Evolving Without Losing The Why

When asked what stands out most about Ignite, Tom O’Reilly doesn’t hesitate. For him, it has always been the people.

“The dedication of the staff,” Tom shares. Over the years, he has been continually amazed by the depth of support, heart, and compassion Ignite’s team brings to their work every day. It’s not just professionalism, it’s a genuine commitment to showing up for young people with care, respect, and humanity. That compassion, he believes, is felt throughout the organization and is foundational to the trust Ignite builds with the young people it serves.

As a long-time partner and former board member, Tom has witnessed Ignite’s growth firsthand. When reflecting on how the organization has evolved, he points to the expanding reach and impact, but more importantly, how that growth happens. Ignite, he notes, consistently finds new ways to meet young people where they are.

Rather than forcing one-size-fits-all solutions, the organization adapts in real time, responding to the realities young people face with flexibility, creativity, and intention.

Tom also credits Ignite’s long-term stability to its thoughtful and diversified approach to sustainability. By cultivating multiple sources of support across corporate, private, and public funding. Ignite has built a resilient model that allows it to weather change while continuing to grow. “Ignite finds a way,” Tom says, reflecting a belief that has proven true time and again.

Perhaps one of Tom’s most powerful observations is how Ignite moves forward without losing sight of its purpose. “Ignite always reaches up and not across,” he explains. The organization isn’t focused on comparison, but on possibility, continually navigating change and new challenges while remaining deeply rooted in its mission.

For Tom O’Reilly, Ignite’s strength lies in this balance: heart and strategy, growth and grounding, innovation and integrity. It’s what has made him a steadfast supporter and what continues to make Ignite a trusted partner for young people building brighter futures.

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, supportive services, and advocacy, empowering youth to build safe, stable lives and futures. Since 1976, Ignite has been a trusted leader in youth homelessness services. 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.

By: Janessa Baker, Manager of Advancement & Strategic Projects