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This week has been incredibly engaging, and I’m excited to share the highlights with you. On Tuesday, I joined ALSO to engage voters in the Ward. ALSO not only shows up for young people across our neighborhoods, but also for voters ready to engage in their civic duty. Thank you José and Lori for inviting me to rally the group and remind everyone that elections are one way for activating our voices. |
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Before City Council, GoodKids MadCity (GKMC) and I hosted a press conference to ask for the Peace Book Ordinance. Fifteen young people from GKMC, GKMC adult mentors, and law interns from Northwestern University stood bravely alongside Alderman Lamont Robinson and I as we spoke our truths on how Peace Book has already begun to have a phenomenal impact through the summer youth employment program. Alderman Robinson shared words of remembrance about Laquan McDonald’s life cut too short. We also both reiterated how bringing young people in when they’ve made mistakes is life changing, as demonstrated by Alderman Robinson’s own summer youth interns co-organizing the 31st Street Beach Peacepalooza. The press conference closed by sharing the Peace Book Report, which outlines the successes of the summer program, the need for a working group, and the plan for youth employment in the next budget cycle. The Mayor and all of the City Council have since received this report, and I look forward to further refining the ordinance. Gratitude to each and every young person who came prepared to answer all the hard questions from the media and alders! You all are an inspiration. |
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On Wednesday evening, over 75 neighbors joined Alder Felix Cardona, 25th District Commander Andaverde, Violence Prevention Organizations and I at Blackhawk Park to listen to safety concerns in and around the park. It was a powerful display of community engagement. We clarified the new ward boundaries in Belmont Cragin, which are now represented by four wards. During the meeting, the 25th District committed to hosting Beat meetings at Blackhawk Park, giving residents a direct platform to address safety concerns. Additionally, Alder Cardona and I agreed to have joint Ward Nights beginning in 2025, allowing for stronger communication between wards. A special thank you to the new park supervisor, Andrew Del Rivero, for his collaboration and commitment to restarting the Parks Advisory Council. Let’s keep the momentum going and continue working together for a safer 26th Ward. Thank you to all our neighbors who came out for a productive meeting. Your voice matters; together, we can bring change to our community. |
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Yesterday, Congresswoman Delia Ramírez hosted a conference at the National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts and Culture to reenergize the fight against Act 22. Act 22 was enacted in Puerto Rico in 2012 to give 100% exemption from income tax and capital gains taxes to millionaires and billionaires who relocate and gentrify the island. This Act has, in turn, contributed to wealth inequality, leaving long-term residents to bear a 600% increase in rent prices, witness land privatization, and struggle to preserve their communities. The Federal tax loopholes should not determine housing access. From Humboldt Park to Puerto Rico, housing is a human right, and I will fight for housing in every way possible. |
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After a week of engaging with the press and ward constituents, I had the uplifting experience of meeting with 1st-grade students at Funston from Mrs. Rodríguez and Ms. Heavener’s classes prepared a series of hard-hitting questions for me, starting with “How do you get people to agree with you?” I love being in the classroom and being able to explain and showcase some of the work of the City of Chicago. Thank you for the invitation! |
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Next week is the final week to submit Participatory Budgeting projects. To date, we have received 19 project submissions, including: |
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Speed bumps on Maplewood Planters & widening sidewalks on North Avenue Crosswalk Lights on North Avenue Fence replacement & landscaping along Bloomingdale Concrete bike lanes on Kedzie Street corner swale to abate rainwater on Spaulding & Dickens Speed bumps on Harding Speed bumps on Hirsch Mural under Potomac & Central Park viaduct
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| Protected bike lanes throughout the ward Street & curb replacement on Cortland Crosswalks on Humboldt/Sacramento & Augusta A new park next to Encuentro Square Crosswalk between Humboldt Park & the Chicago Public Library Updates to Maple Park Speed Bumps on Talman Extended sidewalks on Potomac & Central Park
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I can’t wait to dissect these ideas and get them on a ballot for December! |
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| There are only 11 days left until November 5th. Now more than ever, your voice matters. I urge each of you to make it to the polls and be heard. For those ready to step up even further, consider becoming an election judge or poll worker. These roles are essential to ensuring fair and accessible elections. Your involvement makes a difference in maintaining a strong, transparent democratic process. To learn more and apply visit: https://chicagoelections.gov/ |
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In solidarity,
Jessie Fuentes, 26th Ward Alderperson |
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Dia De Los Muertos Community Alter |
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In honor of Día de Muertos, our office invites you to participate in our Community Altar from October 15th to November 2nd. Bring photos of your loved ones to add to the altar and join us in remembering and celebrating those we've lost. Visit us Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed daily from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. for lunch) to contribute and pay your respects. |
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26th Ward Halloween Events |
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Join us for a fun and festive Trunk-or-Treat event on Wednesday, October 30th, from 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM at Lowell Elementary School (3320 W. Hirsch St., Chicago)! Hosted by Representative Lilian Jimenez, Alderperson Fuentes, Senator Aquino, and Commissioner Tara Stamps, this event is all about bringing families together for Halloween fun and valuable community resources. Let’s make this Halloween a special one for the 26th Ward!
Kids enjoy trick-or-treating, and parents learn about after-school programs, youth mentorship opportunities, and family services available in our community. Connect with local organizations, meet neighbors, and enjoy a safe and fun environment.
We can’t wait to see you and your family there! For more information, contact Brenda at brenda@replilianjimenez.com. |
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Youth ages 14-21 are encouraged to apply to be part of the 26th Ward Youth Council! Be part of the participatory budgeting process and help guide me in determining legislative goals. Apply at bit.ly/youth26. |
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NEW TO OUR SITE: Upcoming CDOT Projects |
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Click the image to learn more about the 2024 Humboldt Park Encampment Initiative to house all tent encampment residents and help them move out of the park by December 2024. |
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Join the Call for a New Non-Congregate Shelterin Humboldt Park! |
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As the Alderperson of the 26th Ward, I advocate for compassionate solutions for our residents, including the unhoused in Humboldt Park. Non-congregate shelters provide private, dignified living spaces, unlike traditional shelters. Support our initiative by signing a petition to urge the City of Chicago to establish a non-congregate shelter in Humboldt Park, promoting long-term housing stability.
SIGN THE PETITION
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Street Sweeping Map & Schedule |
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Street sweeping takes place between April and November. Click map to enlarge. |
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The 26th Ward's zoning process requires anyone requesting a zoning change to first complete a zoning intake form. After review, they present their request to the Zoning Advisory Committee and answer questions. In some cases, they may also present at a community input meeting. |
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We are currently reviewing zoning change requests for the following properties. You are invited to provide feedback at: the26thward.org/zoning. |
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| 1433 N Hamlin Ave 3300 W Pierce 3949 W. Armitage Ave 1742-54 N. Kimball Ave 3330 W Armitage Ave
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Introductory Guide to City Services |
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| If you want to learn how to access city resources and take an active role in your community, you can download our Introductory Guide to City Services. The guide includes steps to submit an infrastructure request, host a community event, get immigration, re-entry or domestic violence support, find your elected officials, and engage with various city departments. It also provides information on how to access critical services. |
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Diverse Learners Recovery Fund |
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The Diverse Learners Recovery Fund Program provides financial assistance to families of children with disabilities. The Diverse Learners Recovery Fund provides a one-time grant of $500 to K-12 students with disabilities through a lottery. To date, the program has selected and awarded 1,000 students with disabilities.
DEADLINE is 11/15/24 the eligibility requirements are: Reside in the City of Chicago Household income: less than 300% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) Students enrolled in K-12 Public or Private Schools Student has a disability covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Up to 2 eligible students per household
Application: www.AdaMOPD.com Questions: MOPD@adasmckinley.org (312) 561-6965. |
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Enroll Your Student with Tutoring Chicago |
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| Tutoring Chicago is a free program offering regular tutoring to economically disadvantaged students, and they are expanding to a new location in Mozart Park. They are still accepting student applications and recruiting volunteers to help tutor their students - sign up your child today! Visit www.tutoringchicago.org |
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Chicago Public Library October Events |
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| Exciting events are happening throughout October at the Chicago Public Library! From arts and crafts to film screenings and hands-on workshops, there's something for everyone, including activities for teens, kids, and adults. You can explore unique offerings like pumpkin painting, Rubik's Cube meetups, and Anime Club. Make sure to check out the full schedule for events at the Logan Square and Humboldt Park branches. For more details, visit: Chicago Public Library Events. |
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Returning Citizens Summit 10/26 |
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Precious Blood Ministry of Reconciliation & Transformating Re-Entry Services Presents:
RETURNING CITIZENS SUMMIT October 26th, 10am - 2pm Malcolm X College
Register HERE For questions contact Lanessa.young@cityofchicago.org or call 312-860-2187 |
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|  | Youth Mental Health First Aid 11/7 |
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Youth Mental Health First Aid
Thursday, November 7th
Join LoSAH to get certified in Youth Mental Health First Aid. The training is free but participants must pay for a manual.
Register HERE For questions contact Gisel Romero at: Gromero@losahcenter.org or call 773-433-1995 |
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| Find a Pumpkin Smash Near You!
Join us on Saturday, November 9, 2024, from 10 AM to 2 PM for a fun and eco-friendly Pumpkin Smash!
Bring your pumpkins to one of the many Chicago locations to be turned into compost instead of ending up in a landfill.
Let’s green our Halloween—don’t trash it, smash it! Visit scarce.org/pumpkins for more locations around Chicagoland. Remember to remove all candles, paint, and decorations before smashing. Let's make a difference together! #PumpkinSmash |
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Healthy Life! Happy Life! 11/9 |
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| Church of God LeMoyne Presents: Healthy Life! Happy Life!
Join the fall community health fair where you can receive free blood pressure, blood sugar checks, health info and more.
Saturday November 9th 11am - 2pm 3301 W. Lemoyne St.
RSVP at: yoyochurchofgodlemoyne@gmail.com |
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Hermosa Soup Kitchen Cocina con Sazón
Join the Hermosa Soup Kitchen at 2100 N. Kildare Ave for delicious meals served with care! The kitchen is open twice a week: Supported by the Greater Chicago Food Depository and Life Impacters, this community effort aims to provide nourishing food for all. Stop by and enjoy a warm meal with your neighbors!
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RCCA School Showcase 11/9 |
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8Th Grade RCCA Showcase
We are excited to invite 8th grade students to join us for a day tailored to your interests. All showcases are hands-on clinics provided by our dedicated staff. IB Clinic Film Clinic Cooking Clinic Allied Health Clinic
Sign up HERE |
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Young Artists Pop-up! 11/30 |
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| Music House Presents: YOUNG ARTISTS POP-UP!
Kick off your holiday season by shopping goods crafted by kids in the community at the pop up specifically for young artists!
Get your ticket early HERE! |
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The Chicago Board of Elections is hiring for the upcoming November 5th Presidential Election!
This is your chance to be part of a crucial moment in our democracy and make a difference in your community. Explore a variety of job opportunities and join the team that helps ensure a smooth, fair election process.
For more information and to apply, visit chicagoelections.gov. |
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| Do you speak Spanish, Chinese, Hindi, Polish, Korean, or Tagalog? The Chicago Board of Elections needs you! Help make a difference in your community by serving as an election judge for the November 5th Presidential Election. This is an opportunity to support democracy, earn some extra income, and ensure that every voice is heard. Interested? Learn more and sign up today: pollworker.chicagoelections.gov. |
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Free English and Citizenship Classes |
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FREE English and Citizenship Classes!
After Thanksgiving, join us for free English classes at the Humboldt Park Library!
These 2-hour sessions run for 12 weeks, every Monday and Wednesday from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM. Citizenship classes are also available! Humboldt Park Library, 1605 N. Troy St.
For more details, contact Literacy Chicago at (312) 858-6020 or reach out to the Library after November 5th at (312) 744-2244. |
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Jefferson Townships Reassessments |
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Package Protection Tips: Stay informed by tracking your deliveries and setting up alerts. Avoid leaving packages unattended by planning for safe delivery locations. Add specific instructions for secure drop-offs and consider requesting a signature upon delivery for added security. Let's ensure your packages arrive safely! |
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McCormick YMCA Food Distribution |
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IDHS Virtual Job Recruitment Presentation Schedule |
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The Illinois Department of Human Services is hosting virtual recruitment presentations throughout 2024, offering rewarding career opportunities in fields like business, healthcare, and public service. Bilingual applicants are highly encouraged to apply, with competitive salaries, excellent benefits, and up to 5% extra pay for bilingual positions. Presentations are available in both English and Spanish. Learn more about job opportunities, benefits, and how to enhance your application.
To register for the next virtual session, visit dhs.state.il.us/jobs or scan the QR code.
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Encuentro Square Applications NOW OPEN |
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El Programa de Vivienda Asequible de Encuentro Square Apartments está aceptando solicitudes de lista de espera.
APLIQUE YA: Encuentrosquare.com
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| Encuentro Square Apartments Affordable Housing Program is now accepting waitlist applications.
APPLY NOW: Encuentrosquare.com
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| Mentor a High School Student! iMentor is a youth mentoring program working to empower first-generation college students to graduate high school, succeed in college or other post-secondary pathways, and achieve their highest ambitions through one-on-one mentorships. You can make a difference by mentoring the next generation in your community at North Grand High School. The commitment is easy: communicate online once a week and meet once a month from November-May. Sign up to learn more at this link: iMentor Chicago - New Mentor Orientations Events - 3 Upcoming Activities and Tickets | Eventbrite |
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ChiBlockBuilder applications now open!
The Chicago Department of Planning and Development is now accepting applications to purchase select City-owned vacant lots. View available lots and submit an application at Chicago.gov/BlockBuilder. Need assistance? Email landsales@cityofchicago.org or call (312) 744-LAND |
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| ¡El plazo de solicitud de ChiBlockBuilder está abierto! El Departamento de Planificación y Desarrollo de Chicago está aceptando solicitudes para comprar lotes municipales vacantes seleccionados. Vea los lotes disponibles y envíe una solicitud en Chicago.gov/BlockBuilder. ¿Necesita ayuda? Envíe un correo electrónico landsales@cityofchicago.org o llame al (312) 744-LAND
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Court-Based Rental Assistance Program |
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CBRAP offers up to $15,000 in emergency rental assistance for households in eviction court due to non-payment of rent. Funds can cover past due rent, court costs (up to $500), and two months of future rent. Payments go directly to landlords, who must agree to dismiss eviction proceedings, helping tenants stay housed. This assistance does not need to be repaid.
Eligible households must live in Illinois and earn at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI). Assistance is one-time only, and households cannot reapply after receiving payment. Eligible tenants and landlords can start an application online at www.illinoishousinghelp.org. Additional information about CBRAP can be found at www.illinoishousinghelp.org/resources. |
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Chicago Senior Risk Assessment Program |
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| The Chicago Seniors At Risk Assessment Program provides free fire/fall safety assessments for individuals ages 65 or over and those with a disability. Chicago Fire Department members will assess the home for smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, as well as other fire and fall hazards.
Call to schedule an appointment. Phone: (312) 747-6691 |
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Free Chore Services from DFSS for 60+ Seniors |
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Foster Care: Ready to Make a Difference? |
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Free Classes at Humboldt Park Library |
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Need help with computer or tech skills? The Humboldt Park Branch is now offering one-on-one CyberNavigator Technology Tutoring! Available in both English and Spanish, sessions are by appointment and can last up to an hour. Get personalized support on Mondays through Thursdays, 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM. To make an appointment, visit the library or email HumboldtParkCybNav@gmail.com. Don’t miss out on this great resource!
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Community Development Grants |
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Community Development Grant - Small The Department of Planning and Development is now accepting applications for awards up to $250,000. This grant supports small businesses, nonprofits, and property owners involved in local commercial, mixed-use, and light manufacturing development.
Application Deadline: 11:59 p.m. Friday, November 8, 2024
Learn More and Apply: Visit chicago.gov/cdg for more information. For questions, email DPDGrants@CityofChicago.org.
Grant Information Sessions: Attend a session online or in-person to learn more about grant eligibility and application requirements. Register at chicago.gov/cdg. |
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Chicago Rents connects landlords with tenants through various housing subsidy programs, offering guaranteed rent, vacancy filling, and personalized support. Created in response to COVID-19, it centralizes property partner relationships and helps Chicagoans in need of housing. For additional information, please visit: allchicago.org/chicagorents. If you are a landlord interested in joining the Chicago Rents program, you can click here to apply.
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Special Concession Opportunity with the Chicago Park District |
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| The Chicago Park District has opened its Notice of Application for a Special Concession Opportunity for 2025, which presents substantial opportunity for small businesses. |
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Emergency Supplemental Victims Fund |
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The Emergency Supplemental Victims Fund (ESVF) provides economic relief to victims and survivors of gunshot wounds and homicides. ESVF has now expanded to 15 priority communities with the highest levels of violence.
Who qualifies?
Victims or family members of victims who have suffered non-fatal gunshot wounds or homicide in the calendar year The incident occurred in one of the 15 communities listed Victim is a resident of one of the 15 communities who was victimized within the City of Chicago Families of people 24 years of age or younger who have been victims of homicide in the City of Chicago Victims and applicants must have proof of residency in the City of Chicago
You must work with a victim advocate from one of the funded delegate organizations that administers the program. See chicago.gov/ESVF for the complete list of funded organizations. |
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Residential Electronic Recycling |
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See the flyer for information on drop-off locations for electronics ranging from computers and TVs to printers and game consoles. |
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Humboldt Condo Now Listed |
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The Chicago Housing Trust still has one 2 bedroom condo at 1508 N. Harding near North and Pulaski. These condos are restricted to households making under 100% of the area median income.
Live in a beautifully renovated 100-year-old Chicago 6-flat with a huge yard, five minutes to Humboldt Park, a short bike ride to the 606/Bloomingdale Trail, and 2 blocks from the North and Pulaski bus lines.
Contact 1508nharding@gmail.com or call/text Denise Reyes at (773) 391-1960 for details. Click here to apply.
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Don’t Let a Tick Make You Sick! |
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If you find a tick, don't panic! IDPH has released an infographic to demonstrate the proper protocol for removing ticks from oneself, family, friend, and even your furry friends. To learn more about tick prevention and removal and other pest control information please visit IDPH Site here. |
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The Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA) has introduced a new and improved interactive calendar, which you can click here to access. One of the key features of this calendar is the inclusion of the yearly meeting calendar for both the Commission for Public Safety and your Local District Councils. By simply visiting this website, you can find the dates, times, and locations of all scheduled meetings. 14th Police District Council Join elected District Councilors every first Saturday of the month at 1pm to work for better police accountability, restorative justice, and evidence based approaches to public safety. Please sign up at bit.ly/do14news for Councilor David Orlikoff's newsletter or email David.Orlikoff@cityofchicago.org with questions. |
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Community Conversation 12th District |
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| Free Course: Photovoltaic System Fundamentals Kickstart your career in renewable energy with a FREE 30-hour course from April 1 to May 1, 2025. Learn about solar power systems, energy conversion, regulations, and more. Tuesdays & Thursdays, 5:00 - 8:00 PM
Offered by IL IBEW Renewable Energy Fund Only 25 seats available—apply now: Apply Here |
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| Explore Careers in Renewable Energy! Interested in solar power and a career in renewable energy? Join the Photovoltaic System Fundamentals course, a FREE 30-hour program from April 1 - May 1, 2025.
Classes are Tuesdays & Thursdays, 5:00 - 8:00 PM. Space is limited—only 25 seats available!
Apply now and secure your spot: Application Link. For more info, contact Arturo Velasquez Institute or Wilbur Wright College. |
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The Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA) is seeking a West Side attorney to fill an immediate vacancy. Applications open October 7 and close November 6.
Learn more and apply at cityofchicago.org/chicagocommunitycommission
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| Ready to take the next step in your career? The National Latino Education Institute (NLEI) offers community workforce services for success in today’s job market! Get 1-on-1 support for resume building, interview prep, and high-skilled training with job placement assistance. Must be 18+, have a photo ID, and meet eligibility requirements. For more info: education@nlei.org or call 773-395-1924 |
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| Click Here to view and apply for Chicago Department of Public Health jobs |
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| Chicago Fire Department is hiring a paramedic
Job Number: 8750-CFD-2024
For support, call the Help Desk at (312) 744-4976 between the hours of 8:30am (CST) and 4:30pm (CST), Monday through Friday or email fire-application@cityofchicago.org. |
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| Shipping & Receiving Training - visit sr.gwtp.org for more info 12-week training at no cost, includes supportive services once enrolled Average $18+/hour wage upon job placement Training Includes:
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If you know someone looking for reproductive justice resources in Chicago, they can go to this Department of Public Health resource page to use the City’s digital community resource directory. There is also a free talkline (1-888-493-0092) where operators are available to share information on various reproductive justice options. |
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| If you need assistance with a city service, let us know! You can submit your request through our website, by giving us a call, or submitting a request directly to 311.chicago.gov. Our team is here to provide the support you need and ensure our community thrives. |
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