The chair of Park Forest’s Housing Authority Board of Commissioners is stepping down.

Dr. Gayles Evans, who was first appointed to the volunteer group in 2009, was recognized before the Park Forest Board of Trustees Monday night at Village Hall. 

Park Forest Mayor Joseph A. Woods began the board meeting by reading a proclamation in honor of Evans. 

“Dr. Evans brought to her positon a vast array of educational, professional and personal accomplishments that led her to become an effective and empathetic leader who showed great concern of clients and staff, as well as her fellow board members,” Woods said. “She has always operated with the Village’s best interest at heart and has helped to maintain the reputation of the Housing Authority.”

After receiving a round of applause, Evans stepped to the podium to offer comments.

“I am so deeply honored and flattered and speechless for this honor,” she said. “I just want to say to all of you that this is a wonderful village you live in, and we have to keep it going in a positive manner.” 

The retired librarian and college professor also urged others to get involved in the community.

“Those who are not volunteering, please volunteer. The Village needs you,” she said.

Evans, whose volunteerism in Park Forest began at the Village’s former health department in 2007, was appointed to the Housing Authority Board in 2009 and went on to become chair in 2016. She also served as Library trustee from 2013 to 2014.

Citing plans to relocate, Evans announced at an Oct. 17 meeting that she would be stepping down immediately. Park Forest Housing Authority Director Tiffany Perry, who worked with Evans on the Housing Authority Board, said the news came as a surprise and quickly coordinated the honoring of Evans just days before her scheduled move on Nov. 8. 

Park Forest board members each took a turn expressing gratitude to Evans for her service to the community and agreed that she will be missed.

“You’re one of my heroes,” said Trustee Tiffani Graham. “If there is ever a list of Park Foresters to model yourself after, you are on that list.”

The Park Forest Housing Authority is currently looking to fill Evans’ place on the board. The volunteer group meets bi-monthly to determine the direction of the Park Forest Housing Authority, including the setting of policy and the entering into intergovernmental agreements with other agencies. Those wishing to apply to the Park Forest Housing Authority Board should click here. 

View the video of Evans being recognized before the Park Forest Board of Trustees