The Reign Project Juneteenth Gala to Celebrate Community Champions and Support Chicago Youth

CHICAGO, IL (June 10, 2024) – The Reign Project NFP, a grassroots nonprofit committed to violence prevention and youth empowerment, is celebrating five years of impact with a Juneteenth-themed fundraising gala on Saturday, June 28. The evening will recognize the changemakers who’ve helped the organization reach hundreds of at-risk youth and incarcerated individuals across Chicago’s West and South Sides.

Founded by LaTonya Darden and Tim Anderson, a former University of Illinois Assistant Basketball Coach, the organization has spent the last five years building bridges for young people who are often overlooked, offering mentorship, career development, and life-saving resources.

“We exist to uplift the voices and lives of those who feel unseen,” said LaTonya Darden, Executive Director. “Our mission is to walk alongside our youth, helping them see that their potential is real and worth investing in.”

“This work is personal for us,” said Tim Anderson. “We both came from these same streets, and we know what it means to have someone believe in you. The Reign Project was built to be that belief in action to show young people that their circumstances don’t define their future.”

This year’s gala will shine a spotlight on several key partners who have stood shoulder to shoulder with The Reign Project in its mission, including:

• Illinois State Senator Lakesia Collins
  
  

• LeVon Stone, Sr. (Acclivus, Inc.)
  
  

• Charlene Johnson-Ajao (AKAM)
  
  

• Quran McGowin
  
  

• LaYon’s Butterfly Effect
  
  

• LaVonas Troupe
  
  

• Timmie Walton
  
  

The Reign Project 5th Anniversary Gala will be held at The Iron Lab (3700 S. Iron Street) from 5 PM to 9 PM. The evening includes dinner, community tributes, and a look ahead at what’s next for this growing movement.

Tickets start at $50, with proceeds directly supporting The Reign Project’s summer jobs program, youth workshops, and continued violence prevention efforts.

To purchase tickets or learn more, visit thereignproject.org.

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