Closure of Longstanding Arts Nonprofit Hamilton Wings

Hamilton Wings, an arts nonprofit serving the Elgin area for over 30 years, formally dissolved on September 30. The decision followed the passing of founder and Executive Director Risé Jones in December 2024. The organization’s board of directors announced this conclusion in an August letter on their website, reflecting on the impact of Jones’ loss.

This summer marked increased attendance and revenue for Hamilton Wings, attributed to the 23rd SCORE! event, a student-written and performed opera at Elgin Community College. As part of their achievements, the organization improved donor engagement, added five new board members, and streamlined operations.

“Despite these achievements, the board and leadership recognized the immense challenge of sustaining an organization so intrinsically tied to its founder’s unique vision, alongside an impending long-term funding shortage,” stated the board’s letter.

Board President Donna Anderson noted that around 40 children and 20 adults contributed to the SCORE! production. The nonprofit’s last after-school program occurred during the previous school year at Washington Elementary School in Elgin. “Girls in Motion,” led by Danae Anderson, aimed to build confidence and self-esteem in students through arts and movement activities.

Anderson had a friendship with Jones spanning over 30 years, starting when both served on the board of directors at the YWCA Elgin. Her involvement with Hamilton Wings extended beyond 20 years. Hundreds of children participated in the organization’s activities over the years, benefiting significantly.

“When I would hear alums speak it would bring tears to my eyes. They loved Dr. Jones. She changed so many lives over the years. She helped so many build their confidence and made them feel they were worthy of respect,” Anderson expressed.

Local attorney and board treasurer Jeff Meyer emphasized the irreplaceable nature of Risé Jones, describing her as the driving force behind the organization. Meyer, involved with Hamilton Wings since 2009, praised its impact on children’s development.

“Hamilton Wings had a tremendous impact on children. Not every kid develops leadership skills the same way, and Hamilton Wings helped them develop those skills through the arts. Through its programming, it was great to see kids come out of their shells and find their voices,” Meyer said.

Founded in 1996 by Jones and her mother Ann Jones, Hamilton Wings honored psychologist Charles Hamilton Jones, Risé’s father. Brittany Barber, appointed executive director in September 2025, commented on the enduring legacy.

“What Dr. Jones taught us lives on every time a child dares to create, every time an alum champions the arts and every time our community pursues a bold idea. Hamilton Wings lasted long enough to deeply impact this city, and that is a legacy we will carry forward,” Barber noted.

Financial assets and unspent grant funds are being returned and costumes and stage materials donated to local nonprofits. The partnership with Elgin Community College has concluded.

In a meeting on October 5, the Hamilton Wings board, inspired by philanthropists Mark and Robin Seigle, plans to use remaining funds to create an arts scholarship at ECC to honor Jones and Hamilton Wings.

Mike Danahey reports as a freelance journalist for The (Elgin) Courier-News.