Aguilar Hosts Open House to Connect Residents with County Services (Cook County, IL) – More than 50 residents from across the district turned out Tuesday, Jan. 13, for an open house hosted by Cook County Commissioner Frank J. Aguilar at his district office, an event aimed at connecting the community directly with government, health and social services.
The open house brought together a wide range of county and state offices and community partners. Participating agencies included the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court Mariyana Spyropolous, the Office of Illinois Treasurer Michael Frerichs, the Cook County Department of Public Health, the Cook County Racial Equity and Inclusion Office, the Veteran Assistance Commission of Cook County and Brookfield Zoo.
Also attending were Forest View President David Liska and members of Teamsters Local 777, including Secretary-Treasurer Greg Glimco.
Aguilar said the event reflected his belief that government must take an active role in reaching residents.
“This shows firsthand that the government’s role in our community must be proactive,” Aguilar said. “We must meet the community where they are, open up our offices to the people we serve, and ensure that residents are not only aware of county services, but have the opportunity to access them directly.”
During the event, residents spoke with Aguilar and his staff and learned about county responsibilities and available programs. Several agencies provided on-site assistance. The Illinois Treasurer’s Office helped attendees search the state’s ICash program to see if they were owed unclaimed funds. The Cook County Department of Public Health offered information on upcoming health events and distributed free doses of Narcan. The Veteran Assistance Commission connected veterans and their families with county services.
Cook County Racial Equity and Inclusion Outreach Manager Vilma Colom spoke with residents about job opportunities and other county programs, while staff from the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office provided guidance on court records and navigating the judicial system.
Riverside resident Karl Strittar said the event made government feel more accessible.
“This was a great opportunity to meet our local leaders and get connected to so many services,” Strittar said. “I was impressed by their emphasis on accessibility, bringing in so many different government departments and organizations to the community. It is very comforting to know that these resources exist and that Commissioner Aguilar is making sure they are available in our community.”
Aguilar Hosts Open House to Connect Residents with County Services
