Spotlight on Service: buildOn in Chicago on NBC’s Chicago Today

A few days ago, buildOn in Chicago Executive Director Dan Gaudette joined Chicago Today to shine a light on how buildOn is working with youth across the Windy City to transform their communities through service and education.

In his interview, Dan shared how buildOn partners with over 1,400 students at Chicago public schools to tackle real issues in their neighborhoods—through hands-on service projects like mentoring younger students, addressing food insecurity, beautifying parks, and advocating for community needs.

Building a Lifetime of Impact

“When you empower students to take on the issues they care about, and support them in doing it,” Dan explained, “they grow up believing they can take on even bigger challenges—national issues, global issues—and make a positive impact throughout their lives.”

Global Perspective: Trek

Dan also highlighted our Trek program, where students travel to low-income countries to help build schools in partnership with local communities. These life-changing experiences allow students to serve in solidarity, expand their worldviews, and deepen their leadership skills.

“buildOn students grow up believing they can take on even bigger challenges—national issues, global issues—and make a positive impact throughout their lives.” —buildOn in Chicago Executive Director Dan Gaudette

Golfing for Good: Drive for Students

In addition to sharing about student impact, Dan invited viewers to get involved in buildOn’s first-ever Chicago Drive for Students golf scramble on June 9 at Cog Hill—a fun way to support youth leadership while connecting with local business leaders.

To learn more, donate, or register for the golf outing, visit the buildOn in Chicago chapter page.