Dear Greater Chicagoland Community,

Welcome to the improved Gresham Community Center (GCC) — a place built with purpose, passion, and a profound belief in the potential of every resident of our great city. I’m Dwayne Williams Jr., Co-Founder and President of GCC, and it is with immense pride and excitement that I invite you to be part of this growing movement dedicated to empowering lives and transforming neighborhoods.

At GCC, we stand on two powerful pillars: Financial Literacy and Delinquency Prevention. These pillars reflect the values that inspired our founding — the belief that knowledge is power and that every young person deserves a path away from violence and toward opportunity. Through these guiding principles, we aim to create lasting impact not just in Gresham, but across all of Chicago.

Financial Literacy is more than just understanding dollars and cents — it's about giving individuals and families the tools they need to create wealth, build stability, and take control of their futures. In communities that have been historically underserved, these tools can change the trajectory of entire generations. By teaching budgeting, credit management, and investment basics, we're not only increasing financial confidence — we're building the foundation for a more economically resilient Chicago.

Delinquency Prevention is equally vital. With youth violence on the rise, our mission is to be a safe haven and a launching pad for young people to discover their greatness. Through mentorship, after-school programming, and positive role models, we’re working to break cycles of violence and replace them with cycles of success. When we invest in our youth, we invest in the future of our city.

Our vision for GCC is bold, but achievable — and we cannot do it alone. Your involvement, support, and belief in our mission are critical to its success. Whether you’re a parent, educator, local business owner, community leader, or concerned neighbor, there’s a role for you here. We invite you to partner with us, volunteer, donate, or simply spread the word. Every action, big or small, helps us move closer to a safer, stronger, and more united Chicago.

Gresham Community Center isn’t just a building — it’s a movement. And movements thrive when communities come together.

With gratitude and determination,

Dwayne Williams Jr.
Founder & President
Gresham Community Center

‍