North Berwyn Park District’s former VFW building to become
The Joseph C. Vallez Activity Center

BERWYN, IL –

On Thursday, March 9, 2023 at the regularly scheduled Board of Commissioner’s Board meeting the North Berwyn Park District Board of Commissioner’s signed into effect a Proclamation renaming the former VFW building located at 1529 Harlem Ave. Berwyn, Il the Joseph C. Vallez Activity Center.

Mr. Vallez has served as the Executive Director of the North Berwyn Park District for 23 years. Mr. Vallez has implemented innovative programs and events during his tenure which include The Best of Berwyn Junior Citizen Recognition Program, the Fiesta Nuestras Raices Back to School Festival, the Corrida del Mariachi 5k, Club 55 Senior group, the 16^th Street Theater, Class Clowns Comedy night and various programming to benefit the citizens of the North Berwyn community.

On May 1, 2019, Mr. Vallez was the recipient of the inaugural Joseph C. Vallez Award; the North Berwyn Park District gives out this award annually to a community member who emulates outstanding service, exceptional leadership, visionary guidance, and dedication in improving the quality of life in the City of Berwyn.

On June 28, 2022, under the leadership of Mr. Vallez, the North Berwyn Park District passed the first referendum in the history of the organization since it’s inception in 1976. This referendum will lead to improvements to the Ann Mackin Park, new programs,upgraded maintenance, enhanced technology, community based marketing, facility upgrades, and facility additions highlighted by the first dedicated SeniorCenter in the City of Berwyn.

Jim Kearns Jr., Board of Commissioners President stated, "I believe that Ann Mackin and Joe Vallez are the pillars of the history of the North Berwyn Park District.  It is only fitting that the Ann Mackin Park / Aquatic Center and the Joseph C. Vallez Activity Center will forever be connected."
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Robert J. Lovero, Mayor of the City of Berwyn stated,  “The North Berwyn Park District and the Cityof Berwyn became community partners under the leadership of Joe Vallez.  It has been an honor to work with Joe Vallez for the 14 years I have served as Mayor of the City of Berwyn.”

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Click here for photos from the event

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