The Rat PAck, Chicago

 

Short History & Goals:

Originally founded at "Rumors" Restaurant, Chicago, in 1984. Today's Chicago chapter of the Rat Pack draws membership from a cross section of Chicago and suburban communities. Members come from a variety of occupations: doctors, lawyers, educators, police officials, congressmen, state senators, businessmen and other government officials are, but a few of the vocations encompassed by the organization. The group was always interested in attracting the "movers and shakers" of the Chicago scene. From the beginning, those who had excelled in whatever their particular chosen field were the ones that sought admission to this group.

Rat Pack members have consistently been a leading force in Chicago, and in the African American Community in particular. Although the membership of the group has included all racial groups, the primary focus of its largess and efforts have always been the African American community. Yearly, the organization contributes thousands of dollars and tremendous amounts of energy to charitable causes. Scholarships are awarded through the Charles E. Curry Foundation and are given to African American male students on a renewable basis.

Unique approach:

What has separated the Rat Pack from other civic-minded organizations is that it was founded on a novel, but serious approach to solving the problems confronting the African American community. Since over 90% of its members are strong supporters of the NAACP, the Urban League, Operation Push and other civil rights organizations, this group wanted to support these organizations, without duplicating their efforts. It recognized that our community does not have the resources to support "another" civil rights organization, so we sought to provide the community with a forum for the exchange of ideas in a "fun" setting. Weekly meetings in a relaxed atmosphere of brotherly camaraderie has been the group's trademark.

Many people have underestimated the need to "recharge" and network with others, but many economic business plans and political strategies have had their genesis on a "Rat Pack Wednesday". The Rat Pack meeting place has become a magnet for those wanting to "past the word" about some relevant topic or for anyone seeking political support.

Growth:    

The philosophical approach of the group has taken root across the country. The Rat Pack now has chapters in several major cities and many dues-paying members in even more locations. Once a year members gather to "network" and renew acquaintances and each year the numbers have increased at these "seminars of the soul". 

In the final analysis, it must be said that this is a self-sufficient group that does not want, need or seek any government subsidies to reach its' goals. Its goal is to provide a haven and recharging station for all African American men who face the daily struggles of being "Black in America". This organization is one that fully understands that good mental health requires that Black men must constantly reinforce each other and communicate in an open, non-posturing, and relaxed setting if real progress is going to be obtained.