Since 1985
Providing Workforce Development, Housing Support, and Supportive Services
WHAT WE DO
Many AACF clients have barriers to employment such as being low-income, parenting youth, returning citizens, not having a high school diploma or GED - to name a few. The goal of AACF is to provide support for clients to achieve success through paid internships to gain valuable and marketable work experience, job training, free to the client, and job seeking assistance. Throughout this process clients are matched with a case manager to guide them through their journey. They also receive supportive services: transportation assistance, uniforms for work, rent assistance, reimbursement for licensing exam fees. Clients are also eligible for therapy provided through a partnership with Cornerstone Counseling Center of Chicago.
Youth through adults receive workforce development and supportive services
Percent of participants report overall satisfaction with the services they receive at AACF
individuals begin meaningful career pathways
Families become self-sufficient
Our History
In 1985 Dr. Kwadwo Antwi-Mensah, a Ghanaian American, founded the African American Christian Foundation in an attempt to help other immigrants who like himself had no work experience in the United States and struggled to find jobs.
As an educator for over 20 years at the college and university levels, Dr. Antwi-Mensah believed in the power of education and the doors it opens for those who strive to be educated. He had a depth of wisdom and experience that could not be easily dissuaded and transcended time.
Measured as a chief executive, educator, and champion for equal opportunity, or by any standard, Dr. Antwi-Mensah was a giant among us. He led the organization by precept and example, imploring the organization’s leadership to never sacrifice principle at the altar of expediency.
Dr. Antwi-Mensah wanted to help people in similar situation and bring their blight to light. Each year, the Foundation serves over 150 unemployed adults and disadvantaged youth in West Suburban Cook County area through providing educational grants and employment opportunities.
Employment Services
Our Programs
Youth Employment Workshop
Specifically tailored for youth ages 16 to 24, this program begins with an eight day workshop focusing on work readiness, breaking down barriers to employment, and launching participants’ journey to success.
Adult Employment Program
For adults ages 25 and up, we provide skills, needs, and interest assessments, career counseling and guidance, employment and job retention, case management, support, and follow-up services.
Job Training Programs
Free job training and certification for CNA, Pharmacy Tech, CDL, Customer Service, Food Handler’s Card, and Entreprenuership. We connect participants with several additional offerings for free job training and certification.
Housing Assistance Program
Includes first month’s rent, deposit, and one third of the rent. Participants in the Employment Program can qualify for up to one year of rental assistance.
Supportive Services
We offer therapy to all of our participants, as well as transportation assistance to get to job training, interviews, and work. Participants can qualify for additional supportive services to assist with utilities, food, basic needs, and childcare so that they can stay in their jobs and continue to provide for their families.
What Drives Us
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