Welcome to The Chicago Juneteenth Project.

We are dedicated to uplifting and empowering the underserved communities of Chicago’s West Side—especially North Lawndale and East Garfield Park. Through a combination of education, technology, and community celebration, we aim to create a future where everyone has access to the tools they need to succeed, connect, and thrive. We provide cross-generational services that tackle some of the most pressing issues in our neighborhoods. From bridging the digital divide for seniors, to offering vital resources for those in need, to curating educational programs for the youth, we are here to help our neighbors realize their personal version of freedom.
About Us

Our Mission In Action

The Chicago Juneteenth Project works to eliminate barriers and create lasting change through three key areas:

  1. Bridging the Digital Divide: Through our TechTogether program, we offer senior citizens the skills and tools to navigate the digital world, ensuring they can stay connected and informed.
  2. Fighting Food and Wellness Insecurity: We provide access to healthy meals and provide necessities to those in need.
  3. Supporting Educational Advancement: From tutoring to scholarships, we’re committed to helping youth succeed academically and pursue their dreams of higher education and fulfilling careers. 
What Can You Do?

Get Involved!

Donate Today

Every dollar helps move us closer to a stronger, more equitable community. Consider helping us make a positive impact on Chicago’s West Side by donating today. 

Volunteer

There are multiple opportunities to volunteer with us throughout the year. Let us know that you’re interested and we’ll connect with you!

Join the Juneteenth Parade

The parade is the first and only of it’s kind in Chicago and is not one that you want to miss! Whether you want to be an official sponsor, enter a float, or be a spectator, we hope you’ll join us!

Our Partner

We are proud to jointly collaborate on many of our initiatives with St. Joseph M.B. Church, an institution with a long history of service to East Garfield Park and beyond since 1955.

We know that when we work together, we achieve more. If you or your organization would like to become a partner, please contact us.

Why This Matters

Juneteenth Is More Than A Holiday

Black and white photo capturing a man holding a Juneteenth flag, symbolizing freedom.

Juneteenth is more than a historical event for us — it’s a reminder of the fragility of freedom experienced by those who came not long before us, a reflection on the ongoing journey for equality, and a reverence for the progress and contributions made by our people.

Since 2015, we’ve produced the Chicago Juneteenth Parade to celebrate our community’s values and resilience. It’s powerful, it’s energizing, and it’s fun. We wanted to do more.

The Chicago Juneteenth Project was created to extend the spirit of Juneteenth and the burst of community pride experienced at the parade into much-needed programs and services throughout the year. We have a dynamic set of board members and community partners who understand the needs of our West Side and we have so much more in store.

We hope that you will join us on our journey and support us along the way.