Pastor Corey Brooks Calls Men in the H.O.O.D. To A Mission
By Naimah Latif
Pastor Corey Brooks of New Beginnings Church at 6620 S. King Drive in Chicago, sprang into action in response to the devastating poverty that leads to urban crime and violence by calling a meeting of 500 men to create a safe environment in the streets of Chicago.
Pastor Brooks, Founder of Project H.O.O.D., demonstrates how the Faith community can actively create solutions to the problems of crime and violence in the inner city, and can replace poverty and hopelessness with innovative entrepreneurship. Supplying the unemployed with viable skills creates enthusiasm and motivation in young men who had previously turned to drugs and crime.
Project H.O.O.D. (Helping Others Obtain Destiny) was born out of a deep commitment to transform lives and uplift communities in the heart of Chicago. Our journey began with the unwavering vision of our founder, Pastor Corey Brooks, who believed in the power of education, mentorship, and community development to break the cycle of poverty and create a brighter future.
In 2012, Pastor Corey Brooks took the first step toward realizing this vision by establishing Project H.O.O.D. in one of Chicago's most underserved neighborhoods. Fueled by a passion for social justice and a determination to make a lasting impact, Pastor Corey Brooks started with a small group of dedicated individuals who shared the same dream.
Over the years, Project H.O.O.D. has evolved and grown, reaching more lives and expanding its programs to meet the ever-changing needs of the community.
Pastor Brooks stated, “We've been on a remarkable journey, and it's a journey marked by resilience, dedication, and countless stories of transformation.”
Through the support of the community, generous donors, and tireless volunteers, Project H.O.O.D. has been able to:
- Provide educational resources and tutoring to thousands of students, helping them achieve academic success.
- Offer mentorship programs that guide individuals of all ages toward their goals and aspirations.
- Engage in community development initiatives, including affordable housing projects and job training programs, to create sustainable change.
- Forge partnerships with like-minded organizations, amplifying our impact and fostering a stronger, more vibrant community.
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Pastor Corey Brooks gathered with 500+ men on Sunday July 7, 2024, in the midst of a weekend of gun violence, and challenged them to take action by creating positive programs that trained and prepared youth. Photo by Naimah Latif
The violence that exploded across the country during the July 4th weekend was indicative of the frustration experienced by those who are feeling the effects of poverty and neglect. Project H.O.O.D. helps young people envision their dreams and work toward creating a new reality.
A number of community activists, organization leaders , business owners and even law enforcement officers joined Pastor Brooks in reassuring youth that they had a broad, united base of support among a diverse group of men, who would provide encouragement and guidance.
Political Consultant Wallace Gator Bradley, host of the TV talk show The Bradley Report and head of the organization United In Peace, admonished the young men to reach out for help rather than engage in behaviors that cause hurt and distress.
“Today, as we reflect on our history, we remain steadfast in our commitment to helping others obtain their destinies,” Pastor Brooks said.
”Our story is a testament to the belief that, together, we can create positive change, break down barriers, and build a brighter future for Chicago's underserved communities.Join us on this incredible journey of hope, empowerment, and transformation. Together, we can shape a destiny filled with promise and opportunity.”