The Village of Orland Park is excited to announce the launch of the inaugural Orland Park Citizens Academy, a new initiative designed to provide residents and local business owners with a comprehensive, behind-the-scenes look at how their local government operates.

This seven-week program will be held Thursday evenings from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., beginning September 18 and continuing through October 30, 2025. Each week, participants will engage directly with Village departments, elected officials and staff to gain firsthand insight into the responsibilities and functions of municipal government.

The program is open to Village residents, business owners, and local high school juniors and seniors with parental consent. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. Enrollment is limited to 30 participants and preference will be given to those who live or work in the Village. Future sessions may be offered based on community interest.

Orland Park Citizens Academy Schedule:

• Session 1: Village Manager’s Office / Communications & Marketing / HR / IT
  Thursday, September 18, 2025 | 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. | 14700 S. Ravinia Avenue - Village Hall Board Room
• Session 2: Development Services
  Thursday, September 25, 2025 | 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. | 14700 S. Ravinia Avenue - Village Hall Board Room
• Session 3: Recreation & Parks
  Thursday, October 2, 2025 | 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. | 14750 S. Ravinia Avenue - Civic Center (Annex Room)
• Session 4: Public Works
  Thursday, October 9, 2025 | 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. | 15655 S. Ravinia Avenue - Public Works Building
• Session 5: Police Department / Dispatch
  Thursday, October 16, 2025 | 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. | 10609 163rd Place - Police Department Training Facility
• Session 6: Engineering
  Thursday, October 23, 2025 | 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. | 14700 S. Ravinia Avenue - Village Hall Board Room
• Session 7: Finance / Government Budgeting
  Thursday, October 30, 2025 | 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. | 14700 S. Ravinia Avenue - Village Hall Board Room