Our Mission

Umoja equips young people to succeed in college and confidently claim their future. 

We do this by building a web of dynamic relationships that brings together schools, families and communities partner to bridge the gap between the talents and ambitions of low-income youth and the resources they need to thrive. 

Umoja believes that education is the great equalizer. If we as a community are serious about Chicago standing as a competitive global city, then we must be equally serious about educating each and every one of our young people in every Chicago neighborhood.     

Umoja's Key Beliefs

Umoja is committed to:

• A holistic youth-centered model
• Purposeful relationships with young people 
• Improving adult knowledge and skills as a key lever in increasing student outcomes
• Thought leadership and support to principals, counselors and teachers 
• High expectations for students, teachers and administrators
• Measurable outcomes 
• Recruiting and retaining high quality staff and volunteers 
• Engaging the business community in support of young people and schools