Constituents Can Utilize 24th Ward Website for Job Leads and Other Useful Services

Chicago’s 24th Ward Ald. Michael Chandler Chandler’s ward website states that it is designed to provide access to important City of Chicago programs and services, along with general information on important community events and meetings.  So far, it is keeping true to that promise.
Chicago’s 24th Ward Ald. Michael Chandler Chandler’s ward website states that it is designed to provide access to important City of Chicago programs and services, along with general information on important community events and meetings. So far, it is keeping true to that promise.

As a way to keep his constituents informed about employment, training and other resources, 24th Ward Alderman, Michael Chandler, has a website that contains a wealth of relevant information.

"There are several employment programs out there for kids such as the Botanic Gardens, the Forest Preserves," Chandler said. "Whenever we find information, we make it available. Youth have to be at least 14 years old to apply for a summer job."

One of the highlighted job portals on the 24th Ward's website is the City of Chicago's One Summer Chicago (OSC) jobs and activities program.

OSC connects young people to summer jobs, internships and training programs offered throughout the City. Through OSC, young adults have an opportunity to learn job skills, develop their resumes and explore career interests.

A limited number of positions are available each summer so a position is not guaranteed. Applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

There is also information on the 24th Ward's website, about the Chicago Transit Authority apprenticeship program for ex-offenders, a second chance program offered in conjunction with the City of Chicago and social service agencies throughout the city. This program offers hard-to-place individuals an opportunity to obtain full-time employment and training which may enable a start of a long-term meaningful career.

Today, most job applications must be completed on-line. When constituents lack internet access, Chandler's office refers them to the public library where access to the internet requires a nominal fee or is free.

"We also offer information about economic development," Chandler said of his ward's website, referencing key economic development programs like the TIF (Tax Increment Finance) Small Business Improvement Fund (SBIF) which uses TIF revenues to help owners of commercial and industrial properties within specific TIF districts to repair or remodel facilities for their own businesses or on behalf of tenants. Program participants receive matching grants to cover remodeling costs, with a maximum grant amount up to $150,000.

Eligible activities include new windows, floors and roofing; sign removal and replacement; tuck pointing; new heating, ventilation and air conditioning; improvements for disabled patrons or workers; and purchase of adjacent property for building expansion or parking.

Food pantry information is also listed on Chandler's ward website including facts about the Family Focus Lawndale pantry, 3517 W. Arthington Ave., who has partnered with the Greater Food Depository. The organizations provide a monthly Community Food Give-Away that takes place every third Thursday of the month from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. The event is FREE and NO I.D. is needed.

Chandler's ward office website states that he is committed to improving housing and economic development, community pride, and delivery of city services to the ward in the most effective manner possible. It also states that it is designed to provide access to important City of Chicago programs and services, along with general information on important community events and meetings. So far, it is keeping true to that promise.

Residents, who want to know more about resources available to them can call the 24th Ward office, 1158 S. Keeler Ave., at 773-533-2400 or visit the 24th Ward website at www.aldermanchandler.com

By Deborah Bayliss

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