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Bridging Ethnic Divides (1 of 2)
St. Kevin's Church

St. Kevin's Church in South Deering is one of several places in the region that bridges ethnic divides. It serves a much larger role in the community than just a parish. It's also a historical community icon where you can find residents of many backgrounds from South Deering, South Chicago, the East Side and beyond, within the congregation as well as at other venues held at the church. For example:

• The parish holds culturally meaningful recreation, including Mexican folk dance.
  
• They host St. Kevin's Fest, flyers for which were found at local businesses on the East Side, as well as across the state line in Whiting and Robertsdale.
  
• Many residents who commonly use Calumet Park also go to St. Kevin's Church.
  
• St. Kevin's has an environmentally active priest.
• The culturally diverse parish is located near to significant greenspaces, making it a prime location that could be connected more directly with nearby environmental efforts.
  
• Beat 434 of the Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy (C.A.P.S.) meets at the church.
  • These meetings are well attended by a diverse crowd. Residents have transformed C.A.P.S. meetings into opportunities for community building as well as crime prevention. Residents and local leaders use C.A.P.S. to disseminate information about upcoming events and issues affecting the community. Therefore, topics discussed at a C.A.P.S. meeting are similar to those of any community organization's meetings.
  • South Deering Empowerment Association also meets at St. Kevins. A C.A.P.S. Beat 434 facilitator is also in charge of this organization.

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