September Resolution: Walk, Run, Ride, Bird, Paddle, Dine, Sit Still…or Swim?

Our 12 River Resolutions for 2025 are designed to inspire actions and ideas that you can embrace to improve the health of the 156-mile Chicago-Calumet River system and its tributary streams for all people, water, and wildlife. The monthly advocacy steps are an invitation to engage and educate the public to get to know the river system as well as what they can do for it and why it matters for us all.

On Sunday, September 21, cheer on the swimmers of the 2025 Chicago River Swim, the first open water swim in the Chicago River in nearly a century. This milestone event marks a powerful symbol of how far we have come in revitalizing the Chicago-Calumet River system which was once disregarded as a part of the sewer system and a second class citizen as compared to the lake—a condition that is no longer true. Friends has been a strong proponent of the Chicago River Swim since its organizers first approached us with the germ of an idea almost a decade ago.

This month there are also other endless opportunities to enjoy the Chicago-Calumet River system from north to south and east to west whether you want exciting action or quiet contemplation. Rent a kayak, go for a run, or bring your journal and some colored pencils.

Visit our website to read the complete list of our 2025 River Resolutions.