Chicago

1,138

Students Engaged Monthly

449,718

Hours Served to Date

buildOn serves communities most affected by poverty and violence in Chicago, developing a culture of service and educational advancement among the city’s youth.

Chicago’s epidemic of gun violence has made national headlines in recent years, and buildOn engages students nine high schools neighborhoods most affected by violence, such as Englewood, Garfield Park, and Austin. Students are empowered to lift up their communities by advocating and educating against violence, volunteering at homeless shelters and soup kitchens, and mentoring the next generation of engaged citizens.

Chicago Service Impact

buildOn students are transforming their city through service.

By serving at food pantries and soup kitchens, buildOn students are helping to feed their neighbors experiencing food insecurity.
Students regularly visit residential centers in Chicago to serve meals and spend quality time with seniors.
buildOn students are using service to advocate against community violence and increase the peace in Chicago's neighborhoods.
buildOn engages more than a thousand Chicago high school students in meaningful service every month.
buildOn Chicago students serve as mentors and role models for their youngest neighbors, including children with disabilities.

Meet some of the Chicago students we're empowering to serve.

“buildOn has given me a chance to embrace who I am. It has filled me with compassion and empathy for others. It has focused my energy on being in the service of those around me.”

Sheyla Ocampo, buildOn Chicago Alum
Learn more about Sheyla

Where we work in Chicago

We’re making a difference in some of Chicago’s most challenged schools:

Benito Juarez Community Academy
Gage Park High School
Orr Academy High School

Carl Schurz High School
Michele Clark High School
Prosser Career Academy
Tilden Career Community Academy

Curie Metro High School
Morgan Park High School
Richards Career Academy

How You Can Help

Empower buildOn students to serve the Chicago community

Serve with Us in Chicago

buildOn provides a variety fully immersive experiences that allow your organization to mentor and serve with Chicago youth, share your skills, and make a positive impact in your community.

Learn more

Donate to Chicago Programs

Your donation can help a Chicago student become a leader in his urban community. A gift of just $36 provides a Chicago student with a week of impactful buildOn Service Learning Programs.