Off The Street Club (OTSC)

Founded in 1900, Off The Street Club is Chicago’s oldest boys and girls club. CAF is OTSC’s longest standing relationship, dating back to a connection of Julius Rosenwald, a former clothier who became part-owner, president, and eventually chairman of Sears, Roebuck and Company. Julius encouraged his ad agencies to take part in the club, many did, subsequently fell in love with the club, and still support. The Off The Street Club is grateful to all our supporters, including the Chicago advertising, marketing and media community.

Coming Together, Leveraging Resources, Helping Kids

Given the reduced funding Off the Street Club will receive due to major fundraisers being cancelled this spring and summer, we’ve recognized that Chicago’s diverse, at-risk youth are in need of being supported and safe now more than ever. Off the Street Club has been the main philanthropic focus for the Chicago Advertising Federation for over 100 years, serving more than 3,000 kids in one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in the country, West Garfield Park.

The CAF is eliciting support from the advertising and marketing community focusing on Off the Street Club’s Camp Mathieu. Camp Mathieu is on track to open following the governor’s guidelines that will allow 50 campers at one time, which is one third the usual 150. Stays at camp will be shortened from two weeks to 3 days to allow as many kids as possible to experience camp, necessitating more frequent bus trips between the Club and the camp. To defer the cost of increased logistics the CAF is raising funds for lunches and bus transportation. To cover all of the kids and staff over 8 weeks this summer, we have a goal of $25,000.

How you can help:

– $10 for lunch for one camper

– $100 for lunch for 10 campers

– $300 for lunch for 10 campers for all three days

– $1,000 for bus fees

– $25,000 to cover all lunches and the bus

Donate Here: Save Our Summer

Off The Street Club –  a place where kids can truly find hope. Every child seeking a safe place to go is welcome to join for games, play and mentorship.

Interested in helping? Learn more about Off the Street Club