Jewish Neighborhood Development Council of Chicago (JNDC), in partnership with JUF Professionals Network, welcomed over 40 professionals on September 24, 2024, for a morning of networking, idea-sharing, and building meaningful connections. Held at the Bernard Horwich JCC, the event marked the first time the popular ’Bagels and Business’ program was brought to the Far North Side. Feedback and the size of the crowd affirmed that it was a great success, fostering both community and collaboration. Thank you to JUF for partnering with us and to all who attended.

Throughout the summer of 2024, JNDC’s nature programs at Park 538 provided the community with enriching opportunities to connect with nature. From the Monarch Butterfly Club to Bird and Nature Walks, participants engaged in hands-on learning experiences and enjoyed exploring the natural beauty of our neighborhood park.
The Monarch Butterfly Club offered activities where members learned about the butterfly life cycle, observed butterfly wing coloration, and searched for monarch eggs on milkweed plants. The season culminated with a group field trip to Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum.
Our Bird and Nature Walks brought the community together to observe various bird species and habitats within the park.
JNDC is proud to have offered these programs for the past four years, helping to build Park 538 into a significant community destination. These initiatives provide a fantastic way for community members to deepen their understanding of nature while enjoying outdoor spaces.
We extend our thanks to our dedicated volunteer leaders and our partner organizations, Chicago Bird Alliance and Peggy Notebeart Nature Museum, and to all who participated!

JNDC co-sponsored an event at The Ark’s new building at 6450 N. California in Chicago on Sunday, July 28, 2024, focusing on female empowerment in business. Organized by The Jewish Woman Entrepreneur, and co-sponsored by JUF Professionals Network, the event drew over 40 Orthodox Jewish businesswomen.

Suzanne Muchin, Northwestern Kellogg School of Business, delivered an inspiring talk on achieving strategic impact in high-stakes conversations. JNDC Executive Director Ellen Doppelt opened the program and highlighted JNDC’s commitment to economic vitality in the community.

JNDC’s photo exhibit, “Then and Now: 10 Decades of Jewish Community in West Rogers Park,” was on display at The Ark and drew much interest.

Chavi Basch is thrilled to announce the opening of her retail storefront, In Due Time Maternity, at 6710 N. Crawford in Lincolnwood. “After nearly 20 years of building my business from home, I am proud to have a beautiful, remodeled storefront to better serve our amazing community. I’m excited to make shopping for maternity essentials even more accessible for everyone. A huge thank you to JNDC for helping me through this process by making connections, and supporting my journey every step of the way.”

The tree-lined paths of Park 538 provided leafy beauty and welcome shade to some 20 community residents who enjoyed a special Urban Nature Walk and Talk on June 18, 2024. JNDC co-sponsored this engaging and educational event in partnership with Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD) Commissioner Eira L. Corral Sepúlveda, Chicago Bird Alliance, and Friends of the Chicago River. Participants learned about the local ecosystem of our beautiful park and how the MWRD supports the health of our land and waterways. Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make this event a success!