Happy 2026! We're still working for a more sustainable and green Chicago since 1975.
We Were Recycling Before It Was "A Thing"
An Industry Pioneer Since 1975
Founded by Ken Dunn in 1975, Resource Center is a not-for-profit organization focused on environmental education and protection through resource recycling and conservation. Too often in an urban setting, abundant and important resources are simply wasted where they could otherwise be of benefit to local communities. From perishable food, surplus or discarded materials, and vacant lots, Resource Center has aimed to reduce waste and transform underused and overlooked resources to improve the quality of life for residents of Chicago.
Ken Dunn received many awards and recognitions, including Illinois Recycler of the Year numerous times from the Illinois Recycling Association (now merged with Illinois Recycling Foundation) starting in the 80s.
For over 50 years Resource Center has been devoted to the economic and educational revitalization of city neighborhoods through residential and commercial recycling, composting, urban farming, creative reuse initiatives, and other programs that reclaim and reuse resources.
