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Noam Chomsky once said, “The more privilege you have, the more opportunity you have. The more opportunity you have, the more responsibility you have.”
When serving with City Year, AmeriCorps members are asked one important question throughout the year: Why do you serve? The answer may evolve, but it remains a constant source of motivation, grounding, and support. This question reminds us of the deeper purpose behind our work. It reminds us that it is a privilege and responsibility to make a positive impact on the lives of students and community members.

As a second-year AmeriCorps Member, I proudly serve on the Civic Engagement team in the Bridge Builders portfolio — GET BUILT!
City Year is a partner with the Chicago Public School system and is dedicated to creating equal education opportunities for all Chicago students. It challenges the education status quo by developing environments where young people can reach their potential.
At City Year, we embrace the concept of “share and declare,” a powerful cultural practice in which we proudly share who we are and where we serve. This concept promotes visibility and representation, values that are integral to my reasons for serving.
Eleven years ago, I graduated as valedictorian from my elementary school, Matthew A. Henson, located in the Lawndale community. While this accomplishment was fulfilling, it was bittersweet, overshadowed by a sense of disregard and despair. My school, like many others, was part of the nation’s largest mass closure of public schools in 2013 — a decision that had a devastating, long-lasting impact on thousands of students. The historical moment was captured by Chalkbeat, highlighting not only the quantitative data but also the personal stories of students like me.
During this time, I attended hearings and protests, fighting to keep my school open. Palpable tension and hope filled the rooms, but despite our collective effort, the closure decision was final. At just 14 years old, I carried the heavy burden of feeling that I hadn’t done enough to save my school. Looking back, I realize that the closing of Henson has been a significant driving force behind my decision to serve today.

By 2023, I found myself reflecting on what my next steps could be. I had already made my family proud by excelling at Whitney M. Young High School and becoming the first in my family to earn a Bachelor’s in Communications from Northern Illinois University. But I knew I wanted to return to my roots in Chicago to give back. I love this city — not just for its iconic downtown but for the lessons it taught me, the challenges I’ve overcome, and the perspectives I carry. This unique experience made me realize I was suited to serve with City Year.
I was drawn to City Year for its mentoring and tutoring in underserved communities, particularly on the south and west sides of Chicago. I thought I could succeed because I had always done well in school, and I was from the West Side. But I soon learned that my ability to serve wasn’t based on my academic skills — it was about connecting with students whose experiences mirrored mine. I serve with pride, leveraging my past to empower youth who often feel marginalized and voiceless. I see my role as a way to show them the possibility of rising above the negativity and limited expectations that can define their lives.
Although I no longer serve in the classroom, my work on the Civic Engagement team has shown me that beautification and community service, particularly in underserved communities, are just as impactful. We improve spaces and foster a sense of pride and welcome in the school environment — something that encourages students to engage and learn.
I continue to serve with City Year because I know my work contributes to positive change. City Year is a tool that strengthens Chicago schools and communities from the inside out. Through our efforts, we help keep CPS schools open and uplift entire neighborhoods. I believe that the work we do can prevent the heartbreaks that communities like mine experienced when Henson closed. It’s not just about what we do; it’s about what we protect: the futures of our youth, the health of our schools, and the vitality of our communities.
How To Help
You can support City Year by providing a one-time or recurring donation. The ongoing support is essential to the success of City Year and the students in under-resourced schools across Chicago.

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Mia Bonds (she/her) is a 2nd year AmeriCorps Member serving with City Year. Additionally, Mia serves on the Executive Board of Voice of the City, a nonprofit dedicated to building community by leveraging art. She has completed undergraduate studies at Northern Illinois University, where she earned her Bachelor’s in Communication and is currently pursuing her Master’s.