We’re Official: Chicago Emerging Stars Is Now a 501(c)(3) Nonprofit

A new chapter. A deeper commitment. A moment worth celebrating.

After months of waiting, hoping, and trusting the process — we’re proud to share that Chicago Emerging Stars is now officially a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

This moment didn’t arrive with balloons or confetti. It came in the form of a single document — quiet but powerful — confirming what we’ve always known in our hearts:

That the work we’re doing matters.

That our vision is valid.

And that what we’re building is here to stay.

From a Dream to Determination

When Chicago Emerging Stars first began, we weren’t backed by big budgets or institutional support. We were fueled by lived experience, community love, and a calling to do more for the youth who deserve everything this world has to offer.

What started as one young person’s vision — sparked by the belief that no child should feel unseen, unsupported, or unheard — has grown into a citywide movement of care, connection, and opportunity.

We’ve hosted Back-to-School Bashes serving thousands of families.

We’ve built platforms for youth leadership, mentorship, and employment.

We’ve shown up — with joy, with backpacks, with hugs, with resources, and with purpose.

And now, with this official status, we’re stepping into the next chapter — with even more capacity to grow, partner, and scale our impact.

Why This Matters (Far Beyond Paperwork)

Becoming a 501(c)(3) means more than tax exemption.

It means permanence. Credibility. Structure.

It means we can now apply for critical grants, expand our partnerships, and receive tax-deductible donations — opening new doors for sustainability and long-term growth.

But most importantly, it means that Chicago Emerging Stars has been recognized as a public good.

That our mission — to affirm, empower, and invest in the potential of our city’s youth — is not just noble, but necessary.

For every young person who has ever been overlooked.

For every family who’s ever shown up early just to make sure their child gets a backpack and a reason to smile.

For every community member who believes that South Side brilliance deserves to be seen —

This moment is for you.

A Quiet Confirmation. A Loud Sense of Purpose.

The day we received the letter, there was a moment of disbelief. Could this really be it? Was this real?

After verifying it (because of course we had to double check), the answer was clear:

Yes. This is real. This is ours.

And in that moment, everything we’ve been pouring into this work — every long night, every hard “no,” every door we had to build ourselves — felt like it was leading right here.

There’s power in recognition. But even more power in the responsibility that comes with it.

Because now, the work continues — not as a side project, but as a recognized institution of hope.

The Future Is Bright — And We’re Just Getting Started

Chicago Emerging Stars is still growing. We’re still a small but mighty team (shoutout to our founder and CEO, Jaqueza Thomas, who wears many hats — and never stops dreaming big). But make no mistake:

We are rooted. We are ready. And we are rising.

With this milestone, we’re doubling down on our mission:

• To ensure every young person has access to the tools, support, and opportunities they deserve

  
  

• To create spaces where joy, dignity, and brilliance are the norm — not the exception

  
  

• To build something lasting, so that generations to come can benefit from the seeds we’re planting now

And as always — we’re doing it with community, for community.

To Everyone Who Has Walked With Us: Thank You

If you’ve ever volunteered, donated, shared a post, attended an event, or simply believed in us from afar — this moment belongs to you, too.

Your support is what carried us through.

Your belief is what made this real.

And your continued presence is what will take us further than we’ve ever imagined.

We hope you’ll stay with us. Grow with us. Build with us.

Because this is more than an announcement.

It’s an invitation.

An invitation to join a movement that centers youth potential.

That believes in second chances and first steps.

That turns dreams into action and hope into infrastructure.

The Best Way to Celebrate? Keep Showing Up

We’re not slowing down. In fact, we’re just picking up speed.

From our upcoming Back-to-School Bash to year-round programs, mentorship, youth employment, and more — we’re here to keep pushing.

Want to help us celebrate this new chapter?

Here’s how:

✅ Volunteer with us: www.chicagoemergingstars.org/volunteer

✅ Make a tax-deductible donation: www.chicagoemergingstars.org/donate

✅ Spread the word — share this post and tell someone about us

We’re proof that when community comes together, stars emerge.

And now, with our 501(c)(3) status in hand and our hearts full of purpose —

we’re shining brighter than ever.

Let’s keep building — together.

With love and momentum,

The Chicago Emerging Stars Team