OUR YOUTH, OUR FUTURE

When the Founder of PLAN4SUCCESS, Nickie Brookens, enrolled her son at the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools—one of the nation’s top high schools—she was living through a painful reality. That same year, three of his cousins were shot in Chicago. As a mother and community advocate, Nickie refused to accept that underserved students should continue to face barriers and limited opportunities simply because of the neighborhoods they come from.

From that moment, PLAN4SUCCESS was born—rooted in the belief that all students deserve a chance to grow into the possibility of who they can become.

With the support of our Board of Directors, volunteers, and private donors, we’ve built an ecosystem of support that helps middle- to low-income students access the same life-changing opportunities often reserved for those with greater resources.

Since 2016, we’ve awarded 237 scholarships, built connections with over 150 schools, colleges, and community organizations, and impacted 350 students per year through mentorship, life skills, career pathways, and mental wellness supports.

But we can’t do this alone. Could you help us continue to grow? Your donation strengthens the six initiatives that power our mission:

PLAN2LEAD TEEN SUMMIT– Leadership development through the Teen Summit and skill-building programs.
PLAN4PROGRESS – Scholarships and financial support for students’ educational journeys.
PLAN2THRIVE – Mental wellness and resilience programming to equip students for life’s challenges.
PLAN4SUCCESS CONNECT (SUCCESS LINKS) – Career readiness, mentorship, and networking connections.
COLLEGE SUCCESS GUIDES – A national ambassador program of college peer leaders supporting each other across 70+ universities.
PLAN4SUCCESS COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS – Student-led civic engagement and community service projects.

Every gift makes a difference. By donating today, you’re fueling scholarships, mentorship, and opportunities that keep youth on the path to success.

GIVE100 OR GIVELEGACY: Direct your gift to scholarships. Create a team and multiply your impact.
PLAN-A-THON: Support year-end fundraising, including GIVING TUESDAY, to strengthen our programs. scholarships, and partnerships (campaign closes December 31, 2025).

Together, we are shaping futures. Will you stand with us?

PLAN-A-THON 2025

YEAR END FUNDRAISING

Team Members