About Friends of Jahn

Friends of Jahn (FOJ) is an all-volunteer 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization of parents, community members, teachers, and school administrators committed to supporting Jahn School of Fine Art’s growth and success through fundraising and community outreach activities.

DONATE

Thank you to the generosity of all our donors. The funds that FOJ raises directly benefit the school and our students. For ways to donate, please click below.

SPONSORS

FOJ is grateful to the individuals, families, and businesses that have sponsored our events over the years. We are currently looking for local businesses to serve as 2023-24 sponsors and appreciate your consideration.

WHERE DOES THE MONEY GO?
FOJ has provided financial support for a number of essential school resources and needs as directed by our administration and Local School Council (LSC). These needs would otherwise not be accounted for in our annual school budget from Chicago Public Schools (CPS).

In the last 5 years, funds have gone towards a Reading Specialist, anti-bias/anti-racism training for faculty and staff, enriching art programming, and a new soccer field and basketball court. Our new and user-friendly school website was made possible through donations.

New playground! We finished renovating our playground thanks in part to funds raised through FOJ. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make this happen. Check out the ribbon cutting here.

FUNDRAISING & COMMUNITY EVENTS
FOJ organizes a variety of fundraisers and community events both big and small throughout the school year. See below for an overview of our four (4) signature events.

Husky Hustle – Our annual fitness fundraiser and fun for all! Students get outside during the school day and complete fitness challenges with faculty and staff, recess partner Urban Initiatives, and parent volunteers – all while raising money for the school!
Pumpkin Patch – Each October, our school community and surrounding neighbors visit the Jahn playlot for a day of fall fun complete with a pumpkin patch, kids’ band, games & crafts, food vendors, and activities from local businesses.
Winter Wonderland (formerly known as North Pole) – Each winter, our school community and surrounding neighbors get a chance to see Jahn transformed into a magical Winter Wonderland complete with pictures with Elsa and other special character guests, faux ice castle forts, games & crafts, food vendors, and activities from local businesses.
Give to Grow Night – Our parent-driven fundraiser held at Pizzeria Serio in the spring. It’s a great time connecting with parents, alumni, community supporters, faculty, and staff. The night includes music & socializing, food & refreshments as well as an opportunity to give big with a live appeal.

Other fundraisers include Bidding and Bingo Week with a week-long online auction and virtual Family Bingo Night for everyone to come together and celebrate a fun and successful week. Every fall, we organize Poptober where 50% of the money from popcorn sales goes back to Jahn and get together for the Lakeview Roscoe Village Chamber of Commerce's Shop for Schools event. Other community-building and outreach events organized by FOJ include dining and shopping nights, Teacher Appreciation Week initiatives, and social events like Popsicles on the Playground.

COMMIT
Subscribe to our mailing list!

Show your Jahn pride! A percentage of the money from spirit wear sales goes back to Jahn.

VOLUNTEER
While money is crucial to the growth of our school, donating your time and talent is equally as valuable.

2023-24 COMMUNITY MEETINGS

All parents and community members are welcome and encouraged to join our monthly community meetings. We have many exciting plans for this year and will offer a variety of opportunities to participate based on your family’s interest and availability.

FOJ will host community meetings the first Thursday of each month alternating mornings and evenings. Our meetings are open to parents/guardians, prospective parents, incoming parents, and community members. The Parent Room is located in Jahn's basement. Visit the school calendar for the most up-to-date information.