In January of 2022, Char and Benjamin began to have conversations about a shared vision they had for the youth in the West Humboldt Park neighborhood. They noticed that there were no spaces for High Schoolers to simply gather in a safe and trusted community to have fun and have real conversations about the joys and challenges of life. Char and Benjamin wanted to cultivate a space that was more than just a place of employment or fun programming, so they started a mentoring group in which High Schoolers are nurtured holistically—spiritually, socially and emotionally.

Every week since January, they’ve piled High Schoolers into a van and embarked on a new excursion--to a Boba shop in Chinatown, a picnic in Uptown, the lakefront down south—and dialogued about relevant issues they all face: anxiety and depression, relationships and communication, God and spirituality, boundaries and self-discovery. 

Over time, the group has grown into a beautiful witness to the power of consistency and the deep need for nurturing communities. In order to sustain these weekly gatherings and excursions, we would like to ask for your partnership through financial giving. This year, our fundraising goal is $6,000 which will go entirely towards funding these small weekly excursions. (Whether it is an activity that costs money per person, a Finals Week dinner treat, a museum that has an entry fee etc.) 

Blending Char’s strong leadership background in education settings and Benjamin’s experience in ministry settings, the two work as a dynamic and gifted team. They are both passionate about walking alongside young people as they grow into their full selves. Together, they have over 16 years of experience mentoring, teaching, leading and pastoring young people.

Charnesha Collier is the Director of Apprenticeships at River City Community Development Center where she works with Middle school and High school students. She holds a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and has worked with youth for over seven years.

Benjamin relocated to Humboldt Park last year after living in Durham, North Carolina for 3 years. He is originally from Northern California, and has also lived in Seattle and Tijuana, MX.

He is currently an Associate Pastor at River City Community Church where he works with Middle School and High School students. Previously, Benjamin has served as a Supervisor of a Boys home, a Chaplain in a Trauma ICU, and in various pastoral roles at churches in Durham, NC. Benjamin holds undergraduate degrees in theology and sociology, and a masters in divinity.