Learn to Skate, Synchro and Freestyle at Carlson Ice Arena

Rockford 815 Day celebrates what makes our city unique and this August 15 is the day to experience it all. Every year, local businesses, parks, museums, and community groups come together to host events, specials, and experiences across the city. Here is your guide to celebrating Rockford pride.What Is Rockford 815 DayRockford Day, long embraced as 815 Day, is more than just an anniversary. It is a community movement showcasing local businesses, hometown heroes, and the spirit that makes Rockford special. From sidewalk sales to art exhibits, live music to outdoor festivals, the city comes alive with pride and participation.Event Highlights and LocationsHere are some of the places you can check out during 815 Day this year:Anderson Japanese GardensNicholas Conservatory and GardensDiscovery Center MuseumRockford Art MuseumBurpee Museum of Natural HistoryMidway Village MuseumKlehm Arboretum and Botanic GardenSeverson Dells Nature CenterEdgebrook Shopping CenterRockford City MarketRockford Public Library Downtown BranchSinnissippi Gardens and LagoonRiver District Downtown RockfordLocal participating restaurants and coffee shopsNeighborhood festivals and block partiesHow to Get InvolvedSubmit an event or special if you are a local business or organizationShare your story on social media with hashtags like #RockfordDay2025 or #815Day2025Attend as many events as possible to show support and enjoy the full community experienceWhy It MattersRockford 815 Day is about more than our area code. It is about celebrating small business resilience, civic connection, creative culture, and the people who make our neighborhoods stronger. Each event is a chance to support shops, nonprofits, artists, and makers who keep our community thriving.Save the DateMark your calendar for Thursday, August 15, and plan a full day of exploring, connecting, and celebrating Rockford. Whether you are new to the city or have lived here your whole life, 815 Day is the perfect time to be reminded of everything that makes this place one of a kind.To find all the events in one place, Click HereGO LOCAL AND STAY IN THE BUZZ

Rockford’s local business scene is bursting with energy. From creative makers turning small batches into big dreams to bold food entrepreneurs redefining local flavor, our city is proving that independent businesses are the heartbeat of community pride.Local makers are treating garages, kitchens, and city markets as incubators for serious craft and creativity. Think hand-dipped candles, artisan leather goods, homemade granola blends, unique art prints, and locally roasted coffee. Each item carries a story, often one of passion, persistence, and hometown hope.At the Rockford City Market, the maker movement comes alive. Booth after booth of small batch delights, vegan soaps, organic treats, handcrafted pottery, and wearable art. The vibe is electric and welcoming. Talking to vendors, you will hear stories of side hustles turned full-time endeavors. You are not just buying a product. You are investing in someone’s journey.And the impact ripples outward. Local sales stay in Rockford. They support families, finance small expansions, fund creative efforts, and strengthen neighborhood vibrancy. Many makers collaborate, hosting pop-ups in local cafés, partnering on community events, or combining efforts for seasonal markets and fundraising projects.Community makerspaces and workshops also provide tools and mentorship, giving people who never thought they could make the chance to learn, explore, and grow. That connection to craft builds confidence and injects energy into the local economy.When Rockford residents shop local, they do more than buy something unique. They fuel a culture that values authenticity, local ownership, and creative spirit.So next time you are looking for something special, whether it is a gift, decor, or just a sugar fix, hit up a local market. Support Rockford makers. Every purchase is a vote for community creativity.GO LOCAL AND STAY IN THE BUZZ

Rockford might not always make the national food headlines, but spend one day here and you’ll taste exactly why it should. Our city is packed with homegrown flavor, legendary bites, and hidden gems you won’t find anywhere else. And the best part? You can experience it all in just one delicious day.Here’s your all-local, 8-hour food tour through Rockford — no chains, no filler, just pure hometown taste.STOP 1: Breakfast at Meg’s Daily Grind 8:00 AM Start your day right with a cinnamon roll latte and a made-from-scratch breakfast sandwich at Meg’s. Locally owned and community-loved, this cozy café sets the tone for a morning of comfort and caffeine. ☕️ Must try: Cinnamon roll latte + bacon and egg ciabatta 📍1141 N Alpine RdSTOP 2: Morning Snack at Banana Cherry Bakery 9:30 AM Swing by this tiny spot for Mexican pastries that are light, flaky, and unforgettable. From conchas to tres leches, everything is made fresh and filled with love. 🍰 Must try: Guava cream cheese empanada 📍4410 Charles StSTOP 3: Lunch at Bourbon Street Lounge 11:30 AM This West Side favorite brings bold Cajun flavor and Southern comfort to Rockford. Known for crispy catfish, gumbo, and spicy wings, Bourbon Street is the real deal. 🍗 Must try: Cajun catfish platter + cornbread 📍220 E State StSTOP 4: Midday Sweet at Chocolat by Daniel 1:00 PM From hand-crafted truffles to silky mousse cakes, everything at Chocolat by Daniel is made with fine European technique and Rockford pride. A refined way to satisfy your sweet tooth. 🍫 Must try: Dark chocolate raspberry truffle 📍 1710 Rural StSTOP 5: Afternoon Pick-Me-Up at Inzombia Coffee 2:30 PM Time to recharge. Inzombia is a moody, artful café with serious espresso and local art all around. Take a minute here to chill and caffeinate. ☕️ Must try: Dirty chai + almond croissant 📍306 E State StSTOP 6: Dinner at Abreo 4:00 PM End your tour with Rockford’s standout for inventive, upscale dining using local ingredients. Small plates, bold flavors, and a menu that constantly evolves — this is the crown jewel of local cuisine. 🍽️ Must try: Smoked duck tacos + a craft cocktail 📍515 E State StBONUS STOP: Post-Dinner Drink at Social Urban Bar 6:00 PM If you’re not quite ready for the night to end, step next door to Social for a handcrafted cocktail and candlelit vibes. Local spirits and zero pretension. 🍸 Must try: The Garden Gimlet 📍509 E State St8 Hours. 7 Stops. All Rockford. This is how you tour a city through your taste buds. Every stop supports local owners, celebrates creativity, and proves Rockford is a foodie destination in its own right.GO LOCAL AND STAY IN THE BUZZ

There is something quietly powerful happening in Rockford’s schools, youth programs, and community centers. More than ever, young people are stepping up to lead. They are not just attending classes. They are starting organizations, planning neighborhood clean-up efforts, launching podcasts, and speaking out on what truly matters in today’s world.At Auburn High School, Jefferson High School, East High School, and Guilford High School in Rockford, students are taking charge of their futures. They are forming peer support clubs, leading social justice initiatives, and tackling food insecurity through hands-on volunteer work. These teens are not waiting for change to happen. They are making it happen themselves, right now, in ways that some adults still struggle to believe.One shining example of this bold movement is through Rockford’s "Alignment Rockford career academies". Students are gaining hands-on experience in fields like health care, engineering, education, and business. They are exploring real-world opportunities through internships, job shadows, and dual credit courses that let them earn college credit while still in high school. This is not theory. This is real-life practice. And it is preparing them to lead with purpose, grit, and determination.YouthBuild Rockford is another incredible program where young adults are not only learning practical job skills. They are building homes, earning their GEDs, and rewriting their stories. Many come from incredibly challenging backgrounds, stories you would not believe. But through YouthBuild, they find structure, support, and a renewed sense of purpose. Graduates often go on to trade school, college, or full-time employment. They are becoming positive role models, proving every day that where you start does not determine where you finish.But beyond the programs and beyond the awards, the most shocking and impressive thing is the mindset. Rockford’s youth are awake, aware, and engaged. They care deeply about their communities, about equity, about climate change, and about mental health. They are not afraid to ask hard questions. They are not afraid to demand better from those in power.These students are organizing walkouts, hosting open mics, leading peer discussions, and using social media to amplify unheard voices. They understand collaboration. These are not lone voices in the dark. They are creating collectives, partnering with adults who believe in them, and finding strength in unity. It is not always easy. Leadership rarely is. But they are learning, adjusting, and showing up again and again.And here is the part that might surprise you. It is working. From school board meetings to city council chambers, more and more young Rockfordians are showing up to participate in civic life. They are reminding us all that leadership does not have an age requirement. It only requires commitment and courage.The Rockford of tomorrow is being built today. It is being shaped in classrooms, on community stages, and in every small moment where a young person decides to try, to lead, to speak, and to listen. That is not just inspiring. That is the kind of hope that changes everything.GO LOCAL AND STAY IN THE BUZZ

Walk into any local market in Rockford, Illinois, and you will immediately feel it. The hum of creativity, the spark of invention, and the unmistakable drive of people who are building something from scratch. From handmade soaps to locally roasted coffee and custom woodcrafts, Rockford’s small businesses and maker movement are alive, growing, and making a name for themselves across the community.What makes Rockford’s makers so special is not just the incredible talent, it is the heart behind every product. These are not giant corporations. These are your neighbors, your baristas, your old classmates turning dreams into businesses. Whether it is someone selling earrings from their kitchen table or a woodworker running a garage studio, there is a personal story behind every creation. Take a walk through the Rockford City Market during the summer months, and you will see it firsthand. Booth after booth filled with passion projects. New small batch recipes, upcycled fashion, fresh local art prints, it is a celebration of self-starting and sharing. There is a special magic in meeting the person who made the thing you are taking home. You are not just buying a product. You are investing in someone’s dream.The impact goes deeper than just commerce. Rockford’s small businesses and maker community fuel the local economy. When you choose to shop local in Rockford, your dollars stay here. They support families, help pay for dance lessons, contribute to mortgage payments, and keep our neighborhoods vibrant. Makers often partner with other local Rockford businesses too, whether it is sourcing materials, doing pop-ups at local coffee shops, or teaming up for community events and causes. And it is not just products being made. It is a connection. It is creativity. It is confidence. Rockford makerspaces and community workshops are opening doors for people of all ages to access tools, mentorship, and encouragement. It is proof that when you give people the space and support to create, they will rise. They will experiment, fail, grow, and keep going. The Rockford maker movement is more than a passing trend. It is a sign that our city is filled with builders, not just of things but of hope and resilience. These are the people who do not wait for opportunities to come to them. They make their own.So next time you are shopping for a gift, redecorating a room, or looking for something unique, skip the big box stores. Shop local in Rockford. Support a maker. Remember, every handmade item has a heartbeat behind it.GO LOCAL AND STAY IN THE BUZZ

In the heart of Rockford, the local newspaper has long been more than just printed words; it has been a mirror, a megaphone, and a map for the community. For over a century, newspapers in Rockford Illinois, have captured the triumphs and trials of the people who call this city home. From headlines of industrial boom to civil rights marches, from snowstorm updates to high school football victories, the press has stitched together the very fabric of Rockford’s public memory.When we think of the history of newspapers one person comes to mind, and that's Kevin Haas. It was an amazing moment to get to question Kevin on the history. First reason is it's a turntable moment as Kevin has done tons of interviews on me, secondly, he knows this better than most. Born into the newsroom, Kevin’s father was a longtime editor at the Rockford Register Star. Kevin himself grew up delivering papers, then became a copy clerk, a job that no longer exists in today’s digital world. Back then, he would dash around the newsroom, typing up press releases and running courthouse records back to reporters. It was hands-on, ink-stained work. Over time, he climbed the ladder from reporter to editor, then senior editor, and now leads news coverage at The Current.Kevin’s story is rooted in legacy, but it also speaks to the shifting landscape of journalism.As print editions have shrunk and local staff cuts have hit newsrooms hard, Kevin reflects on what’s at stake, “The scary thing is we wouldn’t even realize what we’ve lost. We don’t know what we don’t know. If there aren’t enough reporters out there, stories just don’t get discovered.”He’s right. Local journalism is a cornerstone of accountability and connection. When reporters are out in neighborhoods, sitting in council meetings, and talking to everyday citizens, they’re not just reporting, they’re building bridges. Without them, gaps in knowledge widen, misinformation spreads, and communities are left unheard.Rockford’s newspaper history traces back to titles like the Morning Star and the Daily Register, which eventually merged to form the Rockford Register Star. Over time, the paper changed ownership and adapted to survive. Today, the Register Star is owned by Gannett Co., Inc., which operates USA Today and numerous other local newspapers across the country.And yet, journalism in Rockford is still deeply local. Writers like Kevin are focused on covering what matters here, not just national headlines, but what’s happening on your block, in your schools, at your city hall. That mission is more urgent than ever.Online media has added a new chapter to this story. It’s difficult to pinpoint when Rockford’s shift to digital began, but key milestones include:The Rockford Public Library’s digitization of historical newspapers, including archives from the Register Star, The Crusader, and The Labor News, dating back to the 19th centuryThe Midway Village Museum’s online collection of historical photographs and documentsLocal newspapers like the Register Star launching digital subscriptions and searchable archives, with coverage going back to 1999New platforms like The Current emerging to offer fast, mobile-first reportingThis evolution speaks to the resilience and reinvention of local journalism. While the printing press might be quieter than it used to be, the mission hasn’t faded. If anything, it’s louder. More immediate. More personal.As Logan put it, local news keeps you informed and grounded. It is rooted in the place you live, made by and for the community it serves. Without it, we risk trading trusted storytelling for filtered algorithms, letting Google decide what’s worthy and what’s not. And as the joke goes, if you want to hide something, just bury it on page three of a Google search.Looking ahead, Rockford’s news scene will continue to evolve, but its purpose will stay the same: to inform, to connect, and to hold space for every voice. Whether it’s delivered in ink or pixels, the real story is still Rockford itself, and we’re all part of writing the next chapter.GO LOCAL AND STAY IN THE BUZZ

When Stacey Wright joined the YWCA Northwestern Illinois, it wasn’t just about finding a job, it was about aligning her passion with a mission that truly matters. Eliminating racism, empowering women is more than a slogan at the YWCA. It’s a foundation for transformation. It’s what pulled Stacey in, and what drives programs like the YW Tech Lab forward.The YW Tech Lab is more than a classroom. It’s a launchpad for people looking to break into the ever-growing field of IT, particularly in support and help desk roles. The cornerstone of the program is its IT Support Specialist track, a 16-week course that blends technical training with hands-on life and career development. Think of it as a toolkit, one packed with Google IT Support and CompTIA A+ certification prep, but also confidence, communication skills, and community connections.This program is especially impactful for people of color, women, and anyone who has faced financial or systemic barriers. It meets folks where they are and helps them rise, not just to get a job, but to find pride, purpose, and potential.Participants receive weekly stipends, but only if they show up, on time, every day. It’s a system that mirrors the expectations of a real workplace, and Stacey makes no apologies for its structure. We operate as if we're their employer, she explained. If you're late, your stipend is gone for the week. That teaches accountability.But accountability doesn’t come without compassion. If a participant’s bus breaks down or a babysitter falls through, the staff at YWCA expects a text or a call, just like any job would. Life happens, but communication is key. We’re not heartless, Stacey said. We just want to prepare them to meet real-world expectations.Participants also receive assistance with transportation like bus passes and help completing applications for childcare assistance, recognizing the real-world barriers many face just trying to show up.Soft skills get just as much attention. There’s 80 hours dedicated to things like resume building, mock interviews, conflict resolution, and professionalism. We want them to be the full employee package, Stacey said. Not just know IT, but know how to carry themselves and communicate clearly.After completing the 16-week course, students are placed in a four-week paid internship with one of several local partners, including Rockford Public Schools, Winnebago County, Aqua Aerobic, Rockford Ball Screw, Rockford IT, and SupplyCore. For some, that internship can extend another 14 weeks through the Workforce Connection’s WEX program. This isn’t just about giving people a certificate, it’s about giving them a real shot at lasting employment.Support continues long after the program ends. The YW Tech Lab offers job coaching for up to a year afterward. We don’t want to abandon them, Stacey said. We want them to land that job and keep growing.This program was built for those who need a hand up, not a handout. It’s designed to lift up people who may have been told they weren’t enough or didn’t belong in tech. It’s structured, yes, but it’s filled with heart. A lot of young people have never had structure like this, Stacey said. But once they get used to it, it sets them apart.This isn’t just a class, it’s a new way of life. And the goal isn’t just employment, it’s empowerment, for families, for futures, for Rockford.The YWCA Northwestern Illinois has its own powerful story. Founded in Rockford in 1891, it has a strong, proud history and a rich tradition of providing progressive services to individuals and families in the region. Its mission is clear: eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.YWCA continuously adjusts to the emerging needs of the six counties it serves: Boone, Jo Daviess, McHenry, Ogle, Stephenson, and Winnebago. It provides a holistic approach for each client or participant and believes strongly that the success of many of its programs is the ability to offer one-on-one case management to clients and connect them directly to the services they need.All staff in the organization receive implicit bias and cultural competency, and racial justice trainings. All have a deeper understanding of the many cultures that exist, beyond race and ethnicity.The next cohort begins July 21, 2025. Classes run weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the YWCA on East State Street in Rockford. Interested individuals should reach out to Stacey Wright at 815-968-9681, ext. 262 or email StaceyW@ywcanwil.org. Registration closes July 11, and space is limited.For anyone seeking a fresh start, a career change, or just a path forward with more stability and support, this might just be your moment.GO LOCAL AND STAY IN THE BUZZ

Rockford isn’t just made up of streets and neighborhoods, it’s made up of memories, milestones, and moments that often begin in our high schools. Whether you're a proud alum, a current student, or a parent checking out the options, there's something special about the halls that helped shape who we are. Let’s take a walk through Rockford’s high schools and see what makes each one unique.Auburn High School: Home of the Knights, Auburn is known for its strong focus on the arts and academics. Their CAPA (Creative and Performing Arts) program is one of the crown jewels of the Rockford Public Schools system, attracting students who want to shine in theatre, music, dance, and visual arts. Their music and theatre programs are top tier, and if you've ever caught one of their performances, you know the talent runs deep. Auburn also instills leadership and discipline in students through the ROTC Program, go Drill team!!East High School: You’ll find Red and Black pride at East High, home of the E Rabs. With a diverse student body and a growing emphasis on career pathways, East has built up its Career and Technical Education (CTE) offerings, perfect for students looking to gain real-world skills while still in high school. Their sports programs, especially basketball, are well known, and community support for the E Rabs runs strong. #IraMathews Guilford High School: Viking pride lives at Guilford. Known for its balance between academics, athletics, and arts, Guilford continues to evolve with programs in engineering, health sciences, and more. Their strong alumni network means you’re never far from someone who’s walked those same halls, and we mean strong NETWORK!!!!Jefferson High School: Jefferson is where J Hawk pride soars. A school with a strong sense of community, Jefferson emphasizes equity and inclusion, making it a welcoming environment for all students. Their arts programs, particularly visual arts, stand out along with their strong athletic programs, especially in basketball and bowling. Plus, they have an amazing boys' volleyball team and library!Roosevelt Community Education Center: For students needing a more personalized or alternative approach to education, Roosevelt offers flexibility and support. It’s a second chance for many students, and the staff’s dedication to helping each student succeed creates an atmosphere of respect and empowerment. While Roosevelt does not follow the Academy model like the other public high schools, its mission is no less impactful, offering individualized learning environments tailored to each student’s needs.The Academy Model: Preparing Students for Real Life: One of the most exciting elements of Rockford Public Schools is the Academy model, which is used in all high schools except Roosevelt. Each high school offers career-focused pathways that begin in a student’s sophomore year and include three-course sequences. These programs connect students with local businesses and professionals, giving them hands-on experience while learning core subjects like math, English, and science. Students can even earn dual credit or industry certifications. It’s not just about getting a diploma—it’s about preparing for life after graduation in a way that feels relevant and meaningful.Honoring the Legacy: Maybe you remember your Friday night football games, homecoming week, or that one teacher who believed in you when you didn’t believe in yourself. Maybe you met your best friend, or even your spouse, on one of these campuses. Rockford’s high schools are more than just institutions; they’re where our stories began.Still Part of the Story: Even if you haven’t walked through those doors in years, your school is still shaping lives, creating futures, and building community. And if you're new to Rockford or looking ahead for your kids, just know, there’s a lot of heart behind these walls.No matter where you went, one thing’s for sure: high school in Rockford leaves a mark.GO LOCAL & STAY IN THE BUZZ

Rockford’s nickname isn’t just for show—The Forest City truly lives up to the name. With thousands of acres of parks, gardens, and preserves across Rockford, Loves Park, and Machesney Park, our local green spaces are more than beautiful backdrops—they're where memories are made.Whether you’re chasing silence or adventure, here’s a handpicked guide to standout parks that’ll bring joy, reflection, and that deep breath of fresh air we all need.🌿 Anderson Japanese GardensA place of calm, connection, and curated beauty. Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford feels like stepping into a living painting. With koi ponds, waterfalls, and winding paths, it’s the kind of space that slows you down in the best way. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch a summer music night under the stars—it’s unforgettable.🌲 Klehm Arboretum & Botanic GardenIn every season, Klehm stuns. 155 acres of cultivated gardens, natural woodlands, and themed areas like the prehistoric garden and butterfly haven. Walk the trails, find your favorite tree, or bring the kids for creek splashing and nature adventures. It’s science, peace, and play rolled into one.🌸 Sinnissippi Park & Rose GardenRight along the Rock River, Sinnissippi Park is one of the city’s oldest and most beloved parks. Grab a blanket and a book, stroll the stunning rose garden, or head over for Music in the Park concerts at the band shell. There’s a reason generations have grown up here—it’s timeless.🌎 Keeling-Puri Peace PlazaIt’s not your typical park, but the message hits home. This contemplative green space in Loves Park celebrates unity, diversity, and peaceful living with sculptures and global flags. Sometimes the quietest spaces say the most.🏞️ Rock Cut State ParkTechnically just a whisper outside Rockford’s borders in Loves Park, Rock Cut is where wild days and quiet nights collide. Kayaking, hiking, biking, camping, horseback riding—you name it. Pierce Lake is the perfect paddling spot, and those sunset views? Postcard-worthy.🐦 Severson Dells Nature CenterTucked away but never forgotten, Severson Dells in Rockford offers forest paths, wildlife sightings, and a nature center that sparks curiosity in kids and adults alike. Great for birdwatchers, nature photographers, or anyone who needs to hear leaves crunching underfoot.🐴 Atwood Park and Nature CenterHome to the Birds of Prey exhibit and mountain biking trails, Atwood in Rockford has that perfect mix of history and adventure. It even has remnants of Camp Grant bunkers if you’re in the mood to explore something a little offbeat.🐾 Searls Park Dog ParkIn the heart of Rockford, this off-leash dog park lets pups run wild while you relax under shade trees. It’s big, it’s friendly, and it’s the kind of place where tails—and friendships—wag freely.🐢 Beattie Park MoundsA quiet, spiritual space in downtown Rockford. Home to Native American effigy mounds shaped like turtles and cones, Beattie Park connects us to ancient history. It's a place for reflection more than recreation, but it holds something powerful.🌱 Blackhawk Springs Forest PreserveLocated in Rockford, this lush preserve is the go-to for those seeking a long walk in nature. Trails wind through prairie and woods, and you might just spot deer, foxes, or soaring hawks on your journey.🌊 Nicholas Conservatory & GardensOn the banks of the Rock River, this indoor garden paradise lets you enjoy tropical plants, fountains, and sunshine—even in the middle of winter. Step outside to explore the Eclipse Lagoon or take a walk on the river path—it’s an all-season escape.Why It MattersParks aren’t just places to visit—they’re places to feel. To breathe, to laugh, to recharge. From spontaneous picnics to long walks and moments of wonder, Rockford area parks have a way of turning ordinary days into unforgettable ones.So whether you're planning your next outdoor adventure or just need a reset, there’s a green corner of Rockford, Loves Park, or Machesney Park waiting for you.GO LOCAL & STAY IN THE BUZZ

In every strong community, there’s a spark, something that keeps people going when the weight gets heavy. In Rockford, that spark is the Rockford Empowerment Center.You may know them from the book bag drives or the Christmas Hope giveaways. Maybe you've danced at one of their monthly block parties or seen them show up with food, supplies, or a simple helping hand. But what you might not know is why they do it, or how deep that commitment runs.Let’s take a closer look at the heart behind the REC.🏡 A Neighborhood First MissionThe Rockford Empowerment Center isn’t just a faith based nonprofit, it’s a lifeline. Their mission is clear and powerful, transforming lives with tangible help and hope.From work to food, health to housing, youth support to spiritual care, REC meets people where they are. There’s no checklist to qualify. If there’s a need, they’ll find a way.They believe that true transformation happens through relationships, not handouts. That means walking alongside neighbors, not just offering support, but building community.🎒 Backpacks, Block Parties, and a Whole Lot of HopeEvery year, REC hosts a massive book bag drive, delivering school supplies to around 2,500 local students because confidence in the classroom starts with the right tools.In the winter, they partner with elementary schools across the city to bring joy through their Christmas Hope program, making sure every child in those schools receives a gift. It’s more than presents, it’s presence.And all year long? Monthly block parties that turn city streets into celebration zones, complete with food, music, and unity. These events don’t just lift spirits, they revive communities.It’s easy to imagine one of those Christmas mornings. A child quietly opening a gift they never expected, holding it close like it means the world. Those small, silent moments, that’s the kind of hope REC gives. Not loud or flashy. Just real.💡 Why They Do It, Hope as a StrategyThe REC doesn’t exist to patch over problems. It exists to build lasting change.Their philosophy is simple but profound: hope reaffirms change. And no one should have to fight for change alone.They work with community partners, residents, volunteers, and organizations, bridging gaps that often leave people feeling forgotten. Whether it’s food insecurity, job access, or emotional support, REC steps into the gap with intention.📍 Where It All StartedBack in 2022, the City of Rockford launched a bold plan to invest in six neighborhoods most affected by crime. Three of those neighborhoods fell within the 13th Ward, and REC knew it was time to act.With a heart rooted in these very streets, REC stepped in with a vision:Build safe, supportive environmentsConnect residents to the services they need to thriveToday, that vision continues. They’re working toward a permanent building in one of these underserved neighborhoods, a place where consistency, community, and care come together daily.🌱 The Bigger Picture, Empowering the EmpowerersREC doesn’t just help individuals, they’re building a model. One that can uplift organizations, too.Their goal? To develop systems that guide and empower other local groups on the same mission of hope. Because when one organization succeeds, the whole city rises.💬 Final WordAt the Rockford Empowerment Center, there’s no “us” and “them.” There’s only we. We, the neighbors who care. We are the families who need a little help. We, the changemakers, are building something better. This is Rockford, real, resilient, and rising. And with the REC in our corner, the future looks a little brighter. If you're wanting to reach out and find out more about REC, or help the link to their website, click HERE!GO LOCAL & STAY IN THE BUZZ