In the heart of Chicago’s South Side lies Auburn Gresham.
The community is shaped by resilience, a rich historical past, and a place that is bursting with untapped potential.
And right now, this community is standing on the brink of something extraordinary…
At BECOME, transformation isn’t just our name; it’s our mission. For over a decade, we’ve worked shoulder-to-shoulder with the people of Auburn Gresham, listening deeply, partnering intentionally, and building collective power from the ground up.
Together with organizations and collectives like:
- The ARK of St. Sabina
- The Greater Auburn Gresham Development Corporation (GAGDC)
- Courage to Love Collaborative
We’ve supported everything from youth development to maternal and infant health.
Even with these efforts, it was clear that Auburn Gresham was ready for something greater—something more rooted, expansive, and collective. Not just more programs, but a movement that rises from the strength, vision, and brilliance already alive in the community.
Enter: Culturally Responsive Community Transformation (CRCT).
CRCT is rooted in a profound but simple truth: the answers already live within the community.
Over the past two years, we’ve sat down with more than 150 residents and conducted what we call Hope and Community Chats.
We listened to their stories, their struggles, their hopes and their dreams. We asked not just what was wrong, but what was possible, and we challenged them to dream and let us into their imagination.
And from this, an amazing report was born.
What we heard was clear. Auburn Gresham is not waiting for a hero. Auburn Gresham is the hero.
As a result of our research, we identified six bold priorities highlighted by residents to carve the path forward, some intersecting with and some building on the community’s most recent (2016) quality of life plan:
Put Our Youth First
Nearly half of Auburn Gresham residents listed youth development as the top priority. Education, mentorship, leadership opportunities, and an environment where young people are safe, supported, and empowered were highlighted.
The community members were clear; the future of Auburn Gresham depends on how we invest in its youngest residents today.
Redefining Safety
Safety cannot be enforced from the outside. Real safety comes from community-driven solutions that build trust, prevent or resolve conflict, and ensure all residents can live without fear. It’s about turning our streets into sanctuaries—not war zones.
Building Economic Power
Residents want ownership of businesses, homes, and most importantly, their futures. They envision a neighborhood economy driven by local entrepreneurs, financial education, and jobs with purpose. When we circulate wealth within Auburn Gresham, we uplift everyone.
Reviving The Village
From block clubs to book bags, the spirit of neighborly care is alive but under strain. Rebuilding that “village” means supporting each other and ensuring no one walks alone.
Honoring Extended Family
Family is central to Auburn Gresham’s identity. Residents want to foster spaces of healing where everyone is welcomed, supported, and seen as part of one big community family.
Leading Ourselves
Community leadership is not just possible; it’s already happening. Residents are calling for self-governance, ownership of local resources, and true decision-making power. It’s time to lead from within.
