Author Talk: 'The Takeout 25 Effect: Mobilizing Community for Positive Change'

The Takeout 25 Effect is an inspiring account of a community-driven initiative with lasting impact. Formed in Chicago’s western suburbs during the global pandemic, Takeout 25 aimed to save local restaurants while maintaining public health. It demonstrates the power of community-centric movements by illustrating the journey of Takeout 25 through compelling personal narratives, expert insights, and actionable strategies. This book is not just a recounting of events, it is a call to action for anyone motivated to make a difference in their community and beyond. In fact, it is a toolkit for social change.

About the author

Ravi Parakkat transitioned from 20 years in business and technology consulting to community service. He was honored as Oak Park-River Forest’s Villager of the Year in 2020 for saving livelihoods and local business during the pandemic through his initiative, Takeout 25. Ravi serves as a Village Trustee for the Village of Oak Park. He is the Vice President of Digital Transformation at Junior Achievement of Chicago.

About the moderator

Mike Stephen is the host and creator of the award-winning radio show and podcast Outside the Loop, which can be heard on Saturday mornings on WGN Radio AM 720. He is in his ninth year of teaching in the history department at Oak Park and River Forest High School and currently teaches United States History and Sociology. In 2018, he was the recipient of the Illinois State Board of Education’s Those Who Excel Award of Recognition for his contributions to education.