Black Star Project

Today, we celebrate the birthday of our founder, Phillip Jackson. 🖤 He would have been 76 today.

Phillip believed deeply in young people, the power of community, and what becomes possible when we stand together. For nearly 30 years, so many of you have helped carry that vision forward—through volunteering, working alongside us, supporting our programs financially, and simply believing in the work.

The work would not be possible without you.

On Phillip’s birthday, we celebrate not only his legacy, but OUR community and the collective impact we’ve created together.

Join us on October 31 as we come together to celebrate. We need each other now more than ever.

You can join us by livestream or celebrate with us in person.

Purchase here: https://theblackstarproject.networkforgood.com/events/105323-the-black-star-project-s-30th-anniversary-celebration

Thank you for believing in Phillip’s vision and helping keep it alive. 🖤

On September 18, 2026, Black Star Project staff gathered at Drake Elementary School where Drake fathers, faculty and staff and community leaders greeted children entering school for the Million Father March. The March, originated by Phillip Jackson in Chicago, is now managed by Fathers Incorporated and Ken Braswell in Atlanta. The national March is held on the third Friday of September of every year throughout the country. "The Fathers Walk" a book by Margaret Bernstein was given to each of the fathers. It mentions the March starting in Chicago.

Stop by

🌟 BRONZEVILLE YOUTH PROGRAMS — FALL 2026! 🌟

Phillip Jackson Freedom School
For students in K-8
📅 Sept. 26–Dec. 5 | Saturdays, 10 AM–1 PM
📍 3509 S. King Drive, Ste 2B

Phillip Jackson Youth Development Program
For youth ages 12–18
📅 Oct. 2–Dec. 4 | Fridays
📍 3509 S. King Drive, Ste 2B

Young Black Men of Honor
For boys and young men ages 8–18
📅 Sept. 22–Dec. 1
📍 3509 S. King Drive, Ste 2B

These programs are designed to help young people build confidence, develop leadership skills, explore their futures, and grow through education and mentorship.

Fall is a time to learn, connect, and grow. Give your young person an opportunity to be part of the experience!

📞 773-285-9600
📧 [email protected]

Resources

Hiring Fair

JOB SEEKERS—REGISTER TODAY! 🚨
Join Project H.O.O.D. for our Fall Hiring Event and connect with employers offering opportunities in transportation, healthcare, public safety, government, retail, education, construction, and more!
📅 Thursday, October 1, 2026
⏰ 10:00 AM–2:00 PM
📍 6620 S. King Drive, Chicago, IL
Meet representatives from CTA, Pace Suburban Bus, RUSH, the U.S. Army, Chicago Police Department, Cook County Sheriff’s Office, Fairplay Neighborhood Market, Chicago Urban League, and many more!
✅ Sign up here: https://forms.gle/1m42mBVAbnFcox7o7
Please share this opportunity with someone looking for employment!

Thank you for stopping by Ms. Berstein! Be sure to check out her books here: www.margaretbernstein.org

Million Father March - September 18, 2026

What began in 2004 as a grassroots effort to get fathers and father figures more involved in the lives of children is now a national movement headed by Fathers Incorporated.

The Million Fathers March honors the vision of Phillip Jackson and the Chicago-based Black Star Project, where this historic movement began.

On September 18, 2026, Fathers Incorporated is proud to help carry that vision forward by mobilizing fathers, schools, organizations, and communities throughout the nation. Register below or join us in the walk. Black Star will be at Drake Elementary 8:30-9:00am

This year’s Million Fathers March is gaining momentum! Host a father-focused back-to-school event in your community and join the national movement to celebrate dads’ involvement in their children’s education: https://bit.ly/4ySAYHP

Once registered, participants receive a detailed planning toolkit. Get started today!

🌟 KIMBERLY LIGHTFORD SATURDAY UNIVERSITY IS BACK! 🌟

📚 Fall 2026 | Maywood | Grades 4–8

The Black Star Project is excited to welcome students to Kimberly Lightford Saturday University (KLSU)—a Saturday experience where young people can learn, lead, create, and connect with their community! 💫

Students will explore:
Freedom School Concepts
Literacy
Leadership Development
STEAM

📅 Saturdays | September 26–December 5
🕙 10:00 AM–1:00 PM
🎉 Final Celebration: December 5
📍 Maywood Park District - Lightford Recreation Center
921 S. 9th Ave., Maywood, IL 60153

REGISTRATION IS OPEN!
👉 Register today: https://bit.ly/TBSPFallPrograms2026

If you happen to be in the Maywood/Bellwood/Broadview area on Saturday, September 12th stop by the PLCCA Parade, Kids Zone and Resource Fair for a day of fun and information and share with Family and Friends!