Learn About Us
Sustainable Self-Sufficiency
Resilience over adversity
The African American Christian Foundation (AACF) is a trauma-informed community-based organization dedicated to transforming lives through innovative workforce development programs serving youth aged 16 to 24 and adults aged 25 and up with barriers to attaining employment and experiencing joblessness with job training, job placements, and wrap-around services.
Breaking the cycle of poverty
We partner with community organizations to provide paid internships, valuable work experiences, and a broad variety of job training and certifications to enable clients to attain marketable skills matched with placement services. We believe in the value of work, investing in human capital, and the mutual benefit of both employees and employers.
OUR IMPACT
Each year, AACF opens doors to opportunities for:
- 200+ adolescents and young adults through job training, counseling, and placement services.
- Families to achieve financial stability and break the cycle of poverty.
- A stronger, more inclusive workforce in Chicago and surrounding communities.
WHO WE SERVE
AACF serves adolescents through adults (ages 16 and up) facing extreme poverty, homelessness, and joblessness:
- 82% are Latino or African-American with no marketable skills.
- 50% have dropped out of school and read at an average 4th-grade level.
- 18% are parenting youth living in unstable or transient conditions.
Since 1985
We have created meaningful career pathways for over 200 individuals annually in Chicago and neighboring communities.
This year 100 families will move towards self-sufficiency with our support.
What we do
Our Services
Employment services
Each participant is prepared for the world of work by being assessed, addressing problematic areas and completing work readiness training. Financial literacy, career preparedness and job placement services are provided to each participant.
supportive services
Our Support4Success program is a supportive service that provides participant assistance with basic needs such as transportation, food, housing, cost of vocational training, higher education placement assistance, life skills coaching, etc.
counseling
Our Community Mental Health initiative provides a holistic and accessible mental wellness care program for job seekers through education, support and individual therapy.
housing assistance
We provide up to one year of supportive housing assistance to qualifying program participants in need of rental support. Participants in our Housing Program receive case management, counseling, advocacy, and workforce development.
What Drives Us
Our Mission
Our mission is to train and assist low-income residents of Cook County, enable them to acquire skills, while actively fostering economic opportunity and communal stability.
“African American Christian foundation was such a helpful resource to me the staff are amazing and very welcoming!“
“I can say they are amazing people there that will help you find a career you like. They work one on one with you to build a résumé to jumpstart your new career. And for people who have bad records they will be by your side 100% all the way. I would recommend to anyone who is struggling on getting a job!”
“This is the best place ever! 10/10! Highly Recommend to young adults who are seeking job employment and other open opportunities.”
Our History
Founded on a Dream
Thirty-two years ago, Kwadwo Antwi-Mensah was a foreign student struggling to find employment while breaking cultural barriers for acceptance. The African American Christian Foundation (AACF) was born out of a dream.
Upcoming Events
Upcoming - Youth Employment Workshop
Hybrid In Person and Zoom options
Upcoming - Volunteer Orientation
Come see what volunteer programs we have for you!
Get Involved
If you are an enthusiastic person who cares about the social and economic welfare of our community members, consider volunteering at AACF. Your volunteer experience will be rewarding and personally fulfilling. Whatever your background, if you enjoy talking and working with people, we have a volunteer program for you!