with recipes, cooking demos, taste testing and more
  • Tuesday, November 15: 4:30 – 5:30 PM
  • Tuesday, December 20: 4:30 – 5:30 PM
• Bystander CPR / AED Training Session: Learn about the importance of “hands-only” CPR and how to respond in an emergency situation. At this session, you will learn how to properly perform chest compressions and how to use an AED (Automated External Defibrillator). Please note: Bystander CPR Training is different from a full-certification course.
  • Thursday, November 17: 6:30 – 7:30 PM
  • Thursday, December 15: 6:30 – 7:30 PM
• Monthly Cooking Series: This class features tips on meal planning, shopping on a budget, and incorporating healthy foods daily. It is part of their monthly cooking series, led by Annie Scott, Community Outreach Registered Dietitian.
  • Tuesday, November 1: 1:00 – 2:30 PM
  • Tuesday, November 8: 1:00 – 2:30 PM
  • Tuesday, November 15: 1:00 – 2:30 PM
  • Tuesday, December 6: 1:00 – 2:30 PM
  • Tuesday, December 13: 1:00 – 2:30 PM
  • Tuesday, December 20: 1:00 – 2:30 PM
• Teen Hangout: Designed especially for students in 8th through 12th grade, this monthly gathering creates a safe space for fun, games, snacks and more. Stop by to hang out with friends, work with a study group, participate in a community service project, play board games or join in various topical discussions. Light refreshments provided.
  • Wednesday, October 26: 4:30 – 6:00 PM
  • Wednesday, November 23: 4:30 – 6:00 PM
  • Wednesday, December 28: 4:30 – 6:00 PM

North River Commission Housing Support Services

North River Commission is a delegate agency of the Chicago Department of Housing and serves as a Technical Assistance Community agency. Through their work they connect community members to housing-related resources and services, host community events, workshops, and housing fairs to assist low- and moderate-income homeowners, renters, landlords, and unhoused individuals in the Albany Park community.

For any housing assistance or questions, please contact Erika at erika@northrivercommission.org  (872)-257-8773.  Habla Español

Click here to Learn more about their work. 

Join the Horner Park Jazz Band

The Horner Park Jazz Band is seeking new members to join their band! They perform in Horner Park every Monday from 7PM to 9PM. If you are interested in joining, please call (773)-478-3499 to schedule a rehearsal.

CTA Partners with DFSS to Support Unsheltered Riders and Those with Substance Abuse & Mental Health Challenges

As part of its continuing efforts to provide a welcoming environment for all customers, CTA is partnering with the Chicago Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) to provide outreach and support for riders who are unsheltered, as well as those grappling with mental health and substance abuse.

Through this agreement, CTA will work with DFSS’ network of community-based organizations, social service providers, and institutions to provide direct assistance and resources to support unsheltered residents who are utilizing trains, stations and other CTA spaces for shelter. The agreement will build on CTA’s existing engagement and outreach efforts to assist riders in need.

The specific programs and outreach strategies will be determined after the intergovernmental agreement is negotiated. The agreement with DFSS would be for one year, and calls for an annual budget of up to $2M.

Addressing issues related to the unhoused and homeless are part of the CTA’s Meeting the Moment strategy which was unveiled in August.

Lead Services Update & Storm Water Management Tips from the Department of Water Management

The Department of Water Management (DWM) wants residents to know that if they experience a break or leak on a lead water service line it will be mandatory to not just repair, but to replace the full line, including the line running under the property owner’s yard, after January 1, 2023.

As we know, this is an expensive endeavor with the average price of a full lead service line replacement in Chicago running between $16,000-$30,000. The good news is that Mayor Lightfoot has identified funding to pay for full replacements until at least spring of 2024.

Please be aware that if you experience a break or leak on your line, or see a leak on the parkway, please call 311 and report it. Then you will receive notification from DWM about the next steps to replacing the full line from the water main in the street into your home for free.

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With fall and winter approaching, DWM knows certain weather conditions that can lead to flooding. DWM encourages residents to assist in reducing excess water from reaching the sewer system. Community-wide efforts can greatly decrease the impact of neighborhood flooding and the extent of basement backups by taking the following steps:

• Sweep up leaves from driveways, sidewalks, and streets.
• Clean roof gutters and drains of leaves.
• Keep nearby catch basin grates clear of yard waste and trash.
• Don’t litter or dump anything in storm drains. Storm drains are for rain only.
• Avoid running a dishwasher or washing machine during storms.
• Use a commercial car wash or wash your car over grass or gravel instead of on a driveway or in the street.
• Do not dump fats/oils/greases down the drain or down catch basins in the street.
• Disconnect your downspout from the sewer system. Make sure to direct flow to areas with permeable surfaces that can properly absorb the storm water or use rain barrels to collect the rain directly from the downspouts. See DWM’s website for a guide on downspout disconnection.
• Before winter, empty your rain barrel and store in a garage or shed.

For additional information please visit their website.  

Creative Industries Study on DCASE Music Programs & Services Seeking Consultants and Researchers

The City of Chicago acting through the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) seeks proposals from research and consulting firms with expertise in evaluating and creating reports on the cultural sector. Specifically, the city seeks to engage a firm to conduct research and evaluation of Chicago’s music industry and deliver a final report outlining key strategic recommendations that will guide cultural policy and its equitable support for the music sector in Chicago.

The Creative Industries Study on the DCASE Music Programs and Services will collect, analyze data, and create reports that will lay the foundation for long-term equitable program planning that elevates Chicago’s music industries.

DCASE is dedicated to enriching Chicago’s artistic vitality and cultural vibrancy, and offers more than 2,000 high-quality free exhibitions, concerts, theatrical and dance performances, films, lectures and discussions, family events and other programs each year at venues across the city. These events include the Chicago Blues Festival, Chicago Jazz Festival, Chicago SummerDance, Taste of Chicago, and more.

Proposals are due Friday, November 18, 2022. Click here to apply today!

Employment Opportunities

1. North River Commission is hiring

Join their team in making our communities healthier and safer! Position descriptions are on their employment page. Excellent benefits include health, dental and vision coverage and 401k retirement plan. Paid time off is provided for vacation, holidays, sick time, family leave, and medical leave. 

2. The Department of Water Management is hiring for positions

DWM is seeking a Managing Engineer, an Assistant Commissioner, a Project Administrator, and a General Superintendent of Water Management. If interested, apply on their website.

3. Chicago Department of Aviation is hiring for 26 positions

A list of all positions can be viewed on their website. Many applications closing on October 24th.

4. Cook County Health and Hospital Systems seeking Bilingual Psychiatric Social Worker (and more!)

Job posting for a Psychiatric Social Worker at our Jorge Prieto (Little Village) and North Riverside Health Centers, as well as other employment opportunities, can be found here. 

The deadline to apply is November 4th. Candidates must create a Taleo profile to submit their application. If you are unsure on how to use the application software this resource can guide you.

5. Chicago/ Cook County Workforce Partnership

F.H. Paschen (FHP) has partnered with the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership to connect local residents with construction jobs for reconstructing the Webster Avenue Bridge, located over the North Branch of the Chicago River in Chicago, IL. The Partnership is working directly with FHP to fill construction trade positions.

If you are a skilled tradesperson interested in working on the project, please complete this form and The Partnership will begin your screening and hiring process.  If you need training in a construction-related occupation, you will be connected to the appropriate resources. 

6. St. Mary of Providence is seeking Direct Support Persons

7. St. Mary of Providence is seeking Developmental Education Instructor

8. St. Mary of Providence is seeking Teacher’s Aid

MonkeyPox Resources

The monkeypox virus is spread through close contact with body fluids, sores, shared bedding or clothing, or respiratory droplets (kissing, coughing, sneezing, etc.). This week, there were 2 documented cases in Chicago. 

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. At-Home Vaccinations Incentive

Through August 30, any Chicagoan age 5 and up is now eligible to receive a $50 gift card for booster COVID vaccine doses (regardless of zip code) via the City’s At-Home vaccination program. 

Per CDC rules, this bonus is only being offered to individuals that have not received more than $100 in COVID vaccine incentives from the City. Incentives will be provided while supplies last.

Click here to schedule your appointment

4. 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