In Honor of Joyce, Ernie, and the Grandparents Who Shaped Us

In lieu of a traditional gift registry, Jacqueline and Jack have invited us—Collective Chicago—to honor the legacy of Jack’s grandmother, Joyce, Jacqueline’s great-grandmother, Ernie, and the rest of their grandparents, who have collectively given back so much to their communities, by creating this fund.

This fund is dedicated to Joyce Dively, who devoted her career to empowering students, founding Project Stay—a dropout prevention program that helped countless kids find their path. It also honors Ernie Raclin, a pioneering civic leader who broke barriers by serving as the first woman to chair a local United Way chapter and lead on the national stage.

Their legacy lives on through a remarkable family lineage: John Dively Sr., a beloved educator and civic leader in Charleston, Illinois; Jean and Dr. Chris Joseph Murphy II, who opened their home to women fleeing domestic violence; Craig, who supports individuals reentering society after incarceration; Joan, who prepares weekly meals for underprivileged students; and Chris and Carmi Murphy, who dedicated their lives to advancing education, the arts, and public service across Indiana. Each of them, in their own way, worked to ensure people had what they needed to grow, feel safe, and build a better future, just as Collective Chicago does today.

Jack is on the advisory board & job readiness team supporting the Collective's mission to help people out of poverty with dignity. Jacqueline has had one of the most profound influences on Jack to get involved in the causes they believe in as a couple. The gospel calls us to help our fellow humans, regardless of nationality, religion, status, race, orientation, or past trauma. This cause means the world to them.

All gifts are tax-deductible through Collective Chicago, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit (EIN 83-2674900).

Collective Chicago provides dignified, deeply affordable housing for young adults experiencing homelessness. Your donation also fuels access to free therapy, financial advising, life coaching, gym memberships, transit, and essential technology. The impact is transformative: most residents move into their own apartments within eight months, with an average of $6,000 in savings.

Your support, alongside other friends and family of Jack & Jacqueline will help further our impact in the lives of young Chicagoans experiencing homelessness.

With deep gratitude,

Jack, Jacqueline & The Collective Team

For Joyce & Ernie

& the Grandparents Who Shaped Us