2 Lake Forest Projects Receive ComEd Grants Of Up To $10,000

LAKE FOREST, IL — Two local nonprofits have been awarded up to $10,000 from ComEd as part of the energy company's annual "Green Region" grant program.

The History Center of Lake Forest-Lake Bluff and Lake Forest Open Lands Association are both among 23 winners of grants as part of the program, which is aimed at enhancing green spaces, promoting biodiversity, and bolstering climate resilience, according to company officials.

“We are proud to continue our collaboration with ComEd to drive meaningful environmental improvements in the Chicagoland area,” said Openlands CEO Michael Davidson.

“By focusing on pollinator habitats, tree planting, seed research, and the maintenance of natural areas, we not only enhance public spaces but contribute to biodiversity and resilience against climate change,” Davidson said in a statement.

Melissa Washington, a ComEd senior vice president, said the company was dedicated to increase access to cleaner and more sustainable public spaces.

“By collaborating with Openlands, we’re better able to identify projects that can make the most meaningful impact on local ecosystems while enhancing our quality of life and fostering sustainable practices," Washington said in a statement.

Lake Forest Open Lands Association plans to restore Carroll Meadow, a 15-acre site along the Middlefork of the North Branch of the Chicago River.

This project will include the removal of invasive species, prescribed burns and the planting of native species to support local pollinators and enhance biodiversity.

The History Center of Lake Forest-Lake Bluff will use its grant to install educational signage throughout the historical gardens.

The new signs are set to highlight the importance of land conservation, water mitigation and pollinator support to educate visitors about critical environmental issues.

Related: History Center Breaks Ground on Historic Learning Gardens

Since the Green Region Grant Program's inception in 2012, ComEd and Openlands have invested over $2.3 million in more than 280 projects, benefitting nearly 1.6 million residents throughout northern Illinois.

In another north suburban grant, the Niles Township Government will create a pollinator and rain garden in an underutilized retention area in Skokie, transforming the space into a community hub that supports biodiversity and offers an engaging natural environment for residents.

And in addition to the suburban grantees, four recipients are based in Chicago.

The Academy for Global Citizenship will enhance its urban farm with pollinator gardens and innovative stormwater management systems, while the Young Men’s Educational Network will continue its community garden project by adding a greenhouse and fruit tree orchard.

Another grant will go to restore Jens Jensen Gardens in Eckhart Park in Chicago's Noble Square neighborhood, and the Forest Preserve Foundation will work with the county to plant native seeds and a wild seed garden.