WE ARE SO BACK!!!

"Hope is not optional, it is survival"

Thank you to everyone who joined us at Steppenwolf to be in conversation with Linda Abdullah about the role hope plays in our lives. Linda led us on a journey through her own life and art, of loss, grief, and connection. Through the darkness something unexpected often appears. Through her art she has had to find or invent her own Koorsoo.

Linda believes in the power of community and that practicing holding hands is the way forward. Follow Linda Abdullah to learn about upcoming workshops and exhibitions, and stay connected to hope. 💫

Thank you to Steppenwolf 📍
We are so delighted and thankful to have hosted you all at the incredible Steppenwolf. Steppenwolf strives to create thrilling, courageous and provocative art in a thoughtful and inclusive environment. We heard from Steppenwolf about ways to get engaged with their creative community:

Associate Board: A vibrant community for emerging art enthusiasts. Learn more on how they Network, Give Back, and Have Fun! 

Rentals: Steppenwolf specializes in bringing people together for unforgettable moments. Learn more here and contact Kaitlyn Majoy.

StepEd & Engagement: See upcoming Public Programs here and Accessible Performances here.

Introducing our CM/Chicago time capsule ✨
What's one source of hope for your 2026?

Our very own Ryan Pairitz started us off with a thought starter: What is one source of hope you have for 2026? You wrote down your intentions and together we spoke them into existence, before saving in a time capsule. In November we'll revisit them to reflect on how much growth they've inspired and how they've reinvigorated our commitment to hope. 

Support our 30-Second Pitchers 📣
Each month, we randomly select members of our community who want to make a 30-second pitch on our stage. This month, we heard from…

📢 Shea Michaels: Art Exchange! Leave Art, Take Art, Connect with Artists! Located at Kildare and Roscoe near Kilbourn Park. Apply to host a locker and follow along @chicagoartlocker

📢 OG Ugwuanyi: Okrika holds space for black and african memory-work as a living, breathing practice, we gather around books, art, film, and each other. Follow @okrrrika

📢 Hannah Stelter: during Friday's event Hannah raffled off an original art piece with proceeds donated to the Immigrant Rapid Response Fund through the Womens Foundation of Minnesota. Follow @hannahstelter_

Check out more pics from our Growth event on our Flickr! 
Post your pics #cmkoorsoo and #cmchi!

Incredible pics by Chicago volunteers Elliot Powell and Carlos Cerrato