Mandy Patinkin, star of Showtime’s hit show “Homeland,” made a generous donation to Brighton Park Neighborhood Council’s (BPNC) summer programs at two elementary schools in Brighton Park. Patinkin, a Chicago native, has appeared on the “Princess Bride,” CBS’s “Criminal Minds” and many other film and TV appearances. Patinkin’s donation served over 200 students in Brighton Park Elementary and Burroughs Elementary. Both neighborhood public schools serve predominantly Latino and immigrant students. Over 95 percent of students are living in poverty. Patinkin’s grant helped sustain critical support to students throughout the summer.

Patinkin’s donation comes at a time where Brighton Park families are enduring an increase in violence while funding for crucial violence prevention programs and quality education are being cut. Patinkin’s donation provided 6-8 hours of accelerated academic instruction and 2.5 hours of summer camp. Summer camp includes mixed sports, art, cooking, and open library and computer access. Patinkin’s donation also provided ongoing trauma-informed clinical and case management services to students. Finally, his donation helped support our youth organizing efforts this summer. BPNC’s engaged 15 youth leaders from the southwest side where they helped lead citywide campaigns designed to highlight the need for equity in funding for Chicago’s public schools and increased violence prevention programs. Brighton Park Neighborhood Council (BPNC) is a community-based, grassroots organization located on Chicago’s Southwest side. We work to empower our community and build its capacity by providing school and community-based services. BPNC also engages leaders in social justice organizing campaigns.