Chicago, Chicago that Toddling Town

Chicago's New Housing

When I was in Philadelphia, Ed, who runs senior programs at the William Way Community Center, suggested I stop in and see what was going up in Chicago.  I'm so glad I did!  It was a thrill to see this new senior housing development going up in a neighborhood that is somewhat familiar to me as I grew up near Chicago and my grandmother once lived in an apartment close to Halsted Street.

 If you've every been to Chicago and know the area North of downtown on Halsted, you know what a great neighborhood this is for "toddling." Close to Wrigley Field, walking distance to performing arts venues and great restaurants, this area has a great vibe and proudly proclaims itself as an LGBT neighborhood.  There is beautiful signage on every block in the form of rainbow striped posts bearing plaques with the names of LGBT people who have made great contributions to our history and culture.  Here are a couple examples.

The new senior housing is going up just a block from The Center on Halsted, a beautiful building that houses the programs supporting LGBT in Chicago.  There is a Whole Foods Market right next to the Center with a connecting entry to either facility from within the buildings. I was impressed with the way the two entities have blended the community by having the lobby of the Center also function as a gathering spot with table and chairs for those who want to eat their Whole Foods Deli lunch or have coffee and conversation with a friend.  

The new LGBTQ friendly senior housing under construction

The Center on Halsted

A map of the neighborhood

After leaving the Center, we drove to Oak Park to tour the Unity Temple, a wonderful Unitarian Church designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.  Guess what was on the sign outside? And at the church across the street?  If this simple symbol can be used announce to all that LGBT are welcome there, why not use it to welcome us to a senior housing community?