Chicago Voyagers is a Schaumburg-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit specializing in outdoor adventure therapy programs for Chicago-area teens, most of whom have experienced childhood trauma and adversity. By partnering with area schools and community groups, we work with youths throughout the school year with a specific focus on helping teens work through difficulties they experience at school and home. Typical outcomes reported by our school partners include overall reductions in disciplinary referrals and increases in collaborative and responsible behaviors. Our trauma-informed programs allow teens to challenge themselves and develop the skills and tenacity needed to face life's obstacles and successfully transition into healthy adulthood.

Our Empowering the Voyage 15th Anniversary Gala, to be held on October 19th at Chandler’s Banquets in Schaumburg, IL, is our largest fundraising event of the year. This particular Gala will also include a celebration of fifteen years of service for more than 5,000 Chicagoland teens since 2008.

Funds raised at the Gala help support our programming during the 2023-24 school year, ranging from afternoon mountain biking or orienteering programs to longer multi-day backpacking trips and canoe expeditions during school holidays and breaks. All programs and equipment are offered to our students free of charge and are funded by government and private grants, individual and corporate donations, and fundraising events.

We expect from 200-250 guests and volunteers at the event. Your donated silent auction item is a key portion of our overall fundraising strategy. Donors will be recognized through our website, social media channels, event signage, and our program booklet given to attendees.