Program areas at Greater Auburn-Gresham Development Corporation
Economic Development - gagdc's economic team has accomplished many endeavors including the $250k neighborhood opportunity fund, providing technical assistance to potential businesses looking for seed-money funding. Gagdc assisted in exceptional grand openings in Auburn Gresham, jerk villa and mikkey's retro grill. Other accomplishments are the Development of a mixed use building on our business corridor, the renovation of a save a lot, including a gagdc-hosted vendor fair helping local business have their products in save-a-lot; rebranding of save a lot, and positive loitering, which created opportunities and brought resources to residents; vendor fair black history month.
Education and youth Development- gagdc's after school programming offered both academic and enrichment to all grades, at 4 local schools; offering boy's mentoring, stem, diverse learning, cooking, gaming, majorettes, gardening, art, tutoring, and sports. Gagdc executed another successful ag gold summer camp with over 100 youth from local schools and surrounding communities. Gagdc was awarded a city grant that offers outreach, resources, and services to youth and young adults, 14 - 24. This youth and young adult council (yayac) engages youth with community stakeholders and organizations, incorporating the suggestions and ideas of the youth.
Health and wellness - gagdc prioritizes providing solutions to improve community health and wellness and address health equity in historically underserved communities on chicago's south side. Through gagdc initiatives and partnerships, families benefit from high-quality, accessible, patient-centered health services. Gagdc secured a partnership with american cancer society as health equity ambassadors. Another successful partnership is with uic health securing a diabetes prevention program.
Housing and senior services - gagdc provided free workshops that are both informational and resourceful for seniors, from free legal services to reducing the cost of residency, property tax exemption, etc. Gagdc established partnerships to enhance senior wellness and increase socialization. Chair yoga, line dancing, strength training, and belly dancing classes have enhanced the quality of life of our seniors. Gagdc promotes homeownership and acquired and began rehabbing a bungalow. This property was one of eight Auburn Gresham properties included in the very successful trolley tour. Our housing workshops, housing pavilion, and other housing-related workshop have proven to be informative. Gagdc hosted a senior breakfast, senior health fair, and prevention convention.
Community engagement- gagdc accomplished the 19th annual 79th street ren fest hosting over 15,000 attendees, highlighting local business. The breakfast and blues for seniors event fed over 500 seniors, enjoying breakfast, live music, and resources. Gagdc had a well attended winter wonderland/lighting of the christmas tree event passing out free toys, winter coats, candy, hot chocolate and pictures with santa. The city key events provided new arrivals and seniors with approximately 347 id cards.