Honoring philanthropist and community leader Maxine J. Arkes

Today, we are excited to share news of a transformational gift given to VOCEL, in memory of Maxine J. Arkes.

Maxine was a committed Chicago volunteer, spending her time promoting children’s literacy as a reading tutor for WITS (Working In The Schools) in the Cabrini Green neighborhood. “VOCEL and Maxine are a perfect match,” said her daughter-in-law Helen Arkes, “she would have wanted to volunteer.”

The Arkes Family's generous donation will fund the addition of two new Child Parent Academy sites on the South Side of Chicago. In addition, the donation will support VOCEL’s ongoing research and development, exploring innovative avenues to expand reach and impact across the city.

On behalf of the entire VOCEL team, we are grateful to the Arkes Family for honoring Maxine’s legacy through this meaningful and transformational gift.