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What is the Associate Board?

The Associate Board is Literacy Chicago’s dynamic group dedicated to advancing adult education through grassroots fundraising, volunteer engagement, and community outreach.

It’s an opportunity to develop nonprofit leadership skills, build your network, and create meaningful change in Chicago.

Want to Join the Associate Board?

Here is what you need to know
Who are We Looking For?
  • Community members of all backgrounds who are passionate about education equity and community impact
  • Motivated self-starters who can take initiative on projects
  • Team players comfortable collaborating in a fast-paced, volunteer-driven environment
  • People with *backgrounds in marketing, fundraising, event planning, communications, or nonprofit management (*preferred but not required)
  • Committed volunteers able to dedicate 5-8 hours monthly to board activities
What Would Your Role as an Associate Board Member Be?

Associate Board members are active contributors who:

  • Lead small-to-large scale fundraisers, from happy hours and galas to creative peer-to-peer campaigns
  • Help recruit, coordinate, and engage volunteers for tutoring programs and organizational events
  • Leverage social media and personal networks to raise awareness about adult literacy in Chicago
  • Participate in planning meetings and bring fresh perspectives to program development
  • Gain hands-on experience in nonprofit operations, event management, and fundraising
Is There a Time Commitment?

Yes. Our associate board members commit to:

  • Twice monthly meetings on Wednesday evenings (in-person or online)
  • Participation in or leading 2-4 fundraising events annually
  • Minimum Term: One-year commitment with option to renew
Why Should You Join the Associate Board?

There are so many reasons to get involved, including:

  • Gaining valuable nonprofit governance and fundraising experience that enhances your resume and leadership capabilities
  • Directly supporting programs that help Chicago adults achieve literacy, learn English, earn GEDs, and access career opportunities
  • Connect with like-minded professionals, nonprofit leaders, and community members across Chicago
  • You get to put your unique expertise to work on real projects with measurable outcomes
Current Associate Board Members

Meet The Team That Makes It All Happen

Ann Keeton

Board and Membership Chair

Dan Winter

Finance Chair

Cammie Shakir

Secretary
2026 Gala Co-Chair

Noor Shaikh

2026 Gala Co-chair

DeShon Johnson

Literacy Chicago Student Ambassador

Lauren Eisel

Valentina Carrena

Jerry Shi

Reggie Owens

Chris Richards

Chereese McDonald

Jamal Riley

Jean Beier

Lily Azaran

Joanne Telser-​Frère

Literacy Chicago Liaison to Associate Board

Aaliyah Samci

Literacy Chicago Liaison to Associate Board