A big city with Midwestern friendliness, Chicago will never cease to surprise you. Chicago has long been a prominent destination for people looking for new opportunities, both from within the United States and abroad. The city exemplifies this history through its 77 distinctive neighborhoods, which are shaped by traditions brought from countries across the globe. Though it has all of the benefits of a major metropolis—an extensive public transit system, phenomenal theaters and museums, beautiful public parks—Chicago's neighborhoods, and the communities built within them, are the heart and soul of the city.

Located in Lake County, with a population of approximately 30,000 residents you’ll find North Chicago. Formerly known as South Waukegan, it wasn't until 1901 that North Chicago received its name. Due to the city’s unique location to Lake Michigan and Chicago, it was the ideal area for manufacturing. From horse collar pads to barbed wires, as the industrial base increased so did the population. With nearby attractions now such as Six Flags, Illinois Beach State Park, and the Chicago Botanic Gardens, there’s plenty to do and see. 

Located in the heart of Northwest Indiana, Gary was founded in 1906 as the site for what was to be the world’s largest steel plant. Gary became home to thousands of steel workers and their families and was a place where many African American families came to find new opportunities during the Great Migration. In the 1960s, like many other industrial urban centers, Gary saw a decline in the steel industry. The city continues to be a major steel producer, and while it still has economic challenges to overcome, the people are deeply invested in bringing a resurgence of business, home ownership, and entrepreneurial pursuits to the community.