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/

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. 

Spring Into Adoption: Reduced Fees All April & Special Saturday Hours at JTAC

Joliet Township Animal Control (JTAC) is making it easier for residents to welcome a new pet this spring. Throughout April, adoption fees are reduced to $40 for dogs and $20 for cats to help more animals find loving homes. Medical fees still apply.  

As part of its “Spring Into Adoption Saturdays” initiative, JTAC is extending its hours on select Saturdays—April 5, April 12, April 26, and May 3—from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to accommodate families who may not be able to visit during the week.  

Please note, office staff will not be available to assist with other services on these Saturdays, including trap rentals, redemptions, and owner surrenders. For these services, please contact JTAC during regular business hours Monday through Friday. 

Joliet Township Animal Control is normally open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM and Wednesdays from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM. Joliet Township Animal Control is located at 2807 McDonough Street, Joliet, IL 60436. 

“We are thrilled to offer this opportunity to connect more pets with loving families,” said Whitney McGill, Director of Joliet Township Animal Control. “Spring is the perfect time for a fresh start, and we hope these Saturday adoption events will help more animals find the homes they deserve.” 

To help streamline the adoption process, potential adopters are encouraged to visit the JTAC website www.joliettownshipanimalcontrol.net to print and complete an application before attending. Families with current dogs should also bring them for a meet-and-greet with prospective pets, as these introductions are required before finalizing adoptions. 

For more information, email animalcontrol@joliettownship.net or call 815-725-0333. 

Joliet Township Government partners with American Red Cross to host community blood drive

Joliet, IL — January 23, 2025 — Joliet Township Government, in partnership with the American Red Cross, invites the community to participate in a blood drive on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Ozzie & Peggy Mitchell Building, 172 S Chicago Street, Joliet, IL 60433. To schedule an appointment or learn more about the donation process, visit redcrossblood.org and use the sponsor code: joliettown, or call 1-800-RED CROSS. 

“By hosting this blood drive, Joliet Township continues its commitment to supporting our community’s health and well-being,” said Keshia Ellis, Violence Prevention Director of Joliet Township Government. “This event offers a chance for neighbors, staff, and friends to make a real difference by donating blood and helping to save lives.” 

Blood is a life-saving resource that can only be replenished through volunteer donations. The American Red Cross emphasizes the importance of maintaining a steady supply, with someone in the U.S. requiring blood every two seconds. 

“Donating blood is an act of kindness that can directly impact local hospitals and patients in need,” added Ellis. “We encourage all eligible individuals to come forward, knowing that their contribution could provide a second chance for someone else.” 

The Red Cross is seeking donations from all blood types, with special urgency for those with O negative, A negative, and B negative blood types.

“Homes for the HOWLidays” Event

Homes for the Howlidays. Dog Adoption Fees Waived! $10 microchips for cats and dogs! December 2 - December 31, 2024. Image of golden retriever puppy and terrier puppy wearing christmas clothing and standing in front of a festive tree.

Joliet, IL — Nov. 26, 2024 — Joliet Township Government is excited to announce its “Homes for the Howlidays” adoption event, taking place from 8:30 AM on December 2, 2024, through 4:00 PM on December 31, 2024, at Joliet Township Animal Control, located at 2807 McDonough Street, Joliet, IL 60436. This event aims to help dogs find loving forever homes and promote responsible pet ownership. 

Throughout December, adoption fees for dogs will be waived, making it easier for families to bring home a new furry companion for the holidays. While the adoption fees are waived, medical fees will still apply to ensure every dog receives the care they need before joining their new family. 

In addition to waiving dog adoption fees, microchips for both dogs and cats will be available at a reduced cost of $10. Microchips are small devices implanted under a pet’s skin that store a unique identification number. If a lost pet is found, the microchip can be scanned by a veterinarian or animal shelter to reunite the pet with its family, providing a simple and effective way to ensure their safety. 

“We know the holiday season is a time for family, and dogs make wonderful additions to homes looking for love and companionship,” said Whitney McGill Director of Joliet Township Animal Control. “Through ‘Homes for the Howlidays,’ we’re excited to connect more dogs with families and promote responsible pet ownership.” 

For more information about the “Homes for the Howlidays” event or to adopt your new best friend, call 815-725-0333 or visit www.joliettownshipanimalcontrol.net. 

Next REIAL Meeting: November 20, 2024

REIAL Monthly Meeting | Reunión mensual de REIAL
Join us for the next Racial Equity Impact Assessment League (REIAL) virtual meeting on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at 1:00 PM (CST) on Zoom!
REIAL brings together community leaders and elected officials dedicated to advancing equity, preventing violence, and building a more inclusive Joliet. This monthly gathering is a platform to share updates, collaborate on meaningful initiatives, and ensure resources are directed to support all members of the community.
Don’t miss this chance to connect, contribute, and help drive impactful change. Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of every month, and we welcome new members from organizations that share our vision for equity and inclusion.
Interested in joining? Please RSVP by reaching out to LeShae Hudson, Violence Prevention Council Coordinator, at lhudson@joliettownship.net.
Meeting link: bit.ly/REIALMeeting
Learn more: bit.ly/JolietREIAL
Together, let’s make a difference!

Fall-A-Palooza Bash: October 31, 2024

Join us for Fall-A-Palooza Bash at the Ozzie & Peggy Mitchell Center on Halloween, October 31st, from 4 PM – 6 PM! Hosted by Joliet Township Government CVI Services, this event offers a fun and safe Halloween celebration for the kids in our community. The goal is to provide a welcoming environment where children can trick-or-treat, enjoy snacks, and have a great time in a secure space. We look forward to seeing you there!

Joliet Township is committed to reducing gun violence in the community. The Community Violence Intervention (CVI) Services program provides support through case management, street outreach, victim advocacy, and community activities. This program helps high-risk individuals*, including those who may commit violence, those who have already done so, victims, and their families.