Skokie is known throughout Chicagoland for the more than 90 languages spoken in its 25,000-plus homes. To better support that rich cultural and linguistic diversity, the Skokie Park District now offers Acutrans translation services at all front desks.

Video kiosk at the Weber Leisure Center
Customers visiting the Weber Leisure Center may now use a new touchscreen translation kiosk that connects visually to a live interpreter, who will then speak any one of 300 languages chosen by the customer. The interpreter communicates directly with both the customer and park district staff to ensure clear, accurate service.

“The touch screen kiosk is being piloted at Weber,” said Mary Amato, assistant superintendent of recreation and chair of the district’s staff diversity committee, “We expect to install kiosks at other district centers in the near future.”

Audio services at all Skokie Park District Facilities
Every facility, including Weber, also now features audio translation services at their front desks. Customers may call the displayed phone number, enter the access code, select a language, and speak with a live interpreter, who will then assist staff in real time.

Front desks also have Acutrans language posters available, allowing customers to conveniently point to the language they need.

This new program was implemented by the Skokie Park District’s diversity, equity and inclusion committee.