EXTEND THE IMPACT: DEBATE IN MOTION CAMPAIGN

Chicago Debates is excited to announce this virtual fitness and fundraising challenge. We’re excited to launch our latest campaign in partnership with Charity Footprints, a unique platform that turns everyday movement into meaningful support for causes that matter. This campaign invites our community - students, alumni, educators, families, and supporters - to walk, run, bike, or roll in support of Chicago Debates. Every step taken helps raise funds to expand our programming, support more students, and close the opportunity gap for young people across Chicago.

Our goal is to raise $10,000 and log 1000 miles to reflect the dedication and drive of our debaters, who show up every day ready to sharpen their critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills. We chose Charity Footprints because it aligns perfectly with our mission—making impact accessible, measurable, and community-driven. It’s an innovative way to engage supporters near and far while celebrating the mental and physical discipline that mirrors what our students bring to every round of debate.

For over two decades, Chicago Debates has been a platform for young voices to rise, especially in communities where resources are limited but potential is limitless. This campaign is more than just a fundraiser—it’s a movement powered by people who believe in the transformative power of debate. Together, let’s go the distance for educational equity.

Chicago Debates is a nonprofit organization that advances educational equity and civic engagement by bringing competitive academic debate to Chicago Public Schools. Our mission is to advance the educational achievement, community contributions, and life success of Chicago's youth through the transformative power of academic debate.

We chose to partner with Charity Footprints because it allows us to connect our mission with movement in a fun, flexible, and accessible way. Their platform empowers our supporters to engage with our cause - no matter where they are - by turning everyday physical activity into real impact for our students. It’s a great fit for Chicago Debates, where discipline, determination, and momentum are at the core of what we do.

Through this campaign, we’re aiming to not only raise critical funds to grow our debate programs, but also to raise awareness about the power of academic debate and the incredible students we serve. We hope this event will bring new supporters into our community, energize our existing network, and highlight the importance of educational equity across Chicago. Every mile logged is a step closer to amplifying student voices and creating more opportunities for youth to lead, learn, and thrive.

Join Extend the Impact: Debate in Motion, our virtual fitness and fundraising challenge powered by Charity Footprints. From June through December, we’re hosting a series of monthly campaigns inviting you to move your body and support academic debate in Chicago. Whether you walk, run, bike, roll, or take on any wellness activity, every mile and every dollar helps fuel student voice, confidence, and leadership across the city.