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Dear Neighbor,
As the 26th Ward Alderperson, I am deeply committed to supporting our unhoused neighbors with compassion, dignity, and real solutions. The Humboldt Park Tent Encampment Initiative is about addressing the root causes of homelessness and providing the resources neighbors need. If you’ve been following our progress over the past 18-months, you know the amazing case management DFSS and delegate agencies have offered - from coordinated entry applications, to medical evaluations, to workforce development. I am proud to share that to date, permanent housing has been offered to 106 households. December 6, 2024 will be the Humboldt Park Moving Day. Encampment residents will be offered the option to transition to housing or low-barrier shelter while ensuring they have access to support services. We are currently engaging in the awareness portion of our work, letting all residents know about the final day they may reside in the park. Every step of this process has been planned as a compassionate and humanitarian effort. Following the Moving Day, the Chicago Park District and the Chicago Police Department Affinity Officers will begin to enforce Chicago Municipal Code section 10-36-185 which prohibits overnight stays and erecting any tent or structure. CPD Affinity Officers are specially trained to engage with people experiencing homelessness and utilize de-escalation and trauma informed practices. The initiative also includes our long-term projects of developing a non-congregate shelter at 2704 W North Avenue, developing affordable housing projects, requests to CHA to rehabilitate CHA units, and collaborating with landlords on making affordable housing available. You play a significant role in our initiative, and you can show support in a compassionate way by: This trauma informed approach ensures all individuals - housed or unhoused - are treated with empathy and respect because housing is a human right. |
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This week, the Community Safety Committee met to address concerns raised during a recent Community Safety Townhall. Committee members discussed strategies to reduce violence through a holistic and trauma-informed approach. Thanks to the collaboration of community residents, local organizations, and the Chicago Police Department, the 26th Ward has seen a notable decline in all violent crimes compared to 2023. Under Alderperson Jessie Fuentes' leadership, these efforts continue to make our neighborhood safer. As the holiday season approaches—a time when burglary and theft may increase—let’s stay vigilant and work together to “Keep Us Safe.” For the most recent crime stats, click here. |
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With the upcoming holiday travel and potential inclement weather, make sure you download the OEMC app! This app has been an extremely useful tool for knowing street closures and upcoming events. You’ll also find winter preparedness tips, FEMA assistance, and emergency alerts. DOWNLOAD HERE |
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Yesterday, I stood alongside community organizations and advocates across Chicago at the Mayor's office to highlight the importance of Transgender Day of Remembrance. It was a powerful gathering that honored the lives lost and celebrated the strength of the transgender and ally communities. The courage and leadership of Chicago's transgender community continue to inspire us all as they build networks of care and solidarity in the face of ongoing challenges. Next month, I will support 33rd Ward's Alderperson Rossana Rodriguez's resolution at the City Council to formally recognize this day, foster greater awareness, connect individuals to essential resources, and advance efforts to create a safer, more equitable city for all. Together, we can build a Chicago that genuinely embraces and uplifts every resident. |
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To wrap up a busy week, I had the pleasure of joining Congresswoman Delia Ramirez for a visit to North-Grand High School’s iMentor program. iMentor matches juniors with a mentor who is a professional with shared experiences and interests. We met with a mentee and two mentors who explained their unique and inspiring relationships. Mentors shared that they felt a sense of moral responsibility to be the mentor they wish they had. I know from personal experience how lifesaving these relationships are - I wouldn’t be here without my own mentors. If you’re interested in learning more, visit their website. |
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In solidarity,
Jessie Fuentes, 26th Ward Alderperson |
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Bandera Holiday Market 11/30 |
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🎄✨ Bandera Holiday Market! 🎄✨ Celebrate the season with us at the Barrio Boriken Bandera Holiday Market on Saturday, November 30th from 2 PM - 7 PM at the corner of Division St & Mozart St! Enjoy hot chocolate, spiced cider, food trucks, artisan crafts, holiday ornaments, and sweet treats. Don’t miss the lighting of the iconic steel flag and festive photo opportunities!
It’s a perfect way to kick off the holidays with family and friends while supporting local artisans. For more details, visit puertoricanfest.com. |
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🌨️ The first snow of the season is here, and we need your help! Join the 26th Ward Snow Shoveling Program to support our seniors and residents with disabilities. Together, we can ensure sidewalks are safe and accessible for everyone this winter.
This is our chance to unite as a community and show we care. Grab your shovel and make a difference today! SIGN UP HERE |
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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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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. Unlike traditional shelters, Non-congregate shelters provide private, dignified living spaces. 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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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. |
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| 3949 W. Armitage Ave 3330 W Armitage Ave 1535 N Lawndale 1433 N Hamlin Ave
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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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| Celebrate with Navidad en el Barrio every Saturday in November and December from 10 AM - 1 PM at the National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture. Discover unique, handmade gifts by local Puerto Rican artisans and vendors, enjoy FREE workshops and tours, and experience the joy of shopping local this holiday season. 📍 3015 W. Division St., Chicago, IL
For more info, visit NMPRAC.org Don’t miss out on this festive celebration of Puerto Rican culture and craftsmanship! 🎅🏽 |
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Pillars Queer Trans BIPOC Small Business Market 11/23 |
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| Support and Celebrate at Pillars!
Join us for Pillars, the queer, trans, BIPOC small business market happening on November 23rd from 1 PM - 5 PM! Discover unique products, support diverse local businesses, and connect with our vibrant community. Are you a small business owner interested in joining the market? SIGN UP HERE and showcase your work. Don’t miss this exciting event—see you there! |
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La Parranda Boricua Pop-up |
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| Join the Celebration at La Parranda Boricua Pop-Up in Humboldt Park! Experience Puerto Rican holiday traditions from December 6-8 at Barrio Borikén! Enjoy photo-ops, crafts, drinks, live music, and raffles in a festive atmosphere. 📅 Event Schedule: Friday: 6:30 PM - 10:30 PM Saturday: Kids: 12 PM - 4 PM Adults: 6:30 PM - 10:30 PM Sunday: 12 PM - 6 PM 🎟️ Tickets at the door: $20 for adults, $10 for kids (12 and under). Get ready to celebrate, dance, and make lasting memories! 🎶🌴 |
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| 🦃 TURKEY GIVEAWAY! 🦃
🗓️: Tuesday, November 26th ⏰: 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm 📍: Kelvyn Park High School, 4343 W. Wrightwood Ave
Commissioner Anthony Quezada is hosting a Turkey Giveaway with CountyCare and FoodSmart. We’ll be giving away 200 turkeys, along with two family-sized sides, on a first-come, first served basis. Only one meal per family. We hope you can join us! |
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10th Annual Turkey Bowl 11/27 |
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| 🏈10th Annual BUILD Turkey Bowl! 🍂
Join BUILD Wednesday, Nov 27, 11 AM - 3 PM
Columbus Park Field for youth and adult flag football games, fun, and refreshments. Don’t miss out on this community tradition! 🦃✨ |
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The Austin Market 12/6 & 12/7 |
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| 🎄✨Join The Austin Holiday Market!
Celebrate the season with local Black- and Brown-owned businesses and nonprofit social enterprises. 📅 Friday, Dec 6: 9 AM - 7 PM
📅 Saturday, Dec 7: 11 AM - 3 PM
📍 BUILD Campus: 5100 W Harrison St, Chicago, IL
Shop unique gifts, enjoy the holiday spirit, and support our community! 🎁❄️ |
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Guide to Chicago Winter Events |
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| ✨Top 12 Chicago Winter Events 🎄
Experience the magic of the season with Chicago’s most stunning holiday light displays!
From classic traditions to dazzling new installations, this guide has everything you need to plan your holiday adventures in the city. Don’t miss out on these must-see spots for a festive and memorable winter!
READ MORE HERE |
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| Help Keep Chicago’s Youth Warm DONATION DRIVE
BUILD and PRCC are teaming up to make a difference this winter! On December 6th, they’ll be hosting a donation drive at the Boxing Gym (2619 W Division) from 4 PM - 7 PM to support Chicago’s youth. Community members are encouraged to bring scarves, gloves, boots, coats, and other winter essentials to help keep young people warm during the cold months. As a thank-you, everyone who donates will be entered into a raffle with chances to win gift cards and artwork. |
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25th District Public Meeting 12/12 |
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Hermosa Soup Kitchen Cocina con Sazón
Hermosa Soup Kitchen at 2100 N. Kildare Ave has 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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Volunteer with El Mercadito |
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It’s Never Too Late to Begin Your Fitness Journey! 🏋🏽♀️ This winter, the PRCC invites you to join their energizing fitness classes tailored to fit every style! Whether you’re interested in dance-aerobics, strength training, or Zumba, there’s a class for you—no sign-up required! See above for class dates and times, and come prepared to sweat, move, and have fun. The PRCC team can’t wait to see you and support you as you start your fitness journey! |
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Volunteer with El Mercadito |
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| Explore opportunities to secure your future with topics like down payment assistance, affordable housing, and residential solar energy! Nov 19 & 20: Down Payment Assistance w/ Cook County Land Bank Authority Nov 26 & Dec 12: Building Neighborhoods & Affordable Homes w/ Dept. of Housing Dec 3 & Dec 11: Residential Solar Energy w/ Sunrun Solar REGISTER HERE
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Business Improvement Districts |
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| We’re excited to announce the new BID program, a self-funded initiative to bring enhanced public services to commercial and industrial areas, offering an alternative to the SSA program. BIDs won’t replace SSAs but provide an option for areas where SSAs aren’t feasible. Annual BID services are outlined in a 5-year plan requiring City Council approval. Applications for January 2026 are now open, with 2027 applications also available.
Visit the DPD website or reach out with questions. |
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| 📢 Applications Open: Senior Advisory Council! 🌟 Are you passionate about advocating for older adults and improving community services? Apply to join Chicago’s Senior Advisory Council and make a difference! 📅 Application Period: Nov 14 - Dec 13, 2024
📍 Attend an info session at one of six regional senior centers. ✅ Provide input, identify service gaps, and help expand programming that supports older adults in living their best lives.
📝 APPLY HERE
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Help Improve the Park District! |
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| 🌳 Help Shape the Chicago Park District!
The Chicago Park District Office of Inspector General is seeking ideas for its 2025 audit plan. Your input can make a real difference in improving our parks and community spaces! 📅 Submit ideas by: December 13, 2024
📍 SUBMIT HERE 💡 Let’s work together to ensure our parks remain a source of pride for all Chicagoans!
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ARPA Rental Assistance Program |
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| Facing rental arrears? The Puerto Rican Cultural Center offers support through the ARPA Rental Assistance Program. Required documents include your lease, 5-day notice, eviction paperwork, and ID.
📅 Appointment Required
📍 2548 W. Division St.
📞 (872) 315-2903
📧 kainat@prcc-chgo.org
Get help to stay in your home—reach out today! |
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Worker Rights Free Workshops |
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Need Help with Your Work Permit? Join Our Free Workshops Chicago Community and Workers’ Rights is hosting workshops if you’ve been a victim or witness to an employment violation, you may be eligible for DALE and can receive the same assistance as you would from a lawyer—at no cost! **Upcoming Workshop Dates:** **Nov 21:** Work Permit Extensions **Dec 5:** First-Time Work Permit Applications **Dec 12:** Work Permit Extensions **Dec 19:** First-Time Work Permit Applications **Jan 9:** Work Permit Extensions For questions or to register, contact Tenoch at **773-733-2315**. |
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| Support West Grants Now Open!
The Chicago Blackhawks Foundation is offering $5,000 grants to minority-owned small businesses on the West Side particularly in Austin, Belmont Cragin, East Garfield Park, Hermosa, Humboldt Park, Lower West Side, Near West Side, North Lawndale, Pilsen, South Lawndale, West Garfield Park or West Town.
Apply by Dec. 13 to access funds, mentorship, and professional development. Let’s invest in the future of our communities! APPLY HERE
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Neighborhood Opportunity Fund |
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The Chicago Department of Planning and Development is accepting applications for Neighborhood Opportunity Fund (NOF) grants open to business owners, property owners, community developers and entrepreneurs. NOF offers reimbursement grants that fund construction and renovation costs for small businesses and cultural establishments on NOF-eligible corridors. Learn more and apply at Chicago.gov/NOF |
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Humboldt Park Health Wellness Center |
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Become a Charter Member at the New Humboldt Park Health Wellness Center! Join now and enjoy exclusive benefits: Waived $150 joining fee and a FREE Charter Member T-shirt This limited-time offer is available only for the first 500 Charter Members who sign up before the grand opening!
For details, visit HPHWellness.care, email infowellness@hph.care, or call (773) 537-9200. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to be part of the Humboldt Park Health Wellness Center community! |
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🌱 Apply Now for the 2024 GFPI Community Fund! 🌟 Applications are open until November 11th—don’t miss out! Are you a farmer, food business, or organization within 250 miles of Chicago? The 2024 GFPI Community Fund offers flexible grant funding to support healthy, sustainable food access. APPLY HERE
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📦 Package Protection Tips 🚚✨ 🔍 Track your deliveries and stay informed with alerts 📭 Safe delivery locations and plan for secure drop-off locations. 📝 Add delivery instructions for secure drop-offs and consider requesting a signature 🚪💪📦 Let’s keep your packages safe and sound! |
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Introductory Guide to City Services |
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| Want to learn how to access city resources and take an active role in your community? 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 Engage with various city departments How to access critical services.
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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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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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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.
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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| ♻️ Residential Electronics Recycling Program 💻
It’s easier than ever to recycle your old electronics in Chicago!
Drop off items like computers, monitors, TVs, printers, & more at designated city locations from April 1st -December 30th 🗓️ Multiple locations across the city, specific days each month
For a full list of items and drop-off details, visit CLICK HERE
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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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| The NLEI Energia Project is now offering Renewable Energy Training to prepare you for the growing solar industry.
✅ Instruction with Industry Experts
✅ Solar Energy/NABCEP Certifications
✅ Career Development & Job Placement Assistance
✅ Hybrid Learning Approach 📩 Register Today! www.nlei.org. |
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| 👷♂️ Start Your Career in Construction with NLEI's CONSTRUCT Infrastructure Academy! 🛠️ Get trained at NO COST for high-paying jobs in construction and related fields!
✅ Hands-on experience and job shadowing
✅ OSHA Certifications
✅ Resume preparation & interview techniques
✅ Overcome barriers to the construction 📆 Program Length: 11 weeks (in-person)
2011 W Pershing Rd, Chicago, IL 📩 Enroll Now!
Call 773-395-1924 or email education@nlei.org to apply |
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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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| The Illinois Department of Human Services is hosting virtual recruitment presentations offering career opportunities in fields like business, healthcare, and public service. Bilingual applicants are encouraged to apply, with competitive salaries, excellent benefits, and up to 5% extra pay for bilingual positions. Presentations are available in English and Spanish. Learn more about job opportunities, benefits, and how to enhance your application. To register for the next virtual session, visit idhs.state.il.us/jobs or scan the QR code.
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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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| 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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| 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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Property Tax Appeal Workshop 11/6 |
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