CHICAGO NORTH SHORE
Our
Projects
Academic Leaders International's Young Pioneers is our student group that helps people who don't have enough resources to meet their own basic needs. By identifying and helping those in need, we can create a better world. Each season, this club will introduce an international service project, suggested by an ALI Young Pioneer, to take on, succeed and build lasting change.
The Mother's Canopy
A 2026 student-led architecture research project (click for project profile) by Ian "Haohao" Towne.
This project explores how a compact rural Chinese dwelling might combine seismic awareness, passive environmental design, social dignity, and the practical constraints of construction in mountainous Yunnan, China. He hopes to build a prototype to bring this project to fruition as a housing option in the future.
Shanghai, China Orphanage
When the ALI Young Pioneers first visited a Shanghai orphanage a few years ago, they saw a community doing its best despite severe financial struggles. Wanting to ensure every child experienced joy in their daily lives, the Pioneers stepped in to help. Thanks to their dedicated efforts, they have raised more than $5,000 to date, funding the critical resources that keep these children smiling.
Yunnan, China families
ALI Young Pioneers were introduced to three families from a rural region in China’s Yunnan Province who are in need of financial help. Moving quickly to support them, the ALI Young Pioneers decided to sponsor these families and provide ongoing financial assistance.