Community Focus
Community Violence Intervention Film Festival Highlights Stories of Healing, Prevention and Community Leadership in Chicago
Community Violence Intervention (CVI) professionals and community leaders gathered on July 8 for the CVI Film Festival, an evening of storytelling and dialogue focused on reducing gun violence and strengthening public safety across Chicago.
Despite Economic Woes A Local Entrepreneur Takes Her Business To Another Level
On a mission to build a strong legacy and create generational wealth all while changing the economic landscape of her community through job creation and beautification, Nikkita Randle of “Twisted Egg Roll” is doing just that.
Chicago Jazz Philharmonic Welcomes Dr. Toni-Marie Montgomery and Bradley Byrd to its Board of Directors
Chicago Jazz Philharmonic (CJP), the nation's leading Third Stream orchestra and educational organization, is pleased to welcome Dr. Toni-Marie Montgomery and Bradley Byrd to its Board of Directors. Their appointments bring a wealth of experience in education, leadership, philanthropy, and community engagement that will further strengthen CJP's mission to transform lives through music, education, and cultural innovation.
Metropolitan Peace Academy Celebrates Newest Graduating Class of Community Violence Intervention Professionals
Metropolitan Peace Initiatives (MPI) proudly celebrated the graduation of its Spring 2026 cohort of the Metropolitan Peace Academy (MPA) on June 11 at the South Shore Cultural Center, marking another milestone in the effort to strengthen Chicago's Community Violence Intervention (CVI) workforce.
Taste of Chicago Returns to Prime Summer Season This July with Free Live Music, Family Fun and Local Flavors
The Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) announces the return of Taste of Chicago, one of the world’s largest free-admission food festivals, July 8–12 for an expanded five-day celebration bringing residents and visitors together through acclaimed cuisine, live music and Chicago pride. From beloved neighborhood restaurants and emerging chefs to performances by globally recognized artists and family-friendly programming along the city’s iconic lakefront, Taste of Chicago 2026 will showcase the cultural diversity and creative energy that continue to make Chicago a premier culinary destination.
Advocate Health Care builds on Neighborhood Care
Advocate Health Care builds on Neighborhood Care expansion, bringing network to six South Side sites this spring. New locations expand access to same-day care in trusted community spaces
A Local Black Owned And Operated Father And Son Construction Company Builds its Family Legacy And Profits Brick By Brick
Christian Searles is a partner in the Francis Construction firm. The young Searles has been busy working alongside his father Steve Searles building their family legacy.
Farming In The Inner City Without Acres Of Dirt
Since October of 2023, Joe Jones has served as the Senior Director of Entrepreneurship overseeing the active entrepreneurship programing for both the Bowen Harvest site and the Austin Harvest site. The Bowen Farms are Chicago’s only youth-led hydroponic container farms, located on the city’s south and west sides and are student ran and operated.
‘Community In Motion’, Peloton and LISC Wellness Initiative Comes To Auburn Gresham
Recently, Peloton and LISC partnered to bring an impactful fitness experience to the Auburn Gresham Community. The Greater Auburn Gresham Development Corporation (GAGDC) is the new home to a Healthier Lifestyle Hub, the Community in Motion Initiative.
Shedd Aquarium Is Asking You to Do One Thing This Summer: Touch Water
This summer, Shedd Aquarium is celebrating countless ways to help people disconnect from digital distractions and wade into a whimsical underwater world. Some guests might be looking for the nostalgia of legacy music nights, while others are seeking out new adventures in the outdoors – either way, Shedd offers an exciting escape from the mundane to explore and admire the diversity of life in aquatic ecosystems.
Keith Pettigrew Begins Tenure as new Chief Executive Officer of the Chicago Housing Authority
A new era at the Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) begins today as Keith Pettigrew starts his tenure as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the third-largest housing authority in the nation.
Local Organization Restores Confidence And Value Through Donations
The ShoeHeals organization gives back to the community offering soul healing resources. Charisma Cannon is the owner of the ShoeHeals organization. ShoeHeals can be credited for revitalizing the spirit and souls of many individuals who might be experiencing hardships.
The Guest House Provides A Welcoming Environment For People With Medical Needs
Art “Chat Daddy” Sims made a name for himself in media. He became a household name, doing radio, television and writing for newspapers, not just in Chicago, but across the world. During the pandemic, Sims’ radio show ended and he was looking for his next chapter. Dionne Nicole Smith, Director of Development at the Guest House, told him that she thought he would be a great addition to the Guest House staff. He visited and fell in love with the Guest House.
The Support Group Hosts Lunch With A Leader
More than 300 Chicago Public School students had the opportunity to have lunch with industry, community and business leaders. The event was hosted by the Support Group, with the goal of giving the students direct access to professionals from various sectors.
