Recently, about 180 public housing students gearing up for their college journeys, came together for a grand trunk party held at the United Center. This event marked the 13th edition of the Take Flight College Send-Off, organized by the Chicago Housing Authority.
The participating students represented a range of institutions, from local ones like the University of Illinois Chicago to distant campuses like the University of Southern California. The trunk party was made possible through the generous contributions of Molina Healthcare, AT&T and the Chicago Bulls. Springboard to Success, CHA’s affiliated nonprofit partner, hosted the event.
“Many of you are receiving financial aid to help you pay for tuition, but we also understand that financial aid doesn’t cover everything, and that there are a lot of out-of-pocket expenses that come with going off to college,” said CHA CEO Tracey Scott, who was the emcee. “That’s why we started Take Flight 13 years ago – to meet a critical need by providing students with dorm room necessities like linens, towels, lamps and pillows.”
The expansion of Take Flight throughout the years owes much of its success to the dedicated efforts of Springboard to Success, the nonprofit partner of CHA, and its impactful fundraising initiatives. CEO Scott expressed his gratitude for the invaluable support rendered by S2S.
Meanwhile, soon-to-be freshmen enthusiastically engaged in various activities. They inscribed their aspirations on the Affirmation Board, captured memorable snapshots using graduation-themed cutouts, and marked the locations of their respective colleges on both local and national maps.
Among the participants was Demarion Brown, who is set to begin his journey at UIC this coming fall. While in his senior year at Johnson College Prep last year, he noticed an unusual lump on his thigh. Subsequent medical evaluations revealed the presence of a cancerous tumor, necessitating surgical intervention.
Brown still has a journey ahead before receiving the full medical clearance from doctors, but his presence at Thursday’s event brought him happiness. He holds a keen interest in entrepreneurship.
“I’m doing ok,” he said. “I’m just waiting to get these surgeries over with. But my summer job helps me stay motivated and humble. And I’m excited to meet new people and make new friends in college.”
Meanwhile, Brown’s mother, Charlene, has faith that Demarion will overcome this health challenges.
“After all this, he remains humble and never complains – he just goes about his day,” she said. “I am so proud.”
Demarion, a recipient of the Chicago Hope scholarship last year, which effectively eliminates financial obstacles for CPS students by providing comprehensive coverage including tuition, room and board, books, and fees, was particularly thrilled about his presence at the United Center on Thursday. Describing himself as a dedicated sports enthusiast, he aspires to establish his own sports business in the future.
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