Spark’s partner organization, We Grow Chicago, is continually seeking solutions to poverty and disinvestment while empowering the broader community of West Englewood. Thanks to the incredible work of We Grow Chicago, initiatives and programs provide resources and create opportunities for community members. The Inspiration Lab,...
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At Hope Community School, vulnerable students receive incredible educational opportunities that change lives. Dedicated educators, staff, and Spark volunteers inspire students to learn, grow, and dream about their futures. Hope prepares its students for success in and out of the classroom;...
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Hope Community School co-founder Margaret Mumba and Hope’s Teacher Lighton Mwelwa recently embarked on a transformational journey from Zambia to the United States. Thank you to Spark Board members Sue Bernstein - whose generosity and tireless efforts made the trip possible - and Leon Reed...
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Back in 2014, Spark Ventures laid the foundation to begin a new agribusiness in the beautiful mountains of Matagalpa, Nicaragua - the El Tuma Farm. Made possible by many generous Spark supporters, the farm has expanded into 170 acres and has employed numerous local workers. The following...
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A message from Spark Ventures' Executive Director, Kristin Schrepferman: Dear Friend of Spark, My thoughts are with all of you, your families, and people around the world who are struggling during these difficult times. Our lives have changed and we face challenges we...
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One year after the political demonstrations erupted in Nicaragua, Las Tías is stronger than ever! We spoke with Candida, one of Las Tías' directors, to gain some insight into what life was like in the midst of the unrest and what's happening now that it's...
Read MoreThank you for being a member of the Spark family in 2018! Please enjoy this year-end video as we reflect on the memories made and the lives forever changed. You are a vital part of the important work we are doing to transform communities around...
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At the beginning of 2018, The Hope Community School Vegetable Farm was just a dream in the making. A new project at our partner organization in Zambia, intended to create growth not only of beautiful vegetables, but growth within the community as well. This hope...
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As we near the end of Spark Ventures' 10th Anniversary Year, we share the remarks our Cofounder, Rich Johnson made at our big, 10th Anniversary Celebration. His remarks here serve as a "thank you" to the Spark Ventures community who have helped us get to...
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We are thrilled to welcome our new Managing Director, Kristin Schrepferman. She joined the team in early October and has hit the ground running, working closely with Spark's Cofounder Rich Johnson and the board to provide leadership for the organization. Kristin has a background in both marketing...
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