Art & Ambition 

First Inaugural Fundraiser Recap: Art & Ambition

About TA98:
The Alliance 98 (TA98) empowers young adults with meaningful career opportunities to address unemployment in Chicago’s disinvested neighborhoods. Since 2018, TA98 has impacted over 500 teens and young adults, distributing $500,000+ in workforce resources, including professional suits and youth wages. With effective mentoring and critical lessons, 90% of participants have secured jobs, pursued higher education, enrolled in trade programs, or started businesses.

The Need for Our Work:
Youth unemployment in Chicago remains alarmingly high, with rates of 79-92% for teens and 49-70% for young adults in some neighborhoods. These systemic challenges, driven by decades of disinvestment and underfunded education, correlate directly with increased violence. TA98 is committed to reversing these trends by creating pathways to employment, which are proven to reduce violent crime and foster community growth.

About Art & Ambition:
Our inaugural fundraiser, Art & Ambition, brought together art, music, and community to support young people launching careers in their dream fields. The evening featured a live auction of curated artwork, live music, dancing, raffle prizes, and networking opportunities. Guests aged 21 and older joined us to celebrate and support TA98’s mission