Our club’s mission:

At BHS, our mission is to empower families in Guatemala. We aim to raise funds for the Fortaleza program and help girls and women living in vulnerable communities pursue their education and build brighter futures. Fortaleza is a HOPE’S IN initiative that provides mentorship, counseling, and educational scholarships to at-risk girls and teen mothers in Guatemala City. By supporting Fortaleza, we help break cycles of poverty and open the door for students to continue their education with confidence.

The BHS HOPE’S IN Club is a chapter of the overarching NGO, HOPE’S IN, which was founded 14 years ago by Barrington High School students Courtney Quigley McGovern and Ashley Quigley Steiner. The twin sisters, who graduated from BHS in 2014, began the organization as a fashion show fundraiser—an idea they dreamt up during an algebra class right here at the high school. Their vision has since grown into an international nonprofit empowering families and developing young leaders.

This year, our club is specifically fundraising to provide Fortaleza scholarships, which cover the educational costs for Guatemalan students striving to continue their studies. Below, several of our club members share why they’re passionate about this work and what being part of HOPE’S IN means to them.

Sofia: 

“I am involved in Hope’s In because I love helping people, especially when we can make such an impact on their lives! Through this experience, I have grown as a humanitarian leader because I have gotten to understand what it takes to make a difference, even in small ways, and the importance of being empathetic in helping others.”

Nina

“I’m in Hope’s In because I want to help support underprivileged families in Guatemala. Being part of this club allows me to raise awareness and make a real difference in the community.”

Tara

“I am a part of Hope’s In because I want to uplift the most vulnerable communities in Guatemala and empower women through education. Through my experience, I have grown as a humanitarian leader by leading with empathy, collaborating with others, and discovering how my efforts can create a positive impact.”

Simra:

“I became involved with Hope’s In as a freshman and have had so much fun giving back to others and meeting amazing people. Through Hope’s In, I’ve had the opportunity to grow my ability to connect and collaborate with fellow club members to help leave a lasting and meaningful impact on others.”