The Support Group Launches Fundraiser Campaign

The Support Group Launches Fundraiser Campaign

The Fundraiser Will Support the Youth Peace Ambassador Program, Which Mentors Local Teens About Restorative Practices in Their Communities

CHICAGO — The Support Group, a Chicago-based nonprofit that creates opportunities for young men and women from underserved communities in Chicago, announced the launch of its fundraiser campaign aimed at supporting the Youth Peace Ambassador Program (YPAM). YPAM teaches youth conflict resolution strategies to promote positive peer-to-peer interactions, and restorative practices to effectively cope with the trauma of violence experienced by today’s youth. The campaign, spearheaded by The Support Group’s founders, renowned activist Bennie Henry and NBA Hall of Famer Tim Hardaway Sr., seeks to rally the support of 1,000 businesses across Chicago to each donate $1,000 to YPAM’s mission to educate and mentor Chicago’s youth, steering them away from the perils of gun violence.

In a city where youth experience many challenges including poverty, lack of educational opportunities, and the pervasive influence of gangs, The Support Group recognizes the urgent need for intervention. Chicago teens 17 years and under make up 8% of arrests for murder, 9% of arrests for shootings, 32% of arrests for armed robbery, and 49% of arrests for car jackings. Through YPAM, the organization empowers young individuals with the tools, resources, and mentorship they need to change the culture of violence and build a better future in their communities.

"This fundraiser campaign is an opportunity for Chicago’s business community to come together to support a better future for Chicago,” said Bennie Henry, co-founder of The Support Group. "By investing in education, providing constructive after-school activities, and fostering positive mentorship relationships, we can break the cycle of violence and create a path toward success for Chicago's youth.”

The Support Group has a deep history of leading community-driven initiatives, and the launch of the fundraiser campaign is yet another testament to its unwavering commitment to social change. By mobilizing the collective efforts of local businesses, The Support Group aims to make a tangible difference in the lives of countless young individuals, offering them hope, opportunity, and a brighter tomorrow.

"We believe that every young person deserves the chance to succeed," said Tim Hardaway Sr., NBA Hall of Famer and co-founder of The Support Group. "With the support of our community and local businesses, we can foster an environment where our youth are not just beneficiaries, but architects of their own promising futures—poised to lead tomorrow's generation."

Founded in 1989, the mission of The Support Group is to create an overall balance that will afford unlimited opportunities for young people throughout Chicagoland to excel and succeed. This is accomplished through educational programs, team building activities, athletic conditioning, enhancing critical thinking and character building. The Support Group offers programs with a variety of curriculum all year round to meet the needs and interests of all the students they serve.


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