About
For over thirty years, the West Loop (WLCO) has been a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization for the West Loop, a lush neighborhood in the heart of Chicago notable for its walkability, vast range of businesses, closeness to downtown, and proximity to the downtown and riverfront area.
Previously a delegate agency, we’ve moved our 2023 focus to Cleanliness, Safety Enhancement and more Community Engagement–still maintaining our relationship with the various city offices. Reach out if you need anything we’re here to help!
We’re a membership association catalyzing local economic development through our member programs and marketing opportunities. We help coordinate public planning, like the Fulton Market Streetscape renovations, as well as cultivate community through hosting small and large events throughout the year. Most notably, we’ve run the Taste of Randolph Street food festival for over 25 years, bringing about 100,000 people to Restaurant Row every Father’s Day and Juneteenth Weekend.
Working with both residents and businesses, we help our members and partners expand their reach while supporting the local neighborhood.
Our dedicated staff provides member businesses and nonprofits valuable assistance with their licensing and permitting needs through the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP). We provide direct lines of communication to other government offices, including the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office (CCSA), the Department of Planning and Development (DPD), our neighborhood 12th District Police precinct, and local ward aldermen, to name a few.
Additionally, our distinguished Board of Directors is comprised of long-time residents, local business owners, and corporate representatives, reflecting the great mix of interests shaping the West Loop today. We’re proud to be a diverse, devoted team of people representing all the neighborhood has to offer. Every day, we advocate for a safer, better West Loop — one that we’re proud to call home.
We'd love to have you come volunteer with us, do some good, and meet your neighbors! Please message us and come say hello. We are connectors in the community that we have lived and worked in and are here to share a wealth of knowledge.