Obamas ask for ideas to help shape presidential library in Chicago

CHICAGO – Hours before leaving the White House, President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama asked Americans to contribute ideas for the development of their presidential center on Chicago’s South Side.

In a two-minute video posted on a new website for the Obama Foundation, the not-for-profit that will oversee the project in Jackson Park, the couple asked Americans to suggest themes and individuals that can help shape the library, museum and programmatic work at a center geared toward fostering active citizenship.

Before heading off for his life after the presidency, President Obama said, “We want to invite you to help us with just one of the projects we’re excited to work on.” He directed those with ideas to a new website, Obama.org.

“Send us your ideas, your hopes, your beliefs about what we can achieve together,” Michelle Obama said. “Tell us about the young leaders and companies and organizations that inspire you. This will be your presidential center just as much as it is ours.”

The video, conversational in tone, was released hours before Donald Trump was sworn into office as the 45th president.

While based on the South Side, the center will have projects across the city, country and world, President Obama said.

Fundraising for the private-public endeavor is expected to ramp up now that he’s left office.

“The work of perfecting our union is never finished,” he said. “And we look forward to joining you in that effort as fellow citizens.”