Jennifer Parks: Executive Director at Habitat for Humanity Chicago

Chicago's severe housing deficit is undermining our city's vitality. We simply do not have enough decent places, especially affordable places, for people to live. Habitat for Humanity, with current projects in three Chicago neighborhoods, plays a small but critical role in righting this wrong.

Join us as Jennifer Parks tells stories of her organization on the national and local level: When and why HFH got its start. How Jimmy Carter used his public presence to bring the organization to international prominence. How HFH decides which Chicago neighborhoods to invest in, and how individual families are chosen to partner with HFH. Don't miss your chance to learn from and ask questions of this experienced champion for affordable housing in Chicago.

Ms. Parks brings over 25 years’ experience in the Habitat network to Habitat for Humanity Chicago (Habitat Chicago). Joining the team in 2011, Jen leads a dynamic and dedicated team that champions healthy neighborhoods by investing in resident priorities, building quality homes, and supporting homeownership. Under her leadership, efforts were realigned to focus on the long-term impacts for improving the neighborhood housing market, connecting the community, improving physical conditions, and elevating the neighborhood appeal. Existing programs -- Affordable Homeownership, Construction, and Volunteers -- have grown; new programs have been established – Homebuyer University, Neighborhood Grants Initiative. It operates two ReStores, a social enterprise selling new and gently used furniture, home goods, and building supplies to the public at affordable prices. Habitat Chicago continues to evolve and has a bold plan to invest $42M in three focus neighborhoods over the next five years. With a team of 60+ and a $11.1M budget, Jen is committed to growing Habitat Chicago by increasing neighborhood investments and creating long-term positive impact with our Chicago neighbors. Jen graduated from Marquette University and obtained a Master of Arts in Organization Leadership from Immaculata University.

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$60 for Non-Members

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LUNCHEON LOCATION:

All meetings are held at The Union League Club - Presidents Hall on the 2nd floor at 65 West Jackson Blvd (1/2 block east of Clark). Upon entering the ULC, you will be directed to the check-in location.

THE UNION LEAGUE CLUB DRESS CODE:

The Union League Club Dress Code is Smart Casual, a relaxed, well-dressed look which may include jeans with no visible rips or tears, denim, and collared shirts. Athletic wear, tennis shoes, t-shirts or hats are not permitted.

PARKING AT THE UNION LEAGUE CLUB:

Valet Parking is available at Union League's Federal Street Entrance (no discount to attendees).

Discounted parking as low as $10 for All First Friday Club Attendees is available through the in the South Loop Self Park, 318 S. Federal St, Chicago (self parking in the garage on the northwest corner of Federal and Van Buren). For information on this special offer, click the following link: IPARKIT OPTION

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION:

The Club is just two blocks from the LaSalle Street Metra Station, six blocks from Union Metra Station and only blocks away from every EL station.

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