Operation Hope celebrates largest graduating class in program history

Record number of students to be honored Wednesday at Western Bowl after 18 years of mentorship and community support.

Back view of a graduate in a cap and blue gown, tassel hanging from the cap at a commencement ceremony

ShutterstockOrganizers said the record-breaking graduating class reflects nearly two decades of investment in student success.

CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) — Operation Hope will celebrate the largest graduating class in the program’s 18-year history during a special event Wednesday evening in Champaign.

The celebration is scheduled for 5:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Western Bowl, located at 917 Francis Drive in Champaign. Highlights include recognizing graduating students and highlight the impact the program has had on participants through mentorship, life-skills development and community engagement.

Operation Hope is a partnership among Champaign Unit 4 School District, the City of Champaign, United Way of Champaign County, Don Moyer Boys & Girls Club and the Champaign Park District. Organizers said the record-breaking graduating class reflects nearly two decades of investment in student success.

The event will include student recognition ceremonies, celebration activities and opportunities for attendees to hear directly from graduates about how the program has influenced their lives.