Host an Event

Each year, dozens of gracious volunteers host cultivation and fundraising events and drives for toiletry items to benefit Teen Living Programs. Join in the fun, invite some friends and colleagues, and host your own event to raise awareness of our organization. Keep reading to find out more about what kinds of events you can host, and how we’ll support you through the process.

What is a TLP Cultivation Event?

Cultivation events are fundraisers that benefit Teen Living Programs, either by generating funds, collecting needed supplies, or by introducing new supporters to the organization. These events are coordinated and executed by individuals or organizations independent from Teen Living Programs. Money raised is used to support programming for Chicago’s youth who are homeless.

The sky’s the limit when it comes to your event. Ideas include:

• Organizing a bowling party
• Holding a book-club fundraiser
• Hosting a bake sale
• Throwing a party at a local restaurant or bar
• Throwing a dinner party
• Raising funds at school
• Having an event at your office
• Organizing a golf outing or sports tournament

No event is too big or too small. We have had friends of TLP host cultivation events for 5 guests, all the way up to 400 guests! Whatever the occasion, Teen Living Programs is honored to benefit from your event. We will do our best to ensure your guests walk away knowing more about what TLP is doing to stop youth homelessness and prevent adult homelessness, and knowing that their support is furthering our mission of creating hope and opportunity for Chicago’s youth who are homeless.

Where does the money go?

All of the revenue from cultivation events benefits Teen Living Programs, the only organization in Chicago focused solely on serving youth who are homeless. 84 cents of every dollar donated directly benefits programming for our youth.

What in-kind donations does TLP need?

TLP provides every young person who enters our programs with a “welcome basket” filled with personal hygiene items, an alarm clock, new sheets and more. Additionally our TLP’s Street and Community Outreach Team handed out more than 4000 survival kits last year to youth on the streets. Read our “Wish List” for ideas about what kind of items you can collect or buy.

How do I get started?

Read our “From Start to Finish: Planning Your TLP Cultivation Event” and follow our seven easy steps to hosting a successful event. Also be sure to consult our “TLP Event Policies and Guidelines” for important information regarding use of funds, expenses, use of TLP name and logo, and more.

For more information about hosting an event please contact Emily Krisciunas.