2025 GivingTuesday Campaign

Your Support Changes Everything

At NBGC, every gift directly fuels opportunity for Chicago youth. From after-school programs and summer camp to leadership training and athletics, your support helps over 2,000 young people each year learn, grow, and thrive in a safe and supportive community.

The need is rising, and so is the demand for our programs. Your generosity ensures kids have access to mentorship, meaningful experiences, and a place that believes in them. When you give, you are not just donating; you are investing in tomorrow’s leaders.

Want to make an even bigger difference?
Start a peer-to-peer fundraiser, become a monthly supporter, or join us at Dueling Pianos Night to support the club and have a blast doing it.

Together, we are creating opportunity, inspiring confidence, and building brighter futures, one child at a time.

Here’s how you can participate this GivingTuesday:

  1. Make a Donation – No amount is too small, and every gift counts. With matching funds, your impact goes twice as far.
  2. Launch a Peer-to-Peer Fundraiser – Help us amplify our reach! By starting a fundraiser, you can engage friends, family, and colleagues to support NBGC. Visit nbgc.org to get started.
  3. Pledge Your Support – Can’t donate today? Make a pledge to support NBGC’s mission in the months to come.
  4. Engage Your Employer – Many companies offer matching gift programs or community grants. Check with your employer to see how they can support NBGC too.
  5. Celebrate with Us – Join us on December 2, 2025, at Martyrs on Lincoln Ave for an evening of community and gratitude. Together, let’s celebrate the difference we’re making!
    1. Purchase tickets HERE

This GivingTuesday, let’s come together to create a brighter future for NBGC’s youth.

GivingTuesday Celebration

Join our Peer-to-Peer Fundraiser

Becoming part of our peer-to-peer fundraiser is a powerful way to make a direct impact on the lives of youth in our community! By joining, you can:

Musicians

Patrick Benson

Drums

John Weston

Piano / Keyboard

Justin Wrzesinski

Piano / Keyboard

John Weston

John Weston’s musical journey is a testament to his deep-rooted passion for music. His parents’ love story, beginning with his father accompanying his mother’s French horn recital, set the stage for his own musical odyssey.

From an early age, John’s musical tastes evolved from classical to the dusty grooves of classic rock and pop. He was captivated by the psychedelic sounds of the late ’60s, the soulful Motown melodies, and the high-energy Southern rock beats.

In 2003, John formed his first group, AEquitas, where he honed his skills as a songwriter and singer. Joining The Buzzkills in 2007, he became a driving force in the band’s success, touring across multiple states and gaining recognition as an original music and cover act.

Simultaneously, John nurtured his solo career as John Charles Weston, performing and composing music across the West, Midwest, and South. He now resides in Chicago, IL, balancing his time between songwriting, recording, performing, and music instruction.

In 2010, he co-founded Sklut and Weston with his songwriting partner, Tommy Sklut, achieving recognition in the Chicago original music scene. Together, they established the Sklut and Weston School of Music, providing after-school music programs for Near North Side Chicago students.

Justin Wrzesinski

Justin Wrzesinski is a talented musician whose career has taken him from local stages to the national spotlight. Hailing from Chicago, he’s made his mark as the Primary Keyboard Player for the prestigious Park Avenue Orchestra. Based in the Chicagoland area, he’s proven his versatility as both a solo performer and a valuable member of professional groups.

Justin began his musical journey at the age of 20 and has since graced a wide range of events, from weddings and festivals to special occasions and fundraisers. His musicality extends to his impressive vocal abilities.

With a degree in Music Education from St. Norbert College, Justin also shares his knowledge and passion with the next generation of musicians as a music teacher at Coonley Elementary School. His recent addition to The Park Avenue Orchestra is a testament to his talent and dedication to the craft. Justin’s journey is a testament to the power of music and dedication.