~ Formation Announcement (2019)
West Side Forward divests from Bethel New Life to laser-focus 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 campus of Bethel New Life and relocates to new headquarters at 4100 W. Ferdinand.
~ ICJIA Funding (2022)
The Justice Impacted (JI2) Program, funded in part by the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority, was launched. JI2 aims to decrease the probability of recidivism among individuals returning to communities on the west side of Chicago by delivering tangible opportunities to earn livable wages while restoring and repairing themselves and the community.
~ 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)
The 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.
~ Founding CEO Retirement (2023)
Edward Coleman retires from his role as Chief Executive Officer of West Side Forward. Edward Coleman served as the Chief Executive Officer from 2019 - 2023. Roxanne Charles was appointed as President and CEO of West Side Forward.
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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.
Arturo Ramirez, a lifelong resident of Chicago's West Side, has been navigating the justice system since the age of 15. Now 48, his story is set on redemption.
Through the Justice Impacted (JI2) Program at West Side Forward, funded by the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority, Arturo is working toward his ultimate goal of launching a successful Real Estate Development business. Over the course of several months, our team worked closely with Arturo to refine his business concept, create a detailed business plan, and secure the necessary credentials to bring his vision to life.
Additionally, we connected Arturo with important business opportunities, life skills training, and legal advice. As part of our commitment to his success, West Side Forward also covered the costs associated with the legal formation of his business, ensuring that he has the resources and support needed to build a thriving enterprise.Coquie Hughes, the owner of VRMOX, LLC, participated in our Manufacturing Excellence Cohort (MEC). Coquie not only graduated from the MEC program, but she also partnered with us to participate in a unique storytelling series, allowing attendees to step into the role of a producer.
Through both her involvement in MEC and her collaboration with West Side Forward, Coquie has demonstrated a commitment to both personal growth and community empowerment, helping to inspire others on their own entrepreneurial journeys.Andrew Holck, the owner of HD Design & Printing, LLC, participated in our Manufacturing Excellence Cohort (MEC), a program presented in partnership with mHUB.
Through MEC, Andrew gained valuable skills and resources to help grow his business and expand his impact in the community. We're proud to support entrepreneurs like Andrew, who are driving innovation and economic growth on Chicago’s West Side.
