Chatham's ties that bind

An overview of one of the Sixth Ward's neighborhood, Chatham. Read the article but I'll highlight the lowdown here:

Since the 1950s, Chatham has been attracting middle-class families looking for attractive homes, parks and convenient retail in a close-knit community that values civic participation. Home prices offer enough of a range that starter families and established professionals can find what they're looking for.

Upside: This South Side community has an eclectic housing mix, from older bungalows, Tudors, Georgians, Victorians and ranches, to newer town homes and custom-built houses. There are also some apartment buildings. Several parks offer outdoor recreation and South Central Community Services supplies some indoor activities. Mather's--More than a Café provides seniors with computer access and exercise programs and serves breakfast and lunch. The community's Whitney Young Library will likely be rebuilt and expanded in the next few years. The Loop is a convenient drive from Chatham via the Dan Ryan Expressway or by several CTA buses or the Red Line train, which has a stop on 87th Street.

Downside: For decades this was a safe neighborhood, though with recent turnovers in population crime has increased. Indoor recreation and entertainment are scarce, though the Chatham Avalon Park Community Council hopes to fund a community center in the future. Parking is a challenge in the commercial areas, especially along 79th Street. Parts of the retail districts have a gritty, urban feel.

Here's something that I would like to see though...

The Chatham Avalon Park Community Council, a non-profit organization made up of a 15-member volunteer board and multiple block clubs that deal with quality of life issues, is trying to help maintain a safe and healthy community by encouraging families to be involved in civic activities.

"I just think we have to encourage people to give back to the community," said Maryellen Drake, a lifelong resident and executive vice president of the council. "There's no monetary benefit, but the benefit is you get to continue to live in a beautiful community."

The council is also hoping residents and business leaders will help fund construction of a community center at 82nd and King Drive. Such a center would keep youth off the street and offer recreation and classes to residents of all ages.

"It just helps when you have safe zones where the kids can go, in addition to the parks and schools in the area," said Keith Tate, president of the council.

Now see this is a great idea! A community center. Read the whole thing though!