Ignite Chicago
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We believe in a world where youth are defined by their potential, not their circumstances. Are you unstably housed?
Help us create futures with promise for youth experiencing homelessness. Ignite is a non-profit organization that has supported and strengthened Chicago’s most vulnerable young people for over 45 years. We are the only agency in the city to focus solely on 14-26 year olds who are experiencing homelessness; and we offer comprehensive, year-round services to address everything from emergency needs and housing to education, job readiness, and embracing a healthy lifestyle. Our services are available on Chicago’s south side, in neighborhoods of high poverty and violence and where critical support services are lacking. The young people we work with are survivors – of homelessness, trauma, and instability – and we know that each one has the extraordinary potential to rewrite their story. Every day, our dedicated staff and volunteers work alongside our clients, encouraging them to focus their energy and potential on altering the course of their lives for the better. We are proud that more than two-thirds of our clients will finish high school, complete career training, secure employment, and continue toward a fulfilling, independent future. Together, we are creating hope and opportunity for hundreds of youth every year who might otherwise fall through the cracks. You can access our services here https://www.ignitepromise.org/locations.
09/24/2026
We snuck in one last summer celebration before fall began. ☀️
Our Mental Health Team put together an end of summer BBQ for our staff and young people, and we had a blast!
09/22/2026
In FY26, Ignite expanded our reach while helping young people build greater stability, connection and opportunity through housing, outreach, education, employment, health and wellness, prevention and ongoing support.
And we’re continuing to move forward.
As we begin our FY27– FY31 Strategic Plan, four key pillars will guide our work as we expand our reach, deepen our impact and build the capacity needed to serve more young people with consistency, quality and care.
See more about our impact and what’s ahead for Ignite here: https://www.ignitepromise.org/read-our-impact-report
09/03/2026
Ignite rang the Nasdaq Opening Bell alongside fellow Chicago Innovation Award winners! 🔔
We’re proud to have been recognized for our Community Housing Program, an innovative model providing long-term, affordable housing and individualized support for young people transitioning out of homelessness.
You can read more by visiting the link in our bio.
08/26/2026
A few moments from our Back-to-School Community Carnival 🧡🎒🍿
From school supplies and new shoes to food, games and community connection, we were so grateful to bring together youth, families, partners and supporters for an afternoon of fun and support.
A huge thank you to ShoeHeals, Inc., Teen Parenting Navigators, Pour In, Phalanx Family Services, Believe to Receive, Teamwork Englewood, Illinois Workers in Action, Metropolitan Family Services, All Stars Project of Chicago, Carrie Cares Mobile Health Clinic | MOMS Care, Community Outreach Intervention Projects (COIP), Black Fire Brigade, Brave Space Alliance and The Link & Option Center for helping make the day possible.
08/24/2026
Thank you so much for joining us at our Back to School Carnival!🧡
08/18/2026
Join Ignite this Thursday, August 20th from 1–4 p.m. at Rosenwald Courts for our Back-to-School Community Carnival!🍿🎒
There will be local organizations, free school supplies and book bags, food, community resources, games and plenty of fun for youth and families on Chicago’s South Side.
📍 Rosenwald Courts Courtyard, 4648 S. Michigan Ave.
🗓 Thursday, August 20th from 1–4 p.m.
Come out, connect with community and help us kick off the school year strong!
08/10/2026
Join Ignite and our community partners at Rosenwald Courts for our Back-to-School Carnival! 🎒
Stop by for food, games, resources, and community fun as we help local students start the school year strong.
Want to support the day? You can volunteer with us or purchase needed school supplies through our online drive. Items ordered through the list ship directly to Ignite.
📅 Thursday, August 20
⏰ 1–4 p.m.
📍 Rosenwald Courts | 4648 S. Michigan Ave.
Shop the school supply drive:
https://yougivegoods.com/drive-landing/t43pcq16gefl9a4jz8zm36x6t
Volunteer: email [email protected]
07/30/2026
The Dream Team that makes our Community Hub move!🧡
These are the welcoming faces, problem-solvers, advocates, and champions who truly make our work possible. Every connection, resource, and success story starts with people like these who genuinely CARE!
We are so lucky to have this crew! Show them some love!🧡
07/30/2026
The Dream Team that makes our Community Hub move!🧡
These are the welcoming faces, problem-solvers, advocates, and champions who truly make our work possible. Every connection, resource, and success story starts with people like these who genuinely CARE!
We are so lucky to have this crew! Show them some love!🧡
07/10/2026
We’re honored to be a finalist for the Young Nonprofit Professionals Network of Chicago’s 2026 Nonprofit of the Year Award!
YNPN Chicago strengthens the nonprofit community by providing professional development, resources, and networking opportunities for young nonprofit professionals across Chicago.
This recognition reflects the work our team does every day and the community support that makes it possible to help young people find a home and a future in which they thrive.
Voting is open now through Friday, July 24 at 11:59 p.m.
Please take a moment to vote for Ignite:
https://tinyurl.com/ycxur6wv
Thank you for your support!
Click here to claim your Sponsored Listing.
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3745 S. Indiana Avenue
Chicago, IL
60653