Chicago South Suburbs Habitat for Humanity released a statement on Wednesday announcing its partnership with the Village of Park Forest.
Habitat said its framework of bringing affordable homeownership, neighborhood revitalization, and affordable home repair to communities worldwide is only as successful as its local community partnerships.
The nonprofit held discussions with many municipalities in the southland and praised Park Forest for its commitment to its residents and Habitat's mission - which made the Village a "perfect" homebase for Chicago South Suburbs Habitat for Humanity's next focus area.
"We are deeply grateful for Park Forest's partnership and their ability to see the vision," said Executive Director Jennifer Taff. "There have been many displays of support and teamwork already. From the constituents coming to our community conversations to faith groups and the village staff – I believe wonderful and life-altering things are happening in Park Forest."
Taff continued, "We have accomplished so much already. This is a perfect example of what can happen when the government, nonprofit, and private sectors work together for the betterment of the people."
Habitat for Humanity Chicago South Suburbs currently has six homes in Park Forest, three of which were newly acquired via the Village partnership that began in 2022.
This past week, one of the original three homes in Park Forest was dedicated to a woman named Flora. Flora has been in the Habitat program for three years and has completed over 275 sweat equity hours. Habitat said that because of Park Forest and its work in tandem, Flora and her four children will now have a decent, safe, affordable place to call home.
Habitat is gearing up to continue its work in Park Forest by hosting its inaugural "Rock the Block" event. This event will bring community members, volunteers, and sponsors together to revitalize and reinvigorate the Eastgate neighborhood in Park Forest while rehabbing three Habitat homes.
Rock the Block will spotlight community resources and empower residents to build up their block together. If you are interested in Rock the Block, volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, or utilizing the affordable homeownership or home repair programs, please click here.