Fredericka Howard has been a well known and beloved local artist in the West Chicago community for many years, having taught art in both the high school and various elementary schools until her retirement in 1990. In 1993, the City of West Chicago created the West Chicago Cultural Arts Commission and Ms. Howard was one of the original volunteers appointed to the Commission, where she served as chair until 2007 and remained on the Commission until April 2008. One of her dreams was to host a community art show that focused on the talents of local artists. Ms. Howard encouraged the Commission to sponsor the Fine Arts Fiesta, an art show that runs during West Chicago Railroad Days. During her tenure, she also secured an Illinois Arts Council grant to fund the "Forever Lily" mural project to beautify old buildings in West Chicago. She also established the Lou Ransom Scholarship, an art scholarship is given to a graduating high school senior wishing to pursue some type of art-related career. In 2006, Ms. Howard also was instrumental in the creation of Gallery 200, a showplace for local artists located in a historic 1870s building in downtown West Chicago where Ms. Howard still volunteers her time offering various drawing classes and organizing weekend "featured artist's shows."

"Through her tireless efforts," noted Mayor Michael B. Kwasman, "the talents of West Chicago artists are and will continue to be a visible and vibrant part of the West Chicago community."