OTSC Timeline

The Place for Chicago Kids

John McMurray opens a first-of-its-kind community center for inner-city children.

The Name That Stuck

The center officially becomes "Off The Street Club."

A Holiday Tradition Begins

OTSC hosts its first Holiday Luncheon.

Chicago’s Ad Community Steps Up

Chicago's Ad Community Steps Up

The Advertising Club of Chicago becomes an early supporter of OTSC.

A Partnership to Last Generations

The Chicago Advertising Association begins its longstanding support of the club.

A Steady Place in Unsteady Times

OTSC stands strong as a stable community resource throughout World War I.

Summer Camp, OTSC Style

Camp Moss opens in Michigan.

Sweet Competition

OTSC hosts its first Watermelon Party and Eating Contest.

More Than Just a Club

New programs expand opportunities in sports, drama, tumbling, boxing, and more.

Champions in Center Field

OTSC's baseball team wins the Chicago American Championship.

A New Camp Tradition Begins

Camp Mark Twain (later renamed Camp Mathieu) opens in Wheaton, IL.

A Boxing Legend Gives Back

Former heavyweight Max Marek (1 of 3 boxers to defeat Joe Louis) teaches boxing at OTSC.

A New Home

OTSC moves to its current location in West Garfield Park, IL.

Honoring our Founder

OTSC founder John McMurray passes away after decades of service.

Girl Power

Penny Cotter becomes OTSC's first female "Kid of the Year."

1,000 Kids Strong

Raymond Geraldi becomes the club's 1,000th enrolled member.

Safe Haven

As economic shifts cause social unrest, OTSC helps keep kids away from gangs and drugs.

Sky High

Merrill C. Meigs, newspaper publisher and namesake of the former Meigs Field, celebrates OTSC by taking two children on a flight in his private plane.

A New Era of Leadership

Ralph Campagna takes over as director of OTSC.

Ready, Set, Derby

OTSC begins its longstanding participation in the National Soap Box Derby.

The Bozo Ball

Dennis Fitzsimmons, future CEO of Tribune Company, creates the Bozo Ball—an annual charity event raising millions for the club.

Presidential Approval

Ronald Reagan acknowledges Ralph Campagna and the club in a video message.

Million-Dollar Boost

OTSC receives a transformative $1 million donation to upgrade club facilities.

Championship Chaos

As riots ensued after the Bulls' first championship, Ralph barricaded the doors to protect the kids.

From OTSC to the Big Screen

Hoop Dreams, a documentary following OTSC alumnus Arthur Agee's pursuit of pro basketball, premieres at Sundance.

Camp Gets an Upgrade

Improvements to Camp Mathieu create a more exciting experience.

Swing Into Action

OTSC hosts the inaugural Swing for Kids Women's Classic—the country's largest and longest-running all-women's golf charity event. Over the years it has attracted the biggest names in golf, including Annika Sorenstam, Paula Kramer, Natalie Gulbis, and Juli Inkster.

100 Years Strong

OTSC celebrates its 100th anniversary.

Bridging the Future

OTSC completes a major building expansion and connecting bridge.

Million-Dollar Surprise

"Soul Train" creator Don Cornelius, ex-NFL player Willie Davis, and journalist Geraldo Rivera make a surprise $1 million donation at the Bozo Ball.

100 Holiday Luncheons Later

OTSC celebrates a century of its beloved holiday tradition.

50 Years of Ralph

Ralph Campagna celebrates 50 years of club service, including 30 as Executive Director.

An Award-Winning Message

Kids Are Tougher Than The Streets earns six Effie Awards.

Nothing Stops the Luncheon

OTSC hosts its first-ever virtual Holiday Luncheon during COVID.

Derby Dominance

OTSC racers Anthony and Maria place 1st and 2nd in the international soap box derby program.

Serving Up More Support

OTSC's "Swing for the Kids" charity event grows with the addition of a pickleball tournament.

Investing in Future Leaders

A $2 million donation from Janis Battle and family funds the Ralph Campagna Scholarship program.

Touchdown!

OTSC alumnus Carnell Tate makes history as he is drafted 4th overall in the 2026 NFL Draft by the Tennessee Titans.

Off The Street Club Timeline