Oak Park residents looking to organize their block or strengthen an existing neighborhood group can register through Canopy Connection, a Village-backed program launched in May that offers grant funding, communications support, and direct access to municipal staff.

The program, administered by the Village's Neighborhood Partnerships Division, creates a formal registry for neighborhood groups covering defined geographic areas. Registered groups gain eligibility for annual grants ranging from $750 to $2,500, Village-sponsored mailings to households in their area, and facilitated sessions on local priorities like traffic calming or pedestrian safety.

Three tiers structure the program. Acorn groups (10–20 blocks, or 120–300 households) need at least two leaders from different blocks and engagement from five households per block. They qualify for up to $750 annually. Sapling groups (20–30 blocks) unlock $1,500 grants and a yearly facilitated Neighborhood Engagement Session. Mighty Oak groups (30-plus blocks) can access up to $2,500, with matching funds from the group required for awards exceeding $1,500.

All tiers also qualify for SPARK Grants of up to $3,000 to host community events.

The Village first announced Canopy Connection on May 9, 2026, and accepts applications on a rolling basis after an initial consultation with Neighborhood Partnerships staff. Only one registered group may represent a given geographic area, and registration must be renewed annually.

Residents can learn more at oak-park.us/canopyconnection or contact the Neighborhood Partnerships Division at [email protected] or 708-358-5410.