Brother Mike Awards 2026 Update

Dear Community Members,

We’re writing to share that the Chicago Learning Exchange (CLX) will be postponing this year’s Brother Mike Awards. This decision wasn’t made lightly. We know the Awards hold deep meaning for our community — they carry forward Brother Mike’s legacy and celebrate the out-of-school OST educators doing extraordinary work with young people across Chicago. Because that legacy deserves to be honored well, not rushed, we’re taking time to hone the BMAs and align it with our new CLX strategy.

Over the past year, CLX interviewed community stakeholders on our work and ways to improve it as part of a comprehensive strategic planning process to meet the needs of the OST sector. We're committed to working with the community to find ways to honor and celebrate the work of mentors and OST practitioners. We’re grateful for your partnership and continued belief in this work. If you would like to meet 1-1, please don’t hesitate to reach out at sjafri@chicagolx.org.

With gratitude,

Sana Jafri

Executive Director

The Chicago Learning Exchange