Cierra Lemott 
After three years, True Star held its first in-person fundraiser and it was a huge success! The “Let’s Link for a Great Cause” fundraiser was hosted by HATCH 41 and sponsors included Onyx Wealth Group, IMC, PointB, and Flowers Communication Group.
Former True Star instructor Dion Dawson of Dion’s Chicago Dream, introduced True Star’s co-founders DeAnna McLeary Sherman and Na-Tae’ Thompson to the crowd. They were applauded for the immense growth of their media company and for being an anchor and resource for youth across the city of Chicago.
True Star alum and current participants were on hand to give first hand testimonials of how True Star has helped shape their lives. Speakers included Jameliah Salter, Shaquille Roberts, and Jeremiah Griffith. They spoke highly of True Star and all of the opportunities that being a part of this amazing program has created for them.
Board President LaTonya Wilkens also spoke highly about True Star, saying moving wordings to encourage the attendees to dig deeper into their pockets to keep giving. Actor/comedian Michael Issac blessed the room with some comic relief while Narada El Sol served up the classics as he deejayed for the evening.
It was wonderful to see so many people come out to support an organization that is constantly working to develop the hopes and dreams of Chicago’s youth. But the most exciting part of the night was watching the on-the-spot video created by True Star’s production team members, and learning at the end of it that True Star met its goal of $25,000 in donations! The funds will go toward employing 25 additional students this summer.
It was wonderful to see so many people come out to support an organization that is constantly working to develop the hopes and dreams of Chicago’s youth. But the most exciting part of the night was watching the on-the-spot video created by True Star’s production team members, and learning at the end of it that True Star met its goal of $25,000 in donations! The funds will go toward employing 25 additional students this summer.
“I believe in @truestardotlife because…”
Thank you all for helping True Star raise $25,000 to provide opportunities for Chicago youth!@deannadeals @martiink25 @KiaSmithWrites_ @JahkilJackson @vexedinthecity pic.twitter.com/iuNvwt643v
— Jack M Silverstein (@readjack) June 17, 2022
Being someone who has worked for True Star for nearly five years, it warmed my heart to hear so many people speaking so highly of a place that made me the person and writer I am today. If you missed the event you can still donate to the great cause by clicking on this link: elevate.truestarfoundation.org
Here’s to more success, prosperity, and growth within True Star!
By Cierra Lemott, Junior, Columbia College Chicago
Instagram: @cece.kodak/ @kodakscamera
