This is not an official Chicago Park District website for Fernwood Park.
The Fernwood Park Advisory Council (PAC) is a volunteer-driven organization dedicated to supporting, advocating for, and promoting our local park as an auxiliary of the Chicago Park District. Our mission is to enhance the community’s connection with Fernwood Park by fostering a vibrant and well-maintained space for all to enjoy. We collaborate closely with the Park District to achieve the following goals:
Community Engagement: We actively promote the use of the park’s programs and facilities, ensuring that the community is aware of all the recreational and educational opportunities available.
Awareness and Advocacy: We raise awareness of ongoing park projects and capital improvements, keeping the community informed about the development and enhancements within Fernwood Park.
Funding and Resources: We seek alternative funding sources for park enhancements, such as new playgrounds, special programs, and infrastructure improvements, to ensure continued growth and innovation.
Special Events: We host a variety of events, including Night out in the Park, dances, farmers' markets, and the popular Circus in the Parks, to bring the community together and celebrate our shared space.
Support for Affinity Groups: We offer support to various affinity groups within the park, fostering an inclusive environment where diverse interests can thrive.
Community Involvement: We organize and plan special events and community meetings, providing a platform for local voices to be heard and community ties to be strengthened.
Environmental Stewardship: We advocate for and organize community cleanups, garden projects, and flower planting initiatives to beautify the park and enhance its natural environment.
Advisory Role: We serve as a liaison between the community and the Chicago Park District, advising on the community’s needs and concerns to ensure that Fernwood Park continues to meet the needs of its users.
Join us in our efforts to make Fernwood Park a vibrant, welcoming, and well-maintained space for everyone to enjoy.
An advisory council is a voluntary group of individuals who meet on a regular basis to support the effective functioning of their local park. Park Advisory Councils (PACs)in Chicago represent more than 225 parks in all 77 community areas across the city, as the community voice for their neighborhood park, children’s playground, beach or natural area.
The Fernwood Park Advisory Council is a dedicated team of volunteers committed to overseeing the park, advocating for the community, and offering valuable guidance to the Chicago Park District. In collaboration with the district, we actively seek community input, ensuring accountability for park stewardship, and strive to preserve the park's unique character and features. Our mission is to represent all park users and communities, working towards unlocking the park's fullest potential.
We play a pivotal role in advising on programming, organizing activities and events, and contributing to capital improvements. To achieve our goals, we rely on individuals like you who share a passion for our neighborhoods and parks. Your engagement is crucial in shaping the future of our beloved green spaces.
A Park Advisory council is a special purpose organization that represents the community. If you donate directly to the Chicago Park District, funds will go into the citywide fundraising pool for Chicago Park District. By Donating directly to the Fernwood Park Advisory Council, funds will be spent within the park to host events, help fund additional programming, assist with park amenities and more. We also help keep the park to focused on the community needs.
Park Advisory Councils exhibit diverse structures, ranging in sophistication, community transparency, inclusion, and activity levels. Explore the multifaceted roles and activities undertaken by these councils, each uniquely contributing to the enhancement and vibrancy of their respective communities.
Advocate for park programs
Work with the Chicago Park District on issues in their park
Fundraise for new playgrounds and park improvements
Host Movies in the Park
Work with Alderman, State Representatives, and community members
Plant gardens, trees, and flowers
Plan special events such as parades, dances, Circus in the Parks, farmers markets, etc.
Host community meetings and planning charrettes
Advocate for new parks and open spaces
Influence the design of new playgrounds and parks
Host clean ups
Supplement park programming
Monitor their park’s budget
Protect park from land infringements
Mentor other PACs
Sponsor programming
Give park tours
Promote their park