Spotlight on…Pat Doyle, Winston & Strawn Corporate Partner

Education and Supporting Our Communities are two of Winston for Good’s pillars, and we are pleased to spotlight Corporate Partner Pat Doyle and his long-time involvement on the board of directors of Horizons for Youth. In this spotlight Q&A, Pat discusses his involvement with the organization.

What is the mission of Horizons for Youth?
Horizons for Youth is Chicago’s only organization providing need-based scholarships, comprehensive support programs and educational resources for students of all academic ability levels from kindergarten through college completion. Through Horizons for Youth’s holistic approach, 99 percent of participants have graduated from high school and 84 percent have graduated from college or are currently pursuing their degree. These results prove that with the right combination of competencies, family investment, and community support every child, regardless of socio-economic status, can reach their full potential.

What is your role in Horizons for Youth and how long have you been involved?
I’ve been a financial supporter of Horizons for Youth for over 20 years and a member of the board of directors for almost 15 years. I also served a three-year term as board chair. In 2016, I helped Horizons for Youth launch a program and series of strategic partnerships to provide educational, economic, and community development opportunities to Chicago’s Austin neighborhood. 

What inspired you to get involved in Horizons for Youth?
I’ve always realized how tremendously blessed I am to have had wonderful parents who worked incredibly hard to provide my six younger brothers and sisters and me with life changing educational and other opportunities. I’m also aware that there are so many kids who don’t have as many opportunities as we did. In Horizons for Youth, I found a community of caring people that are making a profound impact on the lives of kids and their families, where I can clearly see how my support matters.

In what ways has Winston contributed to Horizons for Youth’s mission and goals?
I’ve really been touched by the generous support of my Winston family. Several of my partners have been scholarship sponsors for many years. Others here at Winston have served as “big sibling” mentors and academic tutors. The Winston Foundation has been a lead sponsor at our premier annual event for over 10 years. Winston has even donated office furniture and supplies on many occasions. And, we regularly host information sessions for others in the Chicago office interested in getting involved. The great thing about Winston is that people always have ideas about how we can help and Horizons for Youth is always able to channel those ideas to the families and students who will most benefit.