12/06/2025
We did it! We had wonderful conversations with community members and stakeholders. Families and kids enjoyed apple cider, cupcakes and Christmas cookies. And we shared these words of dedication...
Thanks Everyone for joining us on this momentous occasion, the unveiling and dedocation of our Victory Tree Garden sign on this beautiful kiosk, from Neighbor-Space.
Natalie, thank you so much for working with us to restore this public space for community use. Neighborspace has been an incredible partner to us and to communities across Chicagoland. From marketing to fundraising, Natalie has been a tireless advocate for green, community led spaces. It was Neighborspace who stepped up 34 years ago to protect this garden and Community Exchange Garden, up the block.
For 34 years, these gardens have long been a symbol of community led hope, perseverance and resilience. It was neighbors here on Exchange Avenue who fought back against slumlords, drugs houses, violence and disinvestment.They fought to have drug houses closed, torn down and lots cleaned up and protected for community use evermore. Many of these community advocates worked with Centro Comunitario Juan Diego, including our beloved late neighbor Arnold Mireles.
As we continue to honor the memory and spirit of those who came before us in a quest for peace and community, it's crucial that we maintain these Gardens for generations to come. That we look to nature for solutions to ongoing problems of violence, poverty and industrial fallout. Our hope, and mission now is to provide an urban oasis where community members can join in building skills and connections that inspire new generations.
And, we've already started. Last year, Greencorp students from Bowen High School and CVS helped clean up and revitalize the grounds and mulch the trees, paving the way for new growth opportunities. This year, we partnered with Lincoln Park's Wildlife Institute and the Field Museum to install new perennial plants while also monitoring heat, wildlife and pollinators. We're also working with other garden leaders to raise trees that we can offer to the community for free. Trees that can offer shade, beauty and habitat for our furry, feathered and winged friends. Next, year we look forward to providing activities and events that educate and inspire people mentally and spiritually.
As we stand here today, to install our new sign, we thank Miracle for her beautiful vision and carpentry in creating this accessible kiosk to help keep community stay informed. Lastly, I'd like to thank environmental advocate and prominent local artist Mark Banks for designing and painting our beautiful sign that will welcome all to this space.
Thank you all for being here on this cold December day for the unveiling of our new sign.
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