Ignite Icons Series - Lindsay Mullen, Executive Board Chair
To celebrate our 45th anniversary, we're bringing you the Ignite Icons series - highlighting some of the most prominent figures that have been part of the Ignite community over the years.
To kick things off, meet Lindsay Mullen, the chair of our Board of Directors. Read on to hear more about her time with Ignite, why she's passionate about the work we do, and what she sees for the future.
How are you involved with Ignite, in what capacity? How long have you been involved with the organization?
I have been a member of Ignite's board of directors since September, 2019 and I currently serve as the board chair.
How did you first hear about Ignite?
I became familiar with Ignite when my company, Prosper Strategies, was hired to assist the organization with a rebrand.
What inspired you to get involved with the organization? Is there something in particular about the cause of youth homelessness that drew you to get involved with Ignite over other organizations?
I was particularly drawn to Ignite because I knew the organization was big enough to make a significant impact on youth in Chicago, but small enough where I could personally make a difference. I also know that every young person has so much potential but also needs a support system of people by their side to mentor and guide them. Growing up, some of us found that in family members, friends, teachers, or coaches. Ignite's goal is to provide that support and be that stepping stone for youth who, in some cases, might not have as much of it as they need elsewhere. I love our commitment to community and the fact that even when young people move on from Ignite, it's always a place they feel like they can call home.
With the organization celebrating our 45th anniversary, what are some of the ways you’ve seen the organization grow and change over the years?
When I learned about Ignite, the organization was actually called Teen Living Programs! During my short time as a board member, we welcomed Stephanie Piccirilli as our new CEO and opened The Community Hub, our drop-in resource center in Bronzeville's historic Rosenwald Building.
What do you see for the future of the organization?
We have a really exciting 5-year strategic plan that's ambitious but achievable. One of our biggest goals is to shift our funding model away from funds that are time bound and may force young people to have to leave our program before they are ready, toward funds that stop the clock and allow us to focus on each youth's needs and dreams. We are also setting out to expand into new neighborhoods in Chicago with the support of community partners, and enhance our operational capabilities so that we can serve more youth!
Finally, what are some of your hopes for the youth we work with?
My hope for the youth we work with is simple: it's that Ignite can support them in achieving their own hopes and dreams.