Community leaders celebrate the launch of the 2024 Little Village-South Lawndale Quality of Life Plan. Pictured (left to right): Sean Garrett of United Way of Metro Chicago; Katya Nuques of Robert R. McCormick Foundation; Ariadna DeGrange of United Way of Metro Chicago; Maricela Rodriguez of Enlace Chicago; Cesar Nuñez of Enlace Chicago; and Mariela Estrada of United Way of Metro Chicago
“Si, se puede!” Yes, it’s possible. It can be done. Years in the making, the 2024 Little Village-South Lawndale Quality of Life Plan is a reality.
Community leaders and partners joyfully chanted “si, se puede” at the celebration on April 25, 2024, at a packed Mi Tierra, the popular Mexican restaurant in Little Village.
“The 2024 Quality of Life Plan is not just a document. It’s a living, breathing framework that reflects the evolving needs and aspirations of the Little Village community,” said Cesar Nunez, co-executive director of Enlace Chicago.
Led by Enlace Chicago, the Little Village-South Lawndale Quality of Life Plan expands the work of United Way’s Little Village Neighborhood Network, complementing Latinos Progresando’s efforts in the community. Together, the coalitions led by Enlace and Latinos Progresando will guide transformative work across the entire neighborhood.
The Little Village-South Lawndale Quality of Life Plan “outlines a comprehensive strategy to address critical areas such as health, education, community safety, and economic development,” Cesar said. “It serves as a blueprint for collective action, guiding us as we work toward a stronger, more resilient neighborhood.”
This blueprint of transformation is an example of what’s possible when community leaders and partners across the public, private, and philanthropic sectors come together to invest in the future of a community.
“Enlace Chicago, alongside our dedicated partners and with the support of United Way, is working to support the implementation of the Quality of Life Plan,” Cesar said.
“This plan will shape and drive our work ahead, ensuring that every effort is focused on creating lasting, positive change. Together, we aim to ensure that Little Village remains a vibrant and thriving community where every resident has the opportunity to succeed.”
June 2024 Update: “A few of our community’s Pipeline Projects from the 2024 Little Village-South Lawndale Quality of Life Plan are moving forward. The Yollocalli Arts Reach Fire Station just celebrated its official groundbreaking on June 21, 2024. Yollocalli takes one additional step forward in their goal to increase programming for youth in Little Village.”
View the full 2024 Little Village-South Lawndale Quality of Life Plan