​Ages

Middle School Students, High School Students, College Students, Adults​

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Maximum Group Size

20 people, including adults

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Available Dates 

• June 20 to 25, 2027

• June 27 to July 2, 2027 - FILLED

 

Chicago is a city shaped by incredible diversity, rich history, and vibrant communities, but it is also marked by deep, interconnected justice issues. From housing and racial inequity to immigration and environmental justice, communities across the city experience the lasting effects of systems that shape where people live, work, and belong. Our church is located in the middle of Chicago, allowing groups to engage this diverse range of justice issues firsthand. A Be The Neighbor trip to Chicago invites participants to look beyond the city's surface and explore how these issues connect and how individuals and communities can work together toward change.

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Throughout the week, groups will engage with local organizations and community members who are working for justice across Chicago. Participants will learn about issues including housing, racism, immigration, and environmental justice, gaining a deeper understanding of how different forms of oppression are interconnected. Groups will hear from a range of local experts and organizers and, through hands-on service, conversation, and reflection, will learn what it means to exercise their own power to create change in areas that are personal and important to them.

 

This experience challenges participants to consider their own values and better articulate the roles they can each play in supporting their local communities. Participants will leave invited to listen, learn, and take action alongside communities working toward a more just and equitable Chicago.

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Be The Neighbor’s summer programming begins on Sunday evening and concludes on Friday morning. You may stay an additional night to explore see the city in this location for an additional $10 per person. Check out is 10 am Saturday morning.

Trip costs follow our equitable pricing model. You can read more about it here. We want everyone to be able to participate no matter their financial realities. Regardless of which level you select, your trip includes: 

 

• A simple breakfast, lunch and snack Monday morning through Friday morning

• A dedicated Site Director and Intern(s) to facilitate your week

• Fully planned service and educational experiences

• Theological reflections created to engage participants in connecting what they are learning to their faith

• Discussion guides for priviate group reflection

• Group interactive education led by BTN staff 

• Lodging, including showers, dedicated sleeping rooms, gathering rooms, and kitchens use - most sites include air mattresses or cots for all of your participants

• Costs covered for honorariums for speakers, activities, supplies for projects with community partners, and any entrance fees for educational experiences

• A t-shirt for each participant

• Journals for each participant

• Online orientation for your adult leaders 

 

Please note that your group will be responsible for dinners and transportation during the week.