Join Hands and Hearts: The 42nd Annual UNCF Walk for Education in Chicago

A Celebration of Hope and Support

Imagine a sea of people, all gathered for one purpose - to ensure that every student gets a fair shot at higher education. This is what the 42nd Annual UNCF Walk for Education in Chicago promises to be. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Burnham Park, this event is not just a walk in the park. It’s a stepping stone for many students towards a brighter future. Lisa Rollins, UNCF Development Director, puts it simply yet profoundly, "For every one kid we give a scholarship to, there are five more who need it." This statement alone underscores the critical importance of the UNCF Walk for Education.

Why Your Steps Matter

The statistics are eye-opening. With the average $5,000 scholarship making a monumental difference in the lives of first-generation college students and their families, the UNCF Walk for Education is more than just a fundraiser; it's a lifeline. The event is a vibrant mix of activities - a 5K walk/run, a 10K bike/skate, and an array of family-friendly activities that include music, dancing, and food. It's a day where the community comes together, united by the cause of education and the belief that 'A mind is a terrible thing to waste.'®

Leadership, Community, and Celebration

This year’s event is chaired by none other than Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, with the energetic Omni Channel Radio Personality Davante "Stone Pony" Stone leading the charge as the emcee. The Walk honors Grand Marshals who are pillars of the community and staunch advocates for education, including Dr. Macquline King, Reggie Summerise, Lady Vynessa Alexander, Donavon Isaac "JukieThaKidd," and Frankie Robinson. It's a testament to how education brings us together, irrespective of our backgrounds or professions.

Joining Forces for a Cause

The Chicago chapter of the National Pan-Hellenic Council, under the leadership of Reggie Summerise, is mobilizing its Divine Nine organizations to support the cause. It’s a powerful reminder of how collaboration can amplify the impact of goodwill. The UNCF's mission is clear - to increase the number of underrepresented college graduates by ensuring students are college-ready, enroll in college, and make it to graduation. This walk is a step towards that goal, a gesture that says, 'We are here for you, and we believe in you.'

A Call to Action

The invitation is open to everyone - to walk, run, bike, or skate; to join a team or create your own; to volunteer or donate. Every step taken, every dollar raised, brings a student closer to their dream. For those interested in being part of this transformative event, registration details can be found at www.UNCF.org/chicagowalk. It’s more than just a walk; it’s a movement towards change, a collective effort to empower the next generation through education. Let’s lace up for a cause that shapes futures, for a walk that declares, in every step, that we believe in the power of education to transform lives.

As we look forward to this event, let’s remember the impact that our collective efforts can have. The UNCF has been a beacon of hope for many, supporting over 60,000 students across more than 1,100 colleges and universities. This walk is a chance to be part of that legacy, to contribute to a future where every student has the opportunity to pursue their educational dreams. So, let’s come together this Saturday at Burnham Park and make a difference, one step at a time.