Chicago

High-resolution image

The Chicago Division honors Christopher W. Helt for his role in helping the division establish an FBI Explorers Post to benefit Chicago youth. While balancing the demands of his busy law practice and family life, Mr. Helt conducted the legal research necessary for the Edwin C. Shanahan Memorial Post #1920 to be recognized as a non-profit organization.

The mission of the FBI Explorers program is to develop responsible, educated, and capable youth. Post #1920 works to instill the basic tenets of civic responsibility through training, leadership, teamwork, discipline, and friendship while educating those with an interest in a future law enforcement career. Approximately 30 local high school students are selected to participate in each session. Many of the students who participate come from families that are living either at or below the poverty line.

After securing the organization’s non-profit status, Mr. Helt sat on the board of directors for Post #1920, organized multiple fundraisers to support the program, and developed Post #1920’s Facebook page. He is dedicated to helping Post #1920 reach its full potential by recruiting community leaders to support its work. During the summer of 2013, Mr. Helt also raised $2,500 to support Post #1920 by competing in a local triathlon.