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THE Event for Inclusive Philanthropy
Step into a transformative gathering where bold ideas meet meaningful action.
The Summit is more than a conference. It is a celebration, a network, and a movement designed to amplify diverse voices and strengthen leadership across the philanthropic sector.
Each year, we convene leaders who are ready to grow, challenge assumptions, and move from conversation to measurable change.
Inspiration with direction.
Connection with purpose.
Strategy with confidence.
Join us for The Summit 2027
June 21 & 22, 2027
at the University of Chicago!
The Summit
2027
June 21-22, 2027
at the University of Chicago
PowerShift: Generosity as the Architecture of Change
Registration Fees:
Earliest Bird: December 1, 2026- February 1, 2027: ($700)
Early Bird (February 2- April 15, 2027): $1,050
General Admission (After April 15 , 2026): $1,250
Includes meals on both days and reception
The Summit 2026 Speakers
Alexa Aviles
NY City Council
District 38
Amanda Williams
Artist and Architect
MacArthur Fellow
Christina Kyong
Head of School
The Madeira School
David Smith
Fundraising Consultant
Denise Young
Author
Inspirer
George James
CEO
George Talks
Industry Leaders
At Joy-Raising, we're not just hosting another philanthropic event. With The Summit, we're curating a dynamic assembly of visionary leaders, each one trailblazing their way through society's most pressing challenges. Their stories resonate with authenticity, passion, and transformative impact.
The Summit is For You
In the vast landscape of philanthropy, many of us, have walked into rooms where we're the sole torchbearers of our communities. We've risen to the occasion, gracefully maneuvering through these spaces, driven by the knowledge of our indispensable presence. Now, envision a space where that spark is multiplied, where every corner resonates with talent, passion, and unity.
Welcome to The Summit - a haven where you're not 'the only', but part of a powerful majority, where you can unapologetically be your authentic self, driving transformative change for all.
Who's Coming?
The Summit welcomes professionals and volunteers who champion positive change within nonprofits, foundations, corporate social responsibility efforts, and social enterprises. Our attendees include:
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Executive Directors and CEOs
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Board Members
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Heads of School
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Chief Advancement Officers
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Directors of Development
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Major Gift Officers
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Program Officers
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Marketing and Communications Managers
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Dedicated Volunteers
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And those aspiring to these roles
Whether you're just embarking on your journey in this sector or you're a seasoned expert, The Summit promises to deliver an invaluable experience tailored to your professional growth.
Those Traveling to Chicago for The Summit
You're in luck! June is typically one of the best times of the year to visit Chicago, for weather and activities. Here are some details that will help you plan your stay:
Where to Stay
We have arranged a special group block with the beautiful Sophy Hotel located near campus in Hyde Park. Use this link to make your reservation and receive a 15% discount:
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Book Online:
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Group Name: SOPHY – Joy Raising
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Group Rate: $249/Night
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Group Code: 189638
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Stay Dates: Sunday, June 21st– Tuesday, June 23rd, 2026
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Note: Should you wish to stay outside of these dates, you must book your reservation for the group block dates online first and then reach out to Paige Brown in sales via email (pbrown@sophyhotel.com) with your confirmation number to add the additional nights. Trying to include additional dates not listed above will result in a “Invalid Code” message.
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Must Book By: May 21, 2026
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Book by Phone: (833) 347-0042
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You may also consider Airbnb listings in Hyde Park or many hotels in Chicago through Hotels.com.
The Summit is an annual gathering where leaders dedicated to inclusive philanthropy unite for impactful learning, collaboration, and networking. Now in its fourth year, The Summit continues to grow in significance, fostering knowledge-sharing and connections in a supportive, empowering environment.
By sponsoring, your organization aligns with this transformative experience and amplifies its mission. Choose a sponsorship level that matches your vision, and join us in making a difference.
Sponsorship Levels:
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Platinum: $25,000
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Gold: $15,000
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Silver: $10,000
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Bronze: $5,000
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Copper: $2,500
Contact us today to secure your sponsorship:
2026 Sponsors
The Gordon Parks Arts Hall
On the prestigious University of Chicago's campus lies the Gordon Parks Arts Hall, a state-of-the-art facility that embodies the spirit and dedication of the legendary photojournalist, Gordon Parks. With an unwavering commitment to social justice, Parks' legacy is beautifully intertwined with the hall's contemporary architecture and its embodiment of excellence. A perfect venue for The Summit.
Esteemed Leaders Who Have Inspired Us
Nikole Hannah-Jones
1619 Project
Pulitzer Prize Winner
MacArthur Fellow
Herman Art Taylor
President & CEO
AFP Global
Janiece Evans- Page
CEO, Tides
Karl Kemp
Executive Director
Common Ground Foundation
Birgit Smith Burton
Immediate Past Board Chair
AFP Global
Founder AADO
Brian Li
Financial Educator
Jasmine Rashid
Financial Activist
Dr. Miguelina Germán
Clinical Psychologist
Alexandria Wyllie
Development Manager, Urban Ed Academy
"I'm returning to The Summit again this year because it was honestly the best conference experience I’ve ever had. The speakers were very generous with their experience, and I left The Summit with a refreshed sense of excitement for fundraising and a larger network of fundraising leaders."