Layered group photo of Multiple Cohorts of Hope Scholars

2024 Impact Report

It takes Hope

Three years in, Hope Chicago families are achieving meaningful results on their postsecondary journeys—at scale.

Scroll to learn more or read the report.

Building a

Prosperous

Future

Group photo of Student Success Coach with three future Hope Scholars

Trades, Professional Certifications, or a Diploma—regardless of the path, education after high school is required to build wealth and compete in today's economy.

Accessing, persisting in, and completing debt-free postsecondary education, training, and credentials is key to creating a more prosperous future for all, especially those in underserved communities.

Hope Chicago is driving systemic change in how low-income families access and experience education after high school.

A Big Bet, A Unique Approach - And it’s Paying Off.

  • Hope Chicago’s first cohort has produced a 66% increase in the number of students enrolled after two full academic years compared to the previous year (before Hope Chicago).

  • With +1200 in Chicagoland and +670 downstate so far, Hope Scholars are enrolling and contributing to higher education institutions all over Illinois.

  • In its first year, Hope Chicago’s Parent Scholar program enrolled 135 Hope Parent Scholars into a debt-free 2-year, 4-year, workforce, or Pathway Prep opportunity.

    • Latino student postsecondary enrollment increased from 47% in 2021 (before Hope Chicago) to 85% in 2024.

    • Black student postsecondary enrollment increased from 55% (before Hope Chicago) to 75% today.

Impact Report Highlights

It Takes Hope

Veronica, Hope Parent Scholar

“This has changed my life. I am doing something I had dreams of doing, but I thought it was impossible…There are a lot of obstacles in my way, but I am trying my best because I see my son is also trying so hard. I also know that many people are watching and supporting me. Thank you Hope Chicago!”