Grassroots Grant Program to Support Political Newcomers Running for Highland Park City Council

Highland Park, IL — December 9, 2024 — HP Forward, a community organization committed to a vibrant Highland Park and transparent government, is proud to announce the launch of a new grant program called The Grassroots Grant. The grant is designed to build a new generation of leaders dedicated to promoting civic engagement and furthering HP Forward’s goals by supporting political newcomers running for elected government positions in our community. This initiative aims to empower diverse voices, encourage local participation, and build a more representative local government.

“Highland Park thrives on the strength of its community,” said Irwin Bernstein, CoChair. “Our Grassroots Grant Program will help empower candidates to build their campaigns and grow the grassroots support needed for a successful campaign. We believe this initiative will help to level the financial playing field and cultivate leaders representing the breadth and diversity of Highland Park.”

About the Grassroots Grant Program
The Grassroots Grant Program offers financial assistance and strategic resources to political newcomers seeking election to a government position in Highland Park. Each selected recipient will receive seed money – this year, $1,000 per candidate, to help cover initial campaign costs such as state filings, marketing materials and outreach efforts.  

Eligibility and Application Process

The program is open to individuals meeting the following criteria:

1. Highland Park registered voter who has not previously held a local government position.
2. Committed to inclusion, community-driven government, and advancing efforts to build a vibrant community.
3. Developed campaign platform and plan for engaging with the Highland Park electorate.
4. Listed HP Forward or another local initiative to receive any remaining assets if their own election committee were to dissolve.  

First Grassroots Grant Recipients

This year there are two candidates running for remainder of Jeff Hoobler’s term.  Both of these candidates have met the three criteria and HP Forward is excited to announce Grassroot Grants to both candidates:

*James Lynch was running for the 4-year term – James M. Lynch (Since withdrawn from the race despite meeting criteria)

Jon Center is running for the 2-year term – Jon Center

Kevin Cullather is running for the 2-year term – Kevin Cullather

Encouraging New Voices in Local Government

HP Forward is committed to reducing barriers to entry for local candidates and fostering a government that reflects the community it serves to level the playing field between career politicians and citizens who would like to serve. This initiative aligns with the PAC’s mission to promote democracy, encourage grassroots involvement, and support candidates who prioritize transparency, accountability, vibrancy, and inclusivity.

About HP Forward

HP Forward is a nonpartisan political action committee dedicated to increasing civic engagement and fostering leadership at the local level. Through targeted grants, advocacy, and community initiatives, HP Forward hopes to inspire change and build a stronger, more representative Highland Park community. HP Forward is dedicated to electing leaders who champion four key objectives: 

Forward for Openness and Transparency

Forward for Businesses

Forward for a Vibrant Community

Forward for Inclusive Government