Project Impact 180 is a community-based leadership and mentoring program that aims to empower and support youth between the ages of 7 and 17 who reside in high-risk communities.

Our organization is dedicated to integrating the 5C's of the Personal Youth Development (PYD) model into our programming, providing positive experiences within a fun and engaging environment where young individuals can thrive and contribute positively to their own lives, families, and communities.

Established in January 2020 by Elaine Marthel, Project Impact 180 was born out of a desire to address the increasing rates of youth violence and crime in Chicago. With a particular focus on the North Lawndale Community, our organization aims to make a meaningful impact in an area that holds personal significance to our founder.

Elaine's personal journey and experiences serve as a driving force behind our organization's mission. Growing up as a teen mom in a single-parent household with limited resources and facing the daily challenges of a community plagued by adversity, Elaine was able to overcome the odds and succeed due to the presence of caring mentors who provided her with the tools she needed to become a productive citizen.

Having spent over 23 years in the financial services industry, Elaine made a transition to the classroom to gain firsthand insight into the needs of students in both affluent and underserved communities. It was during this time that the idea for Project Impact 180 took shape. Elaine's commitment to fostering the next generation of leaders and empowering them to transform their lives and communities grew stronger.

At Project Impact 180, we are driven by a deep passion for guiding and equipping youth with the necessary skills, support, and opportunities to break cycles of dysfunction, achieve personal growth, and make positive contributions to society. Through our comprehensive programs, we aim to create a brighter future for the youth we serve, fostering their development into responsible, successful, and compassionate individuals.

Our organization is dedicated to making a lasting impact and ensuring that all young individuals, regardless of their backgrounds, have access to the tools and resources they need to thrive.

Project Impact 180

Where Purpose Meets Impact

Bridging the Gap: The Need for Affordable Summer Programming

Every Kid Outdoors

Adopt A Family

Purpose Partner