Hyatt and Hyatt hotels have long been a beacon of excellence in hospitality, known for creating memorable experiences for guests worldwide. But beyond providing comfortable confines and impeccable service, Hyatt has been a true champion of community engagement, particularly in the Chicagoland area. This commitment to giving back is why we are proud to recognize Hyatt as a Champion Sponsor for Skills for Chicagoland’s Future’s 2024 Employment Champions Breakfast.
A Collaboration Built on Opportunity
Our partnership with Hyatt, now in its sixth year, is a testament to what can be achieved when organizations work together towards a common goal. Over these years, we have successfully placed individuals into meaningful employment within Hyatt’s various locations across Chicago. These numbers represent more than just jobs; they represent new beginnings, financial stability, and opportunities for career growth for local residents.
Hyatt's Commitment to Community Engagement
Hyatt's dedication to community extends far beyond their hotels' walls through World of Care. World of Care is Hyatt’s global approach to advancing care for the planet, people and responsible business. Locally, in Chicago, Hyatt has been actively involved in initiatives that aim to uplift and empower residents, particularly those from underrepresented groups.
One of the key aspects of Hyatt’s community engagement in Chicago is their support for workforce development. By collaborating with Skills for Chicagoland’s Future, Hyatt has played a crucial role in addressing employment disparities and creating pathways to stable, long-term careers for individuals who may have faced barriers to employment. Their commitment to hiring locally and investing in their employees' growth is a model for how businesses can make a tangible impact in their communities.
Hyatt’s RiseHY Program: A Pathway for Opportunity
A standout initiative in Hyatt’s commitment to workforce development is their RiseHY program. RiseHY is Hyatt’s global program, supported in part by the Hyatt Hotels Foundation, which connects young people with long-term careers in hospitality. Hyatt and Hyatt hotels around the world have committed to hiring 10,000 Opportunity Youth* by 2025. Through this program, Hyatt offers these young individuals not just jobs, but structured pathways to career growth in the hospitality industry.
In Chicago, RiseHY has been instrumental in helping local youth, particularly those from under-resourced communities**, gain access to training, mentorship and employment opportunities at Hyatt hotels across the city. The program is designed to meet young people where they are, providing them with the support they need to succeed in a professional environment.
By integrating RiseHY into our collaboration, Hyatt has expanded its impact, creating even more opportunities for Chicago's youth. This initiative aligns perfectly with Skills for Chicagoland’s Future's mission to address employment barriers and create meaningful career paths. Together, we are not only placing individuals into jobs but also shaping the future workforce of Chicago by investing in its young people.
The Impact of Hyatt’s Support
The stories that emerge from our collaboration with Hyatt are truly inspiring. Take, for example, Timi, a Chicago native who, after facing numerous challenges in his job search, found a fulfilling role at the Hyatt Regency. Timi's journey, marked by determination and resilience, was significantly supported by Skills for Chicagoland’s Future and Hyatt. His story is a shining example of how community-focused partnerships can change lives.
Looking Forward
As we celebrate Hyatt's contributions at the 2024 Employment Champions Breakfast, we look forward to continuing this impactful collaboration. Together, we will keep creating opportunities, transforming lives, and strengthening our community. Hyatt’s ongoing dedication to community engagement and workforce development is a powerful reminder of the positive change that can happen when businesses and nonprofit organizations join forces for a common cause.
In honoring Hyatt as a Champion Sponsor, we not only recognize their contributions but also reaffirm our shared commitment to empowering Chicago's job seekers.
*Opportunity Youth are defined as young people aged 16-24 who come from under-resourced communities** and are disconnected from the economy by not working and not going to school.
**Under-resourced communities refer to populations who are systemically denied a full opportunity to participate in aspects of economic, civic and social life and have limited or no access to resources.
