Ignite Icons Series - Ignite Senior Director of Programs, Dan'iel Kendricks
To celebrate our 45th anniversary, we're bringing you the Ignite Icons series - highlighting some of the most prominent figures that have been part of the Ignite community over the years.
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we’re highlighting Dan’iel Kendricks, Ignite’s Senior Director of Programs, who has been with the organization for nearly 9 years, and has seen Ignite through name changes, program expansion, and immense growth.
How long have you worked with the organization?
I have worked at Ignite since August 2013, so roughly 8.5 years.
In a short sentence, tell us about your current role, and what duties your role consists of?
I am the Senior Vice President of Programs for Ignite, and am the executive leader for all Ignite residential and non-residential services. I am responsible for ensuring that Ignite delivers impactful youth focused services that align with the agency’s mission and values.
What position did you start out with at Ignite?
I joined Ignite in August 2013 as the Director of Supportive Services. At that time I provided leadership and oversight for the integration of education, employment and health services offered to clients across all programs.
You’ve had some huge educational milestones along the way as well – can you tell us about the degrees you’ve secured while you’ve been working for Ignite?
I am happy to say I will be earning my Doctorate of Education in Organizational Leadership from National Louis University-Chicago in April 2022.
Have you always wanted to work with youth, or did your interest grow as you worked with the organization?
I have always been motivated to work with young people from a very young age. I am from the South Side of Chicago and was motivated to work with youth based on my observation and experiences in the various communities of color across the city.
With the organization celebrating our 45th anniversary, what are some of the ways you’ve seen the organization grow and change over the years?
During my time at Ignite, I have seen the Drop in Center transition to 3 different locations and evolve into what is now the Ignite Community Hub. I have also seen Ignite expand residential services to include Next Generation affordable housing for youth, while also expanding community based services offered through the Community Hub.
Overall, I have seen Ignite grow in a way that reflects the agency’s commitment to providing holistic care, from providing housing to becoming innovators in developing and expanding youth-driven programs. I have seen Ignite become a loud voice in advocating for systematic change that truly meets the needs of young adults.
Ignite has become a strong voice advocating for youth housing, while also expanding programming in a way that fills the existing gaps in the youth housing sector.
What do you see for the future of the organization?
I see Ignite continuing to be an innovative youth-focused organization that continues to increase awareness around youth experiencing homelessness.
Finally, what are some of your hopes and goals for the youth we work with?
For each young person to have equitable opportunities and access to the resources and support systems they need to define their own journey and truly reach their fullest potential.
