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For over 70 years, the Pilsen Neighbors Community Council (PNCC) has worked tirelessly to invest in the future of the residents of Pilsen and Chicago Southwest Side. Founded in 1954, PNCC is a non-profit organization dedicated to developing community leadership and organizing around critical issues such as education reform, economic development, universal health care, immigration reform, and workforce development. Our mission has always been to lift up the voices of our community, ensuring that policies and practices reflect the needs of our families.
Through grassroots leadership development and civic engagement, PNCC has led historic campaigns to build new schools, alleviate overcrowding, and increase parent participation in educational reform. Our organizing efforts have recently gained new momentum through initiatives like the Early Childhood and University Round Table, creating opportunities for real and lasting change.
One of our proudest legacies is the Guadalupe A. Reyes Fiesta del Sol Scholarship Program, which has provided nearly three decades of support to Latino students pursuing higher education. Named in honor of community trailblazer Guadalupe A. Reyes - a former PNCC board member and a co-founder of the Fiesta del Sol - the scholarship reflects her lifelong dedication to uplifting the marginalized. Born one of eight children to Mexican immigrant parents, Mrs. Reyes had more courage than most and became a fierce advocate for children, seniors, and the disabled.
We are currently seeking support to award 10 more scholarships before July 20, 2025, bringing us closer to our goal of 30 scholarships. Each scholarship is $3,000 and helps a Latino student - many of whom are attending in-state colleges and universities - pursue degrees in education, business, medical fields and social sciences.
Will you support one scholarship today and invest in a student’s future?
With your help, we can close our fundraising gap and provide the resources our youth need to thrive. You can make your tax-deductible gift by visiting our website, www.pilsenneighbors.org, or mailing a check to Pilsen Neighbors Community Council. If you have any questions, please contact Alejandra at alejandra@pilsenneighbors.org or 312-666-2663 Opt. 6.
