Young Leader Advocates for Parks in Logan Square

Ana Alanis with other participants in park planning process

When a new playground was being built at St. Sylvester school last summer, Ana Lus Alanis, a fifth grade student at St. Sylvester, got involved. Ana participated in the design, construction, and ribbon-cutting ceremony, where she served as student spokesperson. Then, Ana considered the lack of places for children to play in her neighborhood. “There has never been anywhere for us to play. All we could do is run. We got tired of running, so we thought it would be nice to have a park”.

That’s when Ana became an advocate for more parks in Logan Square. At a Palmer Square Open Space meeting, Ana fearlessly stood before a room full of adults, including Ald. Colón and presenters from the Chicago Park District, to support the addition of play space in Palmer Square. Then, Ana gathered a group of her schoolmates and brought them to the next open space meeting. Her efforts led to a play space design day for neighborhood kids who insist on being a part of the planning process. We are proud to have Ana as a leader in Logan Square!