The Cornerstone Foundation has partnered with Chicago Public Schools to encourage high school students to attend school through the "It's COOL to be in SCHOOL" attendance program.

This pilot program is being launched in October 2007 in the following schools:

• Foreman High School - in 2006/2007 their students missed an average of 49.5 days
• Marshall High School - in 2006/2007 their students missed an average of 49.8 days
• Harper High School - in 2006/2007 their students missed an average of 45.1 days
• Hirsch High School - in 2006/2007 their students missed an average of 41.9 days
• School of Technology - in 2006/2007 their students missed an average of 45.5 days

Attendance is measured on a monthly, quarterly and yearly basis. Following the end of each quarter, Charles will host an assembly at each school for those students who had perfect attendance for one of the quarter's months. At the assembly the students will meet Charles and receive a one-of-a-kind autographed picture. Those students who are able to achieve 95% attendance for the entire quarter will be invited on stage with Charles for a question and answer session.

Those students who are able to achieve 95% attendance for the entire year receive a dream day with Charles at Soldier Field. Each student receives a Charles Tillman jersey and are treated to lunch with Charles. After lunch they receive a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the life of a Chicago Bear with a tour of the locker room, press box and game field.

Launched in 2006, the "Pick it Up" program has provided over 300 at-risk Chicago-area children with back-to-school items like backpacks, lunch boxes, school supplies and clothing.