African American Initiative

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Helping young men succeed

Communities across Chicago are working together to achieve a single goal—helping African American boys, ages 10-16, transition successfully to adulthood. Whole neighborhoods are coming together, families are reconnecting and city blocks are being transformed into places of opportunity.

This is the United Way African American Initiative in action—and you can be part of it.

Several years ago, United Way brought together African American leaders and asked what  the biggest challenges their communities face were and what it would take to create change. The African American Initiative was born from those discussions.

Now, lead agencies are working with parents, teachers, business leaders, police, clergy, mentors and the young people themselves to help young African American males transition successfully into adulthood.

We’re accomplishing tremendous things, but we need your involvement. Watch our video and see how the African American Initiative is changing young lives.

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