Dear Friends - As I prepare to say goodbye to this city which has meant so much to me for the last 20 years, I'd love to leave something worthwhile behind. In lieu of a farewell gift, I hope you'll help me support the Community Leadership Fellows (CLF) program.

The Community Leadership Fellows partners with the United Way of Metro Chicago to provide a yearlong leadership development program for social changemakers on Chicago's West Side. The program offers executive level workshops, trainings, coaching, mentoring and networking for local leaders who traditionally have limited access to these types of leadership development programs elsewhere in the city. CLF seeks to change all of that by investing in homegrown talent who will lend their vision and commitment to create vibrant and sustainable West Side communities.

I was introduced to CLF after we lost my beloved stepson, Miles --when I was struggling to make sense of this city and the devastating loss that it handed to me and my family. That was almost 4 years ago, and since that time, I have been a strong admirer of CLF's deep commitment to pouring into local leaders in order to build more safe, peaceful, and prosperous West Side communities.

Of course, there is no obligation to give, but if you are inclined, just know that I am incredibly grateful for your kindness and generosity. It means the world to me.

***Please be sure to note that your contribution is designated for the Community Leadership Fellows program.