What a fantastic time that was had by the Virgin Mobile 25 in Chicago… and a first-time visit to the city for me.

Common helped welcome Virgin Mobile‘s first ever flagship retail store by participating in the “From the Ground Up” benefit to help battle youth homelessness.

Common took the stage to a sold-out crowd and despite The Metro being an easy 300 degrees inside, graciously met with fans for photos.

All proceeds benefited The Night Ministry of Chicago that works to provide housing, healthcare and human connection to members of their youth community struggling with poverty or homelessness.

The new Virgin Mobile retail store bears little resemblance to the typical mobile phone store. It features rock and roll decor, including a shrine dedicated to Lady Gaga.

The wireless company hopes to build awareness of its brand by redefining the relationship between the customer and the carrier. Customers will be encouraged to sit back and put their feet up while testing devices or attending any of the company-hosted workshops on mobile topics.

Virgin Mobile offers popular iPhones, Android phones, as well as some phones made by Samsung and LG.

See Virgin Mobile‘s website to upgrade your phone, check on your account, browse new devices, and high five their employees.

disclosure: I am part of the Virgin Mobile 25, a sponsored program by Virgin Mobile. All editorial content has been created by me and reflects my personal opinions.