The 2023 Together Chicago Friendraiser event brought leaders, organizations, schools, and churches together with the vision of “Partnering with Purpose” for removing barriers that disrupt a quality education for Chicago students. Over 150 people attended representing 45 organizations, 29 schools, and 9 churches. Co-hosted by Michelle Relerford (NBC Chicago) and Roy Patterson (Moody Bible Institute), participants heard from esteemed panelists Pedro Martinez (CEO, Chicago Public Schools), Constance Jones (CEO, Noble Network of Charter Schools), Devon Horton (District 65 Superintendent, Evanston / Skokie), Mike Rogers (Founder & ED, Moving Everest Charter School), and Damien Howard (Director of Education Initiatives, Together Chicago).
From CPS CEO Pedro Martinez:
“Participating in the Together Chicago panel energized me. The collaboration I saw between school leaders, faith-based organizations, and other community partners made me feel confident that our students will be able to reach their full potential through support both from CPS and their broader communities. I am excited to see the Together Chicago pilot sites expand to ensure that more students, especially on the South and West Sides, receive the mentorship and guidance they need to excel academically and develop into the future leaders of our city.”
From Dr. Amy Governale of North Park University:
“I thought the Friendraiser was a great opportunity to see how Together Chicago’s Education initiatives build villages of care around schools. The organization of the event around transformative programs, comprehensive wrap around services, and big, public wins, solidified the work and progress Together Chicago is accomplishing. I made a lot of great connections with groups who are just as committed to supporting the holistic well-being of Chicago’s students. I’m so proud to be involved with Together Chicago and look forward to our continued work.”
The work to support students and see Chicago schools thriving continues, learn more and get involved at www.togetherchicago.com/education