Chicago Commons

Actor and West Side native Lil Rel Howery, known for his roles in hit animated movies like Dog Man, The Angry Birds Movie 2, and PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie, joined Chicago Commons and Share Our Spare at our Nia Family Center in Humboldt Park to help kick off Dolly Parton's Imagination Library during National Reading Month. Chicago Public Schools CEO Macquline King, Illinois State Senator Lakesia Collins, Alderwoman Jeanette B. Taylor Candidate for 20th Ward, Chicago Public Library Deputy Chief Esmeralda Bueno, Chicago Department of Family and Support Services Division Deputy Commissioner Cerathel Burgess-Burnett, Bryan Stokes of the Robert R. McCormick Foundation, and Share Our Spare’s Board Chair Eva Giglio of CME Group Foundation all helped underscore a shared message: every child, no matter their zip code, deserves books at home and the chance to fall in love with reading.

For the Chicago Commons community, this visit means more of our families will gain access to free, high-quality books delivered right to their doors—strengthening early literacy, supporting school readiness, and turning simple story times into powerful moments of connection between children and their caregivers. We are deeply grateful to Lil Rel, our partners, funders, and community leaders for visiting Nia Family Center and investing their time, energy, and voices in our children and families.

Week of the Young Child is almost here at Chicago Commons, and we can’t wait to celebrate with our children, families, and staff! From April 11–17, 2026, we’ll be enjoying Music Monday, Tasty Tuesday, Work Together Wednesday, Artsy Thursday, and Family Fridaytogether—simple, joyful activities that highlight how everyday moments help young children learn and grow. Keep an eye out for more details from your center on how you and your child can join the fun in your classroom and at home.​
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La Semana del Niño ya casi llega a Chicago Commons, ¡y no vemos la hora de celebrarla con nuestras niñas, niños, familias y personal! Del 11 al 17 de abril de 2026, disfrutaremos juntos de Lunes de Música, Martes de Cocina, Miércoles de Trabajar en Equipo, Jueves de Arte y Viernes de Familia: actividades sencillas y llenas de alegría que muestran cómo los momentos de cada día ayudan a las y los pequeños a aprender y crecer. Esté pendiente de los próximos mensajes de su centro con más detalles sobre cómo usted y su hijo o hija pueden unirse a la diversión en el salón de clases y en casa.​

This year, we are proud to present the Lea Taylor Philanthropy Award to Macy’s, Inc. at our 2026 Spring Celebration. This award honors partners like Macy’s whose long-standing generosity and hands-on partnership have made a meaningful and lasting difference in the lives of the children and families we serve.​

Join us on April 10, 2026 for an evening of connection, community, and impact, featuring live music by the Chicago Players. Together, we’ll celebrate Macy’s and other remarkable partners—and raise vital resources to strengthen opportunities for children, families, and seniors across Chicago.​

Tickets are now on sale: https://bit.ly/4pYufq5

We are proud to recognize Illinois State Representative Kam Buckner and Illinois State Representative Theresa Mah with the Champion of Change Award at our 2026 Spring Celebration. The Champion of Change Award honors leaders who demonstrate an unwavering commitment to strengthening communities and improving outcomes for children, families, and seniors at a systemic level.​

Join us on April 10, 2026 for an evening of connection, community, and impact, featuring live music by the Chicago Players. Together, we’ll celebrate leaders like Representative Buckner and Representative Mah—along with the families, partners, and supporters who make our work possible—and raise vital resources to strengthen opportunities for children, families, and seniors across Chicago.​

Tickets are now on sale: https://bit.ly/4pYufq5