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Amigos de Gunsaulus (ADG) is a parent-led nonprofit organization founded in March 2017 to support the students, families, and staff of Gunsaulus Scholastic Academy. Our mission is to build a stronger school community by hosting social and educational events and raising funds to supplement the limited resources allocated by Chicago Public Schools (CPS).
We’re proud to be the first elementary school in Brighton Park to establish a parent-led nonprofit organization—an initiative modeled after "Friends of" groups often found in other neighborhoods.
Gunsaulus Scholastic Academy (GSA) is a public elementary school located in the predominantly Mexican-American community of Brighton Park on Chicago's Southwest Side. The school serves one of Chicago’s most vulnerable populations, with many students coming from low-income households and a majority being first-generation Americans.
GSA’s dedicated teachers and staff work tirelessly to provide high-quality education and support to all students, despite the financial constraints imposed by CPS. ADG helps bridge these gaps, ensuring students have access to enriching opportunities that extend beyond the classroom.
Amigos de Gunsaulus was co-founded in 2017 by Vanessa Espinoza, Veronica Cornejo, and Fernando Kim. Fernando, the principal of Gunsaulus Scholastic Academy since 2012, envisioned creating a “Friends of” group as part of his five-year plan.
Vanessa, who enrolled her children at Gunsaulus in 2016, shared the same vision and brought valuable experience from leading a similar nonprofit at her previous school. Together with Veronica, they worked tirelessly to establish Amigos de Gunsaulus, which has become an integral part of the school’s success.
At Amigos de Gunsaulus (ADG), our mission is to support the academic and artistic success of Gunsaulus students through financial assistance and community involvement. Inspired by Gunsaulus’ vision to learn, grow, and serve, we bring parents, guardians, and the community together to make a meaningful impact.
Membership: Every parent or guardian of a current Gunsaulus student is automatically a member of Amigos de Gunsaulus—no fees or applications required.
501(c)(3) Nonprofit: Donations are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law.
Amigos de Gunsaulus is making a lasting impact on our school community.
ADG cannot fulfill its mission without the support of generous donors and engaged community members like you. By partnering with us, you’re helping to:
Provide students with life-changing experiences like the Washington D.C. trip.
Ensure equitable access to resources and opportunities for children in underserved communities.
Strengthen the connection between families, educators, and the broader community.
Your contribution—no matter the size—has a direct impact on the lives of students at Gunsaulus Scholastic Academy.