CHICAGO, March 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- On Friday, March 14th, House Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch and Excellence in Bleu CEO TaQuoya McConnico attended the Junior Jamboree tournament hosted by America SCORES Chicago, a non-profit dedicated to youth engagement through soccer, poetry and service-learning. They presented a $25,000 check to the organization on behalf of Excellence in Bleu, a non-profit founded by themselves, and former Michigan House Speaker, Joe Tate.
"America SCORES is a fantastic organization providing well-rounded support and growth for children across the country," said Speaker Welch. "As a former college baseball player, I know the positive impact that sports can have on our youth. I also know that exposure to the arts and civic engagement can help turn our children into bright, caring leaders. It's an honor to support this organization and its mission."
The donation followed Women in Power, a fundraising event held earlier that day honoring women who have broken barriers and continue to shape Illinois. The annual event featured the first Black female U.S. Senator, and former Ambassador, Carol Moseley Braun. The event also honored America SCORES Chicago's Executive Director, Kimberly Townsend.
"The support from Speaker Welch and CEO McConnico is more than a donation—it's an investment in our youth," said Townsend. "Their commitment to sports, poetry, and community engagement aligns deeply with our mission, and this generous gift from Excellence in Bleu will help us empower the next generation of leaders. We are truly grateful for their belief in our work and their dedication to uplifting communities."
Previous donations from Excellence in Bleu include $50,000 to the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus Foundation for student scholarships.
"It's not every day I get to both raise money for a good cause, as well as award it," said Speaker Welch. "I am proud that successful events like Women in Power allow Excellence in Bleu to make a difference for organizations like America SCORES. I look forward to continuing our philanthropic support."
About Excellence in Bleu: Excellence in Bleu is a 501(c)(4) led by political strategist and Executive Director of Democrats for the Illinois House TaQuoya McConnico, House Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch (the first Black Speaker in Illinois history), and former House Speaker Joe Tate (the first Black Speaker in Michigan history).
Black Excellence in Bleu is committed to promoting civic engagement, community outreach, and the advancement of sound fiscal, educational, and economic policies for the common good and welfare of our communities.
SOURCE Excellence in Bleu
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