Jasmine Anuntarungsun, a Sociology and Marketing student at Northeastern Illinois University, joined FOTP this spring as a communications intern. Inspired by FOTP’s commitment to equitable, community-centered public spaces, Jasmine supported storytelling, outreach, and community engagement, including a community-centered zine on Chicago’s park investment, Earth Day outreach, and environmental education programs. Read Jasmine’s blog to learn how storytelling and community voices help shape more accessible, equitable public spaces across the city. 

Friends of the Parks (FOTP) is calling on Related Midwest, the City of Chicago, and the State of Illinois to commit $50 million (about .05% of the total development cost) for park benefits and protections as part of the proposed $9 billion redevelopment of the former U.S. Steel South Works site at 8080 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive.  

On December 9th, we hosted our first Winter Social and it was a smashing success! We are grateful to everyone who joined us for such a warm and joyful evening. With over 120 guests in attendance, we were able to enjoy each other’s company, listen to great music, eat good food, raise money for FOTP, and commemorate the 50 years of advocating for our parks. 

Friends of the Parks joined partners, city leaders, and community advocates to celebrate a major victory: the Confined Disposal Facility (CDF) will be transformed into Park #608, fulfilling a decades-old promise for the Southeast Side.

After years of advocacy and a successful lawsuit, the City has committed to capping the toxic site, investing $500,000 in a framework plan, and beginning the process of creating new, equitable lakefront parkland.

FOTP is urging Related Midwest, the City of Chicago, and the State of Illinois to formally adopt the below proposed benefits, in addition to the Community Benefits Agreement developed by the Coalition for a South Works CBA. Read the proposed Southeast Side Benefits & Commitments for more details on the four key asks and add your name to join us in advocating for community investment, environmental protection, and guaranteed public access to the lakefront.

Friends of the Parks is proud to announce a major victory for environmental justice, public health, and the future of Chicago’s parklands.

After years of persistent community advocacy, coalition building, and legal action carried out in partnership with Alliance of the Southeast (ASE) and Environmental Law and Policy Center (ELPC), the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has officially withdrawn their proposal to expand the Confined Disposal Facility (CDF) on Chicago’s Southeast Side.

Brian Gladstein, Executive Director of Friends of the Parks, shares reflections on his first 100 days leading the organization. From major advocacy victories to deepening community partnerships, his early tenure has been marked by growth, listening, and a strong commitment to park equity across Chicago.

Friends of the Parks celebrated its 50th anniversary by honoring the individuals and groups who make Chicago’s parks equitable. On August 2, 2025, we hosted the Park Heroes, where more than 100 people joined us in recognizing outstanding contributions to our park system. We celebrated 11 awardees across various categories—read their bios here.