In this newsletter
26th Ward Office Updates • Community Events • Public Notices • Ways to get Involved • Job Opportunities • Resources.
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Dear Neighbors,
Reflecting on the events that transpired in the 26th ward last week, it was a week filled with meaningful engagement, legislative progress, and celebration of community achievements. I hosted Ward Night in Logan Square and it was an excellent opportunity to connect with the residents of our ward. Engaging with them and listening to their concerns is fundamental to effective representation. It was heartening to witness the community's active involvement and dedication to making our ward a better place.
I attended ALSO's Community Violence Intervention Convening and toured their newly acquired space on North Ave. ALSO's long-standing commitment to providing services for youth and families in the Northwest side, as well as their efforts in preventing street violence, are commendable. Congratulations to ALSO on their new building in the 26th Ward. The prospect of continued partnership is exciting.
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The passage of the One Fair Wage ordinance by the Committee on Workforce Development with a 9-3 vote is a significant legislative milestone. This demonstrates the importance of advocating for fair labor practices and the rights of workers. It's a positive step towards creating a more equitable workforce within our ward and the entire city.
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The voices of residents are essential in shaping decisions that impact the neighborhood. I hosted a public feedback meeting regarding the request to lift the liquor moratorium for a proposed business on Armitage and Drake. This underscores my commitment to transparency and community involvement. We have a survey that was sent out via text message that will be open until the end of the week. We welcome our neighbors' feedback. You can find the survey here.
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My colleagues, Alders Carlos Rosa and Daniel LaSpata, and I participated in a community conversation about the Clean and Affordable Buildings Ordinance. The discussion centered on the importance of sustainable infrastructure in combating climate change that aligns with the broader goals of our city and contributes to greener, healthier and affordable communities. It is our collective belief that every individual in our community deserves access to safe, affordable, and environmentally responsible housing.
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The Chicago Women in Trades recently celebrated a cohort of 12 remarkable women who have successfully completed their welding program, and I had the honor of delivering the keynote speech at the graduation ceremony. This achievement is not only a testament to their hard work and dedication but also a symbol of CWIT’s support for gender equality in traditionally male-dominated fields and the empowerment of women in the workforce. These 12 women have defied stereotypes, shattered barriers, and demonstrated exceptional skills and determination throughout their journey in the welding program. Their success represents a significant step forward in bridging the gender gap in the trades and advancing opportunities for women in these industries.
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In partnership,
Your 26th Ward Alderperson, Jessie Fuentes
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Save the date for our first Senior Wellness Fair on Friday, October 13th from 10am to 1pm.
Hosted by 26th Ward Alderperson Jessie Fuentes, State Representative Lilian Jiménez, State Senator Omar Aquino, and Commissioner Quezada.
Questions? Contact us at info@the26thward.org or (773)-395-0143.
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Community Meeting at the NMPRAC
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The National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts and Culture would like to invite you to a community meeting regarding the status of the Museum's Archives and Collections Project. Join us on Tuesday, October 3rd, at 5:30pm at 3015 W. Division Street.
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The 26th Ward is partnering up with the USDA for our first ever fishing derby coming up at Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie on Saturday, October 14. We will partner with Micah and Bus for Outdoor Access and Teaching (BOAT) to provide transportation to and from Midewin from Humboldt Park.
- Prizes will be handed out to the biggest and smallest fish in age groups for each wave,
- Hotdogs (and veggie dogs), chips, and water will be provided for those fishing, their families, and those working the event.
- We will have interpretive tables from many of our partners involved, as well as some local first responders.
- We will debut our new Smokey Bounce House!
The plan is to have the bus leave Humboldt Park at 9:00am with arrival at Midewin at approximately 10:30am. We would have the BOAT group in the second wave of fishing from 11:00am-1:00pm. Then give them time to eat and enjoy the interpretive areas with plans to depart Midewin at 2:30pm. Click here to register.
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Connect with the 26th Ward Office
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The 26th ward office is currently located at 2511 W Division St. The office's regular hours of operation are as follows:
- Monday 1 pm - 7 pm*
- Tuesday 10 am - 5 pm
- Wednesday 1 pm - 5 pm
- Thursday 10 am - 5 pm
- Friday 9 am - 3 pm.
*Ward Night: Monday's 5 pm - 7 pm
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Ward nights are an opportunity to meet with Alderperson Fuentes to talk to her about any local or city issues. Ward nights will take place every Monday from 5pm - 7pm. Ward night meetings will be by appointment only and on a first come, first served basis.
If you’d like to meet with Alderperson Fuentes during ward night, please call or email the ward office at 773-395-0143 or info@the26thward.org.
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We are excited to inspire our young people to get involved in government and organize in the community. If you are a youth (12-24 years old) that resides in the 26th Ward and wants to have a say in how we spend infrastructure money and what type of policies I champion, please sign up for our youth council by applying at bit.ly/youth26. Join our Next Youth Council Meeting on Monday, October 2nd from 4:30pm to 6pm.
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The 26th Ward community-based zoning process requires that anyone requesting a zoning change must first complete a zoning intake form. Once their intake form has been reviewed they will be invited to present their zoning request to the 26th Ward Zoning Advisory Committee and must answer additional questions posed by the committee. When applicable, the person requesting a zoning change may also be required to present their zoning request to the broader public during a community input meeting. For more information go to: the26thward.org/zoning.
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Casa Central’s annual Gala is coming up on Friday, November 3rd at the Adler Planetarium. This year's gala features a special Keynote Speaker, Dr. Bernard A. Harris, Jr., a former NASA astronaut and the first African American to walk in space! Dr. Harris will share the inspirational story of launching his career, founding a philanthropic organization, and empowering and inspiring others to reach their goals. For more information and tickets go to give.casacentral.org/outofthisworldgala.
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Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by attending these Arte a Tu Mesa events at local restaurants every Saturday through September and October. These events will feature live music, great food, and handmade artwork. For more information contact Javier Vargas at 773-407-5441 or arteatumesa@outlook.com.
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Humboldt Park “Stop the Violence” Car Show
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Attend the Humboldt Park “Stop the Violence” Car Show on October 7th from 10am to 5pm. Enter through Lemoyne and California. All proceeds will be donated to charity.
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Chicago Commons Community Resource Fair
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Chicago Commons is hosting a Community Resource Fair today — Friday, September 29th at 1633 N. Hamlin Ave from 3-6pm. The fair will feature a tour of the Chicago Commons’ Taylor Center for New Experiences, as well as games, snacks, art and more. Attend to enjoy the fair and get information on housing, jobs, and Chicago Commons' services including early education, family hub, and senior care.
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In honor of the United Nations' International Day of Peace, the World Music Festival Chicago is hosting the Global Peace Picnic in Humboldt Park. This event celebrates the diverse music and cultures from around the world with live performances and family-friendly activities. The City-wide festival lasts for ten days and features award-winning artists from over 20 countries and regions of the world. The "Global Peace Picnic" will occur on September 30th and will showcase international dance and music companies across two stages at the Humboldt Park Boathouse. Admission is free! For more information visit, WorldMusicFestivalChicago.org.
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Town Hall on the State of Emergency for LGBTQ+ People
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Join the Human Rights Campaign Steering Committee of Chicago as they discuss the topic of HRC's declaration of a National State of Emergency for LGBTQ+ people. In 2023, we have seen more than 75 anti-LGBTQ+ bills signed into law. More than doubling last year's number, which was previously the worst year on record. Join us as our panelists share how they will continue to fight for Illinois to be a Safe Haven for all people. Click here for more information.
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Join the Harding Park Advisory Council and North Harding Block Club for Latinx Fiesta — a celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month at Harding Park. This event will take place on September 30th at 3pm at N. Harding Ave and Division St.
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Sign Up For Street Sweeping Reminders
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You have probably noticed that the city's street sweeping schedule has changed this year. Use "wethesweeple.com" to search for your Chicago street address and find out when your street will be swept next. Then, register for email alerts or subscribe to a calendar feed so that you get a reminder when the next sweep is coming up.
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Cook County Assesor Appeals
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The Jefferson is now open for Cook County Assessor Appeals. The deadline to appeal is this Monday, October 2nd. Parts of our ward are within the 8th District of Cook County and the Jefferson. The township map for the 8th District can be found here. You can submit your appeal online at this link. A step-by-step application video can found here.
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Cook County Board of Appeals
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The Cook County Board of Review is now open for Pre-Filing for the two County Townships that encompass the 26th Ward: West Chicago and Jefferson Townships. You can visit the Cook County Board of Review's Appeals Portal at https://appeals.cookcountyboardofreview.com to enter an appeal. The Cook County Property Tax Portal is a valuable website to check Exemption Statuses and other property information.
Pre-Filing allows a property owner who feels that their property was overassessed to enter an appeal before the Township is in an "Open" status for the particular township with the Board of Review. When you pre-file, your appeal will automatically go into review by the Board of Review when your township goes into an "Open" status. If you need assistance filing an appeal, please contact my office at (773)-395-0143.
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Belmont Cragin Main Line Replacement
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There is a big project underway in Belmont Cragin. People's Gas will be installing a main and taking the meters from the inside of properties to the outside. The project should be completed by mid-April 2024. More information will be provided by People's Gas to those impacted by the project. The following streets will be impacted:
- Shakespeare from Cicero to Kilpatrick
- McLean from Cicero to Kilpatrick
- Dickens from Cicero to Kilpatrick
- Kilpatrick from McLean to Cortland
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Small Business Improvement Fund Opening in Hermosa
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Hey Hermosa, the Small Business Improvement Fund (SBIF) opens for applications in October in the Pulaski Corridor TIF district. The Small Business Improvement Fund (SBIF) provides grant funding for permanent building improvements and repairs across the city.
Program participants can receive grants to cover between 30 percent and 90 percent of the cost of remodeling work, with a maximum grant of $150,000 for commercial properties and $250,000 for industrial properties. The grant, which is administered by SomerCor on the City’s behalf, does not have to be repaid.
Apply at chicago.gov/sbif by Oct. 31, and register for an informational webinar at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 4 bit.ly/oct23sbif.
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Flood Assistance from FEMA
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FEMA is now accepting disaster applications to provide relief for damages caused by the severe flooding events between June 29, 2023-July 2, 2023. Check out our fact sheet here for more information on the program and how to apply.
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You're invited to participate in the 14th District Community Conversation to create the 2024 STRATEGIC PLAN for the 14th District on Tuesday, October 3rd and Tuesday, October 10th at Stay Cafe (2043 N. Milwaukee Ave) from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm. To register, SCAN THE QR code on the flyer or visit chicagopolice.org/convo. This event will gather your input on the community's priorities for crime reduction and community engagement to create a Draft of the 2024 District Strategic Plan. For more information or if you require special accommodation, contact the 14th District Community Policing Office at: 312-744-1261 / email: CAPS.014District@chicagopolice.org.
To find the date for any other Police District Community Conversation date go to chicagopolice.org/convo.
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14th Police District Councilors - Know Your Rights
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A Know Your Rights series will be held in Humboldt Park on Saturday Sept 30th from 12-3pm, featuring Spanish presentation and question answering from Public Defender Iveliz Orellano, with English presentation by First Defense Legal Aid. There will also be free vegan and meat chili, with opportunities for groups to connect and table, and for community members to bring potluck items to share. This event is hosted in collaboration with the 14th, 12th, 25th, 11th, 10th, 15th and 17th District Councils. Questions can be sent to David.Orlikoff@cityofchicago.org.
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Domestic Violence Awareness Event Hosted by the 25th Police District
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Humboldt Park Advisory Council Survey
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The Humboldt Park Advisory Council wants your help to understand what is important to you by completing this very short survey! Please contact info@humboltparkadvisorycouncil.org with any questions.
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Secretary Giannoulias launched the new Skip-the-Line Program for Illinois DMVs. 44 of our busiest locations now require appointments to eliminate wait times and provide better customer service. Customers are required to make appointments for in-person visits for REAL IDs, driver’s licenses and ID card services, and in-car driving tests. All DMVs now have expanded hours on Mon-Fri, 8 a.m.- 5:30 p.m. 15 DMVs will also be open on Sat, 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. You can make an appointment at ilsos.gov or by calling 844-817-4649.
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"Fiesta" Donation Drop-Off Drive
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The SEIU Latino Caucus is hosting a Donation Drive to support Asylum Seekers on Saturday, September 30th from 11am to 4pm at Trinidad Lutheran Church (2921 W Division St). Volunteers are needed and community service hours are available, text 872-777-5935 for info. There will be a DJ, food potluck, and drop-off station. Winter clothing and outerwear is especially appreciated as we prepare for the winter.
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Volunteer At Nourishing Hope
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Nourishing Hope is one of the largest, most respected and longest continually operating food pantries in Chicago. Join their passionate community of dedicated volunteers. Volunteers needed Monday through Wednesday, 9am - 4pm, to distribute groceries. Spanish speakers are incredibly helpful! Visit NourishingHopeChi.org/volunteer to register! Questions? Email lacasanorte@nourishinghopechi.org.
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After School Matters at El Schomburg
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FEMMEPreneurs in the Arts— Nourishing In partnership with Clemente Community Academy, el Schomburg Contemporary Arts Space located in the heart of Paseo Boricua in Humboldt Park, welcomes creative minded young females (14-18 years old) interested in developing essential skills and knowledge in the entrepreneurship, planning and organization of the arts and culture. This immersive program is catered for apprentices with a strong interest in the arts via: art production, curatorial practices, event planning, cultural content creation, arts appreciation and history, arts administration and business development.
From busting an art or cultural business idea, developing authentic marketing plans to event planning and design, apprentices are encouraged to collaborate, seek wisdom within their own communities, and engage in a practice of cultural literacy, wealth and advancement. Application via ASM—APPLY HERE!
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Restore the Bathroom in Humboldt Park
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CTA Second Chance Program
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Since 2011, the CTA Second Chance Program has served more than 2,000 of the City of Chicago's justice involved residents. Over 500 program participants have become permanent CTA employees. Even more have secured job at other organizations. Now, it is your turn to become a CTA Second Chance Program success story. Apply now at transitchicago.com/secondchance.
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Casa Central Fall Career Fair
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Casa Central is hosting a career fair at 1335 N California Ave on October 12th from 10 am to 2pm. Interested job seekers will have the opportunity to meet wit hiring managers and interview for various opportunities, including Bilingual Caseworker roles, Spanish or English Home Care Aides, various administrative roles and much more!
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Vargas Group is hiring for workers at O'Hare Airport. Notably, they are willing to hire immigrants pending work permits. Starting pay $16.80 and they will get a raise on November 1, 2023. Learn more at wwww.vargasgroupinc.com.
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Career Opportunities working for the City and State
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New Program Connects Landlords and Vacant Apartments To Folks In Need
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Chicago Rents is a program that connects landlords to tenants through multiple housing subsidy programs, allowing property partners to receive guaranteed rent, fill vacant units, and access individualized support. Chicago Rents is a program that was created in response to COVID-19 to centralize property partner relationships across multiple housing programs. Through Chicago Rents, property partners are connected with Chicagoans in need of housing, filling unit vacancies and making a real difference in Chicago's neighborhoods. 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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The Build Your Financial House Conference
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Want to learn more about how to get to financial freedom? Attend a workshop facilitated by financial experts on October 7th from 10am-2pm at 1410 N. Springfield.
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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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