We’re thrilled to share the March edition of our 3rd District Newsletter, highlighting upcoming events and recent community news. Stay connected with important updates and insights to keep you informed and involved. We truly appreciate your support and engagement as we work to bring you the latest on all the great things happening in our community.

Celebrate Your Birthday with a Gift of Health: Free Cancer Screenings from Cook County Health

Cook County Health is proud to offer free prostate and breast cancer screenings to eligible Cook County residents during the month of their birthday. This initiative makes it easy to prioritize your health while celebrating your special day.

How It Works:

• Residents can schedule an appointment during their birthday month to ensure availability.
• Uninsured patients will receive the screenings free of charge.
• Insured residents will have the screenings billed to their insurance plan.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Breast Cancer Screening for Women:
• Ages 40–74
• Must not have had a mammogram in the past two years
• Includes a healthcare provider consultation, assessment, and necessary follow-up.

Prostate Cancer Screening for Men:

• Ages 45–69
• Must not have had a prostate screening test within the past two years
• Includes a healthcare provider consultation, assessment, and necessary follow-up.

Screenings are available regardless of immigration status.

Why Get Screened? Cancer screenings can detect issues early, often before symptoms arise. Early detection increases the likelihood of successful treatment and recovery. Even if you feel healthy, a screening could save your life.

Schedule Your Screening Today! Call 312-864-4289 to schedule your appointment or learn more. Let Cook County Health help you make your birthday even more meaningful by taking charge of your health.

For more information, visit cookcountyhealth.org.

Celebrating Women’s History Month

Dear Friends,

March is Women’s History Month—a time to recognize and celebrate the countless contributions women have made throughout history and continue to make today. From trailblazers who broke barriers to everyday heroes shaping our communities, this month is a tribute to resilience, leadership, and progress.

✨ Honoring the Past

We remember the courageous women who paved the way—activists, innovators, artists, scientists, and changemakers who defied the odds and rewrote the rules.

🌱 Inspiring the Present

We shine a light on the women leading change in our communities today. Whether in public service, healthcare, education, business, or the arts, their voices and leadership matter now more than ever.

🚀 Empowering the Future

Let’s commit to uplifting and investing in the next generation of women leaders. By supporting mentorship, equity, and opportunity, we can build a more inclusive and vibrant future for all.

How You Can Celebrate:

• Attend Women’s History Month events in your community
• Support women-owned businesses
• Read books or watch documentaries by and about women
• Share stories of women who inspire you

Together, let’s celebrate progress and continue pushing for equality.

Happy Women’s History Month!

Commissioner Bill Lowry

Cook County, 3rd District

Fighting for Preventative Healthcare at NACo

I recently had the opportunity to travel to the National Association of Counties (NACo) to advocate for a Proposed Interim Resolution in Support of Preventative Health. My goal was clear: to push for expanded access to free cancer screenings and increased federal support for preventative healthcare programs.

Far too many people—especially those without insurance—miss out on the early detection that could save their lives. That’s why I’m advocating for the following:

• ✅ Expansion and reauthorization of the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP) through 2028
• ✅ A federally funded screening program for prostate and lung cancer under the CDC
• ✅ Increased federal support for county-run initiatives like Cook County’s Birthday Health Screening Program
• ✅ Greater investment in research and innovation to improve early detection and outcomes

Why is this work so urgent?

• ❗ Without early detection, preventable diseases become life-threatening
• ❗ Counties like Cook dedicate massive resources—50% of our $10 billion budget—to healthcare
• ❗ Investing in screenings now will save lives and reduce costs in the long run

I believe healthcare should be a right, not a privilege. I’ll continue advocating for the tools, funding, and programs our communities need to stay healthy and thrive.

I also want to recognize and congratulate two of my colleagues:

• Commissioner Donna Miller, on the approval of her resolution by the NACo Healthcare Committee

• Commissioner Alma E. Anaya, for her powerful leadership presentation to the Women of NACo Committee

Their efforts are moving the needle for counties across the country—and I’m proud to serve alongside them.

Together, we’re making a difference.

Remembering a Legend: Jerry “Iceman” Butler

On February 20, we lost an icon—Jerry “Iceman” Butler. A man of immeasurable talent, grace, and impact, Butler was more than a celebrated soul singer—he was a trailblazer who left an indelible mark on music, public service, and our collective cultural history.

From his days with The Impressions to his successful solo career, Butler’s smooth baritone voice became the soundtrack of a generation. Songs like "For Your Precious Love" and "Only the Strong Survive" not only captured the hearts of millions but also helped shape the sound of soul music as we know it.

But Jerry Butler was more than a voice—he was a leader. His legacy extended far beyond the stage when he stepped into public service as a Cook County Commissioner, serving our communities with the same passion and poise that defined his music career. He brought dignity, wisdom, and heart to every room he entered, inspiring those around him to lead with compassion and purpose.

Jerry “Iceman” Butler was truly a legend in his own right. His artistry, leadership, and legacy will continue to resonate in Cook County and beyond. We honor his memory, and we will carry forward the torch he lit.

Rest in power, Iceman. Your voice may be gone, but your song plays on.

Recognizing Developmental Disabilities

Awareness Month in Cook County

This March, the Cook County government and the office of Dr. Kisha E. McCaskill of the 5th District joined efforts to raise awareness for Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month.

On March 13, 2025, Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, Dr. McCaskill, and fellow Board members proudly honored three remarkable women—Veronica Ford, De-Aundra Kerby, and LaTonia Smith—from the Children's Rehabilitation Center. These honorees have been instrumental in championing awareness for families impacted by developmental disabilities and continue to advocate for the importance of support, inclusion, and empowerment.

With over six million Americans living with developmental disabilities—including one in six children—this recognition goes beyond a symbolic proclamation. It serves as a call to action to foster inclusion, dismantle barriers, and ensure that individuals of all abilities have opportunities to thrive in education, employment, and civic life.

Dr. McCaskill’s office remains committed to building a more inclusive Cook County—one where every resident is valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.

Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with Community and Joy

On Sunday, March 17, I had the tremendous honor of marching in Chicago’s annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade. It was a privilege to walk alongside President Toni Preckwinkle, fellow elected officials, and so many spirited community members in celebration of Irish heritage and the values that bring us together.

The parade was filled with energy, music, and a sea of green as thousands gathered to honor tradition and community. While St. Patrick’s Day is rooted in Irish culture, its message of unity, resilience, and joy resonates across all backgrounds—and that’s what made the day so special.

As we marched through the heart of the city, I felt immense pride not just in the vibrant celebration, but in the connections we made. Events like this remind us of the importance of community and the power of coming together in celebration and solidarity.

Thank you to everyone who joined us along the route and helped make this year’s parade so memorable. Wishing you and your loved ones a safe, joyful, and lucky St. Patrick’s Day season!

Sláinte! ☘️

– Commissioner Bill Lowry

#CommissionerBillLowry #TeamLowry #StPatricksDay #CommunityUnity #CookCounty #IrishHeritage #ParadeDay

Ribbon-Cutting at Provident Hospital's

New Behavioral Health Center

On March 18, I had the distinct honor of joining President Toni Preckwinkle, my fellow Cook County Commissioners, and the leadership of Cook County Health for the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the Behavioral Health Clinical Triage and Stabilization Center at Provident Hospital—a groundbreaking facility that marks a major step forward in our commitment to accessible mental health care.

This new, state-of-the-art, 12-chair unit is specifically designed to provide immediate, compassionate care for individuals experiencing a behavioral health crisis. Patients who arrive at Provident’s emergency department can now be stabilized in a safe and supportive environment for up to 23 hours, receiving care from dedicated behavioral health professionals who work to create personalized care plans tailored to each individual’s needs.

This center will not only change lives—it will also ease the burden on our emergency rooms and help ensure that individuals in crisis receive the care they need, rather than being diverted to overcrowded hospital units or, worse, into the criminal justice system.

The need for mental health resources has never been greater. With 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. experiencing a mental health challenge, we must continue building systems that provide timely, effective, and equitable care. The opening of this center is a major victory in that effort—an example of what’s possible when we come together with a shared vision of health, dignity, and justice for all.

I’m incredibly proud to stand alongside Cook County Health, community partners, and local leaders in making this vision a reality. Together, we’re breaking down barriers and building a more just, compassionate, and healthy Cook County.

Honoring YaFawn “Fawn” Smith: 2025

Unsung Heroine of the 3rd District

It was a true honor to recognize YaFawn “Fawn” Smith as the 2025 Unsung Heroine for Cook County’s 3rd District. Fawn’s dedication to our communities, her visionary leadership, and her unwavering commitment to equity make her a shining example of what this award represents.

As the Senior Manager of Government & Regulatory Affairs for Comcast’s Greater Chicago Region, Fawn plays a critical role in shaping how one of the nation’s largest communications companies partners with local neighborhoods. Her reach extends across Chicago, Unincorporated Cook County, the South Suburbs, and into Lake County, Indiana—where she leads with both strategy and heart.

Fawn is not only a leader in policy and infrastructure but also a fierce advocate for digital equity. Through initiatives like Comcast Cares Day, Lift Zones, RISE, and especially Internet Essentials, she has worked tirelessly to close the digital divide. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Fawn was instrumental in launching ACP Sundays and establishing Lift Zones in churches and community centers—ensuring students could learn and families could stay connected in a time of deep uncertainty.

What truly sets Fawn apart is her ability to connect with people—from elected officials and community leaders to everyday residents—and use those relationships to create meaningful, lasting change. Her work is fueled by empathy, rooted in community, and driven by a powerful vision for a more equitable future.

A proud daughter of Chicago, Fawn was born on the West Side, raised in Gage Park, and now calls historic Hyde Park home. She serves on numerous boards, has been recognized with the Chicago Defender Women of Excellence Award, and continues to be a force for progress across our district.

Fawn, congratulations on this well-deserved recognition. Thank you for your leadership, compassion, and dedication to uplifting others. You embody everything the Unsung Heroine Award stands for.

A special thank you to Tati’s Floral for once again providing the most beautiful floral arrangements to help mark this meaningful occasion with elegance and grace.

As Cook County closes out its January Board Week, Commissioner Bill Lowry addressed a crucial initiative: ensuring access to free prostate and mammogram screenings for all residents.

During his remarks, Commissioner Lowry highlighted the profound impact of early detection in saving lives. The resolution, tied to Cook County’s Birthday initiative, underscores his unwavering commitment to advancing health equity and providing resources to underserved communities.

"Healthcare is a right, not a privilege. This resolution is about ensuring that everyone has access to the screenings that can make a life-changing difference," said Commissioner Lowry.

The initiative is part of a broader effort by the Cook County Board to prioritize public health and strengthen support for preventative care across the region. With Commissioner Lowry’s advocacy, the county is taking significant steps toward addressing health disparities and fostering a healthier future for all residents.

Stay tuned for updates on the implementation of this important resolution and how it will benefit our communities.