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We post a weekly resource list featuring key opportunities in Illinois. The Resource List includes workshops, cohorts, career and funding opportunities, and more.
Check out this week's resource list!
These events are presented by state, local and neighborhood organizations.
The list is also posted to West Side Forward's social media platforms.
Career Opportunities
- COPA is seeking a Director of Administrative Services. The deadline to apply is Friday, November 13, 2026 at 11:59 PM.
- Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago is hiring an Operating Engineer I. The deadline to apply is Friday, November 20, 2026.
- Garfield Park Community Council is hiring a Wellness Associate. To apply, email a resume, cover letter, and related references to phyllis@gpcommunitycouncil.org.
- Erie House is hiring multiple positions including an EHS Teacher Assistant (Center), Support Services Manager, Preschool Teacher Assistant (Center), and School Age Educator.
- Illinois DCEO is hiring a Regional Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Specialist, Loan Program Analyst (Executive II), and Hiring & Classifications Manager (Public Service Administrator).
Workshops
- CARPLS and New Leaf are collaborating with the Cook County Public Defender Office’s Freedom Defense Center for a Record Expungement & Sealing Workshop on Monday, November 23, 2026 at 9:30 AM at the Aspire Center (5500 W. Madison St). Registration is required by contacting 312-738-7399 or fdca@cookcountyil.gov.
Programs
- Apply to the Board Leadership Institute presented by United Way of Metro Chicago. This program is designed to prepare philanthropic business leaders for service on the boards of directors of local nonprofit organizations. The deadline to apply is Friday, January 8, 2027.
Grants
- Apply to the Restaurant Strong 2026 Grant presented by Wonder and The Greg Hill Foundation’s Restaurant Strong Fund. Grants are designed to drive revenue growth and may support a wide range of operational needs, including but not limited to: upgrading technology or equipment, marketing and public relations services, staff training programs, incentive-based wages, and maintenance or enhancement of existing infrastructure. Grantees will be awarded $5,000 based on demonstrated need and potential impact. The deadline to apply is Wednesday, November 11, 2026.
- Apply to the Rapid Response Fund presented by Chicago Foundation for Women. The Rapid Response Fund prioritizes community‑led strategies that protect fundamental rights and strengthen community power during periods of heightened risk and opportunity. These grants will support the unexpected or unbudgeted costs associated with community work and advocacy during a time of crisis and unpredictable change. Grantees will receive a one-time grant ranging from $1,000 - $5,000. Applications will begin to be reviewed on Thursday, November 12, 2026.
- The Nature Conservancy is now accepting applications for Volunteer Stewardship Network (VSN) grants. These grant opportunities support organizations across Illinois that are advancing stewardship, climate resilience, community engagement, and equitable access to the outdoors.
Internships
- CARPLS Legal Aid is seeking a Development and Communications Intern. This is a hands-on role for a college student or recent graduate who wants real portfolio pieces and a close look at how a nonprofit funds its work and shares its mission. The deadline to apply is Friday, November 27, 2026.
Events
- Veteran Business Enterprise Day, hosted by the City of Chicago Department of Procurement Services, will be held on Monday, November 23, 2026 from 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM at Chicago Cultural Center -Preston Bradley Hall (78 E Washington St, 3rd Floor (Washington side).
- West Side United is hosting the 2026 Community Resource and Hiring Fair on Friday, December 4 from 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM at Sankofa Wellness Village (4305 W Madison St).
- Growing Home Inc is hosting a WinterFest 2026 on Wednesday, December 12, 2026 from 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM at William Rainey Harper High School.