Chicago Hope Academy founder to speak at Judson
When Bob Muzikowski began coaching little league in Chicago's Cabrini Green area in the 1980s, he had hopes of changing lives through the positive influence of athletics. What began as a passion and desire to make a difference in the lives of teens led him to achieve exceptional results. Since then, Muzikowski and his wife have founded the Chicago Hope Academy, a college preparatory school for underprivileged youth.
Muzikowski will talk about his journey and life lessons in a presentation titled "The Art of the Downsize," as the keynote presenter for Judson University's annual Golden Corridor Prayer Breakfast to be held from 7:30 to 9 a.m. Tuesday, May 5, at the Lindner Fitness Center, 1151 N. State St., Elgin.
"This year's event has a recurring theme of the power education has to change and improve lives," said Mary Dulabaum, Judson's director of communications and marketing.
Other program participants will be Alistair Brown, president of Northern Theological Seminary; Jose Torres, superintendent of Elgin Area School District U-46; David Sam, president of Elgin Community College; Jennifer Lambert of K-Love; and Scott Olson, CEO of International Teams.
New this year, Judson University has partnered with U-46 to provide reading materials for students at Century Oaks Elementary School. Bring new or gently read books for preschool and grade-school age children to benefit students at Century Oaks Elementary School and Clifford Court.
"We've initiated the Create Readers for Tomorrow Book Drive as one response to support a neighborhood near Judson, where our students have an ongoing ministry," Dulabaum said. "When our students return in the fall they will use the donated books with that community and act as reading buddies."
The public is invited to attend this annual community event that attracts business leaders, community groups, churches and volunteers. Part of the program will include recognizing a community volunteer with the D. Ray Wilson Community Service Award. To join Judson for this event, purchase tickets by Monday, April 27.
Tickets are $16 each and table sponsorship is available for area businesses and community groups for $350 (table for eight guests and recognitions). To order tickets, visit JudsonU.edu/prayerbreakfast.aspx or call (847) 628-2514.