New outreach program to connect young Latino residents to city government and inspire civic engagement

The City of West Chicago is introducing a new program to build civic engagement with West Chicago's young Latino residents.

Called the Local Government Academy, the program will offer an in-depth look at the services and operations provided by city government, including a session on public service and volunteerism.

The eight-week after school program will be held in City Hall, 475 Main St. It is for students, age 12 to 18, interested in making a difference in their community through civic leadership and participation.

"The academy is the perfect way to highlight the role of local government and instill civic pride in the community," stated Adrian Marquez, the city's Community Outreach Specialist and Latino Ombudsman.

Registration for the academy's winter session is now open, and applications are available on the city's website.

Classes are scheduled for 3:30 to 5 p.m. Thursdays, Jan. 31 to March 21.

The deadline for registration is Monday, Jan. 21.

The Local Government Academy is one more way the city is implementing the objectives outlined in the 2016 West Chicago Strategic Plan, to connect all members of the community and to provide civic engagement opportunities.

The launch of "Tu Ciudad" (a new page on the city's website which contains news about city services, special events, and more in Spanish) as well as a city Facebook page for Spanish speakers, are additional efforts that have been initiated to involve the Latino population in city government.

For more information on this program, please contact Adrian Marquez at amarquez@westchicago.org or (630) 293-2200, ext. 123.