Finding Home: 50 Years of Love Presented by Ignite

Chicago, IL— As part of its 50th anniversary celebration, Ignite will partner with CAN TV to produce a special televised conversation titled “Finding Home: 50 Years of Love.” The program reflects five decades of supporting young people experiencing homelessness in Chicago, and the ongoing work needed to ensure every young person has a safe place to call home. 

The program will be hosted by award-winning journalist and longtime Chicago media leader Robin Robinson, alongside Darrious Hilmon, a two-time Emmy Award–nominated Executive Director at CAN TV. Robinson, known for her distinguished career in Chicago broadcasting and community leadership, will guide a conversation exploring the realities of youth homelessness, the systems that impact young people, and the role communities play in creating pathways to stability. 

Featured is Stephanie Piccirilli, who has led Ignite through a period of strategic growth and expanded impact. Under her leadership, Ignite has strengthened its housing programs, broadened outreach efforts, and deepened its commitment to providing holistic, youth-centered services that support long-term stability and opportunity. 

Joining the discussion is Carolyn Ross, President & Chief Executive Officer of All Chicago. Ross brings extensive expertise in homelessness response systems and will share insights on the broader landscape of homelessness prevention and housing solutions in Chicago. 

Ignite began its work meeting young people experiencing homelessness where they were. This included early outreach efforts at Chicago’s Greyhound Bus Station. Over the past five decades, the organization has grown into a leading provider of housing, outreach, and supportive services for young people navigating homelessness. Ignite continues to expand its impact through supportive housing, street and community outreach, and holistic services that address young people’s needs in housing, education and employment, health, and social-emotional well-being. 

The special CAN TV production will air live on April 8 and is part of Ignite’s year-long 50th anniversary celebration, honoring the organization’s history while looking ahead to the future of youth homelessness prevention and housing solutions in Chicago. 

About Ignite Ignite is Chicago’s leading nonprofit dedicated exclusively to young people, ages 10-26, experiencing homelessness or at the greatest risk of harm. For 50 years, Ignite has provided housing, expansive supportive services, and advocacy; empowering youth to build safe, stable lives and futures. We’ve grown from a grassroots collective into a citywide force for change, advocating for the needs of youth as they navigate some of life’s toughest challenges. This year, Ignite will enroll more than 850 young people across its programs. Join us and “ignite” the next 50 years of impact, community, and unwavering support for youth at the greatest risk of harm. Learn more at www.ignitepromise.org 

Contact: Janessa Baker, Manager of Advancement & Strategic Projects, jbaker@ignitepromise.org