===== PDF PAGE 2 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] Item # 2.A. MINUTES PUBLIC AFFAIRS COMMITTEE Monday, September 15, 2025, 6:15 P.M. 1. Call to Order, Roll Call, and Establishment of a Quorum. Chairman Smith called the meeting to order at 6:15pm. Roll Call found Alderman Carreto- Muñoz, Morano and Santiago. Alderman Alcántar-Garcia arrived at 6:21pm and Alderman Birch-Ferguson and Aviña- Soto were not present. 2. Approval of Minutes. A. Public Affairs Committee Minutes of August 15, 2025. Alderman Santiago made a motion, seconded by Alderman Morano to approve the minutes of the Public Affairs Committee. Voting Aye: Chairman Smith, Alderman Carreto-Muñoz, Morano and Santiago. Voting Nay: 0. Abstain: 0. Motion carried. 3. Public Participation / Presentations. 4. Items for Consent. A. Ordinance 25-O-0043 – Request the Boards and Commissions Code in Chapter 2, Article VI, Division 13 Pertaining to the Cultural Arts Commission. Alderman Morano made a motion, seconded by Alderman Santiago to direct this item to City Council for approval. Voting Aye: Chairman Smith, Alderman Carreto-Muñoz, Morano and Santiago. Voting Nay: 0. Abstain: 0. Motion carried. B. West Chicago Fire Protection District Open House. Alderman Morano made a motion, seconded by Alderman Santiago to direct this item to City Council for approval. Voting Aye: Chairman Smith, Alderman Carreto-Muñoz, Morano and Santiago. Voting Nay: 0. Abstain: 0. Motion carried. 5. Items for Discussion. A. Healthy West Chicago Update & 2026 Budget. Committee unanimously gave direction to send this item to City Council for approval. 6. Unfinished Business. 7. New Business. ===== PDF PAGE 3 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] Public Affairs Committee Minutes January 28, 2018 Page 2 of 2 8. Reports from Staff. A. West Chicago Police Department Monthly Reports 9. Adjournment. Alderman Alcantar made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Alderman Morano. The motion was approved by voice vote, and the meeting adjourned at approximately 6:40pm. Respectfully submitted, Yahaira Bautista Administrative Assistant to Chief of Police West Chicago Police Department ===== PDF PAGE 4 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] CITY OF WEST CHICAGO. . PUBLIC AFFAIRS COMMITTEE AGENDA ITEM-SUMMARY ITEM TITLE: Lease of Three Honda CRV-Hyrbrid Admin Vehicles AGENDA ITEM NUMBER: _4.A.__ FILE NUMBER: _______________ COMMITTEE AGENDA DATE: COUNCIL AGENDA DATE: October 20, 2025 PREPARED BY: Colin Fleury, Chief of Police SIGNATURE__________________________ APPROVED BY: Tia Messino, Interim City Administrator SIGNATURE__________________________ To ensure that Police Command Staff can respond directly to emergency public safety incidents from their residence with full equipment City staff looked at options for take home vehicles. Department staff have searched for viable options, including purchasing these vehicles for over $54,000 per vehicle and determined the leasing option, which covers standard maintenance, to be the most cost effective. Staff is suggesting leasing three Honda Civic CRV Hybrid vehicles, for the Police Department, from Fox Valley Honda, Illinois for an amount not to exceed $55,000. Necessary emergency equipment (ie., emergency lights, sirens, etc.) will be installed by a third party after the City takes delivery of the units (estimated to cost an additional $12,000.) This proposed lease will be made using money from the Drug Asset Forfeiture Fund, which is a restricted fund from which only eligible equipment purchases may be made; no personnel/benefit, non-police-related capital or other routine operating expenses may be paid from the Drug Asset Forfeiture Fund. ACTIONS PROPOSED: Staff recommends approval of this purchase. COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION: ===== PDF PAGE 5 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] RESOLUTION NO. 25-R-0067 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO EXECUTE CERTAIN AGREEMENT WITH Fox Valley Honda of Aurora, LLC. BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of West Chicago, in regular session assembled, that the Mayor is hereby authorized to execute and the Executive Office Assistant is authorized to attest certain Agreement with Fox Valley Honda of Aurora, LLC. APPROVED this 20 day of October, 2025. AYES: ________ NAYES: ________ ABSTAIN: ________ ABSENT: ________ ______________________________ Mayor Daniel Bovey ATTEST: _______________________________ Executive Office Manager Valeria Perez Page 1 of 1 ===== PDF PAGE 6 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] Item # 5.A. September 25, 2025 Mayor Bovey and City Council Members: West Chicago Sister Cities organization celebrated 25 years of partnership in 2025. We have enjoyed taking many trips to Taufkirchen, Vils, Germany and equally special, hosting their visits to West Chicago. Most of the guests’ time is spent with a planned itinerary of trips to museums, the city of Chicago, tours of businesses, and other interesting and fun places. There is a traditional walking tour to show off our downtown and city services such as the library, police, fire departments and parks. We use these visits to share common interests, learn about each other’s culture and create great friendships. We have visited their different seats of government and they have attended council meetings and visited with our Governor in Springfield. These experiences are educational and have enriched all our lives. We are fortunate to have gracious families that welcome our friends into their homes sharing breakfasts and a few days of activities. While all the lodging is generously provided at no cost, the remainder of the expenses are funded by our small not for profit group. We occasionally obtain sponsorships from local businesses and/or community members. However, we increasingly find that our budget is challenged. Sister Cities is asking the City of West Chicago to help support our 2026 hosting of our German friends. We are in the very early stages of planning, but tentatively scheduled the visit for mid-June for up to 20 guests. Details of anticipated costs would be provided as they become available. Your assistance would assure that we can provide a variety of experiences to make this exchange special. We are requesting a contribution of $5000 which we would apply to transportation costs, group tickets and/or a meal or two. Any in- kind substitute would be appreciated. Thank you for thoughtfully considering our request. Members of West Chicago Sister Cities ===== PDF PAGE 7 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] Item # 5.B. Mayor Daniel Bovey City of West Chicago 475 Main Street West Chicago, IL 60185 Dear Mayor Bovey, The DuPage Senior Citizens Council (DSCC) would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your continued support of our organization and the services DSCC provides to older adults in West Chicago. We are contacting you early in the year to accommodate your budgeting process. DSCC is a volunteer-driven, not-for-profit 501 (c)(3) organization committed to older adults' quality of life, serving older adults compassionately and effectively through high-quality services, and our large volunteer force. DSCC initiates, delivers, monitors, and coordinates services that promote the ability of older people to live their lives in dignity. Our Investment and Commitment to West Chicago and Older Adult residents For almost 50 years, DSCC has been serving the needs of seniors in West Chicago with Meals on Wheels, Senior Dining, Well-Being Checks, Minor Home Repairs, and other needed services. Our dedicated staff and volunteers meet the needs of seniors in West Chicago day in and day out. Most of our clients are homebound seniors who live alone, and nearly 99% of them are at or below the Federal poverty level. Our Plan is Hopefully West Chicago’s Plan The strategic plan for DSCC includes continued investment in West Chicago so that the growing needs of the senior population can be met. Here is how you can help DSCC and seniors in West Chicago: ● Continue and increase your support and investment in DSCC. ● Become more aware of how DSCC cares for seniors in West Chicago and the cost savings to you. ● Get involved with DSCC as a partner and become an advocate. By 2030, the entire Baby Boomer generation will be older than 65. According to the United States Census Bureau, by 2034 older adults will outnumber children. As the senior population continues to grow, so does the need for our services, and while the City of West Chicago has consistently supported DSCC, it is imperative to increase your contribution to effectively meet the increasing demand. As you continue to partner with DSCC, you take an active role in your commitment to your senior residents. Knowing that DSCC has been consistently supporting West Chicago through the years should assure you that your financial support has multiplied many times over. As a consistent partner with DSCC, you can be assured that seniors in need will have access to programs and services that help them live independently in West Chicago. Without proper funding, the services that seniors depend on could be reduced or eliminated. ===== PDF PAGE 8 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] P a g e | 2 Please review our request for funding for continued services for senior residents. If we haven’t already received it, we look forward to your contribution for 2025 and respectfully request an increase to $30,000 from the City of West Chicago. Thank you, Marylin Krolak Executive Director cc: Kelley Chrisse, Business & Community Relations Director Tia Messino, Interim City Administrator Valeria Perez, Executive Office Manager/FOIA Officer Trustees encl: Attachment A – Request for Funding & Support Overview Attachment B – DSCC Services ===== PDF PAGE 9 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] Attachment A DUPAGE SENIOR CITIZENS COUNCIL REQUEST FOR FUNDING & SUPPORT December 2024 DSCC historically receives grant awards from Federal and State sources that cover approximately 60-70% of our overall funding. That is why support from municipalities is needed so we can maintain service levels for the increasing number of seniors and avoid cutting critical life-saving components. The chart below shows the breakdown of the funding and donations designated for West Chicago specifically. During the past year, DSCC invested over $179,640 to serve the senior residents in West Chicago. However, we only received grants, donations, and funding that covered $159,710, leaving us with a $19,930 deficit for West Chicago. ===== PDF PAGE 10 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] Attachment A Projections for 2025/2026 indicate that more funding is needed to support the seniors we are currently serving, in addition to the increase in the number of seniors needing services. The chart below illustrates the past support from the City of West Chicago. CONTRIBUTIONS FROM WEST CHICAGO DSCC Fiscal Year Contribution Received FY2016 $10,000 FY2017 $10,000 FY2018 $10,000 FY2019 $10,000 FY2020 $10,000 FY2021 $10,000 FY2022 $10,000 FY2023 $24,000 FY2024 $24,000 FY2025 Supporting DSCC/West Chicago Seniors We have consistently provided services to seniors in West Chicago. To maintain this level of service and meet the growing needs of the seniors, we are asking for your partnership and continued/constant financial support. To help offset the shortfall projected for 2025-2026, we are asking for an increase in support – we need your assistance to help fill as much of the $19,930 cost gap as possible; we are asking for a contribution of $30,000. We truly value the seniors we serve in West Chicago and look forward to working closely with you in 2025. If you have any questions or need additional information, don't hesitate to contact me directly at 630- 812-6779; 630-546-0626, cell, or email Marylin.Krolak@DupageSeniorCouncil.org. ===== PDF PAGE 11 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] Attachment B DUPAGE SENIOR CITIZENS COUNCIL FY2024 AUDITED SERVICES & STATISTICS CITY OF WEST CHICAGO Home Delivered Meals and Shelf Stable Meals Our Home Delivered- Meals on Wheels program delivers hot/fresh meals each weekday to frail and homebound seniors in West Chicago by DSCC staff and volunteers. Additional Shelf-Stable meals are delivered monthly. All meals served are balanced, nutritious, and meet special dietary needs such as low salt, vegetarian, or diabetic. Each meal is equivalent to 1/3 of the Dietary Reference Intake for adults 60 and over. • We delivered 12,900 meals to 120 unduplicated seniors in West Chicago last year. Health and Wellness Education Keeping seniors informed about issues and topics that are relevant to them is important. A variety of educational information was given directly to seniors through mailings, direct delivery, and friendly phone calls from our volunteers and staff to our homebound seniors. As seniors become aware of preventive measures and helpful topics, they stay safe and improve their health. • We educated approximately 120 senior residents each month in West Chicago last year. Well-Being Checks and Emergency Follow-Ups Every senior who receives a service from us also receives a Well-Being Check, which allows DSCC to observe any changes in a senior's physical or mental health or physical surroundings. This extra step has resulted in several documented cases where staff and volunteers have saved lives by finding a fallen or injured senior or uncovered a dangerous household situation. When we find a senior is not at home when they should be, our Emergency Follow-Up procedure allows crucial collaboration between the West Chicago police and fire departments to ensure every senior is safe and accounted for. These Well-Being checks and Emergency Follow-Up procedures provide real cost-savings to West Chicago compared to the cost of dispatching an EMT service. • We performed over 9,330 Well-Being Checks and Emergency Follow-ups for seniors in West Chicago last year. Social Connection Services (Friendly Phone Calls & Assistance) Social Isolation and a decline in mental health are currently significant concerns. We converted our Friendly Visit to a Friendly Phone Call service to help seniors with companionship and socialization through this difficult year. Seniors sometimes need someone to talk to. Our volunteers take the time to interact and engage with seniors who could benefit from a friendly call. • We performed over 15 hours of socialization through Friendly Phone Calls for seniors in West Chicago last year. ===== PDF PAGE 12 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] Attachment B Home Maintenance Program Living alone as a senior has its challenges, and everyday tasks can be impossible or dangerous for seniors. DSCC's Home Maintenance program provides low-cost minor home repairs to assist older persons with basic home responsibilities associated with daily living. Home repairs include repairing or replacing leaky faucets or toilets, light fixtures, locks, or deadbolts. Additional services that enhance a senior's safety and security include installing bath benches, grab bars, and non-slip strips and repairing and reinforcing walkway steps and stair railings. In cases where homes require larger repair services, DSCC also offers estimates and provides contractor referrals to seniors. These services help seniors stay in their homes longer. • We performed over 10 Minor Home Repairs & Yard Clean-Up Services to seniors living in West Chicago last year. ===== PDF PAGE 13 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] Item # 5.C. • ! " #$"%&' ()*+)*,*-+.//01 2 34!$ 24!$ ! 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The hope is that by introducing Hispanic students to these professions and giving them a positive experience interacting with and learning from first responders, more will consider a career path as a first responder. There will be an application process for students to be part of the program. Anticipated participation criteria are: Spanish speaking, 2.5 GPA or higher, commitment to attend all sessions, curiosity about a first responder career. The Academy planning team will select up to 15 students from West Chicago Community High School. The program will run seven weeks, 8am-12pm three days per week. Two of those days will be spent in a classroom hearing from guest teachers and participating in hands-on activities related to the week’s theme. Teaching topics may include a “day in the life” of a first responder, development of a particular leadership skill needed in that career, expanded learning from required reading and student interviews of professionals from that area of service. Hands-on activities could include the introduction of equipment used, role play problem solving, first aid/CPR training and trials of physical tests and abilities. On day three each week, students will be out in the community for job shadowing opportunities and field experiences. Visiting local police stations, dispatch centers and other professional settings gives students the chance to take in the sights and sounds of each career as well as get a sense of the rhythm of a morning. Students will have the opportunity to tour each facility, meet with additional first responders and take part in various tasks. The final week will differ as students and career counselors spend time in the classroom reflecting on the previous weeks of the program. Counselors will advise students on the academic choices that would benefit them now, should they choose a career as a first responder. The weekly learning themes will likely look something like this: Week 1: Introduction to a first responder career Week 2: Work as a police officer Week 3: Work in the sheriff’s office Week 4: Work as a fire fighter and an EMS Week 5: Work as a 911 dispatcher Week 6: Work as a frontline healthcare worker Weeks 7: Wrap up and academic next steps This program will also benefit first responders as it gives access to high school students. When first responder centers are recruiting volunteers or future professionals, they will have a bank of interested and informed young adults to start from. We anticipate some kind of “graduation” celebration will take place the last week of the program. Students and their families along with first responder units involved in the program and other ===== PDF PAGE 15 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] community partners will be invited to celebrate not only our students’ learning accomplishments but the ongoing dedication and work of first responders in West Chicago. This setting will give first responders and members of the community an excellent opportunity to build and grow relationships and trust. Goals of this program include: 1. Increase the number of Hispanic and/or Spanish speaking West Chicagoans choosing a first responder career. 2. Educate Hispanic and/or Spanish speaking West Chicago high school students about first responder careers 3. Grow the relationship between West Chicago first responder units and community members. It may be five or more years until we know if we are achieving goal number one. But by tracking various data points (number of WCCHS students indicating a first responder career in years before the program began versus after, the number of Hispanic or Spanish speaking West Chicagoans entering first responder training schools before and after this program initiates, number of Spanish speaking and/or Hispanic members of West Chicago first responder forces who participated in this program as a teen) we hope to see a slow, positive growth in the representation of Hispanic/Spanish speaking individuals on first responder teams. Students will be surveyed the first week of the program about their knowledge of each first responder profession and their level of interest in pursuing a career in that field. A similar survey will be done the last week of the program. Success for goal two would look like an increase in the knowledge of each career and students indicating they had a deeper or wider interest in a first responder career. With differences in primary language and ethnic background separating many West Chicago citizens from those who serve as first responders, goal three looks to grow trust between these two bodies. Students and their care givers will be surveyed as to their attitude towards first responders and their connection to the community at the beginning and end of the program. A sampling of first responders will also be surveyed to determine their perspectives on community relations before and after the program. The WeGo First Responder Academy seeks to raise up a new generation of first responders but also to build bridges between those currently serving and the West Chicago community. The hope is that students, caregivers and first responders all indicate that relationships are improving thanks to this program. Finally, as we aim to better the program each year, students, teachers, hosts and others who participate will receive evaluations of the program and their experiences in it. Those surveys will be reviewed by that year’s planning team and the raw data along with an executive summary including suggestions changes to the program will be passed on to the next year’s planning team. ===== PDF PAGE 16 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] Expense Cost per unit Number of units Total Notes Coordinator $2,000 6 month contract Teaching staff $250 6 $1,500 Teaching materials $150 15 $2,250 books, equipment Transportation $650 5 $3,250 buses to field sites Breakfast $15 315 $4,725 $15pp per meal, 21 mealsx15 ppl Marketing/Communication $500 logo dev, student recruitment Giveaways $30 15 $450 Misc $500 Subtotal $15,175 Cost Sharing Transportation $1,000 Subsidized by D94 Teaching staff $1,500 Donated by units Teaching materials $2,000 Donated by units Graphic design work $500 donated by WeGo Together for Kids Total $5,000 Grant request $10,175 ===== PDF PAGE 17 ===== [Extraction: OCR (rendered-page OCR)] ~ e ® celebrating { what's | e new @) 0 ss @ iol WeGo Together for Kids 024 IMPACT REPORT ===== PDF PAGE 18 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] 16 10 what was new new business community partners partners new 540 100% in 2024? children parents and parents learned It was a year of growth at new something and outreach at WeGo events new at Together for Kids. Parenting These numbers are with just a glimpse of the exciting year as the 30 Purpose partner organization nears its organizations 20th anniversary: trained 8 in Crisis new Response funders Resources 97 5 new new interns families received rent assistance 2 new employees 2WeGo Together for Kids ===== PDF PAGE 19 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] FROM Dear partners, neighbors, and friends, THE Happy New Year! As we start another calendar year, we are grateful to reflect back on another remarkable year of partnership and collaboration, while also looking ahead with excitement and anticipation for our continued work together as WeGo Together for Kids. STEERING As we have specifically shared in recent years, we believe one of the greatest beauties of WeGo Together for Kids, is how this collaboration brings people from such diverse backgrounds together, to seek the good of our community! In the midst of what seem to be growing divisions in our culture at large, we celebrate this COMMITTEE collaboration in which people from diverse backgrounds, multiple generations, different religious faiths, across eachTable of sector of society are unified in our desire to love see the flourishing of our community.Contents Specifically, as a Steering Committee, we celebrate that Letter from Director 5 we start the year 2025 with more than 50 community new programs 6 partners regularly engaged in our partner meetings and diligently working together in seven teams and RESULT AREA work groups. We are also grateful for the formation of two • Mental Health 8 advisory groups that for several years have been a goal for • Physical Health 9 our Steering Committee and leadership. Our Community new staff 10 Council is now formed and has met twice, ensuring that our broad partnership increasingly hears directly from, RESULT AREA and is influenced by, the community members and families • Early Childhood 11 we desire to serve alongside. The Diversity, Equity and • Stable Families 13 Inclusion Committee has been working hard for just new partners 15 over a year now to ensure we are addressing the most pressing concerns, helping to make West Chicago a placeRESULT AREA of welcome and inclusivity and providing our partners • Community Engagement 16 with training and resources around DEI. We will always be • Academic better together! Achievement 20 After you read this report, we invite you to visit the • Emergency Preparedness 21 website at www.wegotogetherforkids.com to stay updated and be inspired by more stories ofCommunity Partners 22 community impact and partnership. new funders & business We know there is a great year ahead for partners 24 WeGo Together for Kids, and we are grateful Steering Committee 25 for all who are a committed part of it. In gratitude for all involved, Kyle Reschke, Chair On behalf of the WeGo Together for Kids Steering Committee 3 3 ===== PDF PAGE 20 ===== [Extraction: OCR (rendered-page OCR)] 5 NY = i Z Ec ee . 4 om a WeGo Together for Kids 4 ===== PDF PAGE 21 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] FROM THE Dear WeGo Together for Kids partners, funders and friends, As you’ll see in this report, the theme for DIRECTOR our 2024 together was new! In a year of remarkable growth, WeGo Together for Kids launched new programs and events, welcomed new partners, engaged new funders and hired new staff. 2024 brought new opportunities to support one another as we faced personal, organizational, community wide and national challenges. It has been wonderful to watch partners rally to offer WeGo Together for Kids hope, wisdom and resources to each other. supports and enhances the well-being of children and Some of the new things we tried worked like a families in West Chicago dream, others did not. And so in that process, we learned new lessons about how best to serve the West Chicago community. MISSION 2025 will likely be a refining year as we strive to To support and enhance the serve kids and families in the best ways possible. health, safety, learning, and We will dedicate time to evaluating and tweaking programs, services, events, grants, outreach, social-emotional well-being of partnerships and more. We will need your energy, children and families through time, experience, resources and knowledge of a collaborative, coordinated, West Chicago families in order to best achieve and comprehensive approach these goals. Thank you in advance for your for the West Chicago dedication to this coalition and community. community. It continues to be a great honor to lead this effort and work alongside you. West Chicago is a special VISION placecollaboration.and WeGo Together for Kids is a remarkable A vibrant and engaged community where children and families reach their Molly Beck Dean full potential. Director, WeGo Together for Kids beckdeanm@metrofamily.org 5 ===== PDF PAGE 22 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] 2024 brought a flurry of new new WeGo Together for Kids programs for the children andprograms families of West Chicago. In July we began the Rx Mobile program at Timberlake Apartments, in partnership with Northwestern Medicine and the Northern Illinois Food Bank. This monthly event provides nutritious, fresh food to an average of 160 families or almost 700 individuals, helping to address food insecurity in the community. Each month, community partners are invited to come and share resources with attendees. Whether it’s home visiting, domestic violence support groups or health care, these partners and resources provide much needed support to families. The success of the Rx Mobile program is due to the dedication of our volunteers from local businesses, partner organizations and individuals throughout the county who help with every step of the food distribution process. Starting in the Spring of 2024, we brought families together through events that celebrated community, learning, health and connection at places that many West Chicago families would otherwise not have the ability to visit. At WeGo Night at the DuPage Children’s Museum, 275 attendees explored exhibits and discovered local partners’ resources. new programs 6 ===== PDF PAGE 23 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] MemoryFox Spotlight In 2024, we introduced MemoryFoxIn August, WeGo Day at the Farm, hosted at to our partners, helping them captureThe Conservation Foundation’s McDonald Farm, and share stories that showcase theirwelcomed 115 students and parents for a day impact. Through these stories, we’vefocused on nature, learning, and mental health highlighted how our work supportspractices, with activities like forest bathing, early childhood development, mentalscavenger hunts, art and garden cooking. health, physical health, family stability, emergency preparedness, and academicIn the fall, the WeGo Roller Skating night achievement.saw 150 participants enjoying physical activity, raffles, and community connection. We will continue using MemoryFox in the coming year and kick off 2025 with aAdmission, bus transportation from West special Memory Fox Campaign.Chicago and a meal are provided free of charge at all WGTK Community Events to make them as Scan the QR code ataccessible as possible. right or click this link to share your story and help us celebrate the meaningful work happening in our community. It is a very beautiful place to explore with my son. Thank you very much WeGo Together for Kids for making this trip possible! – PARENT PARTICIPANT, WEGO DAY AT THE FARM new programs 7 ===== PDF PAGE 24 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] UPDATE AREA mental RESULT health Mental Health continued to be a Parenting with Purpose major focus of our work in 2024. was a bilingual training for In addition to the ongoing work of parents of middle school our two mental health clinicians and high school students who serve D33 and D94 students, that taught participants programming eighth grade students how to promote teen wellness. and for parents of teens were added. Topics included healthy relationships, adolescent development, coping Operation Snowball is a program skills and dealing with discrimination. at West Chicago Community High From pre and post event surveys, School that teaches students about 100% of parents reported feeling positive life choices, coping skills and more equipped to talk with their teen how to respond to difficult situations about mental health after the event. like bullying. The Mental Health Work Group created “Snowflake” Advocating for the creation of 708 for Leman Middle School 8th graders Community Mental Health Boards as a preview to Snowball. A dozen in Wayne and Winfield Townships high school students served as the was another mental health priority.708 facilitators for the day and almost Boards are created by referendum 30 8th graders participated. The and voted on by the community. curriculum focused on general mental They provide grants for mental wellness practices, conflict resolution, health, disability and substance use/ healthy relationships and leadership recovery services. WGTK partners development. and staff collected signatures to get the referendum on the ballots and took part in community education events aimed at dispersing accurate information and compelling stories. In November, both referendums passed! This will create more than $1 million per year in grant funding across Wayne and Winfield Townships. Thanks to the talks, I have many very useful tips in my toolbox that I will use in my daily life, regarding my mental health and that of my children. - PARENT PARTICIPANT, PARENTING WITH PURPOSE 8 ===== PDF PAGE 25 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] UPDATE physical healthAREA After learning about high childhood snacks. These events help foster a obesity rates in West Chicago, our sense of community while promoting Physical Health Work Group added physical fitness and healthier lifestylesRESULT access to physical activity to their list for families of all ages. of priorities. Thanks to a grant from Northwestern Medicine, our Physical Thanks to the Physical Activity Activity Initiative promotes Initiative we have seen the return healthy living by increasing access of a Bike Rodeo to West Chicago. to knowledge, classes, equipment This event was hosted at the West and facilities. We focused on bringing Chicago Park District and had 100+ events to places people live or are attendees. The Bike Rodeo offered already gathering. helmet distribution and fittings, bike tune ups and small repairs, a riding Free Family Fitness Nights course for kids to practice their skills, alternated between yoga, boxing, and a bike decorating station and the Zumba, providing diverse activities opportunity to engage with local first that encouraged families to stay responders. Many children came to active together. Play Groups for the the Bike Rodeo with one shared bike youngest of our WeGo kids took place across several kids in the family or at Timberlake Apartments and Main with no bike at all. Several bikes were Park Apartments, offering games and raffled off and one of the winners activities to get kids moving, story time exclaimed “My very own bike!” when centering on movement and healthy her name was announced. 9 ===== PDF PAGE 26 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] In April of 2024 we were thrilled to introduce Veronica Caballero as our new Housing Navigator new on staff. Veronica brings previous experience in housing assistance and a strong commitment to supporting staff individuals and families in securing stable homes. She provides critical help with security deposit assistance, rent support, and resources for eviction prevention, homelessness, and other housing-related needs. In 2024, WGTK “My job as the housing navigator is to help the welcomed five interns to our work together. community of West Chicago with resources.” Veronica’s expertise and passion for serving the Bryn Wicklas, a Master’s of Social Work community have already made a significant impact, student, worked with various partners to and we are excited about the continued contributions support families in need with a special she will bring to our mission. project of setting up a referral system at the Neighborhood Food Pantry. Later in the year, we welcomed Sandra Barrera, a Master’s of Public Jennifer Rodriguez as the Early Health student, joined WGTK as an intern over the summer specializing in the Childhood Manager. development of resources for maternal health and analyzing data around Jennifer focuses on supporting families with children childhood obesity in West Chicago. aged 0-8 by fostering partnerships and leading initiatives like The Basics DuPage, which encourages Sandy Soto, Anahi Simental, and parents to engage in five simple practices to give their Jocelyn Cruz are Bachelor of Social children a strong start in life. Work interns that have focused their time on our educational center partners “My inspiration for wanting to work in early childhood District 94, District 33, and Educare stems from being a mother myself. I started my career West DuPage. They’ve led small in early childhood when I was a first-time mom and groups for students focusing on social- truly that drive to become the best mom emotional skills and special education, I could be,” Jennifer shares. helped with holiday giving programs, and presented mindfulness activities to Jennifer’s passion and students and parents. dedication have already made a meaningful All of our awesome interns are a big impact in help at WeGo Together for Kids events, West Chicago. showing up ready to support the families we serve. 10new staff 10 ===== PDF PAGE 27 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] UPDATE AREA RESULT early childhood In 2024, the Early Childhood Work Group set a goal to address the lack of awareness and access to early childhood resources among families in West Chicago. Recognizing that many families in the community are not connected to the critical programs and support services available to them, the group aimed to bridge this gap by creating Early Childhood pop-up events which were hosted at Educare West DuPage, Timberlake Apartments, the West Chicago Library District and Casa Michoacan. These pop-up events provided families with a convenient and accessible way to learn about and connect with early childhood service providers. By ensuring that more families are informed and supported, the Early Childhood Work Group is working to create a more equitable and inclusive environment for all young children in the area. Additionally, the Early Childhood Work Group also focused on addressing the critical issue of limited transportation opportunities in West Chicago. For those families that do have vehicles, some struggle with unreliable cars they can’t afford to fix, leaving them without a reliable means of getting their children to school or important appointments. 11 ===== PDF PAGE 28 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] UPDATE AREA Thanks to a grant funded by Bright &RESULT Early DuPage, the WGTK Car Repair Program was created. This initiative provides loans to help West Chicago families with children ages 0-8 cover the cost of necessary vehicle repairs. This program is a small part of a much larger issue, however the organization is committed to doing what it can to help. Lastly, we were so excited to bring The Basics DuPage to West Chicago families in 2024. The Basics are five simple but powerful things that parents, caregivers and the community can do with young children to ensure that they have a strong foundation to succeed in life. Our focus has been on equipping community partners who directly serve families by providing partners with education and resources on The Basics Principles. We are exploring implementing The Basics artwork throughout the city to increase visibility and awareness. To support these efforts, all West Chicago families who have children ages 0-5 have the amazing opportunity to sign up for The Basics Insights text messaging program where they receive two FREE text messages each week with developmentally appropriate, science-based facts and tips on how they can help their child to learn and grow. Stay tuned as we continue to work together to create a community where every child can thrive and succeed in life! early childhood 12 ===== PDF PAGE 29 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] UPDATE AREA RESULT stable families The goal of our Stable Families result area is that West Chicago families have access to the resources they need to meet their basic needs and life goals. Currently our efforts fall into categories - housing and food access: Housing Having a stable home is the foundation for a family’s well-being. This year, we provided rent assistance to 97 families, helping them stay in their homes during challenging times. Through the guidance of our Housing Navigator, Veronica Caballero, families received not only financial support but also access to eviction prevention resources and connections to housing services from our partners. Our goal is to ensure every family in West Chicago feels secure and supported, and we’re proud of the progress we’ve made in creating stability for those who need it most. Food Access Having access to healthy food is essential for families to thrive. Through our work in the Food Access Work Group, we’ve been able to help many West Chicago families get the food they need. 13 ===== PDF PAGE 30 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] UPDATE AREA From ongoing efforts at our established pantries, to a new RxRESULT Mobile distribution, to providing food bags for food insecure patients at Access Community Health Network’s West Chicago location hundreds of families receive food assistance. Bryn Wicklas, WGTK intern, shares, “During my time focusing on the food access initiative with WGTK, I was reminded of a fundamental theory in the field of social work: Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. In order for individuals to feel motivated to accomplish higher-level needs, first their basic needs must be met. It was inspiring to see the large number of West Chicago families receiving food distributions, and I was honored to create a community resource guide for the Neighborhood Food Pantry. This guide helped them connect families with services that go beyond food access.” One notable change in West Chicago’s food ecosystem this year was the ending of the distribution at St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church. Started at the beginning of the pandemic in response to increased need and the closing of some local food pantries due to health concerns, this drive thru distribution served hundreds of families each month. Coordinated by People’s Resource Center and staff by volunteers from Lutheran Churches and community groups throughout the metro area, it was a labor of love week after week. stable families 14 ===== PDF PAGE 31 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] In 2024, we officially welcomed 10 new partners to WeGo new Together for Kids. partners Their missions and foci of work varies from people with disabilities to nature AIM - Center for conservation to support of Independent Living victims of domestic violence Behavioral and much more. Perspective Inc These new organizations have jumped right The Conservation into the partnership serving on work groups, Foundation attending partner meetings, hosting events, sharing resources and leading programming. DuPage Children’s Museum DVSA Communities Giving DuPage Girls Scouts of Greater Chicago The Kitchen Table Morton Arboretum Northeast Family Services new partners 15 ===== PDF PAGE 32 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] UPDATE AREA RESULT community engagement For 2024, our Community Engagement focused on bringing more West Chicago voices to decision making tables and getting out into the community to connect with kids and families. The WeGo Together for Kids Community Council is composed of West Chicago parents and students and was created to provide valuable input to WGTK’s goals and programming, bring attention to critical issues in West Chicago, and encourage participation in WGTK programs and services. The first meeting of the Community Council took place in September. The I like these events the Community Council meetings have community hosts because been an excellent way to engage with community members, gather it brings the kids close to feedback, and build a stronger their friends outside of network of support. school. I also like to interact and meet with other parents of the community. I like that it also creates memories with my kids. - PARENT PARTICIPANT 16 ===== PDF PAGE 33 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] UPDATE WGTK had the opportunity to During Trunk or Treat at the West Chicago engage with the community through Public Library District, WGTK shined withAREA several exciting events this year, an Inside Out 2 themed car trunk. We including Blooming Fest, Trunk or were interviewed by the local student-led Treat, and Frosty Fest. These events newspaper, where we shared a memorable are critical to connect with the moment: “We packed 900 bags of popcornRESULT community, spread the word about with our flyers attached, and we literally our programs, and create memories just gave out the last one,” said WGTK with local families. Communications Manager Andrea Garcia in the last five minutes of the event. At the City of West Chicago’s Blooming Fest, WGTK coordinated Finally, WGTK took part in the City of West the “Kid Zone”, an area of the event Chicago’s Frosty Fest, where we set up a dedicated to children and families winter themed photo booth and table with filled with interactive activities, resources at Lisenas Gorditas in downtown partners with programs and West Chicago. This event gave us a chance resources to share and a variety of to connect with the community in a festive entertainers. setting, distributing flyers and spreading holiday cheer. community engagement 17 ===== PDF PAGE 34 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] new records The 2024 Back to School event broke records for impact and outreach! community engagement 18 ===== PDF PAGE 35 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] 1,300 2,000 filled community backpacks members distributed attended zones 36 including business health, safety, partners entertainment (meet them on page 24!) & more! community engagement 19 ===== PDF PAGE 36 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] UPDATE academic AREA achievement The academic achievement of our Kids enjoyed a bookmark making West Chicago students and their station, the book fair and activitiesRESULT parents remained a priority for our like learning how to juggle and face work together, especially in the area painting. WGTK interns taught a of literacy. Classes for adults wanting session on mindfulness and Healthy to learn English continued to be West Chicago taught families how offered throughout the community. to make healthy drinks to keep their WGTK partners came together to immune systems strong. There were help with literacy events at two of also raffles with great prizes, free our local schools. vision screenings for students, and plenty of resources families could Gary Literacy & Math Night take home to help support their In May, Gary Elementary School’s children’s learning. first Literacy & Math Night focused on preventing the "summer slide" in For the parents, informative sessions children’s reading and math skills. led by District 33 Family Liaisons The event featured a book giveaway, offered practical tools, resources, where children selected books to take and tips to support their children’s home, encouraging summer reading. academic success. Families also enjoyed learning fun, interactive games that they could It was an exciting night full of take home, each designed to reinforce learning, connection, and support for literacy and math skills. both students and parents. A special highlight was the presence of therapy dogs, where children had the opportunity to read aloud to the dogs in a relaxed, supportive environment. This unique experience allowed kids to practice their reading in a fun and stress-free setting. Leman Literacy Night In November, the annual Literacy Event was held at Leman Middle School. A variety of community partners came together to offer resources, educational activities, and fun experiences for families. 20 ===== PDF PAGE 37 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] UPDATE emergency AREA preparedness To live out our commitment to Because of our commitment toRESULT Emergency Preparedness, WeGo support West Chicago families who Together for Kids hosted two lost their homes in the November important events in 2024. 2023 apartment complex fire, case management support and the In February, more than 30 individuals replacement of household goods from partner organizations were and clothing continued into the trained on Crisis Response resources summer of 2024. This work could in DuPage County. Information on not have happened without the 988, mobile crisis response and the financial support from more than 50 Crisis Center was shared. Partners individuals and businesses and the had the opportunity to ask questions tireless efforts of the staff of Puente particular to our West Chicago del Pueblo, Casa MIchoacan, District context. After the training, attendees 33 and District 94. Thank you! shared they felt more equipped to share resources and help families in times of crisis. Due to the two large fires at an apartment complex in recent years, important lessons were learned about residents’ lack of knowledge around fire safety. Several WGTK partners came together to create a Fire Safety Event at Main Park Apartments. Residents were given information and resources to help prevent fire emergencies and what to do in case one should occur. Activities around fire safety were provided for children and, of course, a highlight was getting to sit in the West Chicago Fire Department’s brush truck. 21 ===== PDF PAGE 38 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] community partners We are thrilled to have more than 70 partners on our roster for 2024, including 10 new partners! In 2024, 40 partners were engaged in one or more of our work groups, committees and planning teams. Organizations gather in-person or on Zoom the first Thursday of each month for partner meetings. This is a time of networking, learning, dreaming and fun. We are more together than any of us could ever be alone. Access Community Health Hopeful Beginnings VNA Health Care Network Literacy DuPage Wayne Township AIM - Center for Independent Loaves & Fishes Community Wayne/Winfield Area Youth/ Living Services Family Services (WAYS) Behavioral Perspective Inc. Metropolitan Family Services West Chicago City Museum Boy Scouts of America Morton Arboretum West Chicago Community High Casa Michoacan School District 94 National Alliance on Mental Chicago Arts Parnerships in Illness (NAMI) West Chicago Elementary School Education (CAPE) District 33 National Hispanic Suicide City of West Chicago Prevention Network West Chicago Fire Protection DistrictCity of West Chicago (police) Neighborhood Food Pantries West Chicago Park DistrictDayOne Pact, Child and Family New Hope United Methodist Connections DuPage West Chicago Public Library Northeast Family Services DistrictDuPage and Chicago South Northern Illinois Food Bank Suburbs Habitat for Humanity Western DuPage Chamber of Northwestern Memorial CommerceDuPage Children’s Museum Healthcare Western DuPage SpecialDupage County Outreach Recreation Assocation DuPage County - Giving DuPage Peace Jam Wheaton Bible Church DuPage County Health People Made Visible/Gallery 200 Wheaton College/ CODA MusicDepartment People’s Resource Center Program DuPage Federation on Human Services Reform Puente del Pueblo Winfield Township DuPage Health Coalition Representative Maura World Relief Chicagoland Hirschauer’s office Youth OutlookDVSA Communities Republic Bank YWCA of Metro ChicagoEasterseals SCARCE Educare West DuPage Senator Karina Villa’s office Evangelical Child & Family Agency St. Andrew Lutheran Church Family Focus Teen Parent Connection FSS of Metropolitan Family The Conservation Foundation Services The Garden Works Project Girl Scouts The Kitchen Table Glen Arbor Church Timber Lake Apartments H.A.S. United Way of H.O.M.E. DuPage Metro Chicago Healthy West Chicago University of Illinois Extension 22WeGo Together for Kids 22 ===== PDF PAGE 39 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] At each partner meeting we deepen our knowledge of at least one (but often several) of our community partners. This morning I was delighted by the many services that VNA healthcare offers. Additionally, in getting to know the neighbors at my table, it turned out one offered just the services that my organization is seeking for an upcoming event. Community partnerships matter! – COMMUNITY PARTNER 23 ===== PDF PAGE 40 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] This year we welcomed many newnew funders area businesses as sponsors WeGo Together for Kids’ of the WeGo Together for Kids mission is only forwarded Back to School Event. because of the amazing The following businesses gifted the event funders who believe in with school supplies, financial contributions this vision for the children and volunteers. Several businesses also of West Chicago. In 2024, hosted WGTK Giving Trees in December with gifts benefiting West Chicago Community we welcomed several new High School students. Thank you for your funders through grants and dedication to the kids of West Chicago! contributions which increased our reach, creativity and (* indicates a new business partner in 2024) Atlas Chicken * Hindu impact. Thank you to all of Swayamsevak Avient * Sangh these entities who supported Ball Horticulture * Integrated Pain WGTK in 2024. Bank of America Management * Buck Services IOC Construction * Birth to 5 Illinois Budgetand MattressAppliance Ivy Hall * * Jelsert Casey’s * Jewel Osco * DuPage County Health Department Chris Mechanical (Aurora) * Services DuPage Foundation Land Care Costa Ivone Injury Nationwide DuPage Foundation’s Bright & Lawyers * Owens & Minor Costco - * Early DuPage Initiative Bloomingdale Realty of Chicago * * Henrietta Lange Burk Fund DS Containers * Sandi Llano and Associates * Illinois Department of DynamicSolutionsUtilities SEWA International Human Services Chicago Chapter Elgin Sweepers * Northwestern Medicine Epsilon SignChicagoa rama* West Target – St. Charles * SBB Research Group FNBCForm TechBank & Trust Tata Consultancy Siemer Institute FXI Services * * Strategic Prevention Grant Graham Packaging Whole Foods (Hinsdale) * Hawthorne’s West Chicago Park District Backyard Wiant House * Foundation * UNICO Foundation new United Way Metro Chicago indicates a new funder in 2024) business (* partners 24WeGo Together for Kids ===== PDF PAGE 41 ===== [Extraction: embedded PDF text] 2024 Steering Committee Brittney Walker District 94 Dave Sabathne Western DuPage Chamber of Commerce Gina Radun West Chicago Park District Joshua Simmons United Way of Metro Chicago Kara Murphy (Co-chair) DuPage Health Coalition I commit my time and energy Kyle Reschke (Chair) to WGTK Steering Committee Wheaton Bible Church because I love the families who Mila Tsgalis make West Chicago their home, DuPage County Health Department because I respect my partners and Robyn Arms find inspiration in their efforts, West Chicago Police Department and because my heart and head both tell me that WGTK enriches Sarah Norton District 33 the lives of those who are touched by our programs and services. Suzanne Baber Teen Parent Connection I just know we will get further faster if we work together, so I Allison Delgado Metropolitan Family Services show up to watch it happen! - STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBER Sonny de Rama VNA Health Care 25WeGo Together for Kids ===== PDF PAGE 42 ===== [Extraction: OCR (rendered-page OCR)] i etherfork < a ° e ° 00 ® e > ® m5 ° be 1 z. a ¥ (2) ) 3