As we begin a new year, a time of revitalization and fresh starts, it provides a valuable opportunity to focus on our community, as well as the institutions and the vital lifelines that unite us. The Forest Park Review, our local community newspaper, published by Growing Community Media (GCM), serves as one of those key lifelines that informs, connects, and engages residents and readers while fostering a shared understanding of the interconnected issues that affect our lives.
GCM is on the cusp of a transformation. The media landscape is evolving, and the nonprofit GCM, through its commitment to high-quality journalism, innovation, and community engagement, has the opportunity to not just adapt but lead the way in reimagining local journalism in West Suburban Cook County. As such, the Forest Park Review, too, is growing into a dynamic space for residents to explore local politics, school news, the latest in our business community, and community events. For over 100 years (108 this January to be exact), the Review has covered elections, school boards, and community life, becoming an indispensable source of information, connectivity, and catalyzing community engagement.
To limit the Review’s output to simply delivering news would be reductive and not fully account for the totality of its impact. The paper cultivates a sense of community ownership and pride by providing an outlet for diverse voices and perspectives, encouraging community residents to share their stories, opinions, and concerns, creating a local conversation that brings us together.
The Review remains a critical local component that embodies GCM’s vision for the future of community journalism, where digital innovation and traditional reporting intersect to create a truly engaging news experience. By embracing new storytelling methods and platforms and community-driven initiatives, the Review can further enhance its standing as an essential resource for Forest Park residents and the wider region.
In a world becoming increasingly saturated with information and noise, the Review’s dedication to local news coverage ensures that our community’s stories remain vibrant and accessible, empowering residents, fostering connections, and shaping a more informed and engaged citizenry. As a nonprofit entity, GCM, and by extension the Review, leverages philanthropic support, both large and small, to fund its operations.
Now is the time to support this vital resource. A few ways to help: donate to GCM, subscribe to the Forest Park Review, engage with its content, and share your own perspectives. And of equal importance, we need you to tell your friends, neighbors, and colleagues. Together, we can ensure that the stories of our community continue to be told with depth, integrity, and passion.
DeRondal Bevly
Forest Park
GCM Development Steering Committee