Trailblazer Foundation NFP

Who We Are

Trailblazer Foundation NFP is a Chicago-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to empowering students through education, leadership development, and storytelling. We partner with Chicago Public Schools to deliver culturally relevant literacy programming that drives academic success.

Mission & Vision

Mission: To ignite student achievement through reading by delivering culturally relevant literacy programs that empower students with the skills, confidence, and leadership values needed to realize their full potential.

Vision: A future where all students, particularly those from historically underserved communities, hold high expectations for themselves, see their identities reflected in education, and are inspired to lead with purpose, discipline, and initiative.

Our Trailblazer Foundation is a Clearinghouse for Latino-centric Books.

Chicago Latina Trailblazers Program

Our flagship initiative centers on the book Chicago Latina Trailblazers: Testimonios of Political Activism, edited by our founder Dr. Rita D. Hernández. The curriculum amplifies the voices of Mexican American and Puerto Rican women who shaped Chicago’s civic, political, and educational history.

Why This Matters

Fewer than 1-in-3 students could read in at their elementary grade level
Only 22.4% of CPS 11th graders meet reading proficiency
Latino/a/x students represent the majority population in many CPS schools

Funding Need

Trailblazer Foundation seeks $215,000 to support curriculum development, book distribution, staff training, and program delivery across five Chicago public high schools beginning Fall 2026.

$5,000 Raised

$215,000 Goal

Donate Options

Zelle , hernandez.rita@sbcglobal.net

Go-Fund-Me , Donation Page

Contact

Dr. Rita D. Hernández, President
hernandez.rita@sbcglobal.net | (773) 576-6314

Dr. Ted Rivera, Treasurer
tedrivera@hotmail.com | (847) 293-4707