You might think that a single individual can’t make much impact but we have proof that dedication and good partners can change lives for the better.
Meet Cicero Chimbanda and Naja Edwards, new donors to the Chicago Public Library Foundation! We’re sending them a special shout out for launching their own campaigns to help support two important causes at CPL: internships for YOUmedia teens and STEM learning. Read more about Cicero and Naja below, and if you make a contribution to join them in empowering Chicagoans of all ages to achieve success in school and in life every amount makes an impact!
Cicero Chimbanda
Cicero Chimbanda is an avid runner in his spare time. When he’s not running he’s Vice President of Technology at Loop Capital Markets. He combines his love of running with his passion for giving back to the community by donating the funds raised from each race. We’re honored to have been selected by Cicero as his cause of choice when he runs the Chicago Soldier Field 10 Mile on May 27, 2017. Funds raised will go towards establishing high-tech and creative company internships for teens who participate in Chicago Public Library’s YOUmedia program. Internships are critical to helping teens experience the corporate environment and learn more about careers they’d like to pursue. Join us as we support Cicero on his race to open up opportunities for Chicago’s youth by making a gift here.
Naja Edwards
Native Chicagoan and aerospace engineer, Naja Edwards, grew up visiting the Woodson Regional library branch. As a young girl she was a huge fan and admirer of Dr. Mae Jemison, the first African-American woman to travel in space when she went into orbit aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour on September 12, 1992. In fact, one could say it was Dr. Jemison making history that inspired Naja to pursue a career in aerospace engineering. Today, Naja is a Propulsion Engineer at Boeing who hopes to inspire the next generation of women and people of color in science, tech, and engineering fields. She’s doing this by establishing a collection of books at Chicago Public Library focusing on African-Americans in STEM fields so they are widely available to Chicago kids. Join us as we support Naja in her effort to share the stories of every day heroes and role models to tomorrow’s leaders by making a gift here.
We are grateful to ALL of our terrific donors who continuously show their commitment to free access to information at Chicago Public Library.
To learn more about setting up your own campaign to fund established programs, technology, or collections at Chicago Public Library, please contact Veronica Brown, Director of Individual and Major Gifts.
