Empowering students for a brighter future.
Our Mission: Supporting education and innovation.
Founded in 2019, the John W. Buckner Youth Initiative (also known as “Our Hands Our Worth”) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving youth ages 8–24 across Chicago’s Far South Side—including Washington Heights, Altgeld Gardens, West Pullman, and Roseland. The Initiative uses urban agriculture, culinary training, music, and financial literacy to help prevent youth violence and build self-worth. Programs include scholarship awards, workforce development in horticulture and culinary arts, horticulture weekend experiences, and community service outreach supporting local families.
Thank you for another year of progress!
We are honored to celebrate our 5th Annual Scholarship weekend. We thank every individual and organizations that helped make this possible! Through dedication to the communities of Chicago, we hope to continue to set a path towards brighter futures for our cities future leaders.
Help us take part in raising awareness and supplies for Chicago’s Historic Fenger High school and their school garden!
Our Hands Our Worth
Scholarships
The John W. Buckner Youth Initiative (Our Hands Our Worth) serves underprivileged youths in Chicago ages 8-21. Creating a lasting impact in our community via providing yearly scholarships in music, culinary, and horticulture. JWBYI is presenting 15 programs along with community garden in 2024 and a host of programs for years to come..
Community Outreach & Charity
We service families and community members throughout the year via volunteering and partnerships with Ronald McDonald Charities, South Side Community Federal Credit Union, Hugs No Slugs and Cradles to Crayons and amongst others. The lasting impact of grassroots efforts in the Chicagoland area are unmeasurable. Our Hands Our Worth’s community service range from the southside to the northside of Chicago and are extending as the initiative grows.
Every Story Has A Beginning, Here’s Ours.
Who was John W Buckner? A Chicagoan Born in the fall of 1955, October 7th. A twin to his sister. He grew up in an area called Englewood, went to the neighborhood schools elementary and high school, moving on as a tradesman.
EVENTS
“I'm a believer in the power of knowledge and the ferocity of beauty, so from my point of view, your life is already artful - waiting, just waiting for you to make it art.”
— Toni Morrison
Contact
Feel free to contact us with any questions.
Email
JohnBucknerYouthInitiative@gmail.com
Phone
773-412-3475