Alicia M Ruiz - 6th Ward Alderman

Alicia M Ruiz - 6th Ward Alderman I am honored to be the 6th Ward Alderman. I am grateful for the support and trust of the community. Alderman Ruiz believes it is important to pay it forward.

Alderman Alicia Maria Ruiz, was born and raised in Little Village as the eldest of 5 children. She currently resides and works in Berwyn as the Principal Owner of AMR Real Estate. Alicia’s proudest accomplishment is being a single mom of 3 adult children and 6 grandchildren. Alderman Ruiz is passionate about her work as a Real Estate Consultant and believes home ownership should be available for

all families. Since being elected as the first Latina Alderman in 2017, Alicia has curated initiatives in the 6th Ward such as the Adelante Award, establishing a Young Latina Day Proclamation, Veterans Outreach Committee, Adopt-A-Block Program, Community Block Party Celebration, Clean-ups and Gardening project, a Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, and an Ad-Hoc Diversity Commission. Now serving in her second term, she is already trailblazing and working on resources to bring to the community on climate change, tenant/landlord topics, and increasing engagement in the community giving everyone a voice to be heard. Alderman Ruiz, continues to serve as the Aldermanic Chair on the Public Works, Parking, Trees, Traffic, Streets & Sewers Committee. She is currently a Graduate Candidate at the University of Chicago at Illinois in Urban Planning and Policy. She demonstrates this by offering her leadership skills in many roles not only in the real estate industry and in her community where she is recognized as a game changing champion. Some of her roles include being the Chair for the Chicago Association of Realtors West Towns Chapter and Foundation Board of Trustees; the President of the Prairie Oak Elementary School PTO; the President of the City of Homes Organization; appointed as a Commissioner on the Zoning Board of Appeals and Historical Preservation commissions; and Honorary Member of the Fig Factor Foundation. She currently volunteers her times to her own initiative the Mary L. Rogers Scholarship which was created to elevate women to go after their dreams and be their authentic selves and a member of the Little Village Rotary Club. Alicia’s passion and commitment to pay it forward and initiate positive change has improved lives for many families in the communities that she continually and tirelessly serves.

Dear Neighbors,As I come to the end of my term as your 6th Ward Alderwoman, I want to extend my heartfelt thank you for ...
05/13/2025

Dear Neighbors,

As I come to the end of my term as your 6th Ward Alderwoman, I want to extend my heartfelt thank you for the honor of serving you these past eight years.

Together, we've faced challenges, celebrated victories, and worked hard to make our ward and our city stronger, safer, and more inclusive. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished—from infrastructure improvements and community programs to advocating for the voices that are too often left unheard.

Serving the 6th Ward has been more than a role—it’s been a privilege and a deep personal commitment to our community. Thank you for your trust, your partnership, and your continued support over the years.

Warmly,
Alicia M. Ruiz
6th Ward Alderman (2017–2025)
Alicia M. Ruiz | AMR Real Estate

Celebrating Women’s HERstory Month with Meaningful Partnerships!Every year, I’m honored to share space with incredible w...
03/27/2025

Celebrating Women’s HERstory Month with Meaningful Partnerships!

Every year, I’m honored to share space with incredible women of all ages and backgrounds—those who are breaking barriers, shattering glass ceilings, and creating new opportunities for others.

Women’s HERstory Month is not just about honoring trailblazers—it’s also about coming together to celebrate and uplift one another exactly where we are.

I was proud to partner with Women in Planning and Development Chicago and the APA-IL Chapter DEI Committee to host Councilperson, Clare Killman, from Carbondale, IL. The conversation left me feeling empowered and even more committed to breaking down barriers so that all women have access to greater opportunities!

One of my biggest joys this month was serving as a panelist for the Morton West High School’s Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica. Connecting with Latinx students who are dedicated to uplifting their peers through leadership, mentorship, and advocacy was truly inspiring.

Our youth are the future, and I’m excited to continue working alongside others to guide and inspire young Latinx students as they embrace their culture, education, and leadership potential.

Together, we can create lasting impact—empowering women and the Latinx community to break barriers and forge their own paths. Let’s keep this momentum going all year long!

Standing Strong for Our Seniors, Veterans, Youth, and Community Engagement!From day one, I’ve been a committed advocate ...
02/21/2025

Standing Strong for Our Seniors, Veterans, Youth, and Community Engagement!

From day one, I’ve been a committed advocate for our Seniors, Veterans, Youth, and Community Engagement because a thriving Berwyn means supporting those who built our community and those shaping its future.

✅ For our seniors– I’ve hosted wellness check-ins, food distributions, and shoveling snow ensuring they have the support and respect they deserve—even during COVID, I made sure no one felt left behind.

✅ For our veterans – I’ve honored their service through hosting events recognizing their heroism, connected them with essential benefits, and supported organizations that conduct the same. In 2022, I championed that every Veteran receive a FREE vehicle sticker, just a small token of gratitude for their service. Their sacrifice deserves more than just words—it deserves action!

✅ For our youth – I’ve championed mentorship programs, job training, and guest speaker forums such as Latina Day Proclamation, 6th Ward Leadership Internship, Teacher for a Day (how to be a community steward), providing masks during the pandemic, and partnering with youth organizations hosting annual beautification projects.

✅ Community Engagement - I love creating space for all to have a voice, share concerns, and to create a connection with their community. I have strived for that year round. In 2022, I initiated the Annual Hispanic Heritage Month Parade and Festival. There is still so much more that can be done to bring more ideas to the table.

I will always be available to listen, support, and advocate for you year-round. Let’s continue building a city where everyone, from our eldest to our youngest, has the resources and opportunities they need.

This has been a rewarding part of my role as Alderperson but LET'S DO MORE!

Leadership means showing up for our community every day. What would you like to see different this year? Drop your comment below, email me at [email protected], or DM your ideas.

BERWYN—WE NEED VISION & INTENT!!In 2020, I proposed we (elected officials) give marching orders to the Berwyn Developmen...
02/17/2025

BERWYN—WE NEED VISION & INTENT!!

In 2020, I proposed we (elected officials) give marching orders to the Berwyn Development Corporation to create an Economic Development Plan for Cermak Road. Unfortunately, the plan was immediately shunned and stricken down during council. Nevertheless, I perceived to bring a vision to revitalize Cermak Road.

Did you know that Cermak Road is our most traveled corridor? According to the Illinois Department of Transportation https://www.gettingaroundillinois.com/Traffic%20Counts/index.html, between 30,000 and 33,000 drivers pass through Berwyn every single day. Can you imagine if 1% of those drivers spent their money in our community, what that could do for our finances?

Berwyn, we’re missing the mark when it comes to our commercial corridors. We don’t have a strategic plan. We aren’t intentional about the businesses our community truly needs and wants.

We have the potential to create bustling corridors like Oak Park’s Lake Street or LaGrange’s Downtown—but it takes leadership, vision, and action.

In 2023, I initiated a partnership with UIC’s College of Urban Planning and Policy to explore for a Cermak Road revitalization plan.

I have already begun the planning, let's finish it together! A plan was presented to myself, State Rep. Abdelnasser Rashid, and State Senator Mike Porfirio to kickstart this vision. I want to continue to build on that momentum and create a Berwyn that works for everyone!

Berwyn, it’s time to think bigger, plan smarter, and act with purpose. Let’s create a city that thrives—not just survives.
You can view the entire plan at https://drive.google.com/file/d/1eapwYkpcl52hmXjGLhYchZl-MWZ3r6ii/view?usp=share_link

Hello CommUNITY,  As you may already know, there is a water main break on 2100 & Scoville.  Public Works is on site and ...
01/14/2025

Hello CommUNITY,

As you may already know, there is a water main break on 2100 & Scoville. Public Works is on site and hope to have it repaired by the end of day today. If you need any assistance during this time please contact me directly at 708.749.6406 or [email protected]. Please share this information with those that may be digitally disconnected.

Hola COMUNIDAD,

Como ya sabrás, hay una rotura de la tubería de agua en 2100 y Scoville. Public Works está en el sitio y espera tenerlo reparado para el final del día de hoy. Si necesita ayuda durante este tiempo, póngase en contacto conmigo directamente en el 708.749.6406 o [email protected]. Por favor, comparte esta información con aquellos que puedan estar desconectados digitalmente.

12/31/2024

Thank You, 6th Ward and Berwyn!

As 2024 comes to a close, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you. This year has been an incredible journey filled with progress, collaboration, and the unmistakable spirit of our community coming together to make the 6th Ward and Berwyn stronger than ever.

From the successful initiatives we’ve tackled together to the small, everyday acts of kindness that remind me why I’m proud to serve as your alderman, I am truly inspired by your dedication and support.

Looking ahead to 2025, I’m excited to keep building on our momentum. Let’s continue working together to create a brighter, more inclusive future for all who call Berwyn home.

Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful New Year filled with health, happiness, and success. Here’s to making 2025 even more remarkable!

Your 6th Ward Alderman
Alderman Alicia Maria Ruiz

¡Gracias, 6th Distrito y Berwyn!

A medida que el 2024 llega a su fin, quiero tomarme un momento para expresar mi más sincera gratitud a todos y cada uno de ustedes. Este año ha sido un viaje increíble lleno de progreso, colaboración y el espíritu inconfundible de nuestra comunidad uniendo para hacer que 6th Ward y Berwyn sean más fuertes que nunca.

Desde las iniciativas exitosas que hemos abordado juntos hasta los pequeños actos cotidianos de bondad que me recuerdan por qué estoy orgulloso de servir como su concejo, estoy realmente inspirado por su dedicación y apoyo.

De cara al 2025, estoy emocionado de seguir construyendo sobre nuestro impulso. Sigamos trabajando juntos para crear un futuro más brillante e inclusivo para todos los que llaman hogar a Berwyn.

Te deseo a ti y a tus seres queridos un feliz Año Nuevo lleno de salud, felicidad y éxito. ¡Por hacer que 2025 sea aún más notable!

Tu sexto Alderman de Distrito
La conseyal Alicia María Ruiz

#2024 #2025

Merry Christmas CommUNITY!As we gather to celebrate this special season, I want to take a moment to thank you for making...
12/25/2024

Merry Christmas CommUNITY!

As we gather to celebrate this special season, I want to take a moment to thank you for making the 6th Ward such an incredible place to call home. This year has been filled with challenges and triumphs, but through it all, our community has shown strength, compassion, and unity.

Whether it’s the lights twinkling in front of our homes or the joy of this season it reminds me how truly special our neighborhood is.

I’m so grateful for the opportunity to serve you and work together to make our commUNITY even brighter. This Christmas, my wish is for every home to be filled with warmth, laughter, and the love of family and friends.

Thank you for all you do to make our commUNITY stronger.

🎅🏼Wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas🎅🏼

Feliz Navidad ComUNIDAD!

Mientras nos reunimos para celebrar esta temporada especial, quiero tomarme un momento para agradecerle por hacer del 6o Distrito un lugar tan increíble para llamar hogar. Este año ha estado lleno de desafíos y triunfos, pero a través de todo, nuestra comunidad ha mostrado fuerza, compasión y unidad.

Ya sean las luces que brillan frente a nuestras casas o la alegría de esta temporada, me recuerda lo verdaderamente especial que es nuestro vecindario.

Estoy muy agradecido por la oportunidad de servirte y trabajar juntos para hacer que nuestra ComUNIDAD sea aún más brillante. Esta Navidad, mi deseo es que cada hogar esté lleno de calidez, risas y el amor de familiares y amigos.

Gracias por todo lo que haces para fortalecer a nuestra comunidad.

🎅🏼Te deseo a ti y a tu familia una Feliz Navidad🎅🏼

Hello CommUNITY! Exciting Updates for the 6th Ward! Many of you have asked about the vacant grocery store at 16th & Gund...
12/16/2024

Hello CommUNITY! Exciting Updates for the 6th Ward!

Many of you have asked about the vacant grocery store at 16th & Gunderson and the former community center at 16th & Elmwood. I’m thrilled to share some amazing updates following a productive conversation with Berwyn North School District 98 Superintendent Michelle Smith. Big things are coming to 16th Street that will benefit our youth and the entire 6th Ward!

Here’s what to look forward to in 2025:

Former Grocery Store – Transforming into a Youth Center
*Survey Coming Soon: Parents of D98 students, keep an eye out for a survey about expanding the building into the westside parking lot. Your input matters!

*Demolition: Scheduled to start August–September 2025
*Proposed Features:
- Open space design for physical activities (PreK–12th grade)
- E-Gaming Zone: 40-seat setup
- Parent lounge with TV and seating
- Air hockey, pinball, Pac-Man, and more retro games
- Potential mini indoor golf course
- Supervised staff onsite
- Evening and weekend hours
- Small maintenance fee possible

Former Community Center – A Culinary & Creative Hub
*Youth Culinary Space: Offering after-school cooking classes for 3rd–8th graders
*D98 Meal Prep Kitchen: Serving breakfast and lunch for students
*Elevator Update: Construction back on track with approval secured for elevator
*Opening Date: Targeting February–March 2025
*Additional Features: student silk-screening center in the basement

These projects are about creating opportunities, fun, and a sense of community for OUR youth and families. Let’s make this vision a reality together! I am grateful that the input provided at our meetings in 2023 led to such great opportunities.

Stay tuned for updates, and don’t forget to participate in the parent survey. Your voice will shape the future of 16th Street!

¡Hola ComUNIDAD! ¡Actualizaciones emocionantes para el distrito 6!

Muchos de ustedes han preguntado sobre la tienda de comestibles vacía en 16th & Gunderson y el antiguo centro comunitario en 16th & Elmwood. Estoy encantada de compartir algunas novedades increíbles después de una conversación productiva con la superintendente del Distrito Escolar 98 de Berwyn North, Michelle Smith. ¡Se avecinan grandes novedades en 16th Street que beneficiarán a nuestros jóvenes y a todo el 6th Ward!

Esto es lo que podemos esperar en 2025:

Antigua tienda de comestibles: se transforma en un centro juvenil *Encuesta próximamente: Padres de estudiantes del Distrito 98, estén atentos a una encuesta sobre la ampliación del edificio al estacionamiento del lado oeste. ¡Su opinión es importante!

*Demolición: programada para comenzar entre agosto y septiembre de 2025
*Características propuestas:
- Diseño de espacios abiertos para actividades físicas (desde preescolar hasta el grado 12)
- Zona de juegos electrónicos: configuración de 40 asientos
- Sala de estar para padres con TV y asientos.
- Air hockey, pinball, Pac-Man y más juegos retro.
-Potencial para mini campo de golf cubierto
- Personal supervisado en el lugar
- Horario de tarde y fin de semana.
- Posibilidad de una pequeña cuota de mantenimiento

Antiguo centro comunitario: un centro culinario y creativo *Espacio culinario para jóvenes: ofrece clases de cocina después de la escuela para estudiantes de 3.º a 8.º grado
*Cocina de preparación de comidas D98: sirve desayuno y almuerzo para estudiantes
*Actualización del ascensor: la construcción está en marcha nuevamente con la aprobación asegurada para el ascensor *Fecha de apertura: prevista para febrero-marzo de 2025 *Características adicionales: centro de serigrafía para estudiantes en el sótano

Estos proyectos tienen como objetivo crear oportunidades, diversión y un sentido de comunidad para NUESTROS jóvenes y familias. ¡Hagamos realidad esta visión juntos! Estoy agradecido de que los aportes brindados en nuestra reunión de 2023 hayan dado lugar a oportunidades tan excelentes.

Manténgase atento a las novedades y no olvide participar en la encuesta para padres. ¡Su voz dará forma al futuro de la Calle 16!

Hello CommUNITY - ICYMI - There is a water main break on the 1900 block of Gunderson.  Public Works is on site and hope ...
12/11/2024

Hello CommUNITY - ICYMI - There is a water main break on the 1900 block of Gunderson. Public Works is on site and hope to have it repaired by the end of day today. If you need any assistance during this time please contact me directly at 708.749.6406 or [email protected]. Please share this information with those that may be digitally disconnected.

Hola CommUNITY - ICYMI - Aquí hay una rotura de la tubería de agua en el bloque 1900 de Gunderson.. Obras Públicas está en el sitio y esperamos tenerlo reparado para el final del día de hoy. Si necesita ayuda durante este tiempo, póngase en contacto conmigo directamente en el 708.749.6406 o [email protected]. Por favor, comparta esta información con aquellos que puedan estar desconectados digitalmente.

Thank you CommUNITY! What a Wonderful Turnout!                    🎄What an Amazing Event!🎄  Thank you to everyone who jo...
12/10/2024

Thank you CommUNITY! What a Wonderful Turnout!
🎄What an Amazing Event!🎄

Thank you to everyone who joined us for our 3rd Annual End-of-Year Meeting and Christmas Event! The turnout was incredible, and it was heartwarming to see so many neighbors come together to celebrate our community and reflect on the year we’ve shared.

We accomplished so much this year, and it wouldn’t have been possible without your support, input, and enthusiasm. It was a joy to end the year with festive cheer, delicious treats, and meaningful conversations about the future of our ward.

Here’s to even more progress, connection, and celebration in 2025! Wishing you all a safe and joyful holiday season!

A special THANK YOU to Michael Hagedorn and his students (3rd Grade Prairie Oak School) for an amazing performance that had us all in the holiday spirit. Last but not least our special guest from the North Pole, Santa and Mrs. Claus! I would be remised if I did not thank the small businesses who were instrumental in making this event successful. See you all in 2025!

MediaNoche Berwyn Cafe
Striker Lanes Inc
The Local Flour Stand Cafe
Tugboats Catering
Berwyn Slice Factory

¡Gracias COMUNIDAD! ¡Qué maravillosa asiso!
🎄¡Qué evento tan increíble! 🎄

¡Gracias a todos los que se unieron a nosotros para nuestra reunión de fin de año y evento de Navidad! La participación fue increíble, y fue reconfortante ver a tantos vecinos reunirse para celebrar a nuestra comunidad y reflexionar sobre el año que hemos compartido.

Hemos logrado mucho este año, y no habría sido posible sin su apoyo, aportación y entusiasmo. Fue una alegría terminar el año con alegría festiva, deliciosas golosinas y conversaciones significativas sobre el futuro de nuestro barrio.

¡Por aún más progreso, conexión y celebración en 2025! ¡Deseando a todos una temporada de vacaciones segura y alegre!

Un AGRADECIMIENTO especial a Michael Hagedorn y sus estudiantes (3er grado Prairie Oak School) por una actuación increíble que nos tuvo a todos en el espíritu navideño. ¡Por último, pero no menos importante, nuestro invitado especial del Polo Norte, Santa y la Sra. Claus! Estaría decepcionado si no agradeciera a las pequeñas empresas que fueron fundamentales para que este evento fuera un éxito. ¡Nos vemos en 2025!

MediaNoche Berwyn Cafe
Striker Lanes Inc
The Local Flour Stand Cafe
Tugboat Catering
Berwyn Slice Factory

Address

6700 W 26th Street
Berwyn, IL
60402

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