Joliet Township’s Community Violence Intervention (CVI) team completes Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training

Congratulations to Joliet Township’s Community Violence Intervention (CVI) team: LeShae Hudson, Community Convener, and Magdalena Campos, Community Liaison/Organizer, on completing the inaugural Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training.
This valuable training is led by retired Joliet Fire Department Captain John Lukancic, now serving as Director of the City of Joliet’s Emergency and Disaster Management Office. Classes are held at the Ozzie and Peggy Mitchell Center, located at 172 S. Chicago Street in Joliet.
This marks the first of many free 9-week CERT courses offered to residents of Joliet and Will County. Participants receive FEMA and Weather Spotting certification and hands-on training in medical operations, search and rescue, and triage.
Registration is ongoing: https://www.joliet.gov/
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Felicitaciones al equipo de Intervención Contra la Violencia Comunitaria (CVI) del Municipio de Joliet: LeShae Hudson, Coordinadora Comunitaria, y Magdalena Campos, Enlace y Organizadora Comunitaria, por completar el primer curso del Equipo Comunitario de Respuesta a Emergencias (CERT).
Este curso fue enseñado por John Lukancic, capitán retirado del Departamento de Bomberos de Joliet. Ahora él es el Director de la Oficina de Manejo de Emergencias y Desastres de la Ciudad de Joliet. Las clases se dan en el Centro Ozzie y Peggy Mitchell, en el 172 S. Chicago Street en Joliet.
Este es el primero de muchos cursos GRATUITOS de 9 semanas para los residentes de Joliet y el Condado de Will. Las personas que asisten al curso reciben certificaciones de FEMA y de observación del clima. También aprenden sobre primeros auxilios, búsqueda y rescate, y cómo ayudar en una emergencia.
La inscripción sigue abierta: https://www.joliet.gov/

Joliet Township to host May 2025 CREW Meeting

Joliet Township Government is hosting the next Community Response Engagement Workgroup (CREW) meeting on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at 1:00 PM. The meeting will take place in person at Illinois Youth and Family Services, located at 200 S. Larkin Avenue, Joliet, IL 60436. Lunch will be provided.
This monthly gathering includes a Comprehensive Training Module designed to strengthen community response and support systems. This month’s training, “Victim & Family Assistance in Crisis Situations,” will be led by Illinois Youth and Family Services.
If you have any questions, please contact Joliet Township Government’s Community Convener, LeShae Hudson, at LHudson@joliettownship.net.

For more information, visit www.joliettownship.net/services/community-violence-intervention-cvi/cvi-council/.
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El Municipio de Joliet organizará la próxima reunión del Grupo de Trabajo CREW el miércoles 21 de mayo de 2025 a la 1:00 PM. La reunión será en persona en Illinois Youth and Family Services, en 200 S. Larkin Avenue, Joliet, IL 60436. Se proporcionará almuerzo.
Esta reunión mensual tendrá un entrenamiento para fortalecer la respuesta comunitaria y los sistemas de apoyo. El entrenamiento de este mes será sobre “Asistencia a Víctimas y Familias en Situaciones de Crisis,” y será presentado por Illinois Youth and Family Services.
Si tiene preguntas, por favor contacte a LeShae Hudson, Coordinadora Comunitaria del Municipio de Joliet, al correo LHudson@joliettownship.net.

Para más información, visite www.joliettownship.net/services/community-violence-intervention-cvi/cvi-council/.

Joliet Township Hosts Ribbon-Cutting at Renovated Forest Park Community Center Food Pantry

Ceremony Celebrates Investment in Community Services and Food Access 

JOLIET, IL – April 21, 2025 – Joliet Township hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly renovated Forest Park Community Center Food Pantry, located at 1017 Woodruff Road, on Monday, April 21, 2025.  

Plans are underway to open the food pantry in May to address food insecurity in the area. The new food pantry will be accessible to all residents by filling out an application. Micro pantries are already available at the Township’s administrative office and the Ozzie & Peggy Mitchell Center.  

The Forest Park neighborhood is home to nearly 3,000 residents, over a quarter of whom are children. With a poverty rate 1.5 times higher than Joliet’s, it is estimated that 1,758 individuals will benefit from the pantry’s services. A majority of local residents are expected to qualify for the Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), which provides emergency food to those with low incomes 

According to United Way’s ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) data, 37% of households in Illinois are below the ALICE threshold, further highlighting the need for food security services in the community. 

“Our community has a real and growing need for food access. Too many of our neighbors are facing food insecurity, and opening this food pantry became not just a goal but a responsibility,” said Supervisor Alicia Morales. “Today we cut a ribbon not just on a building, but on hope, on dignity, and on the belief that when we invest in our community, we all rise. This space represents so much more than food on shelves. It represents care and neighbors refusing to let one another go hungry in silence.”

 In addition to Joliet Township Government Supervisor Alicia Morales, elected officials in attendance at the ribbon cutting included City of Joliet Mayor Terry D’Arcy, City Councilwoman Suzanna Ibarra, Senator Rachel Ventura, Plainfield Township Clerk-Elect David Lozano, District 86 At-Large Board Member Sandra Aguirre, Joliet Township Clerk Estefany Bonilla, and Joliet Township Trustees Tanya Arias and Antione J. Edwards. Local residents also attended to celebrate the reopening and learn more about the upcoming food pantry. 

For questions, please email contact@joliettownship.net. 

CREW April 2025 Monthly Meeting

Joliet Township Government is hosting the next Community Response Engagement Workgroup (CREW) meeting on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at 1:00 PM. The meeting will take place in person at the Ozzie & Peggy Mitchell Center, located at 172 S Chicago St, Joliet, IL 60436.
This monthly gathering includes a Comprehensive Training Module designed to strengthen community response and support systems. This meeting will be focusing on Emergency Response & Incident Command System (ICS), led by John Lukancic.
If you have any questions, please contact Joliet Township Government’s Community Convener, LeShae Hudson, at LHudson@joliettownship.net.

For more information, visit www.joliettownship.net/services/community-violence-intervention-cvi/cvi-council/.
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El Municipio de Joliet organizará la próxima reunión del Grupo de Trabajo CREW (Community Response Engagement Workgroup) el miércoles 30 de abril de 2025 a la 1:00 PM. La reunión será en persona en el Centro Ozzie & Peggy Mitchell, ubicado en 172 S Chicago St, Joliet, IL 60436.

Esta reunión mensual incluye un entrenamiento para fortalecer la respuesta comunitaria y los sistemas de apoyo. En esta ocasión, el enfoque será en Respuesta de Emergencia y el Sistema de Comando de Incidentes (ICS), dirigido por John Lukancic.

Si tiene preguntas, por favor contacte a LeShae Hudson, Coordinadora Comunitaria del Gobierno del Municipio de Joliet, al correo LHudson@joliettownship.net.

Para más información, visite www.joliettownship.net/services/community-violence-intervention-cvi/cvi-council/.

Office Closure: Friday April 18 for Good Friday

Our offices will be closed this Friday, April 18, for Good Friday. We will return to the office on Monday, April 21, at 8:30 am. The full 2025 Township Holiday Calendar can be found at https://www.joliettownship.net/public-info/agenda-and-minutes/
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(ESP) Nuestras oficinas estarán cerradas el viernes, 18 de abril, por el Viernes Santo. Volveremos el lunes, 21 de abril, a las 8:30 am. El calendario completo de los días feriados del municipio en 2025 está disponible en https://www.joliettownship.net/public-info/agenda-and-minutes/

Condolences to loved ones of U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Jose Dueñez Jr.

Joliet Township Government extends our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Jose Dueñez Jr., a 2017 graduate of Joliet Central High School and a proud member of our community. SSG Dueñez tragically lost his life on March 25, 2025, during a training accident while deployed in Lithuania. He is remembered not only for his service, but also as a devoted husband, loving father, and cherished son. He is survived by his wife, Kai, and their one-year-old son. As he is laid to rest today, we honor his life, reflect on his dedication, and offer our deepest gratitude for the impact he made on those around him. For memorial details, please visit the City of Joliet’s announcement: https://www.joliet.gov/Home/Components/News/News/5216/41
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El Municipio de Joliet ofrece su más sentido pésame a la familia, amistades y seres queridos del Sargento del Ejército de los Estados Unidos, Jose Dueñez Jr., graduado de Joliet Central High School en 2017 y miembro muy querido de nuestra comunidad. El Sargento Dueñez falleció trágicamente el 25 de marzo de 2025, durante un entrenamiento militar mientras estaba en servicio en Lituania. Se le recuerda no solo por su servicio, sino también como un esposo dedicado, un padre amoroso y un hijo muy querido. Le sobreviven su esposa, Kai, y su hijo de un año. Mientras es despedido con honor hoy, celebramos su vida, recordamos su compromiso y agradecemos profundamente el impacto que dejó en quienes lo conocieron. Para más información sobre los servicios en su memoria, visite el anuncio de la Ciudad de Joliet: https://www.joliet.gov/Home/Components/News/News/5216/41

Now Hiring: Community Liaison/Organizer

Passionate about justice, equity and healing? Join us! Joliet Township Government is hiring a part-time Community Liaison/Organizer to collect data, support outreach, and help our Community Convener run community violence intervention initiatives. Use your voice to to promote community safety, stability, and resilience. We strongly encourage applicants with lived experience or demonstrated commitment to community violence intervention to apply. Apply on Indeed: bit.ly/JTJobs
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¿Te apasionan la justicia, la equidad y la sanación? Únete a nosotros. ¡El Municipio de Joliet está contratando! Aplica para la posición a tiempo parcial de Enlace Comunitario(a). Ayuda a nuestra Coordinadora Comunitaria a exaltar nuestra iniciativa para prevenir la violencia recaudando información y más. Usa tu voz para promover la seguridad y fortaleza de la comunidad. Te invitamos aplicar si tienes experiencia o has demostrado compromiso hacia este trabajo. Aplica en Indeed: bit.ly/JTJobs

Joliet Township Government hosts 175th Annual Town Meeting

The 175th Annual Town Meeting of Joliet Township Government was a success. From beginning to end, the evening was marked by thoughtful dialogue, strong voter turnout, and a deep sense of civic duty demonstrated by both Electors and attendees.
The Joliet Township Clerk, Estefany Bonilla, expressed heartfelt pride in seeing many Electors come together in a true democratic spirit, asking questions, offering insights, and shaping the future of the Joliet community with care.
Special recognition goes to Ms. LeShae Hudson, who served as the nominated Moderator by the Electors and did an outstanding job presenting each item on the 175th Annual Town Meeting agenda with clarity and professionalism. Sincere gratitude to the Joliet Township Government staff for their unwavering support in managing check-in, recording, and overall coordination. Their dedication behind the scenes ensured a smooth and successful event.
This 175th Annual Town Meeting of Joliet Township Government stands as a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished when Joliet residents come together in service of their community.
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La 175ª Asamblea Anual del Gobierno del Municipio de Joliet fue todo un éxito. Desde el principio hasta el final, la noche estuvo llena de diálogo respetuoso, buena participación de votantes y un fuerte sentido de responsabilidad cívica por parte de los Electores y asistentes.
La Secretaria del Municipio de Joliet, Estefany Bonilla, expresó con mucho orgullo lo significativo que fue ver a tantos Electores reunidos con verdadero espíritu democrático, haciendo preguntas, compartiendo ideas y ayudando a construir un mejor futuro para la comunidad de Joliet.
Un reconocimiento especial para la Sra. LeShae Hudson, quien fue elegida por los Electores como Moderadora. Ella hizo un excelente trabajo presentando cada punto de la agenda de la 175ª Asamblea Anual con claridad y profesionalismo.
También agradecemos sinceramente al personal del Municipio de Joliet por su gran apoyo en el registro, la grabación y toda la organización del evento. Su trabajo hizo posible que todo saliera bien.
Esta 175ª Asamblea Anual es un gran recordatorio de lo que se puede lograr cuando los residentes de Joliet se unen para servir a su comunidad.

Joliet Township Animal Control to Host “Hogs & Dogs” Community Event 

Event to Feature Pet Adoptions, Motorcycle Displays, Live Demonstrations, and Local Vendors 

Get ready for a day of fun, food, and furry friends at Joliet Township Animal Control’s Hogs & Dogs event on Saturday, May 17, 2025, from 12 PM to 3 PM at 2807 McDonough Street, Joliet, IL 60436. This exciting community gathering brings together motorcycle enthusiasts, pet lovers, and local vendors for an unforgettable experience that supports animal welfare. 

Attendees will have the opportunity to meet adoptable pets from Joliet Township Animal Control and learn about responsible pet ownership. The event will also feature a stunning motorcycle display by the Chicago Viclero Motorcycle Club, as well as live demonstrations from Mallard Point Vet Clinic, Ty Ty the Reptile Guy, and Furiends of Manhattan Pet Pantry. 

In addition to the entertainment, attendees can browse various vendors, including Scentsy, Intermode (pet-friendly plants), and Best in Show Pet Grooming, which will be offering $5 nail trims. Food lovers can enjoy delicious eats from Hectic Tacos Taco Truck and sweet treats from Brook Bakes, with 10% of proceeds donated to JTAC. 

As part of its commitment to pet safety and well-being, JTAC is offering free microchips for the first 10 pets and $10 microchips all day. Guests can also support the shelter by donating $10 or a bag of dog food in exchange for two hot dogs and a drink. 

“This event is a fantastic way for the community to come together, enjoy great food and entertainment, and support local animals in need,” said Director of Joliet Township Animal Control Whitney McGill. “Whether you’re a motorcycle enthusiast, an animal lover, or just looking for a fun afternoon, Hogs & Dogs has something for everyone.” 

For more information, contact Joliet Township Animal Control at 815-725-0333 or animalcontrol@joliettownship.net. Follow JTAC on social media for event updates and sneak peeks of adoptable pets. 

Application Now Open for the Community and Non-Profit Grants 2025-2026

Joliet Township Government is pleased to announce that applications are now open for possible program funding through the Community and Non-Profit Grants.
 
Organizations providing valuable services to the community may be eligible to receive grant funding under the guidelines set forth by Section 85-13 of the Township Code (60 ILCS 1/85-13).
 
Applications will be accepted electronically, to apply please visit https://www.joliettownship.net/services/grant-application/. To ensure your application is complete, please carefully read the COMMUNITY & NON-PROFIT GRANT PROTOCOL and upload the signed acknowledgment page with your submission.
 
Note: Due to limited funding, organizations may only apply once per fiscal year. The fiscal year begins on April 1st and concludes on March 31st. It is the responsibility of the applicant to determine the best timing for their grant request.
 
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until all funds have been awarded. Once all grants have been distributed, we no longer accept applications for that fiscal year.
 
We look forward to supporting the growth and development of initiatives that align with Joliet Township Government’s vision for community well-being, development, and inclusivity.
 
If you have any questions, please contact us at 815-726-4781 or email acampa@joliettownship.net.