The East and Southeast Regional Alliance, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is working to improve the quality of life across Joliet’s East and Southeast sides by addressing gaps in resources, supporting responsible development, and investing in the community.
Founded in 2013 under the umbrella of Unity Community Development Corporation, the East and Southeast Regional Alliance (ESRA) was created to restore a voice for residents after the Joliet Neighborhood Council became inactive. The organization continues to serve as a consistent presence for District 5, representing residents and their interests.
Vice President Minister Dr. Mary White said the organization’s mission is to improve personal safety, increase property values, strengthen education outcomes, and bring high-quality businesses to the East and Southeast community, while developing programs for youth and adults that enhance overall quality of life.
“We want to nurture and develop strong positive relationships with our neighbors, community, local businesses, the city, the county, and the government,” said Dr. Mary White.
That mission is reflected in the work ESRA continues to carry out across District 5. The organization hosts annual neighborhood clean-ups, recognizes residents and local businesses through its Good Neighbor Awards, and provides scholarships to graduating seniors at Joliet Central High School. Currently, ESRA awards five $200 scholarships, with plans to increase both the number of recipients and the amount of scholarships in the future.
ESRA’s commitment has also led the organization to step in on development decisions impacting residents. ESRA President Betsy Sacher said the organization remains focused on ensuring new developments benefit residents.
“We will always step in to ask how projects will benefit our neighborhood and residents,” said ESRA President Betsy Sacher.
The East and Southeast Regional Alliance has pushed back against plans to convert the former Joliet Beach Club site on Rowell Avenue into a truck repair facility, citing concerns about increased truck traffic near schools. Instead, ESRA continues to push for transforming the area into a family-friendly recreational space where residents can fish, picnic, and spend time outdoors.
“We want to bring life into the neighborhood instead of negatively affecting the lives of the residents,” said Sacher.
ESRA has also played a visible role during the transition of water and sewer services from the Southeast Joliet Sanitary District to the City of Joliet, working to ensure families in Preston Heights received the same level of service as other parts of the city.
Access to essential resources remains a key focus. The East and Southeast sides of Joliet continue to face limited options when it comes to full-service grocery stores. ESRA has continued to call for solutions that bring those resources closer to the community.
“Everyone knows where our heart is when it comes to having a grocery store on this side of town that serves our diverse community. Our people need access to essential food and household goods. We’re going to keep asking and fighting for a grocery store that serves everyone,” Sacher said.
When looking at potential locations, South Briggs Street stands out as a central point that could serve a large portion of Joliet Township, connecting residents from the east and south sides. A development in that area could provide access to essential food and household items while also creating job opportunities and supporting economic growth within the community.
The East and Southeast sides of Joliet have been without a full-service grocery store since 2017, leaving many residents with limited options. Community members have continued to voice the need for more businesses that directly serve residents, rather than continued industrial expansion.
“We’re fighting to revitalize our community,” Sacher said.
Industrial expansion remains an ongoing concern for residents. In 2022, the Joliet City Council approved the Kingsmen Industrial Park on the site of the former Joliet East High School, despite objections from nearby residents. ESRA continues to call for balanced development while raising concerns about the pace of industrial growth in the area.
Despite ongoing challenges, the organization remains focused on long-term progress, including the need for additional resources, affordable housing, and continued investment in the community.
As part of its effort to expand outreach and connect with residents, ESRA will host its first annual Family Fun Fair on June 20 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the WWHN station grounds, 530 Adella Avenue. The event will feature food, music, and activities for families, along with a “Stamp Into History” presentation highlighting individuals from Joliet who have made a lasting impact. Proceeds will support scholarships and further the organization’s mission.
Through continued advocacy, community engagement, and collaboration with other organizations, ESRA remains committed to strengthening Joliet’s East and Southeast communities.
“We’ll continue to advocate and push for the beautification of our neighborhood,” Sacher said. “We want neighbors to maintain hope and to know that their lives are valuable.”
The East and Southeast Regional Alliance meets every second Tuesday of the month at Nowell Park Recreation Center, 199 Mills Road, at 6:30 p.m.
Vendor opportunities are available for the East and Southeast Regional Alliance’s Family Fun Fair.
Vendor Fee: $50 must bring own tent and setup $75 vendor table setup under main tent.
Sponsorship Levels:
$250
$500
$1,000
$2,000
For more information on how you can support East and Southeast Regional Alliance follow link.
