Honoring the Life and Legacy of Spencer Leak, Jr.

It is with profound sadness that I join our community in mourning the passing of Spencer Leak, Jr., a respected leader, advocate, and champion whose life was defined by service to others.

Spencer understood that true leadership is not measured solely by titles or recognition, but by the lives we touch, the opportunities we create, and the communities we leave stronger than we found them. Throughout his life, he remained committed to uplifting families, empowering others, and helping ensure that generations to come would have a foundation upon which to build.

His passing is an immense loss to Chicago and to the countless people who had the privilege of knowing, working alongside, and learning from him. Yet, even in our grief, we celebrate a legacy that will endure through the people he inspired and the community he so faithfully served.

I extend my heartfelt condolences and prayers to the Leak family, his friends, colleagues, and all who loved him. May they find comfort in the extraordinary life he lived, the service he rendered, and the lasting impact he made.

Rest in peace, Spencer Leak, Jr. Your work, your leadership, and your legacy will not be forgotten.

#RememberingSpencerLeakJr #LegacyOfService #ChicagoLeadership #CommunityChampion #CookCounty

Important SNAP Benefit Changes

Impacting Cook County Residents

Cook County families are facing growing food insecurity as new federal SNAP policy changes begin taking effect in 2026. Currently, more than 1.4 million residents across Cook County struggle with access to affordable food, while nearly 882,000 individuals rely on SNAP benefits for daily support.

New federal requirements may impact eligibility for many residents, including updated work-reporting rules and changes affecting immigrant households. Beginning this year, some recipients may need to complete at least 80 hours of work, volunteer service, or job training each month to maintain benefits.

Residents are encouraged to act now by checking exemption eligibility, exploring free workforce training through Job Ready Illinois, and utilizing local food assistance resources. Individuals needing immediate food support can call 2-1-1 or visit the Greater Chicago Food Depository for nearby pantry locations and benefits assistance.

Help is available, and Cook County remains committed to connecting residents with the resources they need during this transition.

#SNAPBenefits #CookCounty #FoodAccess #TeamLowry #CommunitySupport

An Unforgettable Visit with His Holiness Pope Leo XIV

There are some experiences in life that transcend the moment and remain with us forever. My recent journey to Vatican City was one of those extraordinary experiences—one filled with faith, reflection, gratitude, and a profound sense of connection.

I had the tremendous honor of meeting His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, an encounter that I will always cherish. Making the experience even more meaningful was the opportunity to share it with my beautiful wife, Cheryl. Together, we immersed ourselves in the remarkable history, traditions, architecture, and culture of Vatican City and Rome.

As we stood among people who had traveled from across the world, I was reminded that despite our different backgrounds, cultures, and experiences, there is far more that unites us than divides us. Witnessing thousands of people gather in a spirit of peace, faith, reflection, and hope was both humbling and inspiring.

From the breathtaking landmarks and centuries of history to the warmth of the people, vibrant culture, and wonderful cuisine, every part of our journey offered something memorable. Each conversation and experience provided a new perspective and deepened my appreciation for the extraordinary diversity and beauty of our world.

Most importantly, this journey reinforced the enduring importance of compassion, service, fellowship, and understanding. These values extend beyond borders and remind us of our shared responsibility to care for one another and strengthen the communities we call home.

I returned home inspired and deeply grateful for this remarkable opportunity and especially thankful to have experienced it alongside Cheryl. The memories we created, the people we encountered, and the lessons we carried home will remain with us for many years to come.

#TeamLowry #CommissionerBillLowry #PopeLeoXIV #VaticanCity #FaithAndFamily

Honoring the Fathers and Father Figures

Who Strengthen Our Communities

I had the pleasure of joining Sunshine Ministries for its Pre-Father’s Day Brunch, a meaningful celebration honoring the fathers, grandfathers, mentors, and father figures whose love, guidance, and leadership make an enduring difference in the lives of their families and communities.

As a husband, father, and public servant, I recognize the tremendous responsibility that comes with fatherhood. Fathers and father figures are often among our first teachers, protectors, role models, and sources of encouragement. Their influence helps shape the character, confidence, and aspirations of the next generation.

The brunch provided a wonderful opportunity for fellowship, thoughtful conversation, and reflection on the importance of supporting and uplifting men as they fulfill these vital roles. It was inspiring to spend time with fathers and community members who remain committed to building stronger families and creating brighter futures for our young people.

I extend my sincere appreciation to Sunshine Ministries for bringing the community together for such a thoughtful occasion. Events like this remind us that strong families are an essential foundation for strong neighborhoods and thriving communities.

As we celebrated Father’s Day, I was proud to recognize the sacrifices, wisdom, leadership, and unconditional love demonstrated by fathers and father figures every day. To every father, grandfather, mentor, and man who has stepped forward to guide and encourage another person: thank you for the difference you make.

Happy Father’s Day!

#TeamLowry #FathersDay #SunshineMinistries #CommunityStrong #CookCounty

From Survivor to Advocate: Turning a

Cancer Journey into a Mission to Save Lives

On June 24, I had the honor of joining President Toni Preckwinkle, Dr. Erik Mikaitis, Dr. Urjeet Patel, Myrtis Brown, Wynona Redmond, Rev. Larry Dowling, Alderwoman Michelle Harris, and dedicated healthcare professionals and community advocates in recognition of National Cancer Survivor Month. Together, we celebrated survivors while emphasizing a message that can never be repeated too often: early detection saves lives.

Every cancer survivor carries a unique story of courage, perseverance, faith, and hope. When those stories are shared, they can encourage someone else to schedule an appointment, ask an important question, or undergo a screening that could ultimately save their life.

I was especially moved by Linda Childress, who courageously shared her personal journey. Her openness, strength, and faith touched everyone in attendance. Through our shared commitment to cancer awareness and prevention, I have gained not only a passionate advocate in this fight, but also someone I proudly consider a sister and dear friend.

This mission is deeply personal to me. During a routine annual physical in my birthday month, a simple PSA blood test led to additional screenings and the early detection of prostate cancer. Because my cancer was discovered before it had spread, I was able to receive the necessary treatment. Years later, preventive screening once again proved invaluable when a scan detected kidney cancer at an early stage. Today, I am profoundly grateful to say that I am cancer free.

My experiences strengthened my determination to make preventive healthcare more accessible to Cook County residents and ultimately inspired the creation of the Cook County Birthday Health Screening Program. The program encourages eligible residents to use their birthday month as an annual reminder to prioritize their health and receive potentially lifesaving preventive screenings.

I remain grateful for the leadership of President Preckwinkle, the support of my colleagues on the Cook County Board of Commissioners, and the dedication of our partners at Cook County Health. Through collaboration, we have transformed a personal experience into an initiative designed to give more residents the opportunity for early detection and better health outcomes.

National Cancer Survivor Month is both a celebration and a call to action. I encourage every resident to schedule an annual physical, speak with their healthcare provider about recommended screenings, and encourage the people they love to do the same.

We cannot always control a diagnosis, but we can empower ourselves with information, prevention, and early detection.

Early detection saves lives. I know because it saved mine.

#NationalCancerSurvivorMonth #BirthdayHealthScreening #EarlyDetectionSavesLives #CookCountyHealth #TeamLowry

Together in Pride: Honoring Diversity

and the Power of Belonging

Walking in this year’s Pride Parade was an inspiring experience filled with energy, joy, and an unmistakable sense of community. Seeing people from across our neighborhoods come together served as a meaningful reminder that every individual deserves to be respected, valued, and celebrated for the qualities that make them uniquely who they are.

The Pride Parade represents more than a celebration. It demonstrates what is possible when communities choose unity over division, compassion over judgment, and support over silence. I was honored to walk alongside residents, elected officials, colleagues, community leaders, advocates, families, and friends who came together in the spirit of inclusion and mutual respect.

Our diversity remains one of our greatest strengths. The different backgrounds, experiences, perspectives, and traditions represented throughout Cook County enrich our communities and contribute to the vibrant character of the place we proudly call home. When we embrace those differences and lift one another up, we create stronger neighborhoods where everyone has an opportunity to thrive.

I extend my sincere appreciation to the organizers, volunteers, participants, and countless supporters who made this year’s Pride Parade such an uplifting and memorable occasion. Their dedication created an environment where people could gather in celebration, fellowship, and solidarity.

As we move forward, let us continue building communities where dignity and respect are extended to all, differences are celebrated, and every resident understands that they have a place and a voice.

Together, we can continue creating a Cook County where everyone has the opportunity to feel seen, respected, valued, and welcomed.

#Pride #LoveIsLove #Community #Unity #CelebrateDiversity

Celebrate Your Birthday with the Gift of Health!

Cook County Health is giving the ultimate birthday gift – the gift of health! 🎉 Eligible Cook County residents can schedule free breast and prostate cancer screenings during their birthday month.

Here’s how it works:

✅ For Uninsured Residents: Screenings are provided at no cost.

✅ For Insured Residents: Screenings are billed to your insurance plan.

Who’s Eligible?

🩺 Breast Cancer Screening (Women, 40–74): Must not have had a mammogram in the past 2 years. Includes consultation, assessment, and follow-up.

🩺 Prostate Cancer Screening (Men, 45–69): Must not have had a prostate screening in the past 2 years. Includes consultation, assessment, and follow-up.

The Impact of Birthday Screenings

🎯 Mammograms & PSA Screenings: Nearly 22,000 screenings completed in 2025 – a 17% increase from last year.

🎯 Uninsured Patients: Birthday screenings resulted in a 54% increase in mammograms for those without insurance.

🎯 All Populations: A 17% increase in mammograms overall.

🎯 Breast Cancer Screening Goal: Among women aged 45–75, screenings now exceed the stretch goal at 62.5%.

🎯 Blood Pressure Screenings: Hypertension control (<140/90) is trending upward at 60%, surpassing goals.

Why Screenings Matter

Early detection saves lives by catching cancer before it causes serious problems. Even if you feel fine, screenings can help identify risks before symptoms appear.

🎥 Hear Commissioner Bill Lowry speak about the impact of his Birthday Resolutions initiative here: YouTube Link

Save the Date: Annual Men's &

Families' Health and Resource Fair

A Day Dedicated to Health, Wellness,

and Stronger Communities

Hello everyone,

It's that time of year again, and I couldn't be more excited to invite you to my Annual Men's & Families' Health and Resource Fair! I hope you'll take a moment today to save the date and make plans to join me for one of the most meaningful events we host each year.

This annual event is all about bringing valuable health services, educational resources, and community partners together in one place to help individuals and families live healthier, stronger lives. Whether you're looking to receive free health screenings, connect with healthcare professionals, learn about wellness resources, or simply spend time with neighbors who care about building a healthier community, there is something for everyone.

Attendees can look forward to free health screenings, PSA screenings, mental health resources, dental and vision information, neurology screenings for Alzheimer's, autism, and stroke, fitness and wellness education, an "Ask the Doctor" panel, Teen Talk discussions, community resources, giveaways, raffles, and much more.

I am grateful to our outstanding partners, Insight Hospital & Medical Center, Cook County Health, and New Life Southeast, for helping make this event possible. Together, we remain committed to improving access to healthcare, promoting prevention, and empowering families with the tools they need to thrive.

I look forward to seeing you, your family, your friends, and your neighbors on Thursday, September 24, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at New Life Southeast, 7621 S. Greenwood Avenue, Chicago, IL 60619. Mark your calendars today, and stay tuned for more exciting details in the weeks ahead!

Together, we can continue building healthier men, stronger families, and healthier communities.

#MensHealthMatters #HealthAndResourceFair #StrongerFamilies #CookCountyHealth #TeamLowry

Featured in the News

I’m honored to have my work and community efforts highlighted in various news outlets. Each feature reflects the dedication, collaboration, and impact made through service in Cook County’s 3rd District. Take a look at some of the stories that showcase our continued commitment to uplifting our communities.

Watch Our Story on YouTube

Check out some of the amazing moments we’ve shared across Cook County’s 3rd District! From community events to powerful conversations, these videos highlight the people, partnerships, and passion that keep us moving forward. Grab a seat, hit play, and see the difference we’re making, together!