12 Ways to Make the River’s Future Brighter in The New Year.

Rebuilding natural systems is a core focus of Friends of the Chicago River.

We have plenty of options for you to delight the friend of the river in your life with the perfect gift that will help make the river healthier and more accessible for people and wildlife.

Any contribution you can make will be meaningful to our mission and vision. The river is healthier today than it was yesterday, and this time next year it will be even healthier thanks to the generosity of supporters like you.

Friends will receive a new $352,500 grant from the Chi-Cal Rivers Fund for a multi-year project near Sauk Lake, which is located on the Thorn Creek tributary of the Little Calumet River.

This worldwide movement recognizes that urban rivers must be places where people can swim, and it promotes a vision that Friends embraced decades ago.

Last week the United States Senate passed the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) Act of 2024, and it’s now urgent that the U.S. House acts quickly to pass the bill before the end of the 118th Congress this month.

The notable leaders list includes 81 public, private, academic, and non-profit professionals throughout the Chicago area.

We are also continuously thankful for the natural beauty of the Chicago-Calumet River system, made more beautiful by the efforts of staff, partners, volunteers, and donors.

Berman Subaru of Chicago will donate $250 to Friends of the Chicago River for any new vehicle purchased or leased through January 2, 2025.