In Chicago’s North Lawndale neighborhood, a powerful intergenerational initiative demonstrates how local grandmothers can help young people navigate trauma, build resilience, and recognize their extraordinary potential. Pioneered by the Juvenile Protective Association (JPA), a historic Chicago child welfare organization providing therapeutic counseling to vulnerable children, the Grandparent Circle  pairs middle school girls with local elder women who serve as surrogate grandmothers and trusted mentors.

In late August 2023, Grandmother Collective traveled to Hemphill at the invitation of Executive Director Gwen Johnson, who recognized that local female elders were already serving as the backbone of community support during lean times and wanted to anchor a workshop around their leadership.

Grandmas4Literacy invests in high-level training, including certification in the Wilson Reading System and other advanced literacy programs.