Graceland West's Eco Committee Is Turning Green Dreams Into Real Results — and the Neighborhood Is Taking Notice

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Graceland West · March 12, 2026

Graceland West has long been known for its lush tree-lined streets and Victorian charm, but a closer look reveals a neighborhood quietly leading the way on urban sustainability — thanks in large part to the GWCA's dedicated Eco Committee. The group has been racking up impressive environmental wins, and 2025's results are hard to ignore.

Perhaps most striking: the GWCA's annual Pumpkin Smash, organized in collaboration with Lake View High School's JROTC and the 47th Ward, composted over 19,000 pounds of pumpkins — a jaw-dropping 40% of the total city-wide composting haul. And the green momentum doesn't stop there. Eco Committee volunteers also collected 216 bags of leaves during the Annual Street Leaf Cleanup, a hands-on effort designed to reduce flooding, improve pedestrian safety, and make winter sidewalk shoveling easier for everyone on the block. At the group's Annual Environmental Meeting, Chicago Bird Alliance's Judy Pollock shared insights on bird-friendly gardening, capping the evening with a community potluck.

Looking ahead, the committee is actively working with elected officials and local partners to explore green alley solutions and broader stormwater management improvements for the neighborhood. Whether you're a lifelong resident or new to Graceland West, now is the perfect time to get involved. Reach out to the GWCA at [email protected] or visit gracelandwest.org to learn how you can plug into one of Chicago's most environmentally active neighborhood organizations.

Sources:
1. http://gracelandwest.org/category/events-announcements/