A Letter from Ignite President & CEO, Stephanie Piccirilli
Every young person who enters Ignite has the chance for a new beginning—an opportunity to be defined by their potential, not their circumstances. Youth without a safe space to call home are at great risk in Chicago, their health and life is in jeopardy, and living into the fullness of who they are is compromised.
These youth are our future, aspiring explorers, teachers, artists, doctors, entrepreneurs and community members who can uplift our world. We must assure that the next generation can successfully move forward and grow.
When I think of the sense of urgency we feel, it reminds me of a special evening I shared with youth and staff not too long ago, cooking dinner at Belfort House, one of my favorite ways to spend time with our young people. That night, I was asked, “What’s Be Like Mike Day?” My eyes met the staff member behind the stove, knowing that this was not an easy question to answer.
That night over dinner we discussed fear, trauma, safety, loss and most of all, we discussed love. I walked away with a clear understanding of why we hold on tighter to the young people who have walked through our doors since Michael left us. Life is fragile and we need the strength of unwavering and unbreakable values to thrive. Every year, we celebrate Mike to commemorate his spirit and to remember the importance of protecting all youth. We never want another young person to be the victim of senseless gun violence again.
When young people have Love, Connection and Belonging they thrive. Homelessness can make those values seem out of reach. When youth live in safe communities, have access to healthy lifestyles, celebrate goals and their futures, they will thrive.
By 2025 Ignite will reach over 700 youth experiencing homelessness in Chicago and increase its supportive apartment housing to serve over 38 young people.
It’s a valiant effort, but just a start. We are called to inspire a movement that allows each of us to recognize that the responsibility of advocating for youth in this city belongs to ALL of us. Creating meaningful change allows ALL youth to live into the future that’s meant for them. And while we are committed to the youth who call Ignite home—we are called to something greater, being a leader in:
• Creating safe, affordable housing for youth.
• Delivering comprehensive supports that elevate families and young people.
• Providing interventions for youth at the greatest risk of harm.
We cannot do this without you. Help us create additional housing opportunities for youth experiencing homelessness, reach more young people, and keep our communities safe. Together, we can ensure that youth rise to meet their dreams and climb to greatness.
With deepest gratitude,
Stephanie Piccirilli, Ignite President & CEO
