Transforming Lives

Community Male Empowerment Project is a grassroots not-for-profit organization founded in Chicago, IL in 2002.  We began as community activists asking for the opportunity to be treated fairly and not judged because of limited education and non-violent criminal backgrounds.  Today, CMEP strengthens communities by successfully placing families into affordable housing, providing on-the-job training through workforce development initiatives, and encouraging youth through mentoring and educational programs.

 Our vision is to reduce crime, change lives, and rebuild communities in an effort to restore hope.  Ultimately creating an environment where at-risk youth, hard-to-serve individuals with limited education, and the formerly incarcerated have access to programs and services that can meet their basic needs. We believe that by investing in them, we are investing in the future of our society. 

 At Community Male Empowerment Project, we believe in a holistic approach.  Our relationships with the banking industry give us the ability to rehab abandoned/foreclosed property and provide jobs during the rehab process.  Ultimately, placing families into affordable housing.  Sustaining our relationship with city colleges and schools creates the opportunity for continued education.  Maintaining our relationship with private businesses helps us transition participants into permanent employment.  We work closely with our partners to understand participants' needs and create sustainable solutions.