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Join Our Board of Directors

Are you passionate about youth empowerment, mentorship, and changing the narrative for young people in Chicago? Chicago Emerging Stars is looking for visionary, purpose-driven individuals who want to make a meaningful impact in our communities by joining our Board of Directors.

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Founded on lived experience and fueled by a deep love for our city’s youth, our organization thrives because of people who step up, lead with heart, and believe in the power of possibility. If that sounds like you—welcome. We’d love to learn more about you.

Why Join the Board?

Being a board member at Chicago Emerging Stars means more than just having a seat at the table—it means being part of a mission that’s actively reshaping futures.

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As a board member, you’ll:

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  • Help guide the strategic direction of our programs and initiatives

  • Support the long-term sustainability and growth of the organization

  • Serve as a champion of our mission within your personal and professional networks

  • Collaborate on events, fundraisers, outreach, and more

  • Inspire, uplift, and advocate for Chicago youth

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Whether you’re a professional, educator, community leader, or changemaker with a heart for service—we invite you to consider applying.

What We’re Looking For

We value passion, authenticity, lived experience, and a heart for mentorship and community. We are especially interested in individuals who bring:

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  • A genuine belief in the mission and work of Chicago Emerging Stars

  • Experience in youth development, education, community organizing, nonprofit work, leadership, or philanthropy

  • A willingness to actively participate, contribute ideas, and advocate

  • Diverse perspectives that reflect the communities we serve

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You do not need prior board experience to apply.

Board Interest Form

Please complete the form below to express your interest in joining the Chicago Emerging Stars Board of Directors. We review submissions on a rolling basis and will be in touch with next steps.

Multi-line address

Max 250 words – concise and thoughtful responses encouraged

Max 250 words – concise and thoughtful responses encouraged

Have you served on a board before?
Yes
No
Not officially, but I’ve been part of leadership or advisory teams

Include the name of the organization(s), your dates of involvement, and a brief description of your role and activities.

What areas are you most interested in supporting? (Select all that apply)

Max 250 words – concise and thoughtful responses encouraged

Max 250 words – concise and thoughtful responses encouraged

Background and Screening

Because Chicago Emerging Stars works directly with youth, we are committed to providing a safe, supportive, and positive environment for every young person we serve. As such, we require board members and volunteers to complete a standard screening process.


Please respond honestly to the questions below. A criminal history does not automatically disqualify you from joining the board or supporting our work. However, full transparency is required. Any failure to disclose relevant history may result in removal from the application process.

Have you ever been charged or indicted for any crime?
Yes
No

Note: Final onboarding may include a background check and/or completion of a volunteer agreement, aligned with our commitment to youth safety and best practices.

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