The Donald F. Erickson Synapses Award recognizes the founder of the Synapses Foundation, a man named Don Erickson. The Synapses Foundation was dissolved in 2007, with the assets serving as the first endowment gift to Crossroads Fund. The annual endowment payout helps to support grantmaking.
Don taught geography, history and social studies at Calumet High School. He was also a committed activist for social justice, working to end human rights violations across the globe. He had a particular interest in ending US corporate support of the military regime in Burma. Crossroads Fund is grateful and honored to remember Don and his work for social change by presenting this award in his memory.
Donald F. Erickson Synapses Award Recipients
2018
Chicago Torture Justice Campaign
2017
Arab American Action Network (AAAN)
2016
Coalition to Revitalize Walter H. Dyett High School
2015
2013
National Lawyers Guild, Chicago Chapter
2011
Immigrant Youth Justice League
2010
2009
Electronic Intifada
2008
Chicagoans Against War and Injustice (CAWI)