at 3517 W Arthington St, Chicago , 60624 United States
Foundation for Homan Square Community development at Homan Square began in 1988. Located on Chicago’s West Side in North Lawndale, the original Sears, Roebuck and Co. property was built in 1905 and included multiple buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. North Lawndale had not fared as well. It was ravished by the riots of the 60’s; unemployment skyrocketed when factories closed; crime rates were high; schools were below average; and there were few prospects for change. North Lawndale had all the characteristics of communities throughout the Rust Belt that had been under-served and neglected for decades. Although Sears had been a responsible owner and maintained their buildings, most were empty, and the prospects for redevelopment within the existing environment were slim. Starting in 1989, developer Charlie Shaw, Sears chairman Ed Brennan and retired Sears vice president Charley Moran, developed a concept plan designed to reinvigorate the community and revitalize the neighborhood of North Lawndale. Shaw met with Chicago Mayor Richard J. Daley, elected officials, and community and business leaders. These meetings revealed not only deep concern over the future of the community, but clear ideas for what was needed. Community leaders expressed support for a three-pronged development strategy to include new housing, commercial development and community services, including recreational and health care facilities. Shaw knew that such a project would require a massive and long-term partnership of the public, private and community sectors. Mayor Daley showed enormous leadership by committing the City to millions of dollars in road, sewer and infrastructure improvements. Sears made significant commitments of support. With pledges of private investment, city commitment, and community support in hand, Shaw told Sears that the project was a go. The vision for Homan Square was born.
Originally named the Homan Arthington Foundation, this 501(c) 3, not-for-profit organization was formed in 1995 to oversee the Homan Square redevelopment plan. The Foundation serves as an ‘umbrella’ organization for the entities on the Homan Campus, including the Homan Square Community Center and Homan Square Power House. The Foundation is also responsible for the future redevelopment of the original Sears Tower, now known as the Homan Square Tower, which will serve as a beacon of hope for the entire Westside of Chicago when it becomes a multiuse non-profit arts/social service facility.
417 FB users likes Homan Square, set it to 105 position in Likes Rating for Chicago, Illinois in Non-profit organization category
Homan Square is Chicago based place and this enity listed in Recreation Center category. Located at 3517 W Arthington St IL 60624. Contact phone number of Homan Square: (773) 265-4404
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