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Community Safety Partners Meeting Brings Strong Turnout and Reaffirms Shared Priorities

On June 26, JNDC convened a gathering of some 20 community leaders, safety advocates, and local police for a Community Safety Partners meeting, hosted at The Ark on California Avenue. Participants represent a broad range of local faith and cultural organizations and seek to find ways to work together to improve community safety in West Rogers Park/West Ridge.

We were especially grateful to 50th Ward Alderman Debra Silverstein, who joined the meeting as our guest speaker. Alderman Silverstein provided updates on current safety initiatives and reaffirmed that keeping our community safe remains her highest priority. Attendees had the opportunity to share their concerns directly, creating a meaningful exchange and a strong sense of shared purpose.

We were also pleased to welcome CPD Officer Michael Specht, 24th District Place of Worship Safety Advisory Team, and representatives from the offices of State Senator Ram Villivalam and State Representative Kevin Olickal, whose presence reinforced the importance of collaboration between the Chicago Police Department, community members, and elected officials.

We look forward to continuing the conversation and working together to ensure that West Rogers Park/West Ridge remains a safe and welcoming place for all.

Volunteers Improve Park 538 During Chicago River Day Clean-Up

On Sunday, May 11, 2025 Park 538 saw a boost in beauty and accessibility thanks to a dedicated group of volunteers who participated in the 33rd Annual Chicago River Day. Organized by Friends of the Chicago River, the event marked the only Sunday cleanup across the city—accommodating the observant Jewish community and ensuring that West Rogers Park residents could take part.

Twenty-two volunteers joined forces to spread two large piles of wood chips provided by the Chicago Park District, focusing their efforts on enhancing the trail entrances to the park. The improvements have made a visible impact, and visitors are encouraged to explore the refreshed space along the North Shore Channel.

Students Discover Nature Through Play at Park 538

On Sunday, May 4, 2025, Walder Science students joined JNDC for an enjoyable and educational nature walk at Park 538. Activities included plant and pollinator identification, habitat hopscotch, and bird-call recognition using the Merlin app—highlighted by a rare encounter with a migratory Black-and-White Warbler. Programs like these cultivate a love for nature in our neighborhood’s next generation.

Bagels & Business Builds Local Connections

More than 40 local professionals gathered for “Bagels & Business,” which was held at the Ark and presented by JNDC in partnership with the JUF Professionals Network. The event provided opportunities for networking, collaboration, and community building among local professionals and business owners. We look forward to continuing this valuable series.

JNDC Shares West Rogers Park Stories in Northbrook

JNDC recently brought its signature presentation, “Growing Up Jewish in West Rogers Park,” to Temple Beth-El of Northbrook. Attendees viewed a screening of Driving West Rogers Park and explored our photo exhibit Then and Now: 10 Decades of Jewish Community in West Rogers Park, on display through May 5, 2025. The event sparked thoughtful conversations and a sense of shared history.

Community Safety Meeting Builds Momentum

JNDC convened its second Community Safety Meeting, uniting leaders from diverse faith and cultural organizations within our community to discuss shared concerns. Hosted by Forging Opportunities for Refugees in America (FORA) in their welcoming space at the former Northtown Branch Library on California Avenue, the meeting featured insights from CPD POWSAT Officers Michael Specht and Roger Heath. These gatherings continue to strengthen trust, collaboration, and neighborhood connection.

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