Making a Difference Together
Real community transformation requires many people working together toward a shared vision. Some contribute financial resources that fund our programs. Others share their time and talents as volunteers. Still others use their professional networks and business connections to create new opportunities for North Lawndale residents.
Every form of contribution matters because our work touches so many different aspects of community life. When you support Fuel Movement, you're not just funding a single program—you're investing in a comprehensive approach that addresses health, education, nutrition, family stability, economic opportunity, and community leadership all at the same time.
Here's how different types of support create lasting impact:
- Financial donations provide the stable funding needed to maintain our six program areas and serve over 1,000 families annually.
- Volunteer time brings additional skills, perspectives, and hands-on support that extends our capacity to serve the community.
- Corporate partnerships create employment opportunities, provide in-kind donations, and connect our residents to broader economic networks.
- Professional expertise through pro bono services helps us operate more efficiently and develop new programs based on best practices.
- Community advocacy amplifies our voice when we need support for policy changes that benefit North Lawndale families.
No matter how you choose to get involved, your contribution becomes part of a larger movement that is creating real change in our community.
One-Time and Monthly Donations
Your financial support directly funds the programs and services that help North Lawndale families build safer, happier, and healthier lives. Every dollar you contribute goes toward comprehensive services that address multiple challenges families face, creating more impact than traditional single-focus programming.
Monthly donations are especially valuable because they provide the predictable funding we need to plan programs, hire qualified staff, and make long-term commitments to the families we serve. Even small monthly contributions add up to significant support over time and help us build sustainable programming.
Make a One-Time Donation
Your one-time gift provides immediate support for families who need help right now. Whether it's funding emergency food assistance, supporting a teenager's college preparation, or helping a parent access job training, your donation creates direct impact in our community.
Set Up Monthly Giving
Monthly donors become our most important partners in community transformation because their ongoing support allows us to plan ahead and develop deeper relationships with the families we serve. Monthly giving creates the foundation for long-term change.
Other Donation Options
We also accept donations by check, money order, or through workplace giving programs. Contact us at fuelmovement24@gmail.com or (312) 489-4755 to discuss other ways to make financial contributions that work for your situation.
Your donations are tax-deductible to the full extent allowed by law. We'll provide receipts for all contributions and can work with you to structure larger gifts in ways that maximize your tax benefits while supporting our mission.
Corporate Partnerships
Corporate partnerships create opportunities for businesses to make measurable social impact while strengthening their community engagement and ESG performance. Our corporate partner program offers flexible ways for companies to support North Lawndale families while achieving their own social responsibility goals.
We work with corporate partners to design engagement opportunities that align with their values, budget, and employee interests. Some companies prefer financial contributions, while others want hands-on volunteer experiences or opportunities to provide professional services that build our organizational capacity.
Partnership Opportunities Include:
- Financial sponsorships that fund specific programs or events while providing recognition for your company's community investment.
- Employee volunteer programs that give your team meaningful ways to contribute their skills while building stronger workplace culture.
- In-kind donations of goods, services, or professional expertise that reduce our operating costs and improve our program quality.
- Employment partnerships that create pathways for our workforce development participants to access good jobs with advancement opportunities.
- Event sponsorships that support our community gatherings, fundraising events, and advocacy campaigns while connecting your brand with positive social impact.
- Skills-based volunteering that allows your employees to contribute their professional expertise through workshops, mentoring, or consulting projects.
Corporate partnerships benefit businesses by demonstrating authentic community engagement, providing meaningful employee volunteer opportunities, and creating positive brand associations with successful community transformation efforts.
Volunteer With Us
Volunteers are essential to our community transformation work because they bring additional skills, fresh perspectives, and hands-on support that extends our ability to serve North Lawndale families. Whether you have a few hours per month or can make a regular weekly commitment, there's a meaningful way for you to contribute.
Our volunteer opportunities are designed to match your interests, skills, and schedule with community needs. We provide training and support to help you feel confident and effective in your volunteer role, and we create opportunities for volunteers to build relationships with community members and other volunteers.
Current Volunteer Opportunities:
- Youth mentoring provides caring adult support for young people who need someone to believe in their potential and help them navigate challenges.
- Food pantry support helps families access nutritious food with dignity and respect while building connections between volunteers and community members.
- Educational programming allows volunteers to share their knowledge and skills through tutoring, workshops, or specialized classes.
- Event support involves helping with community gatherings, fundraising events, and special programs that bring neighbors together.
- Administrative assistance provides behind-the-scenes support with data entry, social media, newsletter preparation, and other tasks that keep our organization running smoothly.
- Professional services lets volunteers contribute specialized skills in areas like accounting, marketing, legal services, or healthcare through pro bono work.
Most volunteer positions require a brief application process and may include a background check, especially for roles working directly with children or vulnerable adults. We'll work with you to find a volunteer opportunity that matches your interests and fits your schedule.
Other Ways to Support
Beyond financial donations, corporate partnerships, and volunteering, there are many other ways to support our community transformation work. These opportunities allow people to contribute based on their unique circumstances, skills, and connections while still making a meaningful difference.
Community transformation requires broad support from many different people, and we've learned that some of our most valuable contributions come from supporters who find creative ways to help that we hadn't even considered. We welcome conversations about how your particular skills or resources might benefit our work.
Additional Support Options:
- Social media advocacy helps spread awareness about our programs and community needs by sharing our posts, following our accounts, and telling your networks about our work.
- Professional networking connects our residents to job opportunities, educational resources, or other community connections through your professional and personal networks.
- Fundraising events can be organized by individuals, groups, or organizations who want to raise money for our programs through their own events or campaigns.
- In-kind donations of food, clothing, supplies, or services reduce our operating costs and allow us to direct more resources toward direct programming.
- Grant research and writing helps us identify and apply for foundation grants and government funding that can support our programs and expansion efforts.
- Board service provides governance oversight and strategic guidance for supporters who want to make longer-term leadership commitments to our organization.
We're always interested in hearing from people who want to support our work in ways that match their particular skills, interests, and resources.
Contact Us About Other Ways to Help →
Fuel Movement is North Lawndale's community center where neighbors become family, challenges become opportunities, and residents lead their own transformation.
For twelve years, we've created space where community members access resources, develop skills, and take leadership in neighborhood improvement. We believe lasting change happens when communities lead their own development.
Fuel Movement is your place to grow, contribute, and thrive in North Lawndale.
Our Comprehensive Programs
We address the interconnected challenges and opportunities that North Lawndale families face through five core program areas that work together to strengthen individuals, families, and our entire community.
Family Support & Development
Strengthening families through holistic programming that addresses real needs.
We provide comprehensive support for families including parenting resources, financial literacy education, health and wellness programming, and case management services. Our approach recognizes that strong families are the foundation of strong communities, and we work with each family to achieve their goals and overcome challenges.
Programs include: Family case management, parenting workshops, financial planning assistance, health and wellness education, emergency support services, and family advocacy.
Learn More About Family Support →
Youth Programming & Leadership Development
Empowering young people to reach their potential and lead positive change.
Our youth programs provide safe spaces, educational support, leadership development opportunities, and positive adult mentorship for young people ages 8-24. We focus on building skills, confidence, and community connections that help youth succeed in school, work, and life while developing their capacity to contribute to community improvement.
Programs include: After-school programming, summer camps, youth leadership development, educational support, career exploration, and community service opportunities.
Learn More About Youth Programs →
Adult Education & Workforce Development
Creating pathways to economic stability and career advancement.
We offer educational opportunities and workforce development programming that help adults achieve their career goals, increase their earning potential, and build economic stability for their families. Our programs are designed to be flexible and supportive, recognizing the complex challenges that adults face while pursuing education and career development.
Programs include: GED preparation, computer training, job search assistance, interview skills workshops, career counseling, and professional development opportunities.
Learn More About Adult Education →
Community Health & Wellness
Promoting health equity and wellness for all community members.
Our health and wellness programming addresses the social determinants of health while providing direct services and education that help community members improve their physical and mental health. We focus on prevention, education, and connecting residents to healthcare resources and support systems.
Programs include: Health screenings, nutrition education, fitness classes, mental health support, healthcare navigation, and wellness workshops.
Learn More About Health & Wellness →
Community Organizing & Advocacy
Building resident leadership and collective power for systemic change.
We support community members in developing organizing skills, advocating for policy changes, and working together to address systemic issues that affect North Lawndale. Our organizing work is resident-led and focused on building long-term power and capacity for community-driven change.
Programs include: Leadership development, community organizing training, policy advocacy, community forums, and resident-led initiatives.
Learn More About Community Organizing →
Our Impact in North Lawndale
After more than a decade of community-centered work, we've seen firsthand how authentic partnership and comprehensive programming create lasting transformation in North Lawndale families and neighborhoods.
Community Transformation Stories
"Fuel Movement didn't just help me get my GED - they helped me believe I could do anything I set my mind to. Now I'm in college and working as a peer counselor here, helping other community members achieve their goals."
- Maria Santos, North Lawndale Resident and Fuel Movement Program Graduate
"This place became our second home. The support we received during our family's difficult time made all the difference. Now we volunteer here because we want other families to have the same support we received."
- James and Patricia Williams, North Lawndale Residents
"The youth program at Fuel Movement taught me leadership skills and gave me confidence to speak up for my community. I'm now in college studying social work so I can come back and continue this work."
- Destiny Johnson, Former Youth Program Participant
Get Involved with Fuel Movement
There are many meaningful ways to connect with our community and contribute to North Lawndale's ongoing transformation, whether you're a resident, partner, or supporter.
For North Lawndale Residents
Join Our Programs
All of our programs are free and open to North Lawndale residents and their families. Whether you're looking for educational opportunities, family support, youth programming, or ways to get involved in community improvement, we have something for you.
Volunteer in Your Community
Community members can volunteer with our programs, help with events, mentor youth, support other families, and contribute their skills and experience to strengthen our community.
Take Leadership
We're always looking for residents who want to take on leadership roles in programming, community organizing, event planning, and neighborhood improvement initiatives.
For Corporate Partners
Authentic Community Partnership
We work with corporations who want to build authentic, long-term partnerships with North Lawndale that benefit both community development and corporate social responsibility goals.
Employee Engagement Opportunities
Your employees can engage with our community through volunteer opportunities, skill-sharing, mentorship, and collaborative projects that create meaningful connections between your company and our neighborhood.
Strategic Community Investment
We help corporate partners develop community investment strategies that create genuine impact while meeting ESG goals and stakeholder expectations.
Explore Partnership Opportunities →
For Individual Supporters
Donate to Support Our Work
Individual donations help us maintain our programs, expand our services, and respond to emergency needs in our community. Every contribution makes a difference in the lives of North Lawndale families.
Volunteer Your Time and Skills
We welcome volunteers who want to share their skills, mentor community members, help with events, and contribute to our programming in meaningful ways.
Spread the Word
Help us reach more people who could benefit from our programs by sharing information about Fuel Movement with your networks and communities.
Upcoming Events & Activities
Every month brings new opportunities for learning, connection, and community building through our diverse programming and special events.
This Month at Fuel Movement
Community Health & Wellness Day
Saturday, July 26, 2025 | 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Free health screenings, fitness activities, nutrition education, and wellness resources for all community members and families.
Back-to-School Community Resource Fair
Saturday, August 2, 2025 | 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Get ready for the new school year with free school supplies, backpacks, health screenings, and information about educational resources.
Family Financial Planning Workshop
Wednesday, August 7, 2025 | 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Learn practical strategies for family budgeting, saving money, and planning for financial goals. Childcare and dinner provided.
Regular Weekly Programming
- Monday - Senior Social Hour | 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
- Tuesday & Thursday - Youth After-School Program | 3:30 PM - 6:00 PM
- Wednesday - Adult Computer Class | 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
- Friday - Community Fitness Class | 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
- Saturday - Children & Family Activities | 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
View All Events & Activities →
Community Partnerships & Recognition
Our work is strengthened by authentic partnerships with organizations that share our commitment to community-led development and resident empowerment.
Our Partners
We're grateful to work alongside community partners, corporate supporters, and individual donors who share our commitment to North Lawndale's transformation:
- Corporate Partners: Companies investing in authentic community development
- Healthcare Partners: Organizations supporting community health and wellness
- Educational Partners: Schools and colleges creating pathways for residents
- Nonprofit Partners: Community organizations working together for neighborhood improvement
- Government Partners: City agencies supporting community-led development
Learn About Our Partnerships →
Visit Fuel Movement
We welcome community members, visitors, and potential partners to experience our work firsthand and learn how you can be part of North Lawndale's transformation.
Location & Hours
Fuel Movement Community Center
4244 W Cermak Road
Chicago, Illinois
60623
Regular Hours:
- Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed (except for special events)
Contact Information:
- Phone: (312) 489-4755
- Email: fuelmovement24@gmail.com
How to Find Us
Public Transportation:
- CTA Pink Line: Cermak stop (2 blocks from our center)
- CTA Bus Routes: #21 Cermak, #60 Blue Island/26th
- Parking: Free street parking available
Accessibility: Our facility is wheelchair accessible with accessible restrooms, parking, and programming spaces. We work to accommodate different needs and abilities in all of our programs.
What to Expect
When you visit Fuel Movement, you can expect:
- Welcoming, friendly staff who are part of the North Lawndale community
- Clean, safe, and comfortable facilities designed for community use
- Information about all of our programs and services
- Opportunities to connect with other community members
- Respectful, culturally responsive service that honors your experience and goals
First-time visitors are always welcome. Stop by during our regular hours to learn about our programs, meet our staff, and see how you can get involved in your community.
Our Community-Centered Approach
Everything we do is grounded in the belief that communities have the wisdom, strength, and leadership capacity to drive their own transformation when provided with appropriate support and resources.
What Makes Fuel Movement Different
Community-Led Development
We believe that lasting change happens when communities lead their own transformation. Our role is to support, resource, and amplify the leadership and vision of North Lawndale residents.
Comprehensive Programming
We address the interconnected challenges that families face by providing holistic support that includes education, health, economic development, and community organizing.
Authentic Partnerships
We build genuine relationships with community members, corporate partners, and other organizations based on mutual respect, shared goals, and long-term commitment.
Strength-Based Approach
We focus on the assets, skills, and leadership that already exist in North Lawndale while providing resources and support that help individuals and families reach their goals.
Cultural Responsiveness
Our programming is designed to be culturally relevant and responsive to the specific needs, experiences, and priorities of North Lawndale residents.
Our Values in Action
Community Ownership: Residents have voice and leadership in all aspects of our work
Family-Centered: We recognize that strong families are the foundation of strong communities
Holistic Support: We address the full range of challenges and opportunities that community members face
Authentic Partnership: We build genuine relationships based on mutual respect and shared commitment
Sustainable Change: We focus on creating lasting transformation that continues beyond specific programs or funding
Learn More About Our Approach →
Connect with Fuel Movement
Building relationships and maintaining open communication with our community is essential to our work and central to how we operate.
Stay Updated
Get information about our programs, events, and community news:
- Visit our facility during regular hours for the latest information
- Call us at (312) 489-4755 to speak with staff
- Email us at fuelmovement24@gmail.com with questions or to get involved
- Stop by our community center to pick up program information and event calendars
Join Our Community
There are many ways to connect with Fuel Movement and become part of our community:
For Residents: Join our programs, volunteer, take leadership, and help shape the future of North Lawndale
For Partners: Explore authentic partnership opportunities that benefit both community development and your organization's goals
For Supporters: Contribute your time, skills, or resources to support community-led transformation
Fuel Movement is more than a community center - we're a place where North Lawndale residents come together to build the community we want to see. Every person who walks through our doors contributes to the collective strength that makes transformation possible.
Ready to get involved in North Lawndale's transformation?
Contact us today to learn how you can be part of building stronger families, stronger communities, and a stronger future for North Lawndale.