Leading up to Serve-a-thon, Chicago Cares will publish a blog series called “Three Questions With ….” As part of this series, we will celebrate the diverse and dynamic voices of those who are making a difference inside and outside of our city. Throughout the series, we hope that you will chime in with your thoughts as well by answering a simple question: What does Chicago mean to you? Tell us with the hasthtag #MyChi through words, photos, and videos on social media!

Today, we are thrilled to feature Olympic figure skater Jason Brown! When he’s not on the ice, he’s been known to give back to his community by volunteering with Chicago Cares.

Jason Brown
Jason Brown celebrating his bar mitzvah with a school renovation project through Chicago Cares.

1) What was your most memorable Chicago Cares volunteer experience?

My most memorable Chicago Cares volunteer experience was the school renovation we did as a project for my bar mitzvah. Instead of a traditional party, 300 friends and family gathered to renovate the Shiloh Park Elementary School in Zion, Illinois. We built an outdoor classroom, painted walls, murals, and the playground, planted a garden, lined a soccer field, built picnic benches, and made wall mosaics. It was awesome having everyone join together for such a great cause.

2) Do you think it’s important to engage with your community off the ice?

It’s so important to me to engage with my community off the ice. I feel so fortunate and supported that I like to give back by helping others, and Chicago Cares makes that possible in such a fun way.

3) What does Chicago look like to you? Feel free to share thoughts on Chicago’s personality, opportunities and/or challenges.

I loved growing up in Chicago! I have such great memories enjoying the city with my family!

A young Jason Brown and his family enjoying Chicago!
A young Jason Brown and his family enjoying Chicago!