WE ARE THE WOODLAWN
RESTORATIVE JUSTICE HUB
We are more than just a single program. All of our work responds to trauma, violence and conflict through the lens of healing, community and justice. Recognizing that one size does not fit all, we are committed to developing lasting changes in our youth participants and in our community by proactively building healthy relationships through our programming. We are driven by the African philosophy of ubuntu, or I am because we are. By doing this work, we believe we will create a community that is united to prevent and address conflict and wrongdoing.
Our Mission
The mission of the Woodlawn Restorative Justice Hub is to engage young people most
impacted by violence through restorative justice, economic empowerment, and civic
engagement that supports ongoing successful advocacy led by young people.
Our Vision
Through engaging with youth, the WRJH envisions a community where young people and
families collaborate to build peace through restorative justice.
Our Values
The core values of the WRJH are:
• Ubuntu = I am because we are / All actions and activities affect us all
• Respect
• Creativity
• Community Organizing
• Mental wellness
• Embrace Kwanzaa Afrocentric principles as organizational building blocks
“There is no magic to achievement. It’s really about hard work, choices and persistence."
- Michelle Obama
MEET OUR TEAM
CATHERINE JACKSON
Executive Director
Faith-Based Leader and Transformation Architect
Catherine Jackson stands as a powerful force for healing and transformation with over 35 years of dedication to moving individuals, families, and communities from survival to triumph. As Founder of Catherine Jackson LLC and Executive Director of the Woodlawn Restorative Justice Hub since 2016, she creates sacred spaces where faith, emotional resilience, and community impact converge to empower people to reclaim their voices, rewrite their narratives, and walk boldly in their purpose.
Executive Leadership Excellence
Catherine's distinguished career trajectory showcases consistent organizational transformation and community impact: Executive Director, Woodlawn Restorative Justice Hub (2016–Present) • Provides visionary leadership, strategic planning, and fiscal oversight for justice-focused initiatives • Orchestrates daily operations, program delivery, staff development, and fundraising strategies • Drives sustainable growth while strengthening donor relationships and board partnerships
Executive Director, Mayor's Office Drug-Free Community Partnership, Rockford (1993–2005) • Managed $2M operating budget and $5M federally funded prevention program • Coordinated 30 active committees partnering with CDC, government, law enforcement, and courts • Built and sustained a 500-member citywide coalition advancing community health initiatives
Executive Director, Booker Washington Community Center, Rockford (1991–1993) • Expanded program delivery by 100% through strategic leadership and board engagement • Strengthened community outreach and drove operational improvements
Academic Foundation and Spiritual Formation
Catherine's educational journey reflects her commitment to integrating faith, scholarship, and service: • Master of Sacred Theology - Chicago Theological Seminary (2019) • Master of Divinity - Virginia Union University (2010) • Bachelor of Science - St. Ambrose University (1977) • Nonprofit Management Certificate - University of Chicago (2019-2021) • Certified Life Coach - Specializing in Law of Attraction, Life Purpose, Forgiveness, and Resilience
Vision for Transformation
Through Catherine Jackson LLC, she champions a philosophy where faith meets action, creating environments where women and organizations rise unapologetically. Her holistic approach blends pastoral counseling, life coaching, and strategic leadership to foster spaces of authentic empowerment and lasting change.
MARCUS GILL
Community Development Consultant & Mentor
Marcus Gill is an entrepreneur, workforce development leader, and community development consultant dedicated to economic empowerment and community transformation. As Vice President of Dust Em Clean Maintenance Company, Inc., and founder of the Leaping Hurdles™ Employment and Resource System, he has helped create employment opportunities for underserved communities.
Through his leadership, Marcus has trained and employed more than 1,000 individuals and supported young leaders impacted by trauma and violence through his partnership with the Woodlawn Restorative Justice Hub. His work focuses on workforce training, entrepreneurship, and building sustainable economic pathways.
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Marcus also serves in leadership roles with the Woodlawn Chamber of Commerce, Southside Together, the Woodlawn Economic Development Board, and the Woodlawn Public Safety Alliance. His work continues to strengthen families and communities through opportunity, mentorship, and economic growth.
Lauren Phillips
Alumni Community Restorative Justice Facilitator
Operations Leader and Program Graduate
Lauren Phillips brings unique perspective and professional excellence to her role as Administrative Assistant for the Woodlawn Restorative Justice Hub. As a proud graduate of the organization's programs, she combines lived experience with strategic thinking to foster positive, organized, and inclusive environments that advance the mission.
Operational Excellence and Program Support
Lauren's contributions ensure seamless organizational functioning through: • Administrative Leadership - Providing essential operational support for daily activities • Strategic Alignment - Ensuring initiatives support program goals and participant development • Inclusive Environment Creation - Fostering spaces where all stakeholders feel valued and heard • Mission Advancement - Contributing to organizational growth and impact
Restorative Justice Practice
Her professional development includes: • National Association of Community and Restorative Justice Conferences - Active participation in national dialogue • Restorative Love: Human Rights of a Child Camp - Key planner positively impacting 30+ participants • Peace Circle Training Certification - Strengthening knowledge and application of restorative principles
Professional Philosophy
Known for her strategic, thoughtful approach, Lauren ensures that operations serve as a foundation for transformation. Her journey from program participant to staff member exemplifies the organization's commitment to developing leaders from within and creating sustainable pathways for community members.
Preston Allison Jr.
Behavioral Health Leader and Youth Development Specialist
Preston Allison Jr. brings over 20 years of transformative mental health expertise to his roles as CEO of PAJ Associate – Building a Better You and Mental Health Consultant for the Woodlawn Restorative Justice Hub. As a dynamic speaker, trainer, and motivational coach, he champions personal growth, emotional wellness, and leadership development across Chicago's communities.
Clinical Excellence and Community Impact
Preston's extensive career encompasses: • Youth Counselor - Providing direct therapeutic support to young people navigating challenges • Behavioral Health Specialist - Implementing evidence-based interventions for emotional and behavioral wellness • Community Mental Health Practitioner - Bridging clinical services with community needs • Crisis Intervention Expert - Delivering immediate support during critical moments
Program Development and Training
His professional contributions include: • Designing and facilitating therapeutic groups • Providing individual and family support systems • Mentoring youth impacted by violence and trauma • Training staff in culturally responsive, trauma-informed approaches • Developing emotional regulation and conflict resolution programs
Leadership Philosophy
Known for practical wisdom, motivational leadership, and compassionate engagement, Preston strengthens systems that promote healing, accountability, resilience, and long-term success. His work at PAJ Associate – Building a Better You extends his impact through speaking engagements, workshops, and coaching that transform lives and communities.
Mental Health Consultant
Arnold Butler
Community Leader and Youth Mentor
Arnold Butler stands as a beacon of hope and transformation in Chicago's violence prevention landscape. As Violence Prevention Expert with the Woodlawn Restorative Justice Hub, he channels personal experience into powerful interventions that guide young leaders toward purpose, accountability, and success.
Lived Experience as Foundation
Deeply rooted in Woodlawn and Hyde Park communities, Arnold's approach to violence prevention stems from his own navigation of challenges during his teenage years. This authentic foundation shapes his ability to: • Connect with youth experiencing similar struggles • Provide credible guidance based on real transformation • Create safer pathways through dangerous circumstances • Model resilience and possibility
Innovation in Violence Prevention
Arnold brings creativity and strategic thinking to violence prevention through: • Mentorship Programs - Building trust-based relationships that redirect youth energy • Sports Engagement - Using athletics as a vehicle for discipline and teamwork • Problem-Solving Initiatives - Teaching critical thinking and conflict resolution • Leadership Development - Cultivating confidence and positive decision-making
Community Impact
Known for his genuine love for people and unwavering belief in human potential, Arnold inspires growth, transformation, and hope. His work produces meaningful outcomes for young leaders while contributing to stronger, more resilient communities. Through dedication and innovative approaches, he continues reshaping narratives and creating possibilities where others see only challenges.
Violence Prevention Expert
Lauryn Collins
Youth Ambassador
Emerging Leader and Restorative Justice Advocate
Lauryn Collins exemplifies the transformative power of program participation turned professional dedication. As a Youth Worker and proud alumna of the Woodlawn Restorative Justice Hub, she brings lived experience, professional expertise, and passionate advocacy to her role in youth development and community organizing.
Leadership and Civic Engagement
Lauryn's commitment to community transformation is demonstrated through multiple leadership roles: • Alderman Jeanette Taylor Youth Committee - Contributing leadership and youth perspective to local governance • Chicago Fellows Program Member - Engaging in citywide leadership development • Human Rights and Child Rights Nehemiah Trinity Rising Youth Planning Committee - Advancing youth rights and advocacy
Restorative Justice Implementation
Her specialized training and program development includes: • Peace Circle Training Certification - Applying restorative justice principles in practice • Restorative Love: Human Rights of a Child Camp - Instrumental planner impacting youth development • Housing Equity Advocacy - Championing fair housing and community stability • Social Justice Organizing - Building movements for systemic change
Vision for Youth Empowerment
Lauryn's work focuses on creating spaces where young people experience healing, accountability, and empowerment. Her journey from participant to practitioner demonstrates the sustainable impact of investing in youth leadership and provides inspiration for the next generation of community leaders.
Theodore Carter
Community Mentor and Restoration Leader
Theodore Carter brings spiritual grounding and practical wisdom to his dual roles as Founder of Helping Hands 4 U and Program Director at the Woodlawn Restorative Justice Hub. His leadership creates pathways from survival to stability, ensuring young people and families receive both the support and structure needed to thrive.
Youth-Centered Programming Excellence
As Program Director, Theodore leads transformative initiatives grounded in: • Restorative Justice Implementation - Creating accountability frameworks that promote healing • Leadership Development - Building next-generation leaders through mentorship and skill-building • Family Strengthening - Supporting entire family systems through challenges and transitions • Community Partnership - Bridging stakeholders to create comprehensive support networks
Philosophy of Transformation
Theodore's approach is distinctly relational, hands-on, and action-oriented. He believes leadership begins at home and that strong families form the foundation of thriving communities. His work intentionally bridges faith, responsibility, and real-world application, creating environments where healing, discipline, and growth flourish simultaneously.
Ms. Lola Rogers
Parent Liaison
Community Advocate and Family Support Executive
Ms. Lola Rogers brings exceptional family engagement expertise and a proven commitment to restorative justice principles to Chicago's Woodlawn community. Currently serving as Parent Liaison for the Woodlawn Restorative Justice Hub, she leads critical initiatives to strengthen family support systems and foster community healing through compassionate, hands-on engagement with children, families, and young leaders.
Family Empowerment and Community Support
In her role as Parent Liaison, Ms. Rogers has established herself as an indispensable bridge between families and vital community resources. Her daily contributions include: • Coordinating comprehensive support activities that address the multifaceted needs of children and families • Providing consistent emotional support and mentorship to parents navigating complex systems • Connecting individuals and families to essential resources that promote long-term stability and growth • Building trust-based relationships that foster open communication and sustainable community partnerships • Implementing restorative practices that strengthen family bonds and neighborhood cohesion
Professional Excellence and Community Leadership
Ms. Rogers exemplifies service-centered leadership through her purpose-driven approach to community work. Her expertise in family engagement and youth development has positioned her as a trusted voice in restorative justice practices. She demonstrates: • Exceptional ability to balance multiple responsibilities while maintaining personal connections • Creative problem-solving skills that address complex family dynamics • Consistent application of empathy and reliability in high-stakes situations • Commitment to lifelong learning that enhances her professional capabilities
Vision and Commitment
As a dedicated community advocate, Ms. Rogers brings an authentic understanding of family needs paired with sophisticated support strategies. Her unique combination of grassroots wisdom and professional expertise positions her as a vital connector who transforms community challenges into opportunities for growth and healing. Through her leadership, she continues to champion innovative approaches to family empowerment and neighborhood sustainability, making lasting contributions to the development of healthy families and thriving communities. Her work embodies the principle that strong families are the foundation of strong neighborhoods, and her daily practice demonstrates that consistent care and connection can transform lives.
Daphne Lecesne, LPC
Volunteer | Art Therapy Instructor
Daphne Lecesne, LPC, is an Illinois Licensed Professional Counselor, trained Restorative Justice Circle Leader, retired School Psychologist, and Art Therapy Instructor who volunteers with the Woodlawn Restorative Justice Hub. She is a member of Church of the Good Shepherd, UCC, and an officer with Toastmasters International. Daphne is passionate about working with youth and directs the ACT-SO youth competition for her local NAACP chapter.
Through art circles and creative expression, she helps young people discover hidden talents, build confidence, and experience healing. Daphne enjoys drawing in pastels and charcoal and stays active with Zumba, line dancing, Pilates, and yoga.
We also could not do this work without our dedicated Board of Directors.
Their expertise and guidance are crucial to our mission and community success.
Board Members:
These Donors have financially supported
the organization Over The Years:
Chicago Community Trust
Chicago Racial Justice Pool Fund
Chicago Safe Peaceful Communities
Blessed Virgin Ministries in Dubuque, Iowa
City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events
(DCASE) for the Neighborhood Access Program
Cook County Justice Advisory Council
University of Chicago Violence Gun Intervention
Stronger Nonprofits Initiative
Seed Funding (Cross Funds)
Chicago Community Trust African American Legacy
The Elizabeth Morse Charitable Trust
University of Chicago Community Program Accelerator
Michael Scott
Board Chairperson
Restorative Justice Champion and Youth Development Leader
Michael L. Scott stands at the forefront of Chicago's restorative justice movement with over two decades of transformative service to the city's schools and communities. As Board Chairperson of the Woodlawn Restorative Justice Hub, he leads with a vision of community-driven healing, safety, and empowerment that creates meaningful pathways for young people to flourish.
Educational Impact and Student Advocacy
A graduate of DePaul University with a degree in Human Development, Michael has touched the lives of hundreds of students throughout his distinguished career with Chicago Public Schools. His multifaceted expertise encompasses: • Youth Intervention Specialist - Providing critical support and guidance to at-risk youth • Special Education Professional - Ensuring equitable learning opportunities for all students • Culture and Climate Team Leader - Transforming school environments through positive behavioral interventions • Restorative Justice Facilitator - Leading peace circles and conflict resolution initiatives • Crisis Intervention Specialist - Delivering trauma-informed responses during critical moments
Community Leadership and Vision
Beyond his work in CPS, Michael demonstrates entrepreneurial leadership as Co-Founder and President of LIFE Community Outreach and Mentoring. His extensive collaboration with organizations dedicated to equity and youth advocacy reflects a comprehensive approach to community transformation. Through his leadership at the Woodlawn Restorative Justice Hub, Michael ensures that every young person's voice is heard, valued, and empowered to shape their own narrative of success.
Vincent "Vince" Cole
Board Member
Affordable Housing Advocate and Faith-Based Leader
Vincent "Vince" Cole brings over 25 years of expertise in real estate management and community housing development to his role as a cornerstone of Chicago's affordable housing landscape. Currently serving as Director of Community Housing and Property Manager at University Church in Hyde Park, he orchestrates comprehensive property operations while advancing the church's vital affordable housing ministry.
Strategic Housing Leadership
Vince's portfolio of responsibilities extends across multiple organizations dedicated to neighborhood preservation: • Executive Director, Woodlawn Development Associates - Leading efforts to preserve affordable housing in Woodlawn amid transformative development linked to the Obama Presidential Center • Property Management Lead - Overseeing buildings for Covenantal Community Housing Cooperative (CCHC) and WDA • Community Stabilization Advocate - Ensuring long-term affordability and neighborhood continuity through strategic stewardship
Faith-Centered Service
Grounded in spiritual leadership, Vince's journey includes significant milestones in church governance and ministry. Ordained as a deacon at Covenant UCC in South Holland, he later became Advocate UCC's first ordained deacon while supporting new church development. His dual commitment to faith and housing justice creates a powerful framework for community transformation that addresses both spiritual and material needs.
Dr. Afrika Porter
Board Member
Emmy Award-Winning Producer and Communications Executive
Dr. Afrika Porter exemplifies the intersection of media excellence, civic engagement, and social impact through her distinguished career as a Chicago-based communications leader and creative visionary. Currently serving as Communications Director, she brings sophisticated expertise in diversity and inclusion, supplier diversity, training and development, and strategic business operations.
Media Innovation and Cultural Impact
A five-time Emmy Award-winning documentary film executive producer, Dr. Porter has elevated community narratives through groundbreaking work including Chicago at the Crossroad. Her contributions to culture and community advocacy were immortalized in 2022 when Woodlawn's Friend Health Center unveiled a mural featuring her likeness—a testament to her lasting impact on Chicago's cultural landscape.
Civic Leadership and Community Mobilization
Dr. Porter's extensive professional journey encompasses: • Senior Project Manager, AHP Servicing - Leading high-stakes initiatives with precision and impact • Strategic Advisor - The Black Star Project and National Rainbow PUSH Coalition • Voter Registration Champion - Instrumental in registering over 50,000 voters • Trained Advocate - Violence Interrupters and National Alliance for the Empowerment of the Formerly Incarcerated
Academic Excellence
Her educational journey spans Bennett College for Women, Rust College, the University of Chicago, and Bard College, culminating in a Doctorate from United Graduate College and Seminary in 2025. This multidisciplinary foundation in communications, journalism, humanities, psychology, and documentary filmmaking uniquely positions her to bridge academic theory with community practice.
Myles Francis
Board Member
Community Leader and Youth Development Executive
Myles Francis brings a wealth of community engagement expertise and a proven track record of organizational capacity building to Chicago's South Side. Currently serving as Director of Center Operations at Gary Comer Youth Center (GCYC) since August 2024, he leads strategic initiatives to expand youth programming and enhance operational excellence in one of the city's most vital community institutions.
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Violence Prevention and Community Impact
Before joining GCYC, Myles distinguished himself as Project Director for the Chicago Center for Youth Violence Prevention at the University of Chicago. In this role, he: • Designed and implemented evidence-based intervention programs targeting the root causes of interpersonal violence • Strengthened collaborative networks between service providers, educational institutions, and the communities they serve • Led program evaluation initiatives to ensure measurable impact and continuous improvement • Fostered partnerships that bridged gaps between academic research and community practice
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Academic Excellence and Thought Leadership
An alumnus of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign with a Bachelor's degree in Economics, Myles has emerged as a respected voice in youth development and community organizing circles. His expertise has been sought by prestigious institutions where he has delivered compelling presentations and historical perspectives, including: • The University of Chicago • The School of the Art Institute of Chicago • The Organization of American Historians
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Vision and Commitment
As a lifelong South Side resident, Myles brings an authentic understanding of community needs paired with sophisticated program management capabilities. His unique blend of grassroots knowledge and academic rigor positions him as a bridge-builder who transforms research into actionable community solutions. Through his leadership, he continues to champion innovative approaches to youth empowerment and neighborhood revitalization, making lasting contributions to Chicago's social fabric.
Brenda Boyd
Board Member
Youth Mentorship Pioneer and Nonprofit Executive
Brenda Boyd stands as a pillar of youth development and restorative justice with over two decades of transformative leadership across Chicago and the Southland region. As Founder and Executive Director of Sistahs S.T.R.O.N.G., a 501(c)(3) organization established in 2004 in Calumet City, she has created lasting pathways for girls and young women to discover their power and potential.
Dual Leadership Excellence
Brenda's professional impact extends through multiple leadership roles: • Founder & Executive Director, Sistahs S.T.R.O.N.G. - Delivering culturally grounded mentorship and leadership development programs that build resilience, confidence, and positive life trajectories • Southland Regional Director, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago - Orchestrating regional mentoring initiatives, strategic partnerships, and volunteer engagement at scale
Academic Foundation and Restorative Practice
Armed with a Master's degree in Criminal Justice, Brenda brings scholarly rigor to her practice-based approach. Her career reflects an unwavering commitment to strengthening communities through: • Nurturing healthy relationships across families and schools • Implementing restorative practices and conflict resolution strategies • Creating accountability frameworks that promote healing and growth • Developing sustainable pathways for youth success
Parish Brown
Board Member
Community Organizer and Cultural Innovator
Parish Brown embodies the spirit of Chicago through his lifelong dedication to community empowerment, youth development, and positive cultural transformation. A proud Chicago native and graduate of the University of Illinois at Chicago with a Bachelor's degree in Urban Studies, Parish has channeled his academic foundation into grassroots organizing that addresses the most pressing needs of neighborhoods across the city.
Advocacy and Community Preservation
Parish's organizing portfolio reflects strategic interventions at critical community junctures: • Institutional Preservation - Leading campaigns to keep vital community institutions operational • Community Benefits Agreements - Negotiating equitable development terms that protect neighborhood interests • Youth Empowerment Initiatives - Creating platforms for young voices to shape their communities
Good Lookin Out: A Movement for Mutual Uplift
As founder of Good Lookin Out, Parish has created an innovative platform that transcends traditional nonprofit models. The organization weaves together: • Cultural Messaging - Promoting mutual support and positive relationships through social media and clothing lines • Educational Programming - Facilitating four-year high school programs featuring enrichment and restorative practices • School Partnerships - Supporting Chicago Public Schools with educational enrichment and wellness activities • Peer Support Systems - Strengthening student voices and building connective tissue within school environments
Through Good Lookin Out, Parish has established a resource ecosystem that nurtures connected, supportive educational environments while encouraging young people to become architects of their own success and advocates for their communities.
