OUR STORY
Hands Within The Hood Inc. is a non-profit organization located on the southside of Chicago, Illinois. It was founded by a young woman named Jalah Hood when she was just 17 years old. The inspiration behind starting this organization was the passing of her great-grandmother, who had a profound impact on Jalah's life. Jalah's great-grandmother was an exceptional individual, known for her charm, thoughtfulness, and reliability. In an effort to honor her legacy and the positive influence she had on those around her, Jalah decided to establish Hands Within The Hood. Through this organization, she aims to continue her great-grandmother's work of making a positive impact on the community and bringing people together.
MISSION
Our mission is to empower individuals to take action and make a difference in the community by providing a range of services and support. Hosting a toy drive for the past three years is a testament to Jalah's commitment to improving the holiday experience for families in and around the southside of Chicago, Illinois. The success of the toy drive is a reflection of the hard work, dedication, and support from volunteers, donors, and community members who believe in the organization's mission. Such initiatives foster a sense of community, unity, and compassion, which can have a lasting positive impact on the lives of those involved.
About the Founder
Jalah is a first-generation graduate from Howard University, where she earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in Management Information Systems. She is now pursuing her master’s degree in Human-Computer Interaction at DePaul University in her hometown. Demonstrating her commitment to service and leadership, she previously served as the Vice President of Community Service for The International Fraternity of Delta Sigma Pi, Iota Rho Chapter. Today, she continues her passion for impact as a Student Success Coach with AmeriCorps. Jalah’s unwavering dedication remains centered on making her community a priority and bridging gaps through her education, leadership, and involvement.
