05/29/2018
Majostee Allstar supporters,
Our journey to transfer 79th street has come to an end. We have done our best to bring this project to fruition but due to financial restraints, we were unable to meet the goals we set. Our project cost 1.5 million dollars and for the past year, we tried everything possible to ensure the success of this center. We crowdfunded and submitted applications for multiple private and public grants, like the neighborhood opportunity fund grant, but we were constantly denied. We were able to secure in-kind donations from great organizations.
We had an obligation to pay off the remainder of the building to the church that was selling it to us within 3 months of signing our purchase contract. Because we were unable to secure the remaining funds, the seller filed a lawsuit against our non-profit for either the remaining balance or forfeiture of the building. We could not fulfill the 6-figure request so our board of directors voted to walk away from the deal. After all of the architects, photographers, videographers, and commercials we ran to make this possible, this hurts us the most. It has been a hard fought journey but it isn't over.
As you may know, since November of 2017, we have rented the leadership center on 63rd & King Drive for Majostee Allstars programming. It has been our honor to fulfill our mission in that facility and we are still working to find a permanent home.
To the businesses, churches, and community members that have supported us, thank you. I know how much you looked forward to this project happening for our community. This facility would have revitalized the Gresham community and we are hurt to walk away. Our team fought with every breath giving tours to bank executives, developers, contractors, and celebrities to get them to pour into this center. Many of you sewed into this project after seeing the need and we are so appreciative. Thank you for opening your wallets and your hearts for our cause. Thank you for sharing with your friends to get them involved.
Majostee Allstars programming and our search for a permanent home will continue but we are regretfully saying goodbye to 7919 S Ashland. Our full financial report on this project will be available on our website in the upcoming weeks. This email is for full transparency as we hope you will follow us along our journey and sew into us again. Thank you,
Majostee Allstars
Majostee Allstars mission is to serve as an incubator for the personal, cultural and social development of children and youth in Chicago's most underresourced communities. Through the delivery of innovative and diverse programming the center serves as a safe space where physical, mental and emoti...
