Distinctive Schools is thrilled to have been selected as a beneficiary from Invest for Kids, a vanguard philanthropic organization supporting Chicago's youth! This funding will directly support Distinctive Schools' Community Hubs model, strengthening our Chicago International Charter School (CICS) schools as vibrant centers of support, belonging, and opportunity for students and families across Chicago.
The Community Hubs model is a strategic initiative by Distinctive Schools to transform its campuses into comprehensive communities that address barriers to learning beyond the classroom. Community hubs provide wraparound services, connecting students and families with essential resources based on their unique needs. Initiatives within the model include the "Soft Start" before-school program, which has already shown promise in reducing chronic absenteeism, along with expanded academic and enrichment opportunities, comprehensive health and wellness services, and dynamic family and community engagement.
"We are incredibly honored and grateful for this generous investment from Invest for Kids," said Scott Frauenheim, CEO of Distinctive Schools. "This grant will allow us to significantly expand our Community Hubs, bringing critical resources and programming to students and families before, during, and after school. It's a testament to our shared belief that schools should be the heart of our communities, ensuring every child is prepared, supported, and on track to thrive."
The Invest for Kids grant will specifically fuel the expansion of responsive, engaging, student-centered programming. This includes co-designing tailored initiatives with principals and Community School Coordinators at each campus, offering high-impact opportunities in arts, athletics, STEM, mentorship, and family wellness.
"Our Community Hubs are fundamentally reimagining what school can be, turning our campuses into beacons of belonging, wellness, and opportunity," added Mary Beck, President of Distinctive Schools. "This partnership with Invest for Kids will enable us to deepen our impact, foster greater student engagement, and ensure that every student and every family feels connected, valued, and seen."
We are so grateful to Invest for Kids for this opportunity—stay tuned for more details in the coming months as we expand on our Community Hub model at CICS Bucktown, CICS Irving Park, CICS Lloyd Bond, CICS Loomis, CICS Longwood Elementary and High School, CICS Prairie, and CICS West Belden. The best is yet to come!
About Distinctive Schools
Distinctive Schools is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and accelerating the work of charter schools serving kids from traditionally underserved backgrounds. The team includes passionate educators and determined leaders who innovate, trailblaze and collaboratively lead a public education transformation, as well as ensure that each and every one of Distinctive Schools students thrives in college, career and life. To learn more, please visit www.distinctiveschools.org.
About Invest for Kids
Invest for Kids (IFK) is a Chicago-based philanthropic organization dedicated to supporting highly impactful nonprofit organizations that serve Chicago area youth in low-income circumstances. Each year, IFK hosts a premier investment conference where industry leaders share their best ideas. Co-founders underwrite 100% of the conference expenses, ensuring that all proceeds are awarded directly to their nonprofit partners and ongoing initiatives. Since its inception, Invest for Kids has raised and donated millions of dollars, making a significant difference in the lives of thousands of Chicago children. For more information, visit investforkidschicago.org.