Tu Casa Coming Home: Humboldt Park's First Puerto Rican Community Center in Years Takes Shape on Division Street

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Humboldt Park ·

After more than six years without a dedicated Puerto Rican community center, Humboldt Park is on the cusp of something special. The Tu Casa Project — a visionary new community hub planned for 2626 W. Division St. — is being championed by sisters Michelle and Melissa Gomez, the entrepreneurial duo behind Dynamic Productions, who also organize the beloved annual Puerto Rican Festival and Parade, Sangria Fest, and Chicago Fashion Fest. The center is designed to be a true neighborhood anchor: think senior programming, a barista training program, and a cosmetology school — all under one roof, right in the heart of Paseo Boricua.

With a

5 million fundraising goal and strong backing from the 26th Ward, the project is built on a powerful promise. Alderman Jessie Fuentes has called it an opportunity for Puerto Ricans not just in Humboldt Park, but across the city and state, to have a space to celebrate culture and be in community with one another — a direct response to decades of displacement pressure on the West Side.

And there's even more reason to head outside this spring: starting today, Friday, April 3, the Chicago Park District launches new Friday afternoon and evening programming sessions at the Humboldt Park Fieldhouse, running through early June. Whether you're curious about Tu Casa or just looking to reconnect with neighbors, stop by the fieldhouse and show Humboldt Park some love. Follow updates on the Tu Casa Project through the 26th Ward office at aldermanfuentes.com.

Sources:
1. https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/03/21/first-puerto-rican-community-center-in-6-years-coming-to-humboldt-park/
2. https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/humboldt-alexander-von-park