Ignite Icons Series - Isaac Stanley
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 part of our 2022 Ignite & Shine Gala, we presented the Tom O’Reilly Award to Isaac and Ava Stanley, in recognition for their incredible service and commitment to our youth and mission.
Isaac and Ava have been part of the Ignite family for more than ten years, with Isaac serving as both a donor and a board member, as well as the board chair. They have personally donated more than $175,000 to the organization, and have allowed us to help thousands of youth over their years of service. Their dedication to the organization will allow us to continue to expand our mission and grow to serve youth throughout all of Chicago, beyond just the South Side of the city.
Each year, The Tom O’Reilly Impact Award recognizes a community member, organization, or company that generously, creatively and passionately gives to our organization in ways that forever impact the lives of youth experiencing homelessness and loss of hope. Because of their commitment, our organization is able to create lasting change and be a consistent voice in the advocacy of youth for years to come. This month, we’re highlighting Isaac Stanley! Read on for his responses.
How are you involved with Ignite, in what capacity? How long have you been involved with the organization?
I’ve been around as a donor or board member for the past ten years or so. I joined Ignite’s Board of Directors eight years ago and just completed the second (and final) year as Chairperson. My tenure on the board is completed June 30, 2022. While I will no longer serve as a board director, we will continue to support Ignite in any way we can.
How did you first hear about Ignite?
A good friend was a multi-year donor and invited us to a Spring Gala many years ago. I was struck by the cross section of Chicago in attendance that evening and their support of Ignite.
What inspired you to get involved with the organization? Is there something in particular about the cause of youth homelessness that drew you to get involved with Ignite over other organizations?
We have two adult sons and we’re well aware of the challenges of raising Black males in the US even under “ideal” circumstances -two professional “at home” parents, suburban home in a stable area of NJ & access to resources. Upon entering public elementary school, it was clear that some teachers had extremely low expectations of each son’s academic potential. When we were unable to resolve the situation, we enrolled them in an Afrocentric private school in Newark where academic excellence was both expected and encouraged. Given our experiences with our sons, I could not imagine the hourly challenges presented to youth who are experiencing trauma and/or housing insecurity. Ignite’s mission resonates with our family and the agency has our support. I was more than happy to become a director when I was asked by the CEO.
With the organization celebrating our 45th anniversary, what are some of the ways you’ve seen the organization grow and change over the years?
The re-branding of Teen Living Programs to Ignite was a great milestone. Moving to an online giving event and other virtual activities during the COVID-19 pandemic has been both challenging and very successful. I’m very thrilled to see that a 5-year strategic plan has been approved and is being executed.
What do you see for the future of the organization?
Expanded strategic partnerships throughout Chicago so Ignite can reach more youth. Growth!
Finally, what are some of your hopes for the youth we work with?
I sincerely believe that Ignite will become the last agency our youth will need to reach their full potential and the family that always has their backs.
