Our 4th annual YLS IGNITE was one of our most successful yet!
Hosted by Young Leaders Society, this mid-winter party is an opportunity for young philanthropists to help raise funds for different United Way programs each year, all while having a fun-filled evening with friends, new and old.
Hosted at Savage Smyth, one of Chicago’s hottest venues, this year’s event included a live band, The Local Jokes, as well as dancing, drinks, a photo booth and a rooftop ice skating rink. We were in good company, too. Israel Idonije, founder of iF Charities and former Defensive End for the Chicago Bears, joined the celebration, along with WGN-TV Anchor Dan Ponce, who livened up the night as our emcee.
Igniting an impact
IGNITE 2018 was made possible by the generous donations of 26 corporate sponsors, including our patron sponsors, Exelon and the Skender Foundation. After thoughtful donations, ticket sales and silent auction proceeds, the event raised more than $95,000.
The proceeds from IGNITE will help support our AmeriCorps members across the Chicago region. With these donations, United Way will have the resources to provide the long-term volunteers with invaluable training sessions and help them maintain their community-service programs. Thanks to YLS and the annual IGNITE event, the amazing service of the AmeriCorps members will have an even greater impact within our communities!