Wednesday, October 21, 2026 | View in browser
Hello, Fall! 🍂
Crisp autumn air, the sweet scent of apple cider, colorful pumpkins, and little trick-or-treaters filling the sidewalks in their Halloween best - what's not to love about fall? As the leaves change and the season comes alive, it's the perfect time to get outdoors, stay active, and make memories with family and friends. Whether you're enjoying a fall walk, visiting a local fall festival, or cheering on your favorite team, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season right here in our community.
Let's make this fall a fun, active, and healthy one!
Human Services Division
 Happy Public Health Day: October 24
Join the City's Health & Human Services Department on Saturday, Oct. 24, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Robert Crown Community Center to celebrate Public Health Day. We are partnering with Turning Point and their Mobile Living Room to bring health and wellness resources into the community.
Take a moment for yourself this fall. Stop by for a quick self-check-in and connect with mental health professionals, wellness resources, and support services, all in one place.
Ombudsman Unit
 Community Resource Coalition
If you or anyone you know is interested in learning more about caring for those living with disabilities, mental illness, or older individuals, the Community Resources Coalition meeting is a great opportunity to build connections and support your loved ones. Join us on the first Thursday of each month.
View our Community Resources Coalition partner list for more information.
Public Health Division
Communicable Disease Unit
 IDPH Seasonal Respiratory Illness Dashbord Accessed 10/20/26
Respiratory illness season is here
October typically marks the beginning of the next respiratory illness season. Influenza, COVID-19, and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) are considered the "big three" viruses of the season, but thankfully, there are now vaccines to help protect individuals against each of them. The table above highlights the recommendations for specific populations. It's time to talk with your doctor or pharmacist if you haven't been vaccinated for influenza or COVID-19 yet this fall, as these are vaccines that are updated annually to provide a better match to the circulating viruses.
It takes about two weeks for your body to develop protection after vaccination, so it's best to get seasonal vaccinations before the end of October. Additionally, the percentage of positive influenza tests, while still low, has been increasing for several weeks and is higher than it was this time last year, so now is the ideal time!
Curious about what the Illinois Department of Public Health recommends for vaccinations? Find out about the 2026-2027 Respiratory Virus Season recommendations for all ages.
Ongoing Initiative
Get condoms, lubricant, dental dams, STI & HIV risk reduction, and more. Every 2nd Tuesday of the month at the Evanston Public Library from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Workforce Development Unit
 Current Opportunities
EATS2SEATS
Through Northwestern’s Ryan Foundation Workforce Initiative, Eats2Seats (E2S) is partnering with local Evanston organizations to provide flexible, well-paying gig work at the new Ryan Field. This program offers community members secondary income, hands-on hospitality experience, and flexible shift scheduling, all managed seamlessly through a mobile app. Earn up to $160 per event! When you register, be sure to enter referral code HHLGAD.
Automotive Service Technician Apprenticeship
The City's Workforce Development Division, in partnership with City Scala Volkswagen of Evanston, is seeking motivated Evanston residents to participate in a 16-week Automotive Service Technician Apprenticeship.
This paid apprenticeship provides participants with an opportunity to gain hands-on experience and practical knowledge in the automotive service industry while working alongside experienced automotive professionals. Apprentices will be introduced to dealership service operations, vehicle maintenance and repair, workplace safety, customer service, diagnostic procedures, and the day-to-day responsibilities of an automotive service technician.
The apprenticeship is designed to help participants develop industry-relevant skills, strengthen their resumes, and gain valuable experience that can support future employment and career advancement in the automotive industry.
For more information, join the Workforce Development Newsletter or email workforcedevelopment@cityofevanston.org.
Thank you for learning more about us! Don't hesitate to contact any of our divisions.
Have a great day,
City of Evanston Health and Human Services Department
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