Black History Month Chicago Community Leaders Shaping Our City
Chicago has always been a city built on community—on neighborhoods that uplift one another. It is also built on voices that push for change, and leaders who believe access, opportunity, and wellness should never be limited. At Fitness Formula Clubs (FFC), our roots run deep in Chicago. Additionally, our commitment to diversity, inclusion, and supporting the people and organizations making this city stronger runs deep as well.
This Black History Month, we’re honoring Black History Month Chicago community leaders whose work continues to shape the cultural, social, and economic fabric of our city. Their impact extends far beyond February. As a result, we’re proud to spotlight them.
My Block, My Hood, My City (M3)
Founded by Jahmal Cole
My Block, My Hood, My City (M3) is redefining what community investment looks like in Chicago. Founded by Jahmal Cole, the organization empowers more than 1,500 Chicago youth each year through educational programs, exposure opportunities, and neighborhood-based initiatives.
From taking students outside their ZIP codes to expanding access to arts, culture, and civic engagement, M3 works to ensure young Chicagoans can see—and shape—their future. Their mission is simple but powerful. Above all, it is to inspire youth, empower communities, and build a more connected Chicago.
Assata’s Daughters
Founded by Page May
Assata’s Daughters is a Black-led organization deeply rooted in Chicago’s history of activism and organizing. Founded by Page May, the organization invests more than $600,000 annually into programs that empower Chicago youth through leadership development, political education, and community engagement.
Their work centers on building sustainable change—equipping young people with the tools to advocate for themselves, their neighborhoods, and future generations. Assata’s Daughters represents the power of grassroots leadership and the importance of investing directly in youth voices.
Urban Growers Collective
Founded by Erika Allen
Food access is a cornerstone of wellness, and Urban Growers Collective is leading the way in Chicago’s food justice movement. Founded by Erika Allen, the organization operates eight farms across the city. Each year, they harvest more than 28,000 pounds of fresh produce.
Beyond farming, Urban Growers Collective trains hundreds of youth annually in leadership, sustainability, and food systems education. Their work connects health, environmental justice, and community empowerment—showing how nourishment goes far beyond what’s on the plate.
SocialWorks
Founded by Chance the Rapper
SocialWorks has become a national model for how arts and education can transform young lives. Founded by Chance the Rapper, the organization supports Chicago youth through creative programs that expand access to music, mental health resources, and education.
To date, SocialWorks has impacted more than 50,000 students across 51 Chicago schools and contributed over $12 million to education and youth programming. Their work reinforces how creativity, expression, and opportunity are essential components of community wellness.
Supporting Black History Month—And Chicago—All Year Long
At FFC, we believe wellness extends beyond the gym. It lives in strong communities, equitable access, and intentional support of organizations doing meaningful work. This Black History Month, we’re proud to celebrate Black History Month Chicago community leaders who are shaping the city through service, innovation, and leadership.
We encourage our community to learn more, get involved, and support these organizations—not just this month, but throughout the year. When we uplift local voices, we strengthen Chicago as a whole.
