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Welcome to ournew members: 4Legs Pet Products, Alchemy Performance Consulting, Blue Room Training, Formative Psychological Services, Neighbors for Andre, Paradise Port Cafe, Peak Wealth Planning, Pick Me Up Cafe, SIDS of Illinois, The Space Community Studio, Yoga Horizons of Chicago, and Zneimer & Zneimer P.C.
And a thanks to our returning members for their continued support: Access Contemporary Music, Amy's Candy Bar, Ballroom Dance Chicago, Celtica Gifts, Concordia Place, Erwin Law LLC, Ledger General, Muscle & Joint Physical Therapy, Ravenswoof, Right at Home North Shore/Chicago Metro, The Harrison Group Inc., and The Long Room.
| | There's a Facebook group just for Ravenswood! Click here to connect with neighbors about community issues, events, neighborhood-specific questions, and more. | | |
·Ravenswood Construction Update: May 2025 - This summer, the City will begin work on two large construction projects along the Ravenswood Creative Corridor. This will include major Water Main Replacement and Street Resurfacing along Ravenswood Ave and other nearby streets. Both efforts will bring much needed improvements to our community. They will also impact the area in the form of road closures, temporary parking restrictions, and traffic detours. More Info
·Tribune: Lydia Cash Peels Back the Layers of Her Own Life to Share Rich, Evocative Americana-Inspired Rock Music - Ravenswood's very-own Lydia Cash recently spoke with the Chicago Tribune about her new music in advance of a show at The Empty Bottle on May 23.
“I know that we all need more empathy. We all need more connection, and that’s really the only goal at the end of the day,” she offered. “To write a song that someone else is going to relate to in some way and feel that it’s genuine.” Read More
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·Call For Artists: Ravenswood Mural Project - The GRCC and SSA #31 are seeking proposals from artists for a mural on Damen Avenue. This new mural will be located adjacent to a “People Space” at the northeast corner of Damen and Leland where residents often unwind and enjoy a cup of coffee. The deadline for proposals is Friday, June 6, 2025. Read More
·Hi Ravenswood, I'm Dad: The Ultimate Father's Day 2025 Gift Guide - It’s a little-known fact that Ravenswood is one of Chicago’s most dad-friendly neighborhoods. With Father’s Day right around the corner, we’ve rounded up our top local experiences guaranteed to earn a nod of approval from your old man. More Info
·Share Your Voice on Homelessness in Chicago - The City of Chicago is developing a bold Five-Year Plan to End and Prevent Homelessness and they want to hear from you! Please consider taking their brief Community Feedback Survey. This survey is an opportunity for people across Chicago to share their perspectives and help guide the Five-Year Plan. Take the Survey
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·5/30, Ravenswood Neighbors Spring Social at Gio's Bar & Grill - Join the RNA for a spring social! Come by Gio's to meet neighbors and learn how to get involved in Ravenswood. Gio's is generously donating 20% of net sales to the RNA to support their events in the community! 5-7pm, 4857 N Damen Ave, Free (RSVP Requested) More Info
·5/31, Bon Femmes 6th Anniversary Celebration - Bon Femmes is turning 6! Visit the shop for mystery gifts, spin-the-wheel prizes, complimentary beverages, and a Sweet Syleste pop-up. Drop in to celebrate this exciting milestone and shop in style! 12-6pm, 4917 N Damen Ave, FREE More Info
·5/31, Shiatsu for Two at Pistachio Yoga - You will be led through simple qigong exercises to invigorate the body and get your blood and Qi moving. Plus, learn several easy-to-locate acupoints with different benefits, and various stretches and shiatsu techniques! 6-9pm, 5206 N Damen Ave, $240 per pair More Info
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·6/1, Grand Reopening at Forteza Fitness - Celebrate Forteza’s Grand Reopening with a full day of programming including a performance by The Pippins and exciting historical demos. Enjoy archery, boffer sword fights, and beginner lessons for all ages throughout the afternoon. Come join the fun! 12-3pm, 4437 N Ravenswood Ave More Info
·6/6, Dog Parent Speed Dating at Bosly's Backyard - Get matched with the most compatible dog-lovers in the room! This dog-friendly collaboration with Meet IRL is designed for dog-owners and lovers ages 30-39 that are interested in male/female dating. 6:15-8:15pm, 4011 N Ravenswood Ave, $50 More Info
·6/7, Front Yard Free-Cycle - Ravenswood Free Box and the Ravenswood Neighbors Association invite you to participate in their 5th annual Ravenswood Free-Cycle! Walk the Ravenswood neighborhood and find new treasures – without the exchange of any funds. 9am-3pm, around Ravenswood More Info
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6/7, Ravenswood Sidewalk Sale
Exciting news: the second annual Ravenswood Sidewalk Sale is coming up on Saturday, June 7! For one day only, Enjoy open air shopping, one-of-a-kind merchandise, and all kinds of special Sidewalk Sale deals.
| This event will be held rain or shine. 10am-5pm (business open hours may vary), along the Montrose, Damen, Lawrence, and Ravenswood corridors, FREE More Info | | |
·6/7, EcoFest at Welles Park - EcoFest brings together small businesses, non-profits, and other vendors from across the city for a day of learning, activities, and fun focused on a sustainable future. Get involved with local organizations, advocate for green policies, and shop from sustainable vendors. 10am-2pm, 2333 W Sunnyside Ave, FREE More Info
·6/7, Pride Month Self-Defense Workshop at Titan Gym - This workshop will teach you a variety of practical techniques meant to empower you in protecting yourself from different types of assaults. Class will be challenging and fun! You'll burn off calories while learning a life-saving skill. 1-2pm, 4222 N Ravenswood Ave, FREE More Info
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·6/14, Grand Reopening at Ponnopozz - Ponnopozz is back and brighter than ever at its brand-new location on Montrose Avenue! Come explore a bold new space filled with vibrant art, curated goods, and the same joyful spirit you know and love. 10am-6pm, 1966 W Montrose Ave, FREE More Info
·6/25, Senior Fall Prevention at Swedish Hospital - Join Emma DeVarenne, PT, DPT, Physical Therapist with Endeavor Health, to learn how falls put us at risk for serious injury. Learn simple fall prevention strategies to ensure that you feel better and stay independent. 10:30-11:30am, 5157 N. Francisco Ave, FREE More Info
·View Our Full Community Calendar
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6/25, Malt Row on Damen
Malt Row on Damen is a rare opportunity to sample a variety of our neighborhood’s breweries, distilleries and wineries at one event. It’s also a unique way to explore and support the eclectic mix of entrepreneurs doing business on Damen.
| | Tickets include 12 tasting pours (five ounces for beer, two ounces for wine, one ounce for spirits), a Malt Row tasting glass, coozie/lanyard combo, and a gift bag with goodies from local businesses. This event is 21+ and will be held rain or shine. 5:30-8:30pm, along Damen Ave, $32 More Info | | |
·Midwest Living: Spend a Day Brewery Hopping Along Chicago's Malt Row - "Malt Row is Chicago's craft beer hub, where every taproom offers a new experience and flavor. Here's your guide to all 8 breweries." More Info
·Local Business Spotlight: KOVAL Distillery - Here on the GRCC blog, we love to highlight businesses from the neighborhood. This month, we’re excited to introduce you to Dr. Sonat Birnecker Hart of KOVAL Distillery. Read More
·Gio's Bar & Grill New Friday Hours - Gio's Bar & Grill, your favorite neighborhood watering hole, will be open every Friday at 11am! Come by for some cool vibes and a drink! Built for the community, loved by many. More Info
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What's Up on Malt Row?
·6/6, Buen Vino y Salsa at VIN312 Winery - Join VIN312 for an unforgettable evening of Salsa dancing with a live band and wine tastings. Immerse yourself in the ambiance of full functioning urban winery hosted by the winemaker! 7-11pm, 4710 N. Ravenswood Ave. Rear, $20+ More Info
·6/11, History of Whiskey Cocktail Class at KOVAL - Learn about the history of whiskey in the Prohibition era and KOVAL's place in the lineage of distilling post-Prohibition. Class includes the instruction and enjoyment of 3 cocktails, with the guidance of an instructor and provided recipes. More Info
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·The HIVE Summer Showcase - Starting on June 7th, learn choreography from 8 styles of dance, culminating in a live performance on July 26. It's the perfect opportunity for participants to put your dancing skills onstage in a fun, low-stress environment! More Info
·Spring Classes at Joel Hall Dancers & Center - Spring classes are in full bloom at JHDC's new studio- so why not take the first step and get moving? Whether you're looking to refine your technique, try something new, or simply find joy in movement, they have a class for you! More Info
·LGBTQ+ Support Group at Augustyn Family Services - Explore creativity, build community, and connect with your inner child through summer-camp themed arts and crafts! This weekly art-based support group for adults age 21+ will be facilitated by art therapist Ellen Oanes, LPC and begins in June. More Info
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Creative Calendar
·5/30, Stained Glass Jewelry Workshop at Indigo & Violet Studio - Attendees will first see the process used to create stained glass jewelry; then they will get to pick through colorful stained glass pieces and design their creations. Guests can also draw and try cutting their own glass! 6pm, 1411 W. Irving Park Rd, $70 More Info
·6/4, Free Online Creativity Class at Anne Leuck Studio - Looking for a fun, no-pressure way to stay inspired? This is a casual, one-hour online gathering where you can share, create, and connect! No art experience? No problem! Everyone is welcome. 7-8pm on Zoom, FREE w/ RSVP More Info
·6/8, Cross-Stitching for Beginners at Maydel - Learn the basics of cross-stitch with Stephanie Rohr! This class will teach you everything you need to know to create your first cross-stitch project, from threading a needle to reading a pattern. 2-4pm, 1746 W Wilson Ave, $40 More Info
| | Business Resources & Workshops | | |
6/11, State of the State: Hosted by the GRCC and LSRCC
The Greater Ravenswood and Lincoln Square Ravenswood Chambers of Commerce are thrilled to invite you to Begyle Brewing for a morning conversation and unique opportunity to discuss the issues you care about that impact your business with Members of Congress and Elected Officials.
| | Tickets include admission, coffee, and a light breakfast. 8:30-10:30am, 1800 W Cuyler Ave, $30 for GRCC Members/$45 for General Admission. More Info | | |
6/17, Pride Networking at My Buddy's
Enjoy an evening of community at My Buddy’s on Tuesday, June 17th with the Greater Ravenswood, LGBT, and Uptown Chambers of Commerce. Join us for a vibrant networking event celebrating diversity and inclusion within the LGBTQ+ community and allies!
| | Tickets include admission, your first drink, and an entry into our door prize raffle. 4-6pm, 4416 N Clark St, $15 for GRCC Members/$25 for General Admission. More Info | | |
The Small Business Improvement Fund (SBIF) is one of Chicago’s longest-running and most successful programs, helping to retain and expand small businesses in nearly every neighborhood. SBIF grants use local Tax Increment Financing (TIF) revenue to reimburse businesses for permanent building repairs and upgrades. These grants can cover 30 to 90% percent of the cost of remodeling work, with a maximum of $150,000 for commercial properties and $250,000 for industrial properties. SBIF grants to not need to be repaid.
The GRCC is joining forces with Wintrust Bank Ravenswood (2300 W Lawrence Ave) to hold an in-person information session on June 4th from 12:30pm-2:30pm. Lunch will be provided.
| SBIF Grant applications for businesses in the Clark/Montrose TIF District open on June 1, 2025 and close June 30. Click here for more on the Clark/Montrose SBIF. | | |
The Department of Planning and Development (DPD) recently announced that the Community Development Grant (Small and Medium sized funding) is currently accepting applications through August 15th, 2025. Apply Now!
The City of Chicago helps support business and neighborhood vitality through Small, Medium and Large Community Development Grant (CDG) awards to support a variety of eligible, business-related investments that create and maintain jobs and quality-of-life improvements for local residents. Applications are open to business owners, property owners, non-profit organizations, community developers and entrepreneurs.
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Each month, Chicago's Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection hosts a variety of free business resource webinars.
·6/4, City Inspections: Ask Questions, Get Answers - The Chicago BACP, Department of Public Health, and the Department of Buildings will provide insight on how operate a compliant business in Chicago. Topics will include preparing for inspections, building permits and sign display requirements, food inspections and necessary certificates, and zoning review procedures. Learn how to operate safely and avoid common setbacks. 3pm on Zoom, FREE w/ RSVP Register Now!
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·6/10, Updates to Chicago's Labor Protections - Updates to existing Chicago Labor Laws will go into effect on July 1, 2025; the minimum wage in Chicago will increase for most workers; the compensation metrics of the Fair Workweek Ordinance will increase, and access to private cause of action for Paid Leave will commence. Employers and workers are encouraged to join this webinar for an overview of the updates. In addition, there will be a Q&A session at the end. 10am on Zoom, FREE w/ RSVP Register Now!
·View Upcoming Free City Workshops
| | Updates from Special Service Area #31 | | |
·NEW: Lillstreet Art Center Seeks Metalsmithing and Jewelry Teaching Artist - Lillstreet Art Center is looking for teaching artists to lead beginner to intermediate workshops in the Metalsmithing & Jewelry Department. More Info
·NEW: Lillstreet Art Center Seeks Soda Technician - The Soda Technician position contributes to maintaining soda kiln operations, ensuring safety, cleanliness, and efficiency in the kiln area, and supporting the broader ceramics team. More Info
·NEW: Lillstreet Art Center Seeks Director of Children's Programming - The Director of Children’s Programming is a full-time position working closely with Ceramics, Printmaking, Textiles, Drawing & Painting, and Metalsmithing. The Director is responsible for planning programming for Kidstreet and Summer camp for Lillstreet. More Info
·NEW: Flavin Electric Seeks Electrical Estimator - The Electrical Estimator will be responsible for preparing accurate cost estimates for electrical construction projects. More Info
·NEW: German International School Chicago Seeks Advancement Manager - The Advancement Manager leads marketing, communications, fundraising, and donor engagement efforts to drive growth and visibility. Ideal candidates will have experience in marketing strategy, nonprofit fundraising, and communications. More Info
·NEW: German International School Chicago Seeks Finance and HR Coordinator - The Finance & HR Coordinator will be responsible for managing GISC's financial records and supporting key HR functions. This position requires commitment to confidentiality and the ability to balance tasks effectively. More Info
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·Platform 47 Seeks Full-Time Server - Platform 47 is looking to hire a full-time server with a passion for hospitality and strong restaurant experience. This is a great opportunity for someone seeking long-term employment in a vibrant, close-knit environment. More Info
·Mindful Baking Seeks Market Manager (Farmers Markets & Pop-Up Events) - The Market Manager will be responsible for managing Mindful Baking's roster of farmers markets and pop-up events year-long, particularly from May-November. This involves representing Mindful Baking at multiple weekly off-site events. More Info
·Common Pantry Seeks Bilingual Social Services Coordinator - The Coordinator will work with the Social Services Program Manager to provide direct supportive services and targeted referrals to clients of Common Pantry. More Info
·Rooted Connections Counseling Seeks Intake Coordinator - Rooted Connections Counseling is seeking an intake coordinator to manage their large referral base, request for services, and connections to their clinical team. More Info
·Sunny Kids Land LLC Seeks Infant/Toddler Lead Teacher - The Lead Teacher will plan and implement a daily curriculum, provide responsive care, and lead classroom staff to ensure a high-quality learning experience for every child. More Info
·Sunny Kids Land LLC Seeks Assistant Teacher - The Assistant Teacher will support the Lead Teacher in providing a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment for children. More Info
·View Our Job Board
| | ·Careers in Manufacturing at JARC - Jane Addams Resource Corporation's free job training courses can help you gain employment in the manufacturing sector. You'll learn valuable skills, including CNC, welding, and mechanical assembly. More Info | | |
·Ending Soon: Mother's Day Special at BRB Aesthetics Central - Celebrate Mother's Day all May long! Get a FREE ZO® Getting Skin Ready Kit (worth $78) when you buy a $300 BRB Gift Card. Offer valid 5/1/25-5/31/25. More Info
·Ending Soon: Spring Promotion at Salon Elan Vital - Buy 4 get 1 free single laser hair removal sessions. Plus, new massage clients will receive $10 off and can pre-book at end of the session to get $5 off your next appointment! Offer valid through 5/31/25. More Info
·Blue Room Training New Client Special - Blue Room Training is offering their new client special (3 personal training sessions for $150) plus an additional 15% off any other package of sessions! Use code GRCC. Offer valid through 6/30/25. More Info
·Win an In-House Tooth Whitening at Juniper Dentistry - As a thank you for being part of the community, Juniper Dentistry is excited to offer a chance to win a professional in-house tooth whitening treatment! Enter by either becoming a new patient or referring a new patient. Offer valid through 6/15/25. More Info
| | Volunteer & Donation Opportunities | | |
·Call for Donations at the Levy Senior Center Gift Shop – The auxiliary board is getting busy bringing back everyone’s favorite way to support the Levy Senior Center by reopening their gift stop, which has been closed since the pandemic. All proceeds from the shop directly support the many events and activities provided by the Center. Along with traditional gift store merchandise they are looking to have the new shop feature a selection of handcrafted items and artwork created by local artists and artisans - donations of either type would be greatly appreciated. More Info
·Support the Ravenswood Community Services Food Pantry & Community Kitchen - Every Tuesday, RCS distributes groceries and hot meals to neighbors. Volunteers are welcome and asked to sign up in advance (info can be found on the RCS website under the Volunteer tab). Other ways to help include donations of pasta and rice within their expiration dates, financial support for the food pantry and community kitchen, and words of encouragement posted to RCS's Facebook page. Pasta and rice donations can be dropped off Tuesdays between 1-7:30pm at 1757 W Wilson Ave. More Info
·Volunteer at The Friendship Center - The Friendship Center operates a food pantry, serves weekly hot meals, delivers groceries to seniors and other individuals who are homebound and cannot visit the pantry, and provides pet food for those in need. Volunteers are needed in a variety of roles, including in the pantry, in the kitchen, and helping with weekend deliveries. While most opportunities are for adults, the Friendship Center has two after-school programs for younger volunteers. More Info
·Call for Volunteers and Donations to Common Pantry - Chicago's longest operating food pantry is looking for new volunteers! If you can't volunteer, consider making a monetary donation. Direct monetary donations are the best way to support the pantry, as it allows them to purchase high priority supplies for their clients. More Info
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