1. Host a Party at the Forest Preserves
The Forest Preserves have approximately 297 picnic groves (191 with shelters) available for public use. Click here to learn more http://fpdcc.com/permits-rentals/picnic-special-event-permits/
2. Learn More About Community Development
The Industrial Growth Zones program will accelerate neighborhood development in seven designated areas over the next three years. The program removes longstanding hurdles to development and providing a broad set of services to support property owners and industrial businesses. For more information about Industrial Growth Zones, visit http://www.growthzones.com/
3. Do Some Research in the Law Library (and enjoy the view)
The Main Law Library, located on the top floor of the Daley Center in downtown Chicago (with stunning views), is open to the public and has free Wi-Fi. In addition, there are five branch locations at outlying courthouses: Criminal Courts, Bridgeview, Maywood, Markham, and Skokie. https://www.cookcountyil.gov/agency/law-library
4. Learn More About the Cook County Commission on Women’s Issues
The Commission advises Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle and the Cook County Board of Commissioners on issues that concern women and girls. It also develops policy and program recommendations and collaborates with a wide range of governmental and private sector organizations on projects including domestic violence, child care, economic equity and health. Click here to learn more https://www.cookcountyil.gov/cccwi
5. Get Quality Affordable Health Insurance with CountyCare
CountyCare is a no-cost Medicaid expansion managed care health plan. When you choose CountyCare as your health plan, you can access many types of care, from preventative to specialty. CountyCare also covers services like prescriptions and transportation. Click here to learn more http://www.countycare.com
6. No AC? Visit a Cooling Center
The County’s Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM) maintains a list of Cooling Centers that residents without air conditioning can visit to cool off during hot summer days. Find a spot near you. https://datacatalog.cookcountyil.gov/GIS-Maps/ccgisdata-Cook-County-Cooling-Centers-2018/2jzk-ykwe
7. Sleep Under the Stars Closer to Home in the Forest Preserves
Whether you’re staying in a tent, a cabin, a bunkhouse or an RV, you’ll get an immersive, round-the-clock nature experience — a chance to hear owls, paddle a canoe, stargaze and watch the sun rise over the trees. Or you can try one of the Forest Preserves’ many free programs to learn about local nature or hone your outdoor skills. There are locations all across the County. Click here to learn more http://fpdcc.com/camping/
8. Become a Homeowner and Revitalize Neighborhoods with the County Land Bank
The Cook County Land Bank was formed to address the large inventory of vacant residential, industrial and commercial property in Cook County. Explore the lots available at below-market rates for community-based partners looking to help transform neighborhoods throughout Chicago and suburban Cook County. http://www.cookcountylandbank.org/
9. Find Jobs and Career Resources with the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership
Looking for work? Own a business and want help finding talent? Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership services are available to all residents and businesses within Cook County, including the City of Chicago. Click here to learn more http://www.workforceboard.org
10. Go Fishing in the Forest Preserves
The Forest Preserves manages more than 40 bodies of water for recreational sport fishing. The Forest Preserves Fisheries Section annually stocks several lakes with sport fish, including twice a year with rainbow trout! Click here to learn more http://fpdcc.com/recreation/fishing/
Original posting can be found HERE.
For more county services check out the Constituent Services page of my website.