Date: September 20
Category: Community, Culture, Chicago
In case you missed it… Chicago showed up BIG for the kids.
On Saturday, September 20, Guitar Over Guns (GOGO) hosted their 3rd annual “Band Together” fundraiser at Amazing Space — a night dedicated to celebrating the power of music, mentorship, and community. Since 2008, Guitar Over Guns has served over 11,000 students nationwide, using creative expression as a tool to transform the lives of inner-city youth.
This year’s event brought together artists, activists, mentors, and supporters, all united in pushing GOGO’s mission forward. By the end of the night, the organization surpassed its fundraising goal — raising over $100,000 to support programming across the country.
A Night Full of Heavy Hitters & Heartfelt Moments
The evening featured an electric lineup, including:
- J. Ivy – 3x Grammy-winning poet delivering a powerful performance
- Rhymefest – Academy Award-winning artist and longtime youth advocate
- Dometi Pongo – MTV host and journalist repping Chicago with intention
- Common – Emmy, Grammy & Oscar winner who hosted an exclusive luncheon
- Chance The Rapper – who surprised attendees with an impromptu performance
One of the night’s most inspiring highlights was a student and mentor performance — showcasing exactly what Guitar Over Guns is all about. A live auction and raffle closed out the evening, helping push the fundraiser across the six-figure mark.
Why This Matters
Guitar Over Guns provides more than music lessons — it offers:
- Safe spaces for young people
- Long-term mentorship
- Creative and emotional development
- Access to community and leadership opportunities
For many Chicago youth, organizations like GOGO are lifelines. And nights like this ensure that transformative work continues.
Support the Mission
Learn more or donate here:
https://guitarsoverguns.org
Follow Guitar Over Guns:
IG: @guitarsoverguns
Facebook: Guitar Over Guns
Twitter/X: @guitarsoverguns
View the full event photo recap HERE.
Fast Facts
- Event: Guitar Over Guns “Band Together” Fundraiser
- Date: September 20
- Location: Amazing Space
- Raised: $100,000+
- Special Guests: Common, Chance The Rapper, J. Ivy, Rhymefest, Dometi Pongo
- Impact: 11,000+ students served nationwide
“Community, creativity, and mentorship collided — and together they raised over $100,000 for the next generation.”
