During the manufacturing decline of the 1980s, a group of community activists in the Ravenswood area realized that something needed to be done to combat the loss of Chicago's industrial jobs base. They formed a small community development organization in 1985 and Jane Addams Resource Corporation (JARC), located at 4432 N. Ravenswood Ave., was born. After 20 years of service to the community, JARC and the Ravenswood Corridor are still going strong.
From 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 10, JARC will host "Catch The Spark!," a 20th anniversary benefit celebrating the ongoing efforts to change lives and build success that lasts. This dinner party at the Palmer House Hilton, 17 E. Monroe St., will be an opportunity to thank all those who have helped make JARC what it is today.
The evening's highlight will be special guest speaker Alex Kotlowitz, award-winning author of "There are No Children Here." Mary LaPorte, JARC's founding executive director, will speak, followed by a presentation of JARC Business Partner and Lifetime Achievement Awards; the debut of an all-new JARC video, Web site and corporate logo; and the introduction of JARC's new executive director.
For tickets ($125 in advance or $150 at the event) or more information, contact Jeff Caveney at (773) 728-9769, ext. 12, or visit jane-addams.org.
JARC works to bridge community and market needs through adult education classes, job training programs, economic development services, and real estate initiatives. The goal is to ensure that lower-income working adults achieve self-sufficiency and do not live in poverty, and that the local economy is strengthened through the growth of neighborhood businesses. |
