LAUGH IT FORWARD

EMPOWERING THE NEXT GENERATION OF LEADERS
Hosted by the Associate Board of the Great Books Foundation

You can still join our efforts in empowering youth to succeed!

What was the event?

On December 1, the Great Books Associate Board held a Giving Tuesday event that helped to do good in the best way possible—by laughing! With our friends at improve it!, we had an hour of fun improv games and exciting raffle prizes, ending with a surprise appearance by Chicago’s very own Hannibal Buress!

Whom did it benefit?

The future of work belongs to those who possess emotional and social skills, and our program helps teens become more open to working collaboratively, learn to better handle complexity and ambiguity, and be more curious problem-solvers.

Improve It and Hannibal Buress on Zoom Call for Laugh It Forward Giving Tuesday Event

What’s our mission?

The mission of the Great Books Foundation is to advance the critical, reflective thinking and social and civic engagement of people of all ages through Shared Inquiry™ discussion of works and ideas of enduring value.

When is the event?

Virtual Event
Tuesday, December 1, 2020
6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. CST

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Event Sponsors and Prize Donors

How will this program help students?

Our proven Shared Inquiry discussion methodology will empower teenagers through its emphasis on active listening and understanding various perspectives. The career-focused, practical communication and organizational skills at the core of our program will assist young people in finding employment and seeking higher education. Most crucially, we aim to support underprivileged youth in taking their place as the next generation of community leaders by advocating for educational equity in underserved communities throughout the region.

Critical Thinking

Reading Comprehension

Speaking and Listening

Writing

The Great Books Associate Board

Lana Burge

Lana Burge

An avid reader since before she could walk, Lana is passionate about using stories as a way to build empathy and strengthen connections with others. She believes GBF’s mission of teaching kids how to have respectful and thoughtful discussions will create a better future for all.
Kendall McDermott

Kendall McDermott

As a former childhood bookworm, Kendall believes reading has the power to open the world to new perspectives and diverse ways of thinking. She is proud to be a part of GBF’s mission to foster civic engagement and spark thoughtful discussion for generations to come.
Mike Heaney

Mike Heaney

Throughout childhood, Michael avoided sharing his thoughts in school due to a lack of confidence speaking in front of his classmates. Years later, after participating in a Shared Inquiry session, Michael found GBF to offer a solution for children with similar reservations. He made it his goal to spread the message by dedicating his time and devotion to the organization.