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  • Location
  • The village of Park Forest is located about 30 miles south of Chicago in both Cook and Will Counties. Richton Park borders Park Forest to the west and is located in Cook County. Both communities are south suburbs of Chicago.
  • Demographics
  • As of the 2020 census, Park Forest had a population of 21,687, and Richton Park had a population of 12,775. The majority of residents living in Park Forest and Richton Park are Black (70% and 86% respectively). More than 10% of residents in both communities live below the poverty line (12.6% in Park Forest and 11.4% in Richton Park).
  • Looking Back
  • Park Forest was founded in 1948 as a planned community for veterans returning from World War II. It was the first post-war planned community, and its innovative design has been recognized and used as a model for towns throughout the world. Richton Park is located along the Sauk Trail, used by the Sauk and Pottawatomie tribes. The Illinois Central Railroad was developed in the area in 1852. Later, Richton Park was the last stop on the electrified line, which was established in 1926. Today, both communities support affordable housing developments, sustainable practices, and plentiful parks and recreation facilities to encourage growth.
  • History of the Neighborhood Network
  • The Park Forest / Richton Park Neighborhood Network was launched in June 2023 in partnership with Cook County through the Transforming Places Program, with support from Nicor Gas Foundation. OAI serves as the “community quarterback” for the Network.

Park Forest / Richton Park Community Vision

As a new Neighborhood Network launched in 2023, Park Forest / Richton Park will build its coalition and refine its community vision over the next three years

Neighborhood Network in Action

The Park Forest / Richton Park Neighborhood Network has promising plans and vision for strengthening their local community. Plus, they have a high degree of readiness to succeed in implementing the Neighborhood Network model. 

Coalition Highlights

OAI is leading the vision and work of the Park Forest / Richton Park Neighborhood Network. OAI’s mission is to provide skills training that leads to safe, meaningful employment while helping companies and communities to thrive. Their vision is for everyone to reach their career potential, work safely, and build a good life.  

Hear From Your Neighbors and Supporters

Cherise Williams

Park Forest/Richton Park Neighborhood Network Organizer, OAI

“This investment in Park Forest/Richton Park is an investment in our residents and in their future. The Neighborhood Network will help us to restore the residents of Park Forest and Richton Park with decision-making power and a voice to advocate for their specific needs and improve their neighborhoods and their livelihood.”
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