In late April, a group of Bonner alumni gathered in Chicago for an afternoon of hands-on service with Chicago Canine Rescue (CCR), a local nonprofit committed to rescuing and rehoming dogs in need. The volunteer outing brought together Renata Stankowska (University of Richmond, 2021), Andy Han (Macalester, 2019), and Analeidi Barrera (Macalester, 2021) for dog walking, connection, and community care.
The group had the joy of spending time with shelter dogs Dusk, Okra, and Porcini—three lovable pups who made the afternoon especially memorable. Volunteers shared that CCR’s program is welcoming and well-organized, making it easy for community members to show up, learn the routine, and contribute in a meaningful way. Visit the CCR website to learn more about the dogs in their care, including Dusk, Okra, and Porcini.
Moments like this reflect the Bonner commitment to civic leadership beyond college—staying rooted in community, building relationships through service, and showing up consistently alongside local organizations doing essential work. Service doesn’t end at graduation; it becomes a way to stay connected, strengthen local partnerships, and keep learning what it means to lead with and for community. It’s also an open invitation for Bonners everywhere—alumni and current students—to create similar local gatherings that strengthen community through service.
The Chicago-area Bonner alumni group is already looking ahead to future meet-ups and volunteer opportunities, with hopes of growing the network of local Bonner alumni. If you are in the Chicagoland area and want to join in on the next gathering, consider reaching out through the Bonner Alumni LinkedIn Group to connect and stay in the loop.
Stay tuned for more opportunities to serve and connect with fellow Bonners in Chicago.
Connect With Your Local Bonner Alumni
At The Bonner Foundation, we hope this is the start of a simple model other Bonners can replicate—local service gatherings that help alumni connect, build community, and partner with organizations in their own cities. Future meet-ups may also include current undergraduate Bonners who want to connect with alumni and serve together locally. Below are ways to continue to stay engaged in the national network and share the impact Bonner continue to make in their communities.
Stay in the loop with job opportunities and resources for Bonner alum. Share the link to Invite other Bonners from your cohort!
Tell us your story and how Bonner impacted your pathway throughout your undergraduate experience and beyond.