Voices Rising

Republic Foundation was founded in 2009 with the mission to develop  teachers and empower under served youth, fostering critical thinking,  problem-solving skills, and leadership qualities. 

The Republic Foundation supports K–12 education by promoting philosophy in classrooms and organizing mentorship programs for at-risk youth. In partnership with Teach Different, the Republic Foundation helped beta-test the original Conversation Project certificate program—later refined with two statewide mental health grants secured by Teach Different and the Illinois Institute. These grants generated over $40,000 to fund training for teachers in Colorado and Illinois.

Through this collaboration, the Teach Different Conversation Project, funded by the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS), trained 78 educators and reached 883 students across the state in 2024–2025, meeting or exceeding all seven state performance benchmarks. Student surveys showed remarkable outcomes:

• 78% felt safe sharing their thoughts in class
• 81% gained a better understanding of different perspectives
• 74% could express themselves more clearly
• 73% improved listening skills
• 64% felt more confident speaking during class discussions
   

Behaviorally, students said they would participate more actively (74%), stay focused (69%), and even improve attendance (55%) if more of their classes used the method. Teachers unanimously reported enjoying the method, seeing its value for student learning, and consistently using its strategies. Administrators described it as “an SEL game-changer,” with 100% rating the content and instruction as excellent.

By helping lay the groundwork for this program, the Republic Foundation has played a direct role in building a scalable, neuroscience-informed model that strengthens student mental health, elevates teacher confidence, and restores real-time, face-to-face dialogue as a foundation for trust, belonging, and learning in schools.

Yes! Each year, the Republic Foundation organizes a homeless outreach project in Chicago, distributing essential items—like warm socks—to individuals in need. This annual effort reflects our ongoing commitment to compassionate, hands-on service in the community. 

Republic Foundation was founded in 2009 by educators and artists in Chicago who were driven to support teachers and empower under served  youth. They recognized the importance of nurturing critical thinkers and problem solvers for the future. 

Republic Foundation's ultimate vision is to create a just world led by  discerning, compassionate, and enlightened individuals. We aim to cultivate leaders who will contribute positively to society through their developed qualities and skills. 

Reach out to us by sending an email to info@republicfoundation.org.  We are always looking to partner with like-minded and socially conscious partners!