As BAPA celebrates its 75th anniversary of serving the Beverly/Morgan Park community, we’re reaching out to neighbors to remind them of the vital role they play in keeping our community strong.
BAPA is the community-based civic association that provides programs and initiatives that serve all of our community residents and businesses.
BAPA has been a model for successful community organizations throughout Chicagoland, and, with three quarters of a century of service behind us, we look forward to continuing our legacy of commitment.
We think Beverly/Morgan Park is the best neighborhood in Chicago, and, with your help, we plan to keep it that way.
As a not-for-profit organization, BAPA depends on contributions from neighbors like you. Membership donations and gifts directly fund BAPA’s work connecting our community through events and programs that engage and empower our neighbors, and celebrate and strengthen our neighborhood by:
Fostering a strong community through area partnerships and programs such as working with the Beverly Arts Center to support the Professional ABCs student workshop series, and dozens of local organizations and businesses to create the community’s first Wizarding Weekend in July.
Keeping our community informed about upcoming events, neighbors you should know, what’s happening with local businesses, and how community leaders are making a difference through The Villager, weekly enews, and social media.
Welcoming, engaging, and connecting new neighbors.
Preserving the value of our vintage homes and historic community by partnering with the Ridge Historical Society on initiatives like Save the Pike House, recognizing significant architecture such as this year’s showcase of three generations of Hetherington architects on the Home Tour and in a special exhibit at the RHS.
Supporting local schools and education initiatives through the work of our BAPA School Liaison, Ridge Run training and discounts for school teams, and community service opportunities through the BAPA Teen Corps.
Collaborating on events and promotions that help our local businesses thrive such as the South Side Irish Parade Day Party Packs, Margarita Mile and Sip & Shop.
Partnering with local police and agencies on safety initiatives, including regular features in The Villager that show our 22nd District Police at work in our community, and working with businesses owners on effective crime and safety responses.
Providing sustainable beautification and green initiatives, including the community-wide Spring Clean & Green, Openlands plantings to replace lost trees, Weeding Wednesdays, and litter pick-ups (let us know if you want a litter grabber; they’re just $5).
Presenting popular special events such as the Home Tour, Ridge Run and Memorial Day Parade, Garden Walk, and Porch Concert Series that bring neighbors together to celebrate our community, and attract visitors to experience why we love where we live, and potentially become our new neighbors.
Although 100% of our community residents benefit from BAPA’s initiatives, only about 5% currently contribute financially.
In order to continue offering important community programs and expand to include meaningful new initiatives, BAPA needs your support. Our goal in our 75th anniversary year is to significantly increase membership donations and gifts, assuring that BAPA can continue our commitment to our community.
Giving is Easy
BAPA’s monthly giving option makes it easier than ever to contribute. First time BAPA members who choose to sign up as monthly donors with automatic annual renewal are eligible for free BAPA apparel. Sign up for a $10 a month automatic gift and receive a Love Where You Live t-shirt; sign up for $15 a month and receive a Love Where You Live long-sleeve tee; and sign up for $25 a month and receive a Love Where You Live hoodie.
Regular BAPA membership levels start at $100 a year. Donors giving $500 or more receive two complimentary admissions to all of BAPA’s events. This year, BAPA is also offering a Diamond Anniversary Membership for $750 for persons who would like to give a little more in recognition of BAPA’s 75 years of service.
To become a member at any level, go online to BAPA.org/supportbapa or use the membership envelope that is inserted in certain issues of The Villager. For more information or assistance in becoming a member, call BAPA at 773-233-3100.
