- About
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- About
- About
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- About
Our Stories, Your Impact
Inception: The Beginning of West Side Forward
We begin where it all started. Inception focuses on the founding of West Side Forward—the pivotal moments and events that led to the creation of this transformative organization.
Stories: The Journey We’ve Shared
The Stories we’ve experienced together are the heart of West Side Forward’s timeline. This section highlights the key events, partnerships, and opportunities that have shaped our path. From building connections with local businesses to forging powerful community alliances, we’ll reflect on the milestones that have helped us grow and evolve, and tell the story of how West Side Forward became a vital part of the West Side neighborhood.
Impact: Real Stories from Real People
At the core of our mission is Impact. You'll hear firsthand testimonials from those whose lives have been changed by our work—from families and businesses to entire neighborhoods. These stories showcase how we’ve made a tangible difference in the lives of West Side residents, and how your support continues to fuel that change.
History of West Side Forward
~ Formation Announcement (2019)
Bethel New Life announces West Side Forward, an organization laser focused on closing the equality gap through career development, entrepreneurship and business development for residents on the West Side of Chicago.
~ Leadership Appointment (2019)
Edward Coleman is named as the President and CEO of West Side Forward. Edward Coleman is a NBSE co-founder and a graduate of Purdue University in Indiana.
~ Headquarters Relocation (2020)
West Side Forward moves from the headquarters of Bethel New Life, 1150 N Lamon Ave and relocates to 4100 W. Ferdinand.
~ ICJIA Funding (2022)
The Justice Impacted (JI2) Program, funded by the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority, launches. JI2 is a program that looks to assist justice-impacted individuals.
~ Manufacturing Excellence Cohort (2023)
mHUB and West Side Forward collaborate to launch the Manufacturing Excellence Cohort (MEC). MEC supports black founders from underserved communities to pursue hardtech manufacturing solutions.
~ Presidential Appointment (2023)
Board of Directors appoint Roxanne Charles as President of West Side Forward. Charles has served as Chief Engagement Officer for West Side Forward since its inception in August 2019.
~ Comptroller Visit (2023)
Illinois Comptroller Susana A. Mendoza visits West Side Forward for a stakeholder meeting with leaders from mHUB, Wintrust Bank, Small Business Majority, Chicago NSBE, and Reform Alliance.
~ Leadership Retirement (2023)
Edward Coleman retires from his role as CEO of West Side Forward. Edward Coleman served as President and CEO from 2019 - 2023. Roxanne Charles currently serves as President and CEO of West Side Forward.
Stories of Impact
IMPACT
The second aspect of Our Stories, Your Impact campaign is Firsthand testimony from the incredible people who’ve supported and been part of our journey.
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