Welcome to AACF

AACF was established as a not-for-profit agency in 1985, and has helped to create employment opportunity for community residents regardless of race, color or religious affiliation.

Programs & Services

AACF offers a broad range of programs designed to empower and meet the growing needs of the underemployed in Illinois.

 

How You Can Help

We rely on your support to continue our programs. There are many ways you can help.

 

 

Upcoming Events

Become a sponsor of our events!

Breaking the Cycle of Poverty

Sustainable Self-Sufficiency

Resilience Over Adversity

Job Developer James Spiller joined AACF at the beginning of this year, but he had already met Executive Director Evelyn Mensah, sitting next to her at a networking event with the Department of Family and Support Services in 2019. When he saw the company name for the Job Developer role online in December 2022, he thought “Wow,” and was inspired to submit his application for the role. Mr. Spiller brings his expertise from his background as a Certified Life Coach and his BA in Applied Behavioral Sciences from National Lewis University and as well as a lifelong career serving...

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Youth Program Waitlist

The Community Technology Center offers Basic Microsoft Word and Excel courses monthly. To register for a course, call 708-848-1700. Through the KAM Institute of Healthcare and Technology, AACF offers vocational training in a wide range of computer applications and  technical skills. For more information, contact us.

Work for AACF

We look for dedicated people who are committed to changing lives. Sound like you? 

We are a Service provider

As a Service provider, we offer employment and vocational training services under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. read more

Digital Manufacturing Technology Internship Program

This program is designed to provide classroom instruction with hands-on training in the digital design and digital manufacturing. This program focuses on training critical to success in manufacturing careers such as laser cutting, machining, 3D printing and CNC milling. Career and Employment Assistance services, a component of the program provides job readiness skills training, vocational training, guidance and support throughout all phases of the employment process for program participants and job seekers.

Preparing Today’s Youths And Young Adults for the Challenges of Tomorrow

Fact:
The current minimum wage in Illinois $9.25, and will increase to $12.00 by January 2022 however still not a living wage.

Fact:
High school dropout are less likely to earn a living wage, and more likely to be poor and rely on public assistance, engage in crime and generate other social costs. (Rumberger).

Join AACF to help create economic equality for low income members of our community and end the cycle of poverty.

Upcoming Events

Future CNA Classes are starting soon. Class sessions meet Tuesday and Friday or Saturday from 9:00 am until 3:30 PM for 10 weeks or 20 weeks. Students must qualify to register for a class. Call to register today.

Our Community Job Fair will be held twice annually. See our Event page for further details and to register or become a sponsor.

We hold regular Volunteer Information Sessions at our office. If you are interested in volunteering for AACF, join us and explore your options. Learn more and sign up to become a volunteer.

Black Star Gala & Awards, the first annual benefit of the African American Christian Foundation to celebrate our work and achievements on October 19, 2023.

Fast Track for IT Careers

Fast Track for IT Careers

Stepping into the world of IT work is a good choice at any level. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) growth in IT-related occupations is projected to grow 15 percent throughout the next decade, resulting in around 700,000 new jobs during the next decade with about 420,000 job openings per year from growth and replacement needs. With an average annual wage of around $100,000 per year, it is perhaps the fastest growing field with the highest entry level wages. It is a great field to consider if you enjoy solving problems, designing things that serve a purpose, and helping people.

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Congratulations Michelle for obtaining your CNA license.          Kudos and best wishes Jarice on your new job and bright future.          Congratulations Brandon for getting your CDL.          AACF is a Microsoft training partner.          Attend our mentoring session every third Thursday of the month at 6:00 PM.          Our Semi Annual Job Fairs April and July from 10 am until 1 pm. Be on the look out for the exact day.          Thank you Dr. Scholl Foundation for your generous support of our life changing programs.         Thank you Bemis Foundation for your support of our live changing job training programs.          Literacy Volunteers to assist AACF youths on GED and basic adult education test with tutoring and other literacy support.          Welcome Walgreens as our newest work-site.          Did you know that you can get up to $600 for your working used car if you are unable to donate it for a tax deduction. Inquire about our Cars4Work program.          Personalized case management can go a long way to help our interns achieve their goals.          Mr. Floyd donated to support our general operational fund. Thank you for your support.          Youths, interested in college or advance education? Call to find out how you can qualify for up to $5000 for school, college, trade or university of your choice today.          Find out how you can donate your used car for a deserving youth to go to work.         Your partnership is much appreciated Paul Simon Chicago Job Corps.          Read our Success Stories here.

 

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