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The Chicago Park District will hold the 2025 Park Advisory Council Conference on April 12 at Malcolm X College. The event, happening from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., will be presented in collaboration with Park Advisory Council (PAC) partners. This free event will offer networking opportunities, workshops, and resources for PACs across Chicago. The keynote speaker will be Chicago Park District Superintendent & CEO Carlos Ramirez-Rosa.
The theme of this year's conference, "Parks for All," will highlight the goals of the Chicago Park District’s 2025-2030 Strategic Plan. The conference will include sessions titled "A Greener City," "Community Wellbeing," "Effective Operations," and "Exceptional Experiences." For over twenty years, PACs, along with dog-friendly area advocates and community groups, have worked to improve parks by organizing volunteers, events, and funding.
Over 200 park volunteers and advocates are expected to attend this annual conference. They will exchange best practices, network with fellow PAC members, and be inspired by the achievements of Park Advisory Councils throughout Chicago. For the full schedule and workshop descriptions, as well as registration, visit www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/pac-conference. Community members interested in starting or joining a PAC are encouraged to participate.
During the conference, the Superintendent & CEO will unveil a new initiative titled "Project Monarch," focusing on protecting and ensuring the survival of the monarch butterfly.
Those interested in attending are advised to pre-register at the provided website. Parking and lunch will be complimentary.
Park Advisory Councils act as community voices for various local parks, playgrounds, beaches, and natural areas. They advocate, support, and partner with the Chicago Park District to enhance local parks.
In recent years, PACs have made significant impacts by leading volunteer cleanups, organizing events, raising funds for improvements, and more. In 2024 alone, eight new PACs were formed, bringing the current total to 168 PACs representing 225 parks citywide.
