Village Of Orland Park Announces Return Of Citizens Academy For 2026

ORLAND PARK, IL — Following the success of its inaugural Citizens Academy in 2025, the Village of Orland Park is pleased to announce the return of the Orland Park Citizens Academy for a second year. The eight-week program gives residents and local business owners a chance to learn how local government operates and to connect with Village leaders and staff.

"The response to our first Citizens Academy exceeded expectations and showed a strong desire among residents to better understand how local government works," said Mayor Jim Dodge. "We're excited to bring the program back this year and continue building connections between Village government and the community we serve."

The program will be held Thursday evenings from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., beginning Sept. 17 and running through Nov. 5. Each week, participants will meet directly with Village departments, elected officials and staff to get firsthand insight into the responsibilities and operations of municipal government.

The program is open to Village residents and local business owners. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, though Orland Park high school juniors and seniors under 18 may participate with parental consent. Enrollment is limited to 30 participants, with preference given to those who live or work in the Village.

Applications are now open and can be completed at orlandpark.org/citizensacademy. Additional sessions may be offered based on community interest. The deadline to apply is Friday, Sept. 4.

Orland Park Citizens Academy Schedule

• Session 1: Village Manager's Office / Communications & Marketing / Human Resources / Information Technology
  • Thursday, Sept. 17 | 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

• Session 2: Mayor's Office / Clerk's Office
  • Thursday, Sept. 24 | 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

• Session 3: Development Services
  • Thursday, Oct. 1 | 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

• Session 4: Recreation & Parks
  • Thursday, Oct. 8 | 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

• Session 5: Public Works
  • Thursday, Oct. 15 | 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

• Session 6: Police Department / Dispatch
  • Thursday, Oct. 22 | 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

• Session 7: Engineering
  • Thursday, Oct. 29 | 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

• Session 8: Finance
  • Thursday, Nov. 5 | 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

• Graduation at Committee of the Whole Meeting
  • Monday, Nov. 16 | 6 p.m.

Participants who complete the program will be formally recognized at the Village Committee of the Whole meeting on Monday, Nov. 16. For more information or to apply, visit orlandpark.org/citizensacademy or contact the Mayor's Office at (708) 403-6100.