Upcoming events
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THIRD ANNUAL BENEFIT CONCERT
Back by popular demand!
Featuring 10 amazing performers, this unforgettable night sold out for the last two years.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of it!
Our Mission
To provide hope, growth, and solutions to youth in poverty individuals experiencing homelessness by giving them essential items, so every person feels seen, supported, and empowered to build a better future.
Who do We Serve?
We primarily serve Illinois, especially the Chicagoland area
We focus on two communities: students experiencing poverty and individuals facing homelessness, including veterans.
While we support one project in the Philippines each year, our main commitment is to Illinois first.
What does AZA Do?
AZA has 3 different divisions:
7 Annual Projects
We lead six major projects each year, along with one ongoing weekly community partnership every Friday:
A backpack drive supporting CPS and U-46 students
A cold-weather gear drive for people experiencing homelessness in Illinois
A winter boot drive for unhoused veterans
A hygiene bag drive for middle and high school students
An international service project in the Philippines
A benefit concert that celebrates our community, highlights our work throughout the year, and raises funds to support our other projects
In addition, every Friday from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m., we partner with local nonprofits in Elgin, Illinois, to serve meals to about 80 people experiencing homelessness for 10 months each year.
Ambassador Program
We believe in mentoring the youth (High School and College) because they are our future. We pick high-achieving students to become future leaders.
Ambassadors lead their own service projects, gain guidance and life skills from board members and guest speakers, and represent AZA in their schools and communities.
Volunteer Mentorship Program
An ongoing initiative and the heart of what we do, currently in its pilot phase.
Volunteers meet with a student 1–2 times per week for one hour to teach a skill.
Impact:
• Builds leadership, teaching experience, and gratitude in volunteers
• Helps students gain skills and become positive contributors to society
• Strengthens communities and helps reduce crime
Contact
Feel free to contact us with any questions.
Email
AZAEssentials@gmail.com
Phone
(630) 677-4171