Calumet City Ald. Monet Wilson Gives Back Beyond her Ward
Calumet City Ald. Monet Wilson Gives Back Beyond her Ward (Calumet City, IL) — Calumet City 2nd Ward Alderwoman Monet Wilson believes that her duties go far beyond serving her ward as their representative on the board. Born and raised on Chicago’s south side, Alderwoman Wilson has had a passion for service her entire life. In addition to her service on the Calumet City-City Council, Wilson also works closely with her husband’s nonprofit organization, Tomorrow’s Youth Foundation, Inc.
Background
Monet Wilson was born to Maureen and George Forté, and lived her youth on Chicago’s south side, residing near Chicago State University and 127th and Brayton with one younger sister. She graduated from Queen of Peace High School, then attended college at UIC and DePaul before earning a degree in Organizational Leadership from Purdue University. She settled in Calumet City after marrying her husband, Courtland Wilson, in 1999. She is the proud mother of two boys.
Before being elected to the part-time position of Alderwoman, Wilson was employed with the Illinois Department of Corrections. There, she was the first African American woman elected as Vice President of the AFSCME Union Local 1753 for the Joliet Treatment Center. Prior to working with IDOC, she was with the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice.
She also worked with Tomorrow’s Youth Foundation as it’s Director of Program Development for 13 years.
2nd Ward Alderwoman
Monet Wilson was elected as 2nd ward alderwoman in 2021. She serves as the chairman of the Health, Education & Welfare Committee, and is a member of the Public Utilities Committee and Ordinances & Resolutions Committee. Her passion for service is what made her run for office in the first place. “I wanted to make a difference where I live. I see these people every day coming out of my house or driving down the street. I felt it in my heart that serving as alderwoman was something that I had to do, for my community.”
As alderwoman, Monet Wilson tries to engage with the community, holding various events to allow residents to get to know her. Earlier this month, she hosted a Back to School Fair, complete with school supplies, book bags, bouncy houses, splash pad, mini golf, and more. She also worked in the city of Chicago to help with a south side back to school event. She feels that working in her community is what her seat is all about. “I just love getting out there and seeing the residents. Talking to residents. Finding out what they need through real human contact is so important.”
In addition to working with parents and the youth, Alderwoman Wilson engages with the seniors in the community as well. “The seniors are the heart and soul of Calumet City,” said Wilson. “Their history, the work they’ve done, it’s all shaped what Calumet City is today. It has made us, the residents, into what we are today. Their insight is extremely important to me in my role as a leader. It’s important to spend time with them so we can understand where we came from and to know where we are going.” Next month, the Alderwoman is hosting the seniors at Harrah’s Casino in Joliet. “They’ll be getting a $5 chip to play with, a lunch buffet, and a bus ride there and back. It’s going to be a great time!” she explained.
The Alderwoman is also going to host a housing seminar in October, as well as a trunk or treat event for Halloween. Residents are encouraged to follow her on Facebook for updates and events by visiting https://www.facebook.com/2ndward4wilson
Tomorrow’s Youth Foundation
For 13 years, Monet Wilson worked as the Director of Program Development for the Tomorrow’s Youth Foundation, Inc (TYF). TYF is a resource throughout Calumet City and the Southland, offering youth and families academic, athletic, and community outreach programs. TYF’s most extensive program is the Calumet City Chargers Youth Cheer & Football Program.
Under the direction of Executive Director, who is also Monet’s husband, Courtland D. Wilson, Tomorrow’s Youth Foundation, Inc. was created to provide and support programs that serve economically disadvantaged youth from birth through college. According to their website, TYF’s vision is to foster our youth into well rounded young men and women to become successful community and neighborhood contributing adults. They address much-needed issues such as mental health, sports and wellness, literacy, and leadership.
In a Nutshell
Alderwoman Monet Wilson is just looking for a way to give back to her community. Her love for children, her community, and service work together to make her a committed representative for Calumet City. “I am so honored to be in this position to serve my community. I am looking forward to the weeks, months, and years to come. I want to see our community grow and thrive. I think that by working together and engaging with one another with positive dialogue, we are destined for great things.
Calumet City Ald. Monet Wilson Gives Back Beyond her Ward
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