Project HOOD’s 10th Annual Gala: A Decade of Transformation and National Impact
Project HOOD’s 10th Annual Gala: A Decade of Transformation and National Impact (Chicago, IL) – September 24, 2024 – Project HOOD is thrilled to announce its 10th Annual Gala on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at the renowned Aon Grand Ballroom at Navy Pier in Chicago. This year’s gala marks a significant milestone, celebrating 10 years of transforming lives on Chicago’s South Side and highlighting Project HOOD’s growing national impact.
Founded by Pastor Corey Brooks, Project HOOD (Helping Others Obtain Destiny) began 12 years ago with an audacious mission to confront gun violence, poverty, and systemic inequality. What started with Pastor Brooks spending 94 days on the roof of a condemned motel has grown into a movement that is reshaping communities across the country.
Project HOOD’s National Reach and Local Impact
Project HOOD has become a national leader in addressing the root causes of violence and poverty through its five core pillars of service: Violence Prevention, Entrepreneurship & Job Readiness, Health & Wellness, Youth Programming, and Re-Entry Services. Over the past decade, Project HOOD’s programs have served thousands of individuals and families, providing life-changing opportunities and resources.
“Our work in Chicago is just the beginning,” says Pastor Corey Brooks. “Project HOOD is not only transforming lives here, but our model can be replicated in communities across the nation. The fight against violence and poverty is one we must all engage in, and this gala is a celebration of what’s possible when communities come together to create change.”
Leadership & Economic Opportunity Center: A Beacon of Hope
The crown jewel of Project HOOD’s work is the ongoing development of the Leadership and Economic Opportunity Center (LEOC), a $40 million facility under construction in the heart of Woodlawn. The LEOC will be a transformative hub for job training, youth mentorship, mental health services, and entrepreneurship opportunities. This groundbreaking project is made possible in part by an $8 million donation from the Robert R. McCormick Foundation, securing naming rights to the facility.
In addition to the McCormick Foundation’s generous support, other major donors include $5 million from Kenneth C. Griffin of Citadel, $2 million from Related Midwest, and $1.5 million from Wintrust. With only $5 million left to raise, the LEOC is set to become a national model for community investment and economic empowerment.
A Night to Celebrate and Inspire
The 10th Annual Gala will be an evening of reflection, celebration, and inspiration. Guests will hear firsthand stories of transformation from those whose lives have been forever changed by Project HOOD’s initiatives. The event will also honor the incredible sponsors and community partners who have made these achievements possible.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, October 12, 2024
Reception: 5:30 PM
Program: 7:00 PM
Afterparty: 9:00 PM
Location: Aon Grand Ballroom at Navy Pier, 840 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
Tickets and Sponsorships: Available HERE
About Project HOOD
Project HOOD (Helping Others Obtain Destiny) is dedicated to eradicating violence and poverty by providing education, job training, mentorship, and support programs to individuals in under-resourced communities. Led by Pastor Corey Brooks, Project HOOD is building a brighter future through innovative programs and grassroots initiatives.
Join us at the 10th Annual Gala and be a part of the national movement to transform communities and change lives.
Project HOOD’s 10th Annual Gala: A Decade of Transformation and National Impact
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