Park Forest Local Briefing for February 7, 2026

Black History Month “Guess Who” challenge at Village Hall

A new Black History Month display at Village Hall is inviting Park Forest residents to match famous Black leaders and changemakers with their photos. Easel boards in the lobby highlight figures from entertainment, politics, sports, civil rights, and the arts.

Residents can pick up a form next to the display, fill in their guesses, and drop entries into a submission box any time during regular business hours. Up to five winners will be chosen at the end of February to receive small prize packages, including gift bags and gift cards, as a thank‑you for taking part.

Library board vacancy: applications due today

The Park Forest Public Library is looking to fill a vacant seat on its Board of Trustees, with the appointment running through the next local election in April 2027. Interested residents are asked to submit an application to the board president at the library, 400 Lakewood Boulevard.

Applications are due today, February 7. The board typically meets at 7:30 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month, and trustees help guide library policy, budgeting, and long‑term planning for services.

Hands‑on art events at the library this afternoon

For residents hoping to get out of the house, the library is hosting two creative programs today. Art Factory, a drop‑in session for kids 13 and under, runs from noon to 12:30 p.m. in the Kids’ Zone and features a simple take‑home art project.

At the same time, adults are invited to the Art Cafe: Felt Hearts workshop from noon to 1:30 p.m. in the Library Commons. Participants can enjoy coffee, tea, and snacks while learning basic hand‑sewing to create small felt heart pillows ahead of Valentine’s Day. Registration is required for the Art Cafe, but walk‑ins are welcome at Art Factory while space allows.

Home repair and accessibility help for eligible homeowners

The village is also promoting Round 2 of its Home Repair and Accessibility Program, which offers forgivable loans to income‑eligible homeowners for critical projects. The program can provide up to $25,000 for roof repairs or replacement and up to $50,000 for accessibility work and broader home rehabilitation.

Run in partnership with the Illinois Housing Development Authority and Rebuilding Together Metro Chicago, the initiative is designed to preserve affordable housing, improve safety, and help older adults and residents with disabilities remain in their homes. Interested homeowners can review eligibility, covered projects, and how to apply through the village’s website.

Sources

• https://www.villageofparkforest.com/m/NewsFlash/Home/Detail/3237
• https://www.pfpl.org/
• https://www.pfpl.org/events
• https://www.villageofparkforest.com/1062/Home-Repair-Accessibility-Program