Renters have a bad reputation that causes local homeowners to push back against building new apartments in their neighborhoods. They're accused of being transient residents who take from a community's resources without giving anything back. They're only in the area for a short while and don't feel it's necessary to get involved in local events. They may not have money to donate to local causes.
This sort of attitude is detrimental to all renters. When owners see renters as unwelcome second class citizens it makes it harder for all renters to find housing. It fosters segregation and discrimination. Renters need to make an effort to get involved in the neighborhood activities around them.
Most renters are in town for a least a year and have some spare time on their hands. Here are some inexpensive, short-term ways that renters can fight back against the bad reputation that follows them around.
1. Attend CAPS meetings
The Chicago police have a system called CAPS (Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy) which allows civilians to assist with the policing of their neighborhood. Each beat has an open meeting with police officers from their local department present on a regular basis. Continue reading 10 Ways That Chicago Renters Can Get Involved in the Community
