Last weekend, multiple Chicago-area senators helped their communities prepare for the end of summer with various events providing their residents with resources and services.

State Senators Ram Villivalam (D-Chicago) and Laura Fine (D-Glenview) hosted a Shred Day event in Skokie on Saturday. The event allowed residents to shred personal documents like old medical records, tax documents, receipts and more to prevent potential identity theft and fraud.

“I was happy to partner with my colleagues in state and local governments to bring shredding services to our community,” Villivalam said. “Safely disposing of sensitive documents is essential to protecting our neighbors from scammers and identity thieves.”

The event was a success, with many residents coming out to shred documents and help protect their identities.

"Many residents in our communities were looking for a safe and secure way to shred and dispose of documents they no longer needed," said Fine. "It was wonderful to partner with Senator Villivalam, a couple of my colleagues in the House of Representatives, and local leaders to provide access to this service."

On Sunday, State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) partnered with the Illinois Institute of Technology, the Institute for Positive Living and other organizations to host the community’s 17^th annual Health and Fitness Fair to prepare students and their families for the return to school. The event featured various free services like health screenings, haircuts and immunizations, as well as back-to-school resources for students. The event had more than 50 vendors—the most in the event’s history.

“It’s been a rough year, and I was happy we were able to have an event that brings people joy and happiness,” Hunter said. “I hope that everyone had a good time, and I can’t wait to do it all again next year.”

Also on Sunday, Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford (D-Chicago) hosted her 12^th Annual Back-to-School Event at the Brookfield Zoo Pavilions. At the event, Pre-K to college-aged students and their families enjoyed free lunch and received backpacks filled with school supplies to help them prepare to head back to school.

“As we continue to fight this pandemic, our families still need fun experiences, especially if they help our students get prepared for the upcoming school year,” Lightford said. “The Uplift Our Future 12th Annual free Back to School Event turned out amazing, and I am thankful for all the sponsors, vendors, volunteers, and families who came out and supported our kids this year.”

It was a busy weekend for the senators as they helped their communities kick off the school year strong.

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