CNE - Childcare Network of Evanston

Father's Day - Race Against Hate is Sunday, followed by a free Summer Kickoff at the Harley-Clarke Mansion, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Harley Clarke Mansion and Friends of Harley Clarke will welcome runners, families, neighbors, and visitors of all kinds for an After-Party of the YWCA Evanston/North Shore Ricky Byrdsong Memorial Race Against Hate, transforming the mansion's lakefront lawn into a community celebration filled with live music, family activities, food, and fun. The event will feature performances by two popular local bands, Canal Jumpers and General Vibes.

The stage is set for fun for all ages! Families with younger kids can enjoy face painting, photo booths, lawn games, and free ice cream for youth race participants. While adults can enjoy complimentary coffee, with food and Harley Clarke Beer also available for purchase.

In observance of Juneteenth, Childcare Network of Evanston (CNE) offices will be closed. This day provides an opportunity for us to reflect on the history and significance of Juneteenth, honor the resilience and contributions of the African American community, and recognize the ongoing importance of equity, inclusion, and freedom for all.

We encourage everyone to take time to learn, reflect, and acknowledge the meaning behind this important day.

CNE offices will resume normal business hours on Monday, June 22, 2026. We appreciate your understanding and wish everyone a meaningful Juneteenth observance.

Get ready to find the most amazing treasures at the 2026 St. John XXIII Parish Rummage Sale!
Saturday, June 20, 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Calling all adults, teens, and families: We need your help!
​If you volunteer for 6 hours or more, you and a guest can shop at the special volunteer pre-sale on Friday, June 19, from 6-8 p.m.!

Celebrate Juneteenth on Friday, June 19 from 12-4 p.m. in a stunning new setting at Arrington Lagoon and the lakefront at Dawes Park.

Experience an afternoon of music, dance, culture and community as we honor the historic significance of Juneteenth and reflect on the ongoing journey toward freedom and equality. Enjoy local food vendors, artisan makers and a full lineup of live entertainment:

🎤 Opening Ceremony & Welcome – 12:20 p.m.
🎶 GreenTTea & The Tempos – 1 p.m.
🎧 DJ Corey Bless – 2:15 p.m.
💃 NAJWA Dance Corps – 2:30 p.m.
🎧 DJ Corey Bless – 3:15 p.m.

📅 Friday, June 19
⏰ 12–4 p.m.
📍 Dawes Park, Arrington Lagoon
💲 Free
Bring your family and friends and celebrate community, culture and freedom along Evanston's beautiful lakefront.

TONIGHT TONIGHT TONIGHT!!!
Main Street, Crawford to Karlov
We're taking Meetup on Main to a whole new level — live music, food, kids activities, community vibes and SO much more. And did we mention it's FREE?
🎶 THREE incredible bands are taking the stage:
- Abdoulaye Conde & Marshall Greenhouse — afro-electronica
- The Long Goodbye — americana / rock
- The Rachel Drew Band — rock / soul
Bring your crew, bring your appetite, and come ready to have a good time.
See you there.
✅ Free & open to all

Nature Tots & Tunes:
Thursday, June 25, 5:00pm–7:00pmPenny Park
Join the Ecology Center, Evanston Public Library, and the Evanston Early Childhood Council at multiple parks throughout the city this summer! Bring a blanket and your favorite snacks, and get ready for a fun and interactive outdoor…

Skokie Juneteenth celebration this Sunday 12 - 4 p.m., Oakton Park

Skokie’s 2026 Juneteenth celebration features activities and performances for all ages at Oakton Park. This year's theme is Lifting As We Climb.
This event is a collaboration of Skokie United, Skokie Park District, Skokie Public Library, Skokie Morton Grove School District 69, and Niles Township High School District 219, and the Village of Skokie.

Evanston Art Center Family Fun Day Sunday:
Join us this Sunday, June 14th for a day full of family fun! Participate in community mural painting with Curatorial Fellow Indira Freitas Johnson, and then come inside to make your very own puppet with Marilyn Price! This is a day you won't want to miss!

ccelerate Your Future: Fast-Track Training for Evanston Residents
Accelerate U at National Louis University is offering Evanston residents or ETHS graduates a fast, affordable path into high-demand healthcare and technology careers. Learners can earn an industry-recognized credential and up to 30 college credits in just 6–7 months while receiving personalized coaching and job placement support. Eligible participants qualify for a $1,500 stipend to help with basic expenses, in addition to financial aid that can cover tuition (60% of participants pay $0 out of pocket to enroll).

Training programs include Medical Assistant, Registered Behavior Technician, IT Support Specialist, Cisco Certified Network Associate, and Tech Sales Professional.

Key Dates to Know For Medical Assistant Training Program

Application Deadline: June 25th, 2026
Orientation: June 30th, 2026