Hood Heroes provides summer employment for students 11-19 years old from Chicago's west and south sides, where poverty is often the norm. In addition to giving young workers a chance to earn income, Hood Heroes employment provides continued mentorship, ownership of their community, positive work ethic and exposure to various career paths. And this mentorship continues year round!

$1,000 employs and empowers ONE teen to become the hero of their neighborhood. Neighborhoods such as Austin, North Lawndale, West Garfield Park, Washington Heights, Auburn Gresham, Roseland, South Shore and Pullman are being beautified as trash is picked up, community gardens are cared for, lawns of elders are mowed, the community is engaged and leaders are developed.

Not only can you give a donation of any amount (such as $20, $200 or $2,500), you can also create your own Fundraise page for Hood Heroes!

1) Click the "Fundraise" button.

2) Sign up as a Fundraiser and create your custom page.

3) Invite your friends and family to support the employment of 250 teens.

Hood Heroes 2026

Employ and empower 250 Chicago teens!

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