Mission
Bickerdike Redevelopment Corporation is committed to the redevelopment of Chicago’s north side communities for the benefit of and control by the low and moderate-income families in these areas. We are deeply dedicated to preserving the ethnic and cultural diversity of Chicago’s neighborhoods while improving economic conditions for residents. We carry out our mission by: providing high quality affordable housing, confronting gentrification and displacement, promoting economic development by creating and preserving jobs, and advocating for equitable allocation of resources. In all our endeavors, we are committed to the principles of: honesty, openness, democratic process, education, involvement and empowerment of community residents, self-worth, self-respect, and pride. Collaborating with other organizations and stakeholders who share the vision of the community’s collective struggle to control its own destiny is integral to Bickerdike’s mission.
History
Bickerdike Redevelopment Corporation (Bickerdike) was founded in 1967 by residents of Chicago’s near northwest side and representatives of local community groups who joined forces to fight widespread housing deterioration, abandonment and arson. As factories closed and manufacturing jobs left the area, unemployment soared and some residents fled to the suburbs to pursue jobs. Neighborhoods quickly eroded, threatened by gangs and crime. Alarmed area residents and community organizations came together and formed Bickerdike to reverse the rapid community decline.
Bickerdike was charged in its mission to redevelop West Town, Humboldt Park, Logan Square, and Hermosa communities for the benefit of and control by the lower and moderate-income residents of those areas and began by developing affordable single-family homes. While Bickerdike’s mission has remained largely unchanged over the past 55 years, our work has evolved into a multifaceted approach to community development.