BREAKIN' IT DOWN CONFERENCE

The 2019 Breakin' It Down's Planning Committee is pleased to announce that the inaugural Individual award in memory of Denise Stennis was presented to Sharon Bush, Executive Director, of the Grand Victoria Foundation. 

The selection of Sharon rewards her tireless commitment to empowering communities in Illinois to thrive.  

"Throughout her tenure, she has always focused on philanthropic solutions that are responsive and equitable in communities of color. Her experience in business commerce has also informed how workforce development and economic opportunities increase community viability for the persons who live there. Sharon is a natural collaborator and has used her voice at the table of influentials to effect system change in workforce development and environmental issues."

"She is a clear bridge builder and always finds a way to create connection and community with all whom she encounters."  

"She is also aware of the organic nature of the environments in which she operates and allows them to inform her strategy and approach."

The 2019 Breakin' It Down's Planning Committee is pleased to announce that the inaugural Organization award in memory of Denise Stennis was presented to Erie Neighborhood House.

The selection of Erie House is for "their monumental legacy in lifting up disadvantaged immigrant communities and empowering them through education, training, advocacy, and support. Transformative work like that of Erie Neighborhood House is what creates a just, more inclusive society. We cannot think of a better way to celebrate their strength and resilience that has brought positive change to Chicago over the last 150 years ..."

"Erie House has proven their collaborative spirit through sharing best practices and screening tools ... . This is a testament to their continuing efforts to collaborate with sister organizations, stay action-oriented and create powerful communities."

"Erie Neighborhood House collaborates with the community they serve to enable participants to engage in advocacy issues which are important to them and their community. Through their extensive education, mental health, and other supportive programming, Erie Neighborhood House is creating leaders within disadvantaged communities, and in doing so, creating equity in a more inclusive Chicago. Erie Neighborhood House is an example we should all live by."