Transforming Rockford: Empowering Community Through Wellness and Connection
CITIED Foundation invites you to join us for two transformative community events: the 2025 Spread Love Karaoke Night and the inaugural Love Your Health Community Wellness Expo. These events are your opportunity to align your brand with meaningful change, connect with a vibrant audience, and invest in the well-being of Rockford’s underserved communities.
WHO WE ARE
At CITIED Foundation, we’re not just imagining a brighter future—we’re building it. Founded by the visionary Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Ashton Lockhart, CITIED (Creating Initiative Through Interaction, Education, and Development) is a nonprofit laser-focused on transforming lives in underserved communities. With every program we launch and every life we touch, we’re breaking barriers to mental health care, empowering young leaders, and fostering resilience in families and communities.
We believe that every individual deserves access to the tools and support needed to thrive, and we’re dedicated to providing those opportunities through innovative programs and dynamic community outreach.
How We Do It
Early Birds Social Worker Development Program
This isn’t just a program—it’s a life-changing career pipeline for high school students with dreams of transforming their communities. The Early Birds Program offers:
  • Education: Students gain essential knowledge in social work, mental health, and community advocacy.
  • Hands-On Experience: Real-world apprenticeships with local organizations give students the opportunity to lead and make a difference.
  • Leadership Skills: Students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership abilities that prepare them for meaningful futures.
  • Financial Incentives: Educational stipends reward participation and fuel academic and career ambitions.
2023-2024 Impact Highlights:
  • 9 students enrolled in comprehensive programming and mentorship.
  • 28 additional youth reached through workshops and mental health education sessions.
  • $500 in educational stipends provided to support student advancement.
  • Hundreds more impacted through community events and the ripple effect of empowered youth.
The Early Birds Program is not just preparing the next generation of mental health professionals—it’s equipping changemakers to lead their communities into a stronger future.
Wellness Workshops and Real Talk Sessions
Mental wellness is at the heart of everything we do. Through Wellness Wednesday Workshops and Real Talk Group Sessions, we empower youth and families with the skills and knowledge to navigate life’s challenges.
  • Practical Skills: Workshops on communication, emotional resilience, and coping mechanisms.
  • Safe Spaces: Group sessions that foster open dialogue and build meaningful connections.
  • Community Impact: Breaking the stigma around mental health, one conversation at a time.Early Birds Social Worker Development Program
Dynamic Community Engagement
At CITIED Foundation, we create more than just events—we create transformative experiences that inspire people to learn, grow, and thrive. Every workshop, celebration, and community gathering is designed to spark meaningful connections and drive positive change. Through our dynamic programming, we unite diverse voices to foster collaboration, education, and empowerment.
Collaborative Partnerships
We know that true impact happens when we work together. CITIED Foundation actively collaborates with local businesses, community organizations, and leaders to maximize the reach and effectiveness of our programs. Our events serve as platforms for partners to showcase their services, connect with the community, and align with CITIED’s mission.
Community Panels and Speaker Participation
CITIED Foundation also serves as a hub for dialogue and learning. We host and participate in:
  • Expert Panels: Discussions on mental health, family resilience, and youth empowerment featuring local and national thought leaders.
  • Guest Speaking Engagements: Our team, led by founder Ashton Lockhart, delivers impactful talks on breaking barriers to mental health access and building stronger communities.
  • Workshops and Training: Facilitating hands-on sessions for schools, organizations, and businesses to address mental health needs and foster inclusive environments.Signature Events
  • Spread Love Karaoke Night:
    A lively, family-friendly fundraiser where music meets community impact. This unforgettable night brings neighbors, leaders, and supporters together to celebrate and give back.
  • 2023 Success: Raised $18,000 to expand the Early Birds Social Worker Development Program.
  • 2024 Goals: A bigger, more exciting event that amplifies community participation and raises vital funds for mental health initiatives.
  • Love Your Health Community Wellness Expo:
    Launching in March 2024, this engaging expo will connect individuals and families with essential wellness resources. From mental health counseling to fitness programs and nutritional guidance, this event empowers attendees to prioritize their well-being in a supportive and accessible environment.
Through these efforts, CITIED Foundation empowers individuals to take actionable steps toward well-being while bringing together a network of changemakers committed to creating lasting impact.
Why Partner with CITIED Foundation in 2025?
At CITIED Foundation, every dollar makes a measurable difference in the lives of underserved families and youth. By sponsoring our flagship events—the Love Your Health Community Wellness Expo and Spread Love Karaoke Night—you’re not just funding programs; you’re creating opportunities, breaking barriers, and driving tangible change in our community.
Your sponsorship means:
  • Direct Impact on Mental Health Access:
    Your partnership ensures that families in Rockford gain access to critical mental health resources, such as counseling, workshops, and educational materials. In 2024 alone, we provided mental health education to 28 youth and their families through targeted programs, and your sponsorship allows us to expand this reach.
  • Empowering Future Leaders:
    By supporting programs like the Early Birds Social Worker Development Program, you’ll help high school students gain career-defining experiences in social work and mental health. With your sponsorship, we can grow the program to serve 15 students in 2025, equipping them with hands-on apprenticeships and leadership skills while providing stipends to eliminate financial barriers.
  • Strengthening Community Connections:
    Your investment fuels dynamic events that bring thousands of community members together to prioritize wellness, celebrate resilience, and take collective action. For example, the inaugural Spread Love Karaoke Night raised $18,000 in 2024, enabling us to expand services for vulnerable families. With your support, we aim to surpass $45,650 in 2025, doubling our impact.
What You’ll Achieve as a Sponsor:
  • Increased Visibility: Your brand will reach Greater Rockford families, community groups, leaders, and business leaders through event marketing, on-site promotions, and media coverage.
  • Community Leadership: Align your organization with a mission-driven cause that directly addresses mental health inequities and empowers underserved populations.
  • Real-World Impact: Your sponsorship dollars translate into life-changing outcomes—more families served, more students supported, and a stronger Rockford.
Join us today to make an impact that lasts a lifetime. Explore our sponsorship opportunities below and see how your organization can become a driving force for change in our community. Together, we’ll build a healthier, more resilient Rockford.
Love Your Health Community Wellness Expo

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Love Your Health Community Wellness Expo #lcsw #rockfordillinois #wellness #citiedfoundation

Join CITIED Foundation for an incredible day of health, connection, and community at the Love Your Health Community Wellness Expo! This FREE event is your chance to engage with a variety of wellness-focused organizations dedicated to improving health and well-being in the Rockford area. Whether you're a community member eager to explore resources, or a business or organization interested in becoming a vendor or sponsor, this is the perfect opportunity to make meaningful connections and showcase your commitment to wellness. Don't miss out on this exciting celebration of health – come be part of the movement to inspire a healthier, happier Rockford!

Interactive Booths
Connect with local organizations and learn about available services.
Wellness Activities
Enjoy giveaways, live demonstrations, and fun activities.
Mental Health Focus
Learn about resources and support for mental health and well-being.
Date: Saturday, March 22, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Location: Northwest Community Center
This inaugural event connects Rockford residents with health and wellness resources, creating an accessible, engaging space for community education, empowerment, and connection.
Spread Love Karaoke Night
Date: May 18, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: District Bar & Grill, Rockford, IL
A one-of-a-kind evening that combines music, fun, and philanthropy! Featuring open mic karaoke, the highly anticipated Lip Sync Battle, and delicious themed food, Spread Love Karaoke Night is a celebration of community and connection.
Event Highlights:
Family-Friendly Fun
Spread Love Karaoke is a family-friendly event that combines karaoke, philanthropy, and fun.
Themed Food and Drinks
Guests can enjoy themed food and drinks, creating a festive atmosphere.
Battle of the Bars Lip Sync
Witness the high-energy _Battle of the Bars Lip Sync Challenge_.
Fundraising Goal
Our goal is to raise $45,650 to support the Early Birds Social Worker Program.
Highlights from Spread Love Karaoke 2024
Sponsorship Levels and Benefits
Dual Event Sponsorship Levels
Join us in sponsoring both the Love Your Health Community Wellness Expo and the Spread Love Karaoke Night for maximum visibility and impact.
Presenting Sponsor
$10,000
  • Exclusive Title Branding: Your logo prominently displayed as the "Presenting Sponsor" for both events.
  • Prime Exposure: Logo on all marketing materials, event websites, press releases, and signage.
  • Direct Engagement: Opportunity to address attendees at both events.
  • Social Media Spotlight: Dedicated social media campaign (10 posts across platforms).
  • VIP Access: Prime booth placement at the Expo and 15 guest tickets for Karaoke Night.
Platinum Partner
$8,000
  • Logo Placement: Prominent placement on marketing materials, websites, and signage for both events.
  • Event Recognition: Verbal acknowledgment during event openings.
  • Social Media Features: Highlighted in 7 posts across platforms.
  • Engagement Opportunities: Booth placement at the Expo and 10 guest tickets for Karaoke Night.
Gold Supporter
$2,500
  • Visibility: Logo on promotional materials and signage for both events.
  • Social Media Mentions: Featured in 5 posts across platforms.
  • Participation Perks: Booth placement at the Expo and 6 guest tickets for Karaoke Night.
Community Partner
$2,500
  • Local Impact Recognition: Logo on materials and signage at both events.
  • Social Media Thanks: Featured in 3 posts across platforms.
  • Event Access: Booth at the Expo and 4 guest tickets for Karaoke Night.
Friend of CITIED Foundation
$1,000
  • Name Recognition: Listing on event materials and signage.
  • Social Media Acknowledgment: Thank-you post on CITIED platforms.
  • Event Tickets: 2 guest tickets for Karaoke Night.
Community Advocate
$500
  • Grassroots Recognition: Name listing on signage at both events.
  • Social Media Mention: Thank-you post recognizing your support.
LET'S CONNECT!
Together We Can Make A Difference!
Community Celebration
Join us in celebrating our community and making a real impact.
Meaningful Change
Spread Love Karaoke Night 2024 will create meaningful change in our community.
Immediate and Long-term Impact
Your participation makes a difference to families in need.
Contact information:
Sponsorship Contact CITIED Foundation Contact
Lakesha York Ashton Lockhart
Synergy Works Better citiedrockford@gmail.com
lyork@nonprofitsynergy.com Tel. (779) 269-4014
Tel. (720) 508-9996
CONNECT WITH US