More Than Ever Education Fund

The “More Than Ever” Education Fund was created as a legacy by Gregory Maire and Michael Horvich to provide scholarships and education support to youth confronting homelessness. Through this fund, which has raised over $150,000 since 2016, scholarships are provided to students ages 18-24 that are enrolled full time at a Chicago college or university. La Casa Norte is excited to be able to provide our youth with an opportunity to further their education goals and create a better future for themselves.

In 2019, La Casa Norte hosted its 4th Annual Education Luncheon in support of the establishment of the “More Than Ever” Education Fund. The Luncheon was attended by over 150 guests and celebrated the achievements and promise of the scholarship students. Thanks to the generous support of our luncheon guests, we were able to continue raising awareness and create opportunities for youth to continue on a path of educational success.

Unfortunately, in 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are unable to host our Annual Education Luncheon in person. However, we will continue to celebrate virtually and provide scholarships, case management, and educational support to our youth!

Hear an overview of our educational initiatives from our dedicated staff members. Education is a common thread throughout all our programs, and our staff share what education means to them in the work they do every day with our youth and families.

"Education means second chances."

- Shannon Jackson, Permanent Supportive Housing Supervisor

Hear about how we serve youth-led families and their little ones! From parenting classes to childrens' programming, we ensure that the whole family has the knowledge and skills they need  to succeed.

"One of the best investments we can make in a child's life is a high-quality early education."

- Former President Barack Obama

Jill Meinzer, a Chicago area resident for over 30 years, had a passion for helping others in her community. While her job as Vice President of Technical Services for ARRIS kept her tremendously busy, she was firmly committed to helping others along the way through educational and mentorship activities. She took great pride in encouraging and supporting new colleagues, focusing particularly on women in the early phases of their career.   

Within a year of being diagnosed with renal cell cancer, Jill lost her courageous battle in January of 2019. However, several years prior to this she had already put into motion a scholarship fund that would benefit foster kids, homeless families, and anyone in the Chicago area that was seeking education to create a better life. Jill’s mission was simply to pay it forward and make a difference in the lives of others. 

Thanks to Jill's generous efforts and dedication to supporting education, the Jill L. Meinzer Scholarship Fund will be matching up to $50,000 raised for La Casa Norte's More Than Ever Education Fund in 2021.

Read Jill's full biography here.