Who We Are

Founded in 2023, the 10th Ward Community Foundation is a dedicated nonprofit organization based in Chicago’s 10th Ward at 9204 S Commercial Ave. Our mission centers on the protection, care, and rehabilitation of local wildlife, while fostering a community that values and preserves natural habitats. We strive to create awareness, provide hands-on support, and offer educational resources to empower all ages to engage in wildlife conservation.

Our Mission

Our mission is to protect and rehabilitate urban wildlife in Chicago, especially within the vibrant and diverse ecosystems of the 10th Ward. We believe that by caring for our local wildlife, we contribute to a healthier and more balanced environment for everyone. Through education, community events, and conservation programs, we aim to foster a culture of stewardship that values all living beings and their essential roles in our shared environment.

Our Vision

We envision a future where the natural and human-made environments of Chicago exist in harmony. The 10th Ward Community Foundation aspires to cultivate a community that actively protects urban wildlife, advocates for habitat preservation, and recognizes the ecological importance of every species. We are committed to building a lasting legacy of conservation, respect, and ecological balance.

Our Goals

• Wildlife Rehabilitation & Care: Provide safe spaces and professional care for injured or endangered wildlife to aid in their recovery and eventual release into natural habitats.
• Community Engagement & Education: Offer accessible workshops, nature outings, and educational resources to empower individuals to care for wildlife and participate in conservation efforts.
• Preserve Local Habitats: Work alongside local government and conservation groups to protect and restore natural habitats, ensuring that native wildlife can thrive in a safe environment.
• Promote Responsible Coexistence: Encourage practices that support peaceful coexistence between humans and urban wildlife, helping residents understand the importance of each species within the ecosystem.
• Inspire Future Conservationists: Through youth programs and educational outreach, foster a new generation of conservation-minded individuals who will continue to champion wildlife protection.

Our Vision for the Future

• An Inclusive Community of Wildlife Stewards
  We seek to build an inclusive community where every individual, regardless of their background, feels inspired to engage in conservation. The 10th Ward Community Foundation is a welcoming space where members can share knowledge, volunteer, and grow together in their commitment to wildlife and nature.
• Democratizing Wildlife Education
  Wildlife education should be accessible to everyone. We are committed to offering workshops, resources, and materials that make understanding and caring for wildlife a possibility for all, regardless of age or experience.
• Bridging Nature, Urban Life, and Culture
  We believe that wildlife conservation can be a bridge between urban life and the natural world. Through our programs, we aim to create a deep connection between local residents and Chicago’s unique natural heritage, fostering a community of eco-conscious advocates.
• Promoting Sustainable Practices
  The 10th Ward Community Foundation is committed to promoting sustainable practices that reduce human impact on local habitats. We encourage responsible wildlife photography, respectful nature exploration, and environmentally friendly choices that protect both wildlife and their habitats.
• Empowering through Storytelling
  Wildlife has a powerful story to tell. We strive to document and share these stories, helping residents understand the lives and challenges of local wildlife. From photography projects to community events, we aim to connect people to the animals in their neighborhoods and the larger ecosystems we all share.
• Practicing Environmental Ethics
  Sustainability and ethics are at the heart of our conservation efforts. We encourage members and the community to practice respectful, sustainable engagement with nature, from mindful wildlife observation to volunteer cleanups. We hope to leave a lasting impact through conservation practices that future generations can build upon.

Contact Us

Would you like to volunteer, attend a nature outing, or learn more about our activities? Contact us!
Address: 9204 S Commercial Ave, Chicago, IL 60617
Email: founder@10thwardcommunityfoundation.org
beersuanderson6@gmail.com