DIVERSITY IS

GOOD

40 YEARS OF PROGRESS For 40 years, the Oak Park Regional Housing Center has played the key role in the DIVERSITY, INCLUSION, and PROSPERITY of our community. By continuing to recruit and encourage new residents to move into all of Oak Park’s neighborhoods, the Housing Center ensures that Oak Park will remain a VIBRANT and WELCOMING community.

FOUNDATION FOR THE FUTURE Building on the success of the Oak Park Strategy the Housing Center sustains a STRUCTURE OF OPPORTUNITY in Oak Park through the diversity and integration in our community. By ensuring diverse neighborhoods, we place the FOUNDATION that supports the integration of our schools, parks, and social networks. The Housing Center is at the root of our core values in Oak Park.

Norka Escobedo

Owner of Esco Properties

Diversity is good for PROPERTY VALUES. Diversity is one of the most attractive aspects of Oak Park. I believe

diversity increases property values. Our buildings reflect the diversity of the village of Oak Park as a whole.

Every year we have an annual party where all the tenants come out for food, drinks, and good company. In

our buildings people of all races and backgrounds mingle seamlessly, fostering a great sense of community.

Their experience living in our buildings is richer because of this diversity. WE HAVE BEEN WORKING WITH

THE OAK PARK REGIONAL HOUSIGN CENTER FOR 19 YEARS. They are great in helping us market our

apartments and attracting diverse, new residents. Because of the Housing Center and its wider pool of

potential renters, the length of time our apartments sit unrented is very short; which increases property

values and income. Our surrounding community is also highly desirable and stable as a result of the efforts

of the Housing Center.

DI·VER·SI·TY; NOUN; A RANGE OF DIFFERENT THINGS AND

CHARACTER. VARIETY; MULTIFORMITY. THE STATE OF FACT OF

BEING A VARIOUS KIND.

Elizabeth Lippitt

Executive Director

The Children’s Clinic

Diversity is good for HEALTH. The Children’s Clinic sponsored by the Oak Park River Forest Infant Welfare Society

believes that having all children—no matter what their background—grow into healthy adults benefits our entire

society. Our diverse patients come to us from communities throughout western Cook County. We provide

pediatric medical, dental, and behavioral health services that are affordable because our community provides us

substantial support. WE KNOW THAT THE DIVERSITY OF OAK PARK IS PART OF WHAT ALLOWS US TO PROVIDE

OUR CRITICAL SERVICES. Our location in a community that celebrates diversity and inclusion ensures that our

mission is understood and valued. We’re proud to be in a community that intentionally values diversity and the

promise of equal opportunity. Thank you to the Housing Center for sustaining a diverse community.

Donna Carroll

President

Dominican University

Diversity is Good for EDUCATION. Excellence and diversity are inseparable elements of education today. It is hard to achieve one without

incorporating the other --- as subject and context. Think of the successful people in your life, individuals that you respect. MULTI-

CULTURAL COMPETENCY is likely to be a factor. If we, as educators, can provide students with positive experiences of diversity and an

effective skill set, they are better prepared for life after college. To borrow the words of a Dominican colleague, Timothy Radcliff, OP,

"universities should be places where we can learn to talk to strangers." Such learning not only shapes who we are; it also compels us to

shape our communities --- for the better.

Glen Brewer

Oak Park Village Trustee

Diversity is good for COMMUNITY. I am often disheartened by the people I run into, thinking diversity just happens. I feel

that way because I know our better selves would like to think that as humans we should naturally come to understand and

value diversity. However, I also know it is not within our nature as humans just yet to want to be in a diverse setting because

to do so might be challenging, uncomfortable and perceived as the “unsafe” choice. As such, I have found that people who

want diversity in their lives intentionally seek it out. And that’s why I think OAK PARK IS SPECIAL – because I’m surrounded

by people who were intentional in their desire to live in a diverse community with all the richness that diversity brings.

Congrats to the Oak Park Regional Housing Center for 40 years of intentionally making Oak Park a better place to live.

David Boulanger

Oak Park Township Supervisor

Diversity is good for OAK PARK by keeping all of us in touch with the wide spectrum of cultures and age groups that

are the fabric of America today. OUR INCLUSION ALLOWS US ALL TO BENEFIT FROM CLOSE EXPERIENCES WITH THE

SOCIAL JUSTICE ISSUES OF OUR AMERICAN SOCIETY. The work of the Housing Center and our communities efforts for

inclusion and integration, brings the benefits of a diverse and open community while helping us understand lingering

social justice needs in America.

Alan Taylor

Pastor of Unity Temple

Diversity is good for the SPIRIT. Diversity is good for Oak Park when approached from the vision of building the Beloved

Community. However, diversity for diversity's sake has never set well with me. Too often diversity is about numbers--it is

where we count the people. Instead, I ENCOURAGE THINKING ABOUT DIVERSITY IN THE CONTEXT OF INCLUSION AND

EQUITY. Inclusion is where the people count. And equity, equity is where the outcomes count. I believe the Spirit calls for

this approach to diversity, for it is a call to affirming the humanity of all, calling for deeper relationship among people of

cultural differences, and making possible ever more creativity and engagement. Not only is our world made stronger by a

thoughtful approach to diversity but our also our hearts and minds, where the Spirit wells up. I'm grateful that to see this

approach to diversity so often demonstrated by the Oak Park Housing Center.

Peter Sagal Author National Public Radio; Wait, Wait, Don’t Tell Me Diversity is good for THE ARTS. Since everybody has only one head, it's easy to imagine that it contains everything that you need. Wrong. We fool ourselves into thinking that our perspective, our stories, our music, are the only ones that matters. Nothing, then, is more revelatory than he hearing or seeing or experiencing or dreaming something that you never have heard/saw/experienced/dreamed before, and that can only come -- it will inevitably come -- by surrounding yourself with artists and musicians and thinkers and dreamers who are nothing, at all, like you.

Laura Maychruk

Owner of The Buzz Café

Diversity is good for BUSINESS. At Buzz Café, we are so proud to be part of the FABRIC OF OAK PARK. The fabric

that is woven from the diverse people, cultures, religions, and socioeconomic backgrounds that makes Oak Park

so special. Our customers define who we are and in turn we reflect the prism of diversity back out into the world.

Buzz Café would not be the unique cafe that it is without the wonderful diversity of Oak Park!

Kathy Nolte

Pastor of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church

Diversity is good for the SPIRIT. Diversity values the divine SPIRIT within each individual. My faith believes that

this individual spirit seeks connection with others as a means to connection with the divine. Diversity

understands that the fullest expression of the individual spirit cannot happen unless all people are given the

freedom and opportunity to grow and express their own spirit. Barriers to growth and expression contain and

limit people on both sides. In addition, interaction with people from divergent cultures, backgrounds,

generations, and occupations enriches my spirit and helps me see the divine with greater clarity.

Where diversity is valued and protected the spirit of individuals can soar as they reach their fullest potential. A

creative and holy synergy can exist. THE COMMUNITY IS STRENGTHENED. The Oak Park Regional Housing

Center has been and continues to protect the diversity of Oak Park. It is pivotal in keeping the community

vibrant and innovative. It is pivotal to the fullest expression of my spirit and helps me see the divine.

GOOD; ADJECTIVE; MORALLY EXCELLENT. VIRTUOUS.

RIGHTEOUS. FIT. PROPER. PIOUS. OF HIGH QUALITY.

SATISFACTORY IN QUALITY, QUANTITY, OR DEGREE.

Morgan P. Davis

Fair Housing Policy and Advocacy Manager

Oak Park Regional Housing Center

Diversity is a great strength in PUBLIC POLICY. A community’s ability to prosper, economically and socially, depends significantly on

embracing, respecting, and harnessing the power of diversity. The best public policies come out of discussion, debate, and input from

a collection of culturally, ethnically, and individually different persons. The Oak Park Regional Housing Center helps to bring diversity

into Oak Park’s public policy by ENCOURAGING RESIDENTS FROM ALL BACKGROUNDS TO LIVE AND TO PARTICIPATE IN OAK PARK.

The Housing Center not only promotes our community as an inclusive place to live, but also educates policymakers on how to bring

diversity into the public policies of their community. Diversity is more than good for public policy, it is essential.

League of Women Voters of Oak Park River Forest

Diversity is essential for a strong DEMOCRACY. It increases the understanding of major public issues and influences the

democratic process through education and advocacy. The League of Women Voters of Oak Park River Forest is

committed to these principles, supporting that all citizens are protected in their right to vote. We work to engage all

residents in the decisions that impact their lives. The League of Women Voters of Oak Park River Forest deeply believes

that the public should hear different views on the issues facing our communities and our nation. An honest and respectful

SHARING OF DIVERSE IDEAS IS VITAL to the functioning of American democracy. To keep our government strong, we

must encourage that all diverse viewpoints are heard.

Greer Haseman

Oak Park Regional Housing Center Board Member

Diversity is good for PROPERTY VALUE. There’s no place like home and like Dorothy, I’m reminded of that every

time I leave Oak Park. What is it that draws us back to these few square miles time after time? I believe it’s the

diversity, in people, religion and housing, that is the BEDROCK OF OAK PARK. We celebrate it all, we embrace

the culture and vitality of being different and because we do, Oak Park is a very welcoming place to visit, to live,

to be from. Diversity is good for Oak Park as it’s one of the great things that has put us on the map, it keeps a

pipeline of people seeking out this place of cynosure. DIVERSITY IS THE ULTIMATE IN COOL CONSUMERISM,

which is good for the local property values and businesses. In this world, which continues to shrink with the

advancement of technology, where we now live with an almost global intimacy, we can draw from equal parts

confidence and comfort in the diversity we surround ourselves with in Oak Park as we navigate our ever

changing world. I have friends who will request a layover when traveling through Chicago just to come walk over

the slate sidewalks of their hometown and those who live far and wide but will always call Oak Park home.

Why? Because Oak Park really is special.

Mel Wilson,

Co-Founder of OPLAGA

Diversity is good for COMMUNITY. The word “diversity” came into wide usage in Oak Park in the midst of controversies over the

village’s proposed fair housing ordinance 50 years ago. In years since, the word’s limited original meaning as a strategy for achieving

racial dispersal has expanded far beyond notions of race and ethnic origins. Diversity has come to be a major defining element of the

character of Oak Park. In Oak Park, “diversity” has become a VALUED OBJECTIVE AND MORAL COMPASS calling for continual and

expanding equity and inclusion of formerly marginalized or invisible groups. It has provided a social compass for policy makers. It has

made all of our lives richer. Of all the things that make Oak Park a great place to live – and there are many – it is the diversity of

residents in our community that is most celebrated and treasured.

OUR HISTORY OF INTEGRATION

Since 1972, OPRHC has tirelessly promoted housing choices through affirmatively marketing. We market Oak Park as an open community attracting

people of all races who respond to and strengthen a welcoming climate. Our integration is a key to promoting equal opportunity and prosperity.

Integrated neighborhoods ensure integrated schools and social networks. OPRHC programs work collaboratively with the Village of Oak Park and

other public bodies and agencies to foster a comprehensive effort to promote and sustain an inclusive community. Our model of successful action

to promote diversity and inclusion. Since 2008, other communities in the region and across the nation have increasingly looked to OPRHC to

improve diversity and integration. OPRHC has created a best practice guide and can provide technical assistance so that other communities can

enjoy the benefits of an open and inclusive community.

Board of Commissioners & Staff

Park District of Oak Park

Diversity is good for HEALTH. The Park District of Oak Park congratulates the Oak Park Regional Housing Center on 40 years

of serving our community. Just like the Housing Center, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION ARE THE CORE VALUES OF THE PARK

DISTRICT . We strive to provide a diverse offering of parks and recreation opportunities that are enjoyed by residents of all

ages, backgrounds and abilities. Through our programs our residents can enjoy friendship and laughter, the beauty of nature,

the thrill of adventure and discovery and the pride of accomplishment. We are proud to contribute to a healthier, happier

and stronger community.

David Pope

Oak Park Village President

Diversity is good for OAK PARK. As a community we would not be who we are without the

Housing Center. Oak Park is the most successfully diverse municipality in the United States.

That diversity is foundational to what we are all about as a community in welcoming and

embracing everyone regardless of any differences in background or characteristics. The

work of the HOUSING CENTER HAS BEEN INSTRUMENTAL in advancing the diversity of our

community. Without the Housing Center Oak Park would not be the special place that we

all recognize and love today. As a community we would not be who we are without the

Housing Center.

Dr. Steven Isoye, Superintendent of Oak Park River Forest High School Diversity is good for EDUCATION. Congratulations to the Oak Park Regional Housing Center on celebrating your 40th anniversary! The Housing Center’s leadership has helped create a culturally rich, vibrant community whose diversity has been of enormous benefit to Oak Park and River Forest High School students. From an educational perspective, our society is a global one now, and if young people are to participate fully in world issues and changes, they must have more than a solid academic foundation. They also must know how to relate to people from a wide variety of backgrounds and cultures. They must be able to keep their eyes and ears open, becoming attuned to how their knowledge, skills, and experiences fit in not only locally and nationally but also globally. The high school is a microcosm of the broader community, and THE DIVERSITY WITHIN THE SCHOOLS WALLS ENRICHES OUR STUDENTS’ EDUCATION IMMEASURABLY. Because of their experiences in this community, they leave with an appreciation and understanding of diversity that will help them to become full participants in the world community as well.

Chief Ricky C. Tanksley, Oak Park Police Department Diversity is good for COMMUNITY. Diversity is good for the COMMUNITY from a law enforcement perspective. Among many positive things, the Village of Oak Park is noted for its long history of embracing and fostering the concept of diversity. This being the case, it is vital that the Police Department, the most visible member of Village government, demonstrate its support of this Village value by ensuring that the Department make-up is reflective of the community we serve. WE ARE PROUD TO WORK TOGETHER WITH THE HOUSING CENTER TO PROMOTE A DIVERSE OAK PARK. Having a diverse police department allows us to be in a position to positively interact with all members of the community, whether they be white, black, Hispanic, gay etc. Internally, the Department takes advantage of the different cultures, perspectives and ideas of its’ various members thereby making the Department more welcoming and a better servant to the community.

IN·TE·GRA·TION; NOUN; AN ACT OR INSTANCE OF BRINGING

TOGETHER A RACIAL, RELIGIOUS, OR ETHNIC GROUP. BEHAVIOR,

AS OF AN INDIVIDUAL, THAT IS IN HARMONY WITH

THE ENVIRONMENT.

DONATE TO THE OAK PARK REGIONAL HOUSING CENTER Thank you for your support of OPRHC’s mission of affirmatively furthering fair housing. Your gift allows us to advocate for fair housing policies and

integrate neighborhoods throughout the region through research, rental counseling, homeownership counseling, and affirmative marketing.

OAK PARK REGIONAL HOUSING CENTER 40TH ANNIVERSARY BENEFIT Please join in celebrating 40 years of creating and sustaining a national model of diversity and inclusion.

Featuring: Eclectic tastes by Melissa Elsmo, Pro Musica Youth Chorus, OPRFHS Spoken Word, Art of Diversity by District 97 Friday, October 5, 2012 6:30PM - 10:30PM

Unity Temple + 875 Lake St + Oak Park

□ I/We can attend! Enclosed is $ ______ for ___ ticket (s) at $75 per person □ Enclosed is $ ______ for _____ raffle tickets at $10 each (or 7 for $50)

□ I/We cannot attend. Enclosed is $ ______ as a contribution to the Housing Center

Name (s) _______________________________________________________________________________

Address _______________________________________________________________________________

Phone ___________________________________ Email ________________________________________

□ Please accept my check made payable to the Oak Park Regional Housing center

□ Please charge $____________ to my □ VISA □ MasterCard □ Discover

Card# ________________________________________________________________ Exp _____/_______

Signature_______________________________________________________________________________

To Order Tickets Online Go To: www.oprhc.org/get-involved/2012annualbenefit/

Walter Healy

President

Community Bank of Oak Park River Forest

Diversity is good for COMMUNITY. Different backgrounds and experiences have a way of dividing us in society into

pockets. Racially, economically, politically, and culturally, we all tend to seek out others who are more similar to us

than different. Especially today, it seems as though our society is becoming more polarized than ever. We at

Community Bank of Oak Park River Forest believe that diversity is good for our communities because new and

different ideas can benefit our society, here and beyond our borders. DIVERSITY BRINGS NEW OPPORTUNITIES and

ways to solve problems and implement new ideas through a wealth of experiences. Diversity in communities brings

different understandings and works to break down barriers. Together working with the Oak Park Regional Housing

Center, Community Bank believes in the longstanding tradition of diversity in our hometown. Our goals are in sync

with their goals: diversity improves home values and makes for a strong business community as well as a great

place to live and raise a family.

Edward Solan

Executive Director

Oak Park Residence Corporation

Diversity is good for OAK PARK. Diversity is good for OAK PARK because it makes our children and grandchildren better able to live in

twenty-first century America. America is a changing country. By the middle of this century, Caucasians will represent a minority of the

country’s population. Increasingly, America is becoming a multi-cultural country in which there will not be a single dominant culture. By

growing up in a community like Oak Park which not only accepts but also embraces diversity, OUR CHILDREN AND THEIR CHILDREN

WILL BE WELL EQUIPPED TO TAKE LEADERSHIP ROLES IN OUR NEW COUNTRY.

OAK PARK REGIONAL HOUSING CENTER

1041 South Boulevard

Oak Park, Illinois 60302

www.oprhc.org

www.LiveInOakPark.com

Achieving meaningful and lasting racial diversity throughout Oak Park and the region.

INTEGRATED SCHOOLS

DIV

ERSE

CO

MM

UN

ITY

WELL-ROUNDED YOUTH

OPEN WORLDVIEW EQUITABLE INVESTMENT

ACCESS TO OPPORTUNITY

CITIZEN PARTICIPATION MODEL COMMUNITY

ECONOMICALLY COMPETITIVE

UNIFIED ASPIRATIONS

CORE VALUES

HARMONIOUS NEIGHBORHOODS

The Oak Park Regional Housing Center continues to be deeply rooted in the foundation of Oak Park.

We promote a solid and integrated framework, branching out to every aspect of our community.

Support our mission to keep Oak Park culturally vibrant and socially prosperous for the next 40 years.