Contact us with any upcoming reunions at info@southwestfoundation.org

Photography by Southwest parent: Scott Streble, Photography Helping Nonprofits (www.scottstreble.com)

What does the Southwest Foundation do?

The Southwest Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to work with Southwest High School and its alumni to create an exceptional educational experience for all Southwest students.  The Foundation raises money to support academic, athletic, and artistic opportunities for students and to provide scholarships to graduating seniors, always with a focus on supporting the full IB learner profile and equitable opportunities. Programs like AVID, Project Success, Link Crew, Passport to College, ACT Prep and many student group initiatives would not exist without the Southwest Foundation. The Southwest administration, student groups, affinity groups and staff members apply for grants from the Southwest Foundation each year.

The Southwest Foundation Board of Directors welcomes you to Southwest High School! We are excited to continue our partnership with the school and Southwest community!


Every year we host an annual grant request. Using specific guidelines and principles, the Southwest Foundation Board reviews all requests and awards grants.  Grants are awarded at the end of the school year for the following year.  Grants for the next school year we hope to fund with your help include:

  • Study Buddies

  • ACT preparation and testing for every student

  • 9th and 10th grade play, guest artists, guest actors

  • Field trip costs and classroom supplies

  • The Link Crew student mentorship program

  • The 9th Grade Academy to promote community and school spirit

  • Project Success to help students explore possibilities and make real plans for their future 

  • Hospitality activities throughout the year to focus on student and staff well-being

  • Resources for newcomer English language learners at Southwest

  • Field trip for IB Japanese students with visitors from our sister school in Japan - Kasugaoka HS,

  • Student scholarships and supplies for service projects

  • Offsite testing locations

  • Student awards & postage

  • Field trips and incentives for School within School program

  • Event evening for the ASL program known as Silent Night

  • Supplies for a Sensory Room for students in the ASD program

  • Passport to College workshop

  • Author visits

  • Respect Retreat with Youth Frontiers

  • Model UN local and Chicago conferences

  • Many after-school clubs and activities

  • Scholarships for graduating seniors

And more...