STRENGTHENING OUR GREENRISE

Spring at ICA GreenRise has been bountiful for strengthening both the physical infrastructure of the building and the culture within.

On April 29th, we were proud to accept a $20,000 grant from Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Inc.(MUFG) to support pre-development expenses for the building. This grant is one of many financial layers needed to support building maintenance, covering both general upkeep and innovative updates to move the building towards our goal to be a net zero building. MUFG sponsored the ICA because of the historic nature of the building as well as the social impact of GreenRise tenants on low- to moderate- income communities.

Within the building, the intentional communities are growing and thriving. After over a year of work, the ICA GreenRise Intentional Community celebrated the completion of the ICA GreenRise Customary. The customary is a written agreement of the norms and expectations for current and future members of the community. Combining logistics and spirit, the customary is a foundational piece for what it means to be a part of the community. Community members celebrated with champagne at the customary signing; every new member will similarly sign the customary at their first community event.

The ICA GreenRise Intentional Community also officially welcomed Stone Soup to the building at their February community dinner. Over 30 members from both communities were in attendance at the meal. The group shared a meal, celebrated momentous occasions, and then engaged in lively discussion about their favorite experiences in Chicago. One seasoned ICA GreenRise member remarked that the Stone Soup members brought a presence unlike any community before in the building, and the possibilities for continuing to build a relationship with them are very exciting. This year will continue to welcome new victories for community life in the GreenRise.