Favorite Local Aurora Landmark

Aurora is preparing to turn the page on a new chapter of city leadership. In a two-part transition, the official swearing-inof newly elected officials will take place on Friday, May 10, followed by a community-wide inauguration celebrationon Tuesday, May 13 at the Paramount Theatre.This moment signals more than a change in office—it reflects the city’s forward momentum and the renewed energy around civic engagement.The Swearing-In – May 10 (Private)On May 10, in accordance with state law and official timelines, Aurora’s newly elected leaders—including Mayor-elect John Laesch and multiple alderpersons—will be formally sworn into office. This legal transition ensures leadership continuity and begins the clock on their official responsibilities.While this event is not open to the public, it marks the formal start of Aurora’s new administration.The Inauguration – May 13 (Public Event)The public is invited to celebrate Aurora’s new leadership at the community inauguration ceremony on Tuesday, May 13 at 6:30 PM, held at the historic Paramount Theatre. The evening will include student performances, speeches, and a post-ceremony reception where residents can meet and greet elected officials.Who’s being celebrated:Mayor John LaeschAldermen from Wards 1, 2, 4, 7, 9, 10At-Large Alderman Keith LarsonWhether you’re a longtime resident or new to the city, this is an opportunity to gather, reflect, and set expectations for Aurora’s next chapter.Why It MattersFrom development projects like the new Hollywood Casino to ongoing conversations around housing, safety, and education, Aurora stands at a critical point of growth. Leadership matters—and so does public participation.These events are about politics and they’re about progress.📍 Key DetailsOfficial Swearing-In (private): Friday, May 10, 2025Public Inauguration Celebration:🗓️ Tuesday, May 13 @ 6:30 PM📍 Paramount Theatre, 23 E Galena Blvd, Aurora, IL🎟️ Free & open to the publicLet’s show up for Aurora—and for each other.

In a moment of pride for the Aurora community, Ajay Teja Kavuri from Metea Valley High School has been awarded a prestigious National Merit Scholarship, rising above more than 16,000 high-achieving students nationwide.This rare achievement not only highlights the Ajay’s academic excellence but also reflects the strength of our local schools and educators in preparing the next generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers.What Is the National Merit Scholarship?The National Merit Scholarship Program is one of the most respected academic competitions in the country. Each year, it identifies and honors the top high school students based on PSAT scores, academic performance, leadership, and community involvement.Out of over 1.5 million applicants, only about 7,000 students are selected for scholarships. These awards often include corporate-sponsored scholarships like the one granted to our Aurora honoree, which typically recognize excellence in STEM, business, or community impact.Why This MattersBeing named a National Merit Scholar isn’t just about a title—it often leads to full-ride scholarships, increased college admissions opportunities, and early recruitment by top-tier universities and employers. It also shines a national spotlight on Ajay’s home school district, educators, and support systems.For Aurora, this recognition is a reminder of the incredible talent growing right here in our own backyard.What’s Next for Aurora’s Rising Stars?This honor is a call to action for our entire community to continue investing in education, mentorship, and access to opportunities for youth. Whether it’s through tutoring programs, scholarship funds, or simply showing up for school events, we all have a role to play in shaping future success stories.We at Aurora Buzz extend a huge congratulations to Ajay Kavuri, their family, and the Metea Valley staff who helped make this possible.Know a student or teacher doing something extraordinary? Reach out—we’d love to share more stories of local brilliance.

Big flavor is coming to Aurora in a bold new way. As part of the exciting developments tied to the new Hollywood Casino Aurora location, the city will welcome Lucky Goat—a specialty burger joint led by none other than celebrity chef Stephanie Izard, famed for winning Top Chef and operating several award-winning restaurants in Chicago.What is Lucky Goat?Lucky Goat is not your average burger spot. Think gourmet burgers stacked with wild flavor combos, hand-cut fries, creamy milkshakes, and sides that go way beyond ketchup and mustard. If you’ve been to Girl & the Goat or Little Goat in Chicago, you already know: Stephanie Izard brings creativity, quality, and a bold twist to everything she cooks.This will be the first Lucky Goat location in Aurora and part of the major expansion of the new Hollywood Casino property. The casino is relocating from its longtime riverboat home downtown to a brand-new facility near Farnsworth Avenue and Bilter Road, just off I-88—making it even more accessible for locals and visitors alike.A Win for Aurora’s Food SceneThis isn’t just about burgers. Lucky Goat’s arrival signals Aurora’s growing reputation as a destination for more than just entertainment—it’s about food, culture, and community. As the new casino opens its doors, it’ll also usher in a new era of elevated dining, nightlife, and tourism for the city.Whether you’re there to try your luck or just get a bite, Lucky Goat promises to be one of the highlights.What’s Next?The new Hollywood Casino Aurora development is currently under construction and expected to open in 2026. Along with Lucky Goat, it will include:A full-service hotelEntertainment venuesTable games and slot machinesNew restaurants and barsFor now, get ready—and hungry. We’ll be sharing updates as construction progresses and menus are revealed.Aurora Buzz will be first in line to feature Lucky Goat when it opens—stay tuned for a behind-the-scenes look at what’s cooking.

In an era where digital notifications and endless scrolling dominate our attention, it’s easy to feel disconnected from the very community we live in. The constant barrage of information and the allure of social media can lead us away from meaningful, real-world interactions.A young boy once visited a circus and was amazed to see elephants tied to small stakes with thin ropes. Despite their immense strength, the elephants made no attempt to break free. Curious, the boy asked the trainer why. The trainer explained that when the elephants were young and smaller, they were tied with the same ropes. At that age, the ropes were strong enough to hold them. As they grew, they became conditioned to believe they couldn’t break free, so they never tried.This story mirrors our own experiences. We often become conditioned by our routines and the digital environments we inhabit, believing we can’t change or break free. But just like the elephants, the power to change lies within us.The Impact of Digital DistractionStudies have shown that excessive use of social media can lead to feelings of isolation, anxiety, and decreased attention spans. While these platforms offer connectivity, they can also create a false sense of community, replacing genuine human interactions with likes and comments.Building a Stronger CommunityTo counteract this, we can take proactive steps to reconnect with our community:Attend Local Events: Participate in community gatherings, workshops, and festivals.Volunteer: Offer your time and skills to local organizations and causes.Support Local Businesses: Choose to shop and dine locally, fostering economic growth and relationships.Engage in Face-to-Face Conversations: Make an effort to have meaningful discussions with neighbors and community members.Embracing ChangeJust as the elephants had the strength to break free from their ropes, we have the capacity to overcome digital distractions and rebuild our communities. By taking small, intentional steps, we can foster genuine connections and create a more engaged, supportive environment.Let’s challenge ourselves to look up from our screens and invest in the people and places around us. The strength of our community depends on the active participation of each member.For more insights on building meaningful connections and fostering community engagement, explore resources on community development and digital well-being.

In January 2025, workers at GE Healthcare’s Aurora facility voted to join the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM). This unionization marks the first new union at the company in over 40 years. The vote was supported by 130 employees who are involved in producing MRI machine coils at the Aurora facility. This historic move represents a significant shift in labor representation at GE Healthcare, as the company has not seen new unionization in more than four decades.The decision to form a union came after a period of increasing concerns among workers at the Aurora facility about their working conditions, pay, and overall treatment by management. Employees sought to improve workplace safety, secure better benefits, and establish a more transparent and equitable approach to workplace issues. The unionization vote provides them with an organized structure through which they can collectively negotiate these concerns with GE Healthcare.The vote to join IAM was a result of multiple discussions and organizing efforts by the workers, who sought the backing of a well-established union to help address these workplace issues. IAM is a significant labor union in the United States, known for its long history of advocating for workers in a variety of industries, including healthcare, aerospace, and manufacturing. The successful vote is a key moment for IAM and the workers, signaling that labor unions continue to play an important role in advocating for fair working conditions.The unionization of GE Healthcare’s Aurora facility is a positive outcome for the workers involved. For these employees, joining IAM provides a pathway to better working conditions through collective bargaining. Unionized workers have the right to negotiate their wages, benefits, and working conditions with their employer, which is often seen as a way to address imbalances of power in the workplace.One of the main benefits of unionization is the ability to negotiate for higher wages. With inflation and the rising cost of living, many workers have been pushing for higher pay to keep up with economic pressures. Additionally, union membership offers greater job security, as contracts negotiated with the employer provide more stability and protection against layoffs or unfair treatment.Another key benefit is access to better benefits. Workers in unionized environments often secure improved healthcare coverage, paid leave, retirement benefits, and other important perks. For employees at the Aurora facility, these benefits can significantly improve their quality of life and provide them with more financial security for themselves and their families.Unionization also provides a stronger voice for employees when it comes to workplace safety. The production of MRI machine coils is a specialized and often complex job, and ensuring that workers are in a safe and healthy environment is critical. Through their union, employees can raise concerns about safety issues, ensuring that management takes the necessary steps to address hazards or risks on the job.Having union representation gives workers the ability to voice concerns without the fear of retaliation, which can be a serious concern in non-unionized environments. With the support of IAM, workers can approach issues collaboratively, knowing they have the backing of a larger organization. The IAM’s role is to advocate on behalf of the workers and to ensure that any labor disputes or disagreements are resolved in a fair and just manner.The union’s presence also serves to level the playing field between employees and management, ensuring that employees are not marginalized or ignored when it comes to issues like pay discrepancies or working conditions. This can lead to an overall more productive and positive work environment, where employees feel valued and empowered to do their best work.The decision to unionize the GE Healthcare Aurora facility is significant not just for the workers, but also for IAM, marking the first time in over 40 years that the company has seen a new union formed. This success will likely encourage other employees at other GE Healthcare facilities to consider unionization if they are facing similar concerns. It is also a demonstration of the continued relevance of unions in advocating for workers' rights in the modern workforce.While the company has not yet publicly commented on the union vote, the next step will be for GE Healthcare to enter into negotiations with IAMrepresentatives to establish a collective bargaining agreement. This contract will cover important matters such as wages, benefits, safety standards, and other key issues that are crucial to the well-being of employees.The unionization of GE Healthcare’s Aurora facility is part of a broader trend of increased union activity in the United States. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of unionization efforts in industries that have long been considered resistant to collective bargaining. As workers across different sectors become more vocal about their need for fair pay, better benefits, and improved working conditions, this move by the Aurora employees signals a shift in how labor unions are viewed and their importance in modern American workplaces.For the workers at GE Healthcare, the successful vote to join IAM is a win. It is a clear signal that they are committed to improving their work environment and securing a better future for themselves and their families. As negotiations with the company move forward, this unionization could set a positive precedent for other workers in similar industries, showcasing the value of collective action in securing workers' rights.The unionization of GE Healthcare’s Aurora facility represents a positive step forward for workers in the modern workforce. By joining IAM, these 130 employees gain access to the power of collective bargaining, which can lead to better wages, improved benefits, and safer working conditions. This milestone is an important reminder of the ongoing relevance of unions in advocating for workers and ensuring that their voices are heard in workplaces across the country. As the negotiation process continues, the impact of this decision will likely be felt beyond the Aurora facility, contributing to the broader movement for workers' rights across the nation.

In a significant development for Aurora’s healthcare landscape, Mercy Medical Center has had its Level II trauma center designation revoked by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) as of April 20, 2025. This change stems from staffing shortages and the hospital’s inability to meet essential service requirements. While Mercy’s emergency department remains operational, the loss of trauma status has implications for emergency care in the region. Understanding the RevocationThe IDPH’s decision was based on Mercy Medical Center’s failure to provide essential services required for a Level II trauma center. These include the absence of dedicated trauma coverage separate from general surgery services and the lack of trauma surgeon availability and backup coverage. Such deficiencies led to non-compliance with the Illinois Emergency Services Act, prompting the revocation.  A spokesperson for Mercy Medical Center acknowledged the challenges, stating that the hospital had been experiencing a decline in trauma patient volume, making it difficult to maintain comprehensive trauma services. They emphasized that the emergency department continues to provide care for a wide range of medical emergencies.Impact on Emergency CareWith the loss of its Level II trauma designation, Mercy Medical Center will no longer receive patients requiring specialized trauma care. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) will redirect such patients to other designated trauma centers, such as Rush Copley Medical Center in Aurora. This shift may lead to longer transport times and increased pressure on neighboring facilities.Dr. Jane Smith, an emergency medicine specialist at Rush Copley, expressed concerns about the potential strain on resources: “Our facility is prepared to handle an influx of trauma patients, but the sudden increase in volume will require careful coordination to maintain the quality of care.”Community Response and Next StepsThe community has expressed a mix of concern and understanding regarding the change. Local resident Mark Johnson shared, “It’s unsettling to know that a major hospital in our area can’t provide trauma services anymore. I hope the necessary steps are taken to address these issues.”In response, the IDPH is working closely with regional healthcare providers to ensure continuity of care. They are assessing the capacity of nearby trauma centers and exploring options to bolster emergency services in the area.Looking AheadThe situation at Mercy Medical Center highlights the broader challenges facing healthcare institutions, including staffing shortages and resource allocation. As the community navigates this transition, collaboration between hospitals, government agencies, and residents will be crucial to ensure that emergency care remains accessible and effective.Residents are encouraged to stay informed about emergency services in their area and to participate in community discussions aimed at strengthening the local healthcare system.For readers seeking more information about trauma center designations and emergency medical services in Illinois, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) provides comprehensive resources. You can explore their Trauma Program page, which offers details on trauma center levels, designation requirements, and related services:IDPH Trauma ProgramThis page includes information on the Illinois State Trauma Registry, trauma center designations by region, and training resources for healthcare professionals. It’s a valuable resource for understanding the state’s efforts in emergency preparedness and response. 

Aurora’s food scene just got a major upgrade. We’re thrilled to officially welcome Wild Fork Foods to the neighborhood, with their brand-new location now open at 936 Illinois Route 59. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef, meal prepper, health-conscious eater, or backyard grillmaster, Wild Fork is about to change the way you shop for protein.This isn’t your typical meat counter. Wild Fork is a modern meat and seafood market built on one simple mission: to transform how people shop for and eat protein. And they’re doing it with over 700 cuts, high-quality sourcing, flash-frozen freshness, and prices that are hard to beat.A Mission That Started with a Question: Why Isn’t Protein Better?Wild Fork was launched by JBS USA, one of the world’s leading food companies, with a vision to bring better meat to more people. They asked: what if meat could be more affordable, more consistent, and more convenient without compromising quality? The answer led to Wild Fork.Their concept focuses on flash-freezing meat and seafood at peak freshness, which locks in flavor and nutrients while dramatically extending shelf life—without any need for preservatives. This allows Wild Fork to cut down on waste and deliver premium-quality products at prices often lower than traditional grocery chains.Their approach isn’t just smart—it’s disruptive, in the best possible way.700+ Options: From Everyday to ExoticWalk into Wild Fork and you’ll find a meat lover’s paradise. Think:Ribeyes, Tomahawks, Picanha, and PorterhouseGround beef, chicken breasts, and sausage linksDuck breast, lamb chops, bison, and venisonBerkshire pork, seafood, and shellfishPre-marinated meats, meal kits, and even sidesTheir curated selection is second to none. Whether you’re feeding a family of five or planning a solo surf-and-turf night, there’s something in-store for every taste and budget.Online Ordering, Delivery, and Pickup: Your Way, Every DayShopping with Wild Fork is about convenience just as much as quality. Their website, wildforkfoods.com, offers a clean and easy way to shop online with two great options:Same-day delivery right to your doorFree in-store pickup with flexible schedulingNo long grocery lines. No mystery meat. Just high-quality protein, exactly how and when you need it.You can also filter by dietary goals (like Keto, Paleo, or High-Protein), by protein type, or even by cooking method. This is protein shopping made personal.Featured Collections Worth ExploringProtein Power PlayTheir “Protein Power Play” collection is tailor-made for fitness-focused eaters or anyone looking to fuel up the smart way. Expect high-protein, lean, and clean options like:Grass-fed ground beefSkinless chicken thighsAtlantic salmon portionsBoneless lamb steaksAll portioned and priced to support gains—without draining your wallet.Wild SavingsLove a good deal? The Wild Savings collection offers rotating discounts on premium proteins. This is where you’ll find family packs, BBQ bundles, and bulk buys at unbeatable prices—perfect for meal preppers or hosts planning a feast.A Welcome Addition to Aurora’s Culinary CommunityWild Fork’s arrival signals more than just another store opening—it’s a step toward better food access, more cooking inspiration, and convenient options for busy families and local foodies alike.Aurora is already home to incredible family-run restaurants, multicultural dining, and bold food entrepreneurs. With Wild Fork joining the scene, residents now have even more access to affordable, high-quality ingredients to cook like pros right from home.Ready to Explore?Whether you’re looking for a bold steak night, meal prep perfection, or just a new place to source your weekly protein, Wild Fork is worth the visit. Stop in, try something new, and see why this fast-growing brand is making noise across the country—and now right here in Aurora.Welcome to the neighborhood, Wild Fork Foods. We’re glad you’re here.Location: 936 Illinois Route 59, Aurora, ILOnline: www.wildforkfoods.comDelivery & Pickup Available

In October 2024, CyrusOne, a leading global data center operator, broke ground on a major new data center campus in Aurora, Illinois. The $350 million investment will significantly enhance the region’s technological infrastructure and solidify Aurora’s role in the growing digital economy. The development is expected to generate substantial economic benefits for the area, including job creation, increased property and utility tax revenues, and a strengthened position within the data center industry.The CyrusOne data center in Aurora will be built across two state-of-the-art facilities, totaling 446,000 square feet. The initial phase of the project will provide an IT capacity of 40 megawatts, which can scale up as demand for data storage and processing continues to grow. The project is strategically designed to be adaptable, with room for future expansion to meet evolving technological needs in the coming years.The data center will house critical infrastructure for clients in need of secure, reliable, and scalable data services. In particular, one of the two buildings is set to support a major collaboration between CyrusOne, the CME Group, and Google. This partnership will focus on providing financial trading systems for CME’s clients, further demonstrating the strategic importance of the new facility. The involvement of such high-profile partners underscores Aurora's growing relevance in the global technology and financial sectors.The construction of the CyrusOne data center is expected to bring a significant economic boost to the city of Aurora and the surrounding region. During the development phase, the project will create hundreds of jobs in the construction industry, ranging from laborers to engineers and project managers. These jobs will have a direct impact on the local economy, with workers spending money in the community and boosting demand for local services and businesses.Once the facility is fully operational, it is expected to generate over 20 permanent, full-time positions. These roles will span a variety of fields, including IT management, security, facility maintenance, and operations. The employment opportunities created by the data center will provide high-quality jobs for residents of Aurora and nearby areas, contributing to the long-term growth of the region.In addition to job creation, the data center is projected to bring substantial tax revenue to the city. The facility is expected to generate approximately $1.1 million in annual property taxes and another $1 million in utility taxes. Over the next decade, this facility could contribute around $20 million in tax revenue to Aurora, helping to fund public services such as education, infrastructure, and emergency services. This influx of revenue will not only benefit the city’s budget but will also provide much-needed resources for local schools and government programs, directly improving the quality of life for residents.The construction of the CyrusOne data center highlights Aurora’s increasing importance as a hub for technological infrastructure. Situated in the western suburbs of Chicago, Aurora has long been a key player in industrial manufacturing, but this new development signals a shift toward a more diversified economic base. The city’s growing reputation in the data center industry positions it as a desirable location for technology companies and digital infrastructure projects.Illinois, and specifically the Aurora region, has become a key destination for data centers, with companies like CyrusOne seeing the area as an ideal location due to its robust infrastructure, proximity to major transportation routes, and favorable business climate. The state offers a strong power grid, advanced telecommunication networks, and a steady supply of skilled workers, all essential components for a successful data center operation.CyrusOne’s investment in Aurora also underscores the region's increasing appeal to tech giants looking for secure and scalable locations for their digital operations. The facility will help meet the growing demand for cloud computing, data storage, and high-performance computing, which have become critical needs for businesses across industries like finance, healthcare, and technology. As the digital economy continues to expand, Aurora is poised to become a major player in the data and technology sectors.As with many modern infrastructure projects, sustainability plays a crucial role in the design and operation of the CyrusOne data center. The company is committed to minimizing the environmental impact of its facilities, and this new Aurora center will incorporate energy-efficient systems, water conservation technologies, and environmentally responsible waste management practices.Data centers are known to consume significant amounts of electricity, but CyrusOne is prioritizing renewable energy sources and energy-efficient designs to reduce the facility’s carbon footprint. Additionally, the company plans to utilize advanced cooling systems that help lower the overall energy demand while ensuring that the data center operates efficiently and reliably.By incorporating these sustainable practices, CyrusOne not only meets its environmental goals but also provides an example of how data centers can operate in a way that balances business needs with ecological responsibility. This focus on sustainability ensures that the Aurora facility will be able to meet the increasing demands of the digital world while minimizing its environmental impact.The $350 million investment by CyrusOne underscores the growing importance of data infrastructure in the U.S. and globally. As the demand for data storage and processing continues to increase, data centers have become a cornerstone of modern economic growth. The new facility in Aurora will play a crucial role in supporting industries that rely on data-intensive applications, such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and financial services.Aurora’s location, with its easy access to major transportation routes and proximity to Chicago, makes it an ideal site for large-scale data centers. The city’s growing infrastructure, combined with favorable business conditions and a skilled workforce, makes it a competitive choice for companies like CyrusOne seeking to expand their operations.As the CyrusOne data center project progresses, it will not only provide immediate economic benefits but also establish Aurora as a key player in the digital infrastructure sector for years to come. This development is just one example of how the city is positioning itself as a hub for technological growth, creating jobs, fostering innovation, and supporting businesses that depend on secure and reliable data services.In the coming years, the growing demand for data-driven solutions will only further solidify the importance of Aurora’s infrastructure and technological investments. The $350 million CyrusOne data center is a vital step in that direction, benefiting the local economy and preparing the city for a more digitally connected future.The construction of the CyrusOne data center in Aurora represents a significant investment in the future of both the city and the technology sector. With job creation, increased tax revenues, and environmental sustainability at the forefront of the project, the data center is poised to have a lasting positive impact on the region. As Aurora continues to expand its technological capabilities, this development will play an essential role in shaping the city’s economic future while contributing to the broader growth of the digital economy.

As spring blossoms in Aurora, Illinois, the city is buzzing with events and initiatives that showcase the community’s spirit and dedication. Here’s a roundup of noteworthy happenings:Honoring Our Hometown HeroesIn celebration of National Animal Control Appreciation Week, Aurora Animal Care and Control is offering a special adoption rate of $30 for all first responders. This initiative aims to express gratitude to those who serve our community while finding loving homes for animals in need. Día De Los Niños: A Cultural CelebrationJoin the Aurora Hispanic Heritage Advisory Board on Saturday, April 19, for the El Día De Los Niños Celebration. This event promises a vibrant display of cultural heritage, featuring music, dance, and activities for children and families. Spring Yard Waste Collection ContinuesAurora residents can take advantage of the city’s free spring yard waste collection, which has been extended for one more week. This service helps keep our neighborhoods clean and supports environmental sustainability. Empowering Seniors Against FraudOn May 15, the city will host a free workshop titled “Empowering Seniors Against Fraud.” This one-hour session aims to equip seniors with the knowledge and tools to recognize and avoid scams, fraud, and various forms of elder abuse. Stay Connected with myAurora 311The myAurora 311 app is a convenient tool for residents to submit service requests, report issues like street maintenance or overgrown grass, and stay informed about city services. It’s a direct line to keeping Aurora beautiful and functional. Community Engagement OpportunitiesAurora’s commitment to transparency and community involvement is evident through various programs: • Citizen Police Academy: An educational program offering residents insight into the workings of the Aurora Police Department.  • Volunteer with EMA: The Emergency Management Agency provides opportunities for residents to volunteer and contribute to the city’s preparedness and response efforts. Get InvolvedAurora thrives on active community participation. Whether it’s attending local events, volunteering, or staying informed through city resources, every resident plays a vital role in shaping our vibrant community.For more information on these events and programs, visit the City of Aurora’s official website.

Here’s something exciting happening right here in Aurora, and it’s all about our kids’ future. The city has launched Aurora’s Promise, a program that gives every eligible kindergartner a head start on their education savings.🏦 What’s the Promise?Every child enrolled in kindergarten during the 2024–25 or 2025–26 school years in East Aurora 131 or West Aurora 129 is eligible. If they live within Aurora’s city limits and opt in, the city puts $50 into a savings account in their name. That money is there for future educational expenses — college, trade school, career training, you name it.How It Works✔️ Parents/guardians opt in (yep, it's not automatic)💼 Accounts are set up and managed by Operation HOPE, a nonprofit focused on financial literacy📚 Funds grow over time and can be used after high school for education or job training Why It MattersAurora’s Promise isn’t just a savings account. It’s a message: Our city believes in our kids, and we’re ready to invest in their dreams. Whether a child wants to be a scientist, a plumber, an artist, or a coder — this is a step toward making it happen.Plus, this is just the beginning. The city plans to expand the program to cover even more schools in the future, including Districts 204, 308, 302, and 101. Heads-UpSome local school board members have raised questions about privacy and interest growth on the accounts and those conversations are ongoing. What’s clear: this is a big idea with even bigger potential. Want In?If your child qualifies, all you have to do is opt in through the City of Aurora’s official website:aurora.il.us/City-Services/Auroras-PromiseStay tuned to Aurora Buzz for more updates on how this program grows just like our students will.