Robert J Rizzo

Robert J. Rizzo began volunteering with Horizon's Community Services in the mid 1990's leveraging his connections in securing in-kind gifts for the Center's annual Human First silent auction benefit. Robert's work with the Center increased significantly when he began organizing focus groups (facilitated by Horizon Community Services Board Members Marcia Lipetz and Victoria Raymont) throughout the city and suburbs to gather community ideas, opinions and input on what they would need and/or expect from an LGBT community center. Currently, Robert continues his involvement with the Center by providing people power to set up for events such as the Center's booth at North Halsted Market Days, Oscar Party and Human First. He also regularly leads public tours of the building and actively participates as a member of the Center's Development Committee. Professionally, Robert is Senior Manager of Sara Lee Corporation's Community Investment department as well as Senior Manager of the Sara Lee Foundation's Grants Program. Throughout his 10 years at Sara Lee, he always serves as an advocate for the Center. He works with the Center's development staff to focus grant requests that best address Sara Lee's interests on issues of food, nutrition and healthy lifestyles. While at the office, he advocates for the Center to ensure that senior executives understand the vital role that the Center plays in providing essential services to the largest segment of Chicago's LGBT community. Robert received his undergraduate degree in Mathematics with a minor in Art History from Northern Illinois University. He also is certified by the State of Illinois to teach grades 6 – 12. Personally, Robert fully believes in the inclusive mission of the Center and its efforts to address the vital needs of Chicago's LGBT community.