TCS Students Lead Community “Hootenanny” Supporting Local Climate Nonprofit

On Thursday, May 7, our 4th–8th grade students hosted our annual “Hootenanny,” a long-standing school tradition that brought together families, neighbors, and local businesses for an evening of games, food, music, and fundraising.

What made the event especially meaningful was that it was entirely student-driven. In the weeks leading up to the Hootenanny, students spent 4–5 hours each week planning every aspect of the event—from budgeting and marketing to outreach and operations.

They applied for roles, joined committees, and took on real responsibilities such as:

• Contacting local businesses to secure donations and sponsorships

• Designing advertising campaigns and promotional materials

• Managing finances, pricing, and sustainability considerations

• Planning entertainment, games, and event logistics

Students selected Seven Generations Ahead as the beneficiary, a local nonprofit focused on climate change, equity, and sustainability. Through their efforts, the Hootenanny served not only as a celebration of community, but also as a way to contribute to work happening right here in Oak Park. TCS students raise $1400 for Seven Generations Ahead!

The event reflected a deeper purpose: giving students authentic opportunities to practice collaboration, civic engagement, and problem-solving while working toward a shared goal. It also highlighted the kind of learning experience that connects young people to their community in meaningful ways.