Local News

Gov. Pritzker Highlights Progress Reducing Gun Violence in Chicago

Governor JB Pritzker, Illinois Office of Firearm Violence Prevention (OFVP) officials, legislators, and community leaders convened to recognize progress made to reduce gun violence in Chicago and Illinois due in part to the Peacekeeper Program. The State of Illinois adopted this model in 2023 as a strategy of the OFVP. ​ A recent Northwestern University evaluation report found a 41% reduction of gun violence rates in Chicago and Cook County suburban hotspots targeted by the program.

Chicago Public Schools, City Colleges of Chicago, and University of Illinois Chicago Launch Chicago Roadmap 2.0 to Ensure a Seamless Pathway to a Bachelor’s Degree

Chicago Public Schools (CPS), City Colleges of Chicago (CCC), and the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) are expanding the nationally-recognized higher education partnership with the launch of “Chicago Roadmap 2.0.” This next phase is designed to ensure students have a seamless transition from high school to community college to four-year institutions — retaining earned credits, reducing barriers to transfer, and keeping them on track for bachelor’s degree completion.

MAYOR BRANDON JOHNSON AND THE CHICAGO DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING RELEASE DRAFT OF 2025 QUALIFIED ALLOCATION PLAN FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING RESOURCES

The 2025 Qualified Allocation Plan (QAP) draft, which determines a significant portion of the City of Chicago’s affordable housing resources, was issued on April 15 by Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Department of Housing (DOH).

Comprehensive Learning Services Supports The Whole Child

As an educational psychologist and learning disability specialist, Dr. Chrisna Perry supports children with various neurodiversity needs, including Autism, ADHD and Anxiety Disorder, as well as Dyslexia, Dyscalculia and neurotypical children who are struggling in school.

ComEd Program Helps Participant Transition Into New Career

After more than 10 years in education, Sasha Simmons wanted to transition to a career in the construction and utility fields. As a registered behavioral technician, she worked with children with autism. She decided to participate in ComEd’s Craft Academy because she knew it would be a great steppingstone in her transition and she would be able to learn as much as she possibly could about the construction and utility fields.

STARR Community Services Provides Pathways to STEAM

STARR Community Services International has been preparing youth to get jobs that have the potential to raise household incomes since it began in 2020.

Chicago Teachers Union Ratifies New Contract

The Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) approved their new contract with a 97% approval and turnout of 87%.

Artist Wants To Make Others Feel Seen Through Work

Anthony Bartley’s journey with art started as a child, drawing his favorite characters from anime, cartoon and video games. It was something that his mother encouraged, because it was something she did when she was younger.

United African Organization Offers a Platform for Meaningful Dialogue and Community Connection

The United African Organization (UAO) is thrilled to announce the upcoming 2025 Chicago African Summit & Community Resource Fair, a premier forum in the Midwest dedicated to addressing contemporary issues facing the African diaspora. Scheduled for Saturday, May 10th, from 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM, the event will be hosted at the Charles Hayes Center located at 4859 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60615.

DIVERSE COALITION OF CHICAGO LEADERS AND FANS OF RENOWN BLACK PIANIST TO COALESCE THEIR TALENTS AND NETWORKS IN HOPE OF FINDING A KIDNEY DONOR

Government officials, Medical Professionals, Civic and Community leaders are gathering themselves to advocate for a woman of distinction, selflessness, and a music legend in a kickoff of a nationwide public relations campaign. Yvonne W. Huntley, considered by many as one of the nation’s top pianists, is now in the fight of her life as she seeks a kidney that will allow her to continue her remarkable life of providing beautiful music. Her current kidneys are functioning at an alarmingly low rate.

Understanding the Stages of Alzheimer's: A Journey Through Change

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that unfolds gradually over time, impacting memory, thinking, and behavior. While the experience can vary widely from person to person, Alzheimer’s typically progresses through three main stages: early (mild), middle (moderate), and late (severe).

When the Heat and Storms Come, Lies Will Not Save Us

When the storms come harder and the heat comes earlier, it does not matter who you voted for. You still have to rebuild your home. You still have to find a way to breathe clean air. You still have to keep your family safe.

Turn Back the Hands of Time

A retired Naval officer, 60, came to me for estate planning after divorcing his wife of 30 years and remarrying a much younger woman with minor children. He seemed eager to get his financial affairs in order—perhaps because of underlying health concerns.

CTU Gathers with Faith-based Leaders to Highlight Recent Tentative Agreement Wins for Students and Educators

In a powerful display of unity between education advocates and Chicago’s vibrant faith community, the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) gathered with local faith leaders and community leaders this week to highlight the community-centered benefits secured in the recently ratified tentative agreement. CTU leaders explained the vital role churches and congregations play in disseminating critical information to families and students across the city.

COOK COUNTY COMMISSIONER KISHA MCCASKILL TAKES CENTER STAGE AS SOUTH SUBURBAN COMMUNITY UNITES FOR A GREENER FUTURE

On Tuesday, April 22, 2025, Cook County Commissioner Kisha McCaskill of the 5th District successfully hosted a dynamic and impactful Earth Day Celebration at South Suburban College, located at 15800 State Street in South Holland, Illinois. The event, presented in partnership with State Senator Napoleon B. Harris III and the Office of Cook County Sheriff Thomas J. Dart, brought together residents from across the South Suburbs for a day of environmental action and community service.