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Making it in Chicago

Digital promo for Making it In Chicago with an illustration of barriers along a path with a destination labeled economic security
  • National Public Housing Museum, 919 S. Ada Street, Chicago, IL 60607

  • Free

Join us for an evening with the Illinois Answers Project and the National Public Housing Museum exploring barriers to economic opportunity in Illinois and Chicago.

The Illinois Answers Project’s recently published reporting on economic mobility stemmed from countless community conversations. At the center of this event are related storytelling sessions featuring:

  • Alex Nitkin (Illinois Answers Investigative reporter) in conversation with Marisa Novara, Vice President of Community Impact at The Chicago Community Trust
  • Meredith Newman (Illinois Answers State Investigative reporter) in conversation with Kimberly Bianchini, owner at Advance Preschool
  • Jim Daley (South Side Weekly Investigations Editor) in conversation with Bryan Ramson, physicist, block club captain and police district councilor
  • Claire Murphy (Illinois Answers fellow) in conversation with Kristen Faust, Executive Director of the Illinois Housing Development Authority about their SmartBuy program

Plus, enjoy a gallery talk with Making it in Chicago photographer Akilah Townsend and illustrator Cori Lin, open museum hours at the National Public Housing Museum, and drinks and bites with fellow community members.

This event is full, but Illinois Answers has set up a waitlist in case additional spots become available.


Upcoming events

A person tends a flower garden in front of a brick high-rise apartment building, an image from the exhibit Living in the Shade

Opening and Garden Party

Cool off with a paleta and explore the exhibition Living in the Shade during this opening celebration.

Museum visitors look at a midcentury high school letterman sweater

Teacher Preview and Reception

Teachers are invited to discover how the National Public Housing Museum can support classrooms through K-12 field trips and tours.

Squiggle Build

Pick up a pool noodle, find a connector, and start creating during this free and fun workshop for all ages.