BOMA/Chicago Foundation
About
Our Mission
The BOMA/Chicago Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization with the mission to advance the development of emerging talent in commercial real estate (CRE), inclusive of underrepresented groups, through education, exposure, and outreach.
Leadership & Governance
The Foundation operates with its own Board of Directors and bylaws. The Foundation Board is composed of 13 directors and oversees Diversity, Scholarship, Fundraising, and Nominating Committees.
Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders
Internships and Job Placement
Our relationships with local schools enable us to connect first-generation students with internships and job opportunities in CRE. Every intern we place is a step towards a more inclusive industry.
Scholarships
The Foundation offers four scholarships for commercial property management careers. Recipients benefit from expert mentorship, access to a vast professional network, and essential industry education.
- Full Designation Scholarship – A needs-based scholarship valued at $10,000 that pays the full tuition for the Real Property Administrator (RPA) designation
- Reginald L. Ollie Scholarship – A scholarship for CRE professionals who have faced significant professional and/or personal challenges to grow within the industry. The Ollie Scholarship is valued at $10,000 that pays the full tuition for the Real Property Administrator (RPA) designation
- Single Course Scholarship – A needs-based scholarship valued at $1,300 that pays for one RPA class
- Foundations of Real Estate Management Class Scholarship – A scholarship valued at $950 that pays for the six-night Foundations of Real Estate Management class
Education
Financial Empowerment Workshops
Our free Financial Empowerment Workshops are for the entire CRE community and provide essential knowledge on budgeting, saving, and managing finances.
Career Days & Tours
The Foundation collaborates with local high schools, colleges, and non-profit organizations to organize CRE career days and building tours, educating students of all ages about the industry.
Diversity
In 1995, BOMA/Chicago established the very first BOMA local Diversity Committee, thanks to Reginald L. Ollie, a distinguished African American industry leader. This Committee leads our vision for DEI and is a vital component of our Foundation.
Diversity Celebration
The BOMA/Chicago Foundation hosts its flagship Diversity Celebration event each April to raise funds for its programs.
Chicago Pride Parade
The Foundation participates in the Chicago Pride Parade to celebrate and support our industry’s LGBTQIA+ community.
Authentic Allyship Workshop
The Foundation created an Authentic Allyship workshop tailored to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in the CRE industry. Participants explore real-world scenarios and learn methods to become genuine allies.
Get Involved!
You can help us build a more diverse and inclusive future for Chicago’s commercial real estate. If you’re interested, contact Jaclynne Madden at jmadden@gafmacademy.com!
Become a Diversity Ambassador: As a Diversity Ambassador, you will be invited to attend career days and events that bring the Foundation’s mission to life. Sign up today!
Attend the Diversity Celebration: Visit our events page for more information on the next Celebration. We hope to see you there!
Participate in the Pride Parade: Do you want to sponsor or walk in the Pride Parade? Contact us to learn more!
Donate to the Foundation
You have the power to make a difference. By donating to the BOMA/Chicago Foundation, you are investing in the future of commercial real estate. You can learn more and donate here.
Workforce Diversity Partner
The Workforce Diversity Partnership provides the opportunity for organizations to collaborate with the Foundation in fostering diversity in commercial real estate. Benefits of this year-long partnership include recognition at Foundation events, direct access to college career centers for potential job candidates, and more.
Thank you to Hines, the 2024 BOMA/Chicago Foundation Workforce Diversity Partner.
