Helping Others Obtain Destiny: A $40 Million Development To End Violence in Woodlawn & Englewood

Erica Trejo
Mar 24
3 min read

On March 5th, 2025, Desmond Marshall, the Executive Director of Project H.O.O.D., shared a powerful and inspiring update on the Leadership and Economic Opportunity Center project at the Southside Builders Association real estate lunch seminar. A visionary leader with a deep passion for transforming disadvantaged communities, Desmond Marshall has led numerous initiatives aimed at providing educational and economic opportunities to underserved populations. His work, alongside the commitment of Pastor Corey Brooks, founder of Project H.O.O.D. (Helping Others Obtain Destiny), has been instrumental in breaking the cycle of poverty in Chicago’s most underserved neighborhoods.

The Vision: A $40 Million Center for Over 25,000 People

The Robert R. McCormick Leadership and Economic Opportunity Center which is set to be built on MLK Drive, is poised to serve over 25,000 individuals annually. This $40 million project is designed to provide essential educational and economic resources to the community. Desmond emphasized the ongoing construction, which began in the fall of 2023, and shared the expected completion timeline of 24 to 36 months. With the foundation already laid and the building framework going up, significant strides are being made in bringing this transformative space to life.

The Process: Key Strategies for Success

Desmond shared the key strategies behind making this vision a reality:

Space and Repetition: Building a lasting impact requires consistent effort and strategic repetition to make a tangible difference.
Developing the “Dream Team”: Assembling a dedicated, passionate team is crucial. Desmond emphasized that bringing together the right people is the key to success.
Rooftop Campaign 2.0 – 10-Year Anniversary: This initiative reflects the success of past campaigns and focuses on amplifying awareness and support for the project.
8 Shipping Containers: A nod to starting small but thinking big, Desmond spoke about using adaptable, sustainable resources to scale the project.
Outwork Everyone: In the competitive world of real estate development, Desmond highlighted the importance of hard work and relentless dedication.
Think Bigger, Think Nationwide: The Robert R. McCormick Leadership and Economic Opportunity Center isn’t just for Chicago; it serves as a model for similar projects across the country.

Strategic Partnerships and Funding Success

Desmond provided an update on the financial success of the project. Key funding has come from New Market Tax Credits (NMTC), with over $44 million raised, including $11 million in net benefits. Five Community Development Entities (CDEs) from around the country are partnering on this project, with significant backing from institutions like Chase Bank, LISC, US Bank, and Illinois NMTC.

In addition, DCEO (Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity) has been instrumental in supporting the project.

The Impact: A Vision for Transformation

Desmond’s work through Project H.O.O.D. continues to embody the vision that Pastor Corey Brooks set out to achieve in 2012. From providing educational resources and mentorship to engaging in community development and affordable housing projects, Project H.O.O.D. has been instrumental in transforming lives in Chicago.

The Center is an extension of that vision, with a focus on breaking the cycle of poverty and creating opportunities for thousands of people in the area. As Desmond put it, “We close today!!!”, marking a significant milestone in bringing this transformative vision to fruition.

Looking Ahead: Continuing the Journey of Empowerment

The Center isn’t just a building—it’s a symbol of hope, empowerment, and a brighter future for thousands of individuals. As construction progresses, Desmond remains steadfast in his commitment to transforming lives and empowering underserved communities. The project’s success is a testament to the power of collaboration, vision, and tireless dedication.

As Desmond Marshall and the team continue to push forward, they are inviting everyone to join them on this journey of hope and transformation. The Robert R. McCormick Leadership and Economic Opportunity Center will serve as a vital resource for the community, fostering economic growth, leadership development, and lasting change.

Desmond Marshall’s presentation highlighted the importance of community-driven development and the power of partnerships. With the development well on its way, the future looks bright for Chicago’s underserved neighborhoods. Together, we can help people obtain their destinies and create a thriving, sustainable future for all.