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Welcome to our new members: 4Legs Pet Products, Alchemy Performance Consulting, Blue Room Training, Cityside Center for Spiritual Living, Nathaniel J. Baskin: Certified Personal Trainer, Neighbors for Andre, Peak Wealth Planning, Pick Me Up Cafe, SIDS of Illinois, The Space Community Studio, and Yoga Horizons of Chicago.
And a thanks to our returning members for their continued support: Access Contemporary Music, Amy's Candy Bar, Bad Johnny's, Ballroom Dance Chicago, Celtica Gifts, Concordia Place, Erwin Law LLC, Forteza Fitness and Ravensrook Archery, Gio's Bar & Grill, 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. | | |
·UPDATE: Post-Fire Fundraiser for Crystal Cleaners and Mint Home - Through a massive showing of community support, we were able to raise $2,657.40 during the event on May 15th for Crystal Cleaners and Mint Home.
A very special thank you to the following local businesses and organizations who donated raffle items and bingo prizes:
Chicago Hot Yoga, Bon Femmes, Gio’s Bar & Grill, MOLASSES, Restore Pilates, Ponnopozz, Commissioner Degnen, Q Sushi Bar, Carol’s Pub, 4Legs Pet, Chilee Oil, Ballroom Dance Chicago, studio b, Jenny G’s Art Supply, Xochimilco, Eileen Lysaught of Laner Muchin, Blackbird Framing, Traffic Jam Swing, Anne Leuck Studio, Indigo & Violet, Saint Errant Brewing, Del Sur Bakery, and Revolution Brewery. Read More
·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. Read More
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·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
·Notice of Water Main Replacement Construction - Construction will begin on Monday, May 26 to replace water mains running below: (1) Ravenswood from Wilson to Lawrence; (2) Hermitage from Sunnyside to Montrose; (3) Sunnyside from Paulina to Ravenswood. Learn More
·Creative Summer Camps for Kids in Ravenswood - Step into a world of imagination and exploration with camps that are designed to inspire young minds and foster their passion for creativity. The GRCC has collected exciting places in our community where fun-filled experiences and lasting summer memories await. Read More
·BrightBot: A Ravenswood-Made Solution for Public Health & Safety - Local manufacturer Bob Thomann, president of BrightBot, recently shared a guest post to our blog about how his machines can have a positive impact on public health in Illinois and beyond. Read More
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·5/26, Memorial Day EmpowerStrength & Conditioning at EmpowerFit - Sweat and celebrate the start of summer! This invigorating workout is designed for all skill levels and features a dynamic warm-up, strength exercises with weights, and short conditioning drills sprinkled in to turn up the heat. 9-10am, 1824 W Wilson Ave, $20 More Info
·5/27, Open House at Platform Coworking - Discover your new workplace! Platform Coworking recently expanded and you're invited to tour the space and work the day for free! Snacks and drinks will be provided. 10am-3pm, 4422 N Ravenswood Ave, FREE More Info
·5/28, 19th District Council Monthly Meeting - Learn about the District Strategic Plan (DSP), an annual report created with community input that establishes local crime reduction and community engagement priorities that guide neighborhood public safety efforts. 6:30pm, 1134 W Wilson Ave, Free (RSVP Requested) More Info
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·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
·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. It’s about reduce, reuse, and recycle! 9am-3pm, around Ravenswood More Info
·View Our Full Community Calendar
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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 hours dependent), 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 | | |
·DJ Bloodshot Scott at Ravenswood Tavern - Have you heard about Third Wednesdays at the Ravenswood Tavern? Stop on in at 8pm this week and check out special guest DJ, Phil Angotti. No cover! Don't forget to check out their secret wine menu along with daily specials and an impressive brown liquor selection! More Info
·Mayfestiversary Returns This Weekend - Join your favorite neighborhood breweries this Memorial Day Weekend! Begyle Brewing and Dovetail Brewery host their annual spring party on May 24th and 25th! Celebrate Dovetail's 9th anniversary, and help raise funds for The Friendship Center food pantry. More Info
·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?
·5/21, One Tail at a Time Fundraiser Trivia at Spiteful Brewing - Spiteful is hosting a special fundraiser for One Tail at a Time! don’t miss your chance to show off your animal facts and hang with a bunch of good dogs. 7-9pm, 2024 W Balmoral Ave More Info
·5/28, Summer of Sours Cocktail Class at KOVAL Distillery - Join KOVAL to learn how to make perfect "summer sour" cocktails. Class includes the instruction and enjoyment of 3 cocktails, with the guidance of an instructor and provided recipes. 7pm, 4241 N Ravenswood Ave, $75 More Info
·5/28, Bonsai & Brew at Half Acre Beer Co. - Bonsai and Brew Studio is returning to Half Acre for another Bonsai tree care introductory class. Guests receive their own bonsai tree, custom pot, and learn the history of Bonsai and the basics of taking care of their tree through a guided class. 6:30-8pm, 2050 W Balmoral Ave, $75 More Info
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·The HIVE Summer Showcase -
It's the perfect opportunity for participants to put your dancing skills onstage in a fun, low-stress environment! Starting on June 7th, learn choreography from 8 styles of dance, culminating in a live performance on July 26. 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
·5/24, Meet, Pet & Paint with LIVE Fennec Foxes at Color Me Mine - Meet, pet, and snap adorable pics with Fennec Foxes! Pick out a foxy ceramic piece and let your creativity run wild—just like these little foxes! 9-11am, 3849 N Lincoln Ave, $59 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 | | Tickets include admission, your first drink, savory and sweet bites, and plenty of opportunities to get creative. 4-6pm, 4241 N Ravenswood Ave, $25 for GRCC Members/$32 for General Admission. More Info | | |
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 | | |
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.
·5/23 - Crafting a Winning Value Proposition - A strong Value Proposition is the backbone of any successful business—but most entrepreneurs overlook it. You’ll get a guided walkthrough of the Business Model Canvas and dive deep into the Value Proposition module to discover how to connect your offerings with what your customers need. 9:30am on Zoom, FREE w/ RSVP Register Now!
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·5/30, Protecting the Future of Your Business - As an entrepreneur in the start-up and growth phase of your business, you have a lot to consider. Decisions made now will have a significant impact on future outcomes and long-term success. Join this webinar to learn how to navigate these critical decisions and important considerations that impact your ability to protect, grow, thrive, and ultimately reach the long-term objectives of your venture. 9:30am on Zoom, FREE w/ RSVP Register Now!
·View Upcoming Free City Workshops
| | Updates from Special Service Area #31 | | ·Landscaping Update - Each year, the Special Service Area #31 Commission contracts a landscaping service to beautify approximately 90,000 square feet of corridors throughout Ravenswood. We are happy to report that the spring flowers have been planted! | | ·Power Washing Update - In a continued effort to beautify our neighborhood’s commercial corridors, enhancing the overall appeal and attracting more customers to the area, Special Service Area #31 will begin offering power washing services. This year, our crews are prioritizing Clark Street and Lawrence Avenue. | | |
·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 multitasking skills, a strong commitment to confidentiality, and the ability to balance admin and financial tasks effectively. More Info
·NEW: 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
·NEW: 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
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·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
·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
·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 | | |
·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
·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
·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
| | 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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