Clark After Dark Block Party
Clark After Dark block party essentially celebrated our country’s soldiers; whether it be the Army, Navy, Marines and their families. An outstanding organization created by Franklin D. Roosevelt dating back to February 4, 1941, was once again acknowledged by enthusiastic Chicagoans recently outside of Boss Bar at 420 N. Clark St.
Over 300,000 military personnel and their families currently live in Illinois and all generous proceeds raised from this wonderful event are channeled directly to them. This spectacular event featured live music by “16 Candles”, delicious food, ice-cold drinks, military vehicle displays, and special activities including an exciting cash prize raffle at the Clark After Dark Block Party.
In its beginning, Franklin D. Roosevelt took the initiative and founded the United Service Organization (in 1941) when it became apparent that the U.S. was about to get involved in World War II. Originally, six organizations teamed up to support our armed forces: the Salvation Army, Y.M.C.A., Y.W.C.A., National Catholic Community Services, National Travelers Aid Association, and the National Jewish Welfare Board.
The brilliant formulation of all those agencies working together for a common cause was fostered by Franklin Roosevelt when he developed the United Service Organization, with the sole objective of “… providing the emotional support our troops need.” Over the years the U.S.O. has evolved and adapted, rising to the challenge of meeting the soldiers and their families’ needs.
A special thank you goes out to all the volunteers who helped make this remarkable event possible, along with Alderman Brendan Reilly’s coordination. By carrying on an extraordinary tradition since its founding in 1941, this was definitely a celebration our military should be proud of the Clark After Dark Block Party.
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USO of Illinois, through the support of Alderman Brendan Reilly of the 42nd Ward and Boss Bar gives summer it’s last “HOO-AH!” by rocking the block at Clark After Dark. USO Of Illinois’ annual Clark After Dark block party celebrates America’s military service members and their families. Proceeds from the event benefit USO of Illinois programs and services that serve more than 326,000 military personnel and military families in Illinois.
The event will feature live music by 16 Candles (Voted Chicago’s Best Cover Band!) Liquidated Damages and LowDown Brass Band, military vehicle displays, food and drink specials, raffle and much more! USO Clark After Dark Presented By Jewel-Osco is held in River North at 420 N. Clark Street on W. Hubbard Street, between N. Clark and N. LaSalle.
A non-profit organization, USO of Illinois is fully supported by the generosity of the American people. USO’s Clark After Dark gives Chicagoans an opportunity to support U.S. Armed Forces members and show their appreciation.