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Changing the Narrative. Inspiring Our Community.

Light Up Lawndale

A tax exempt, grassroots, nonprofit organization built to support the residents in need of resources. We deliver targeted community outreach, disaster assistance, youth development, violence prevention, case management, and advocacy exclusively for the Lawndale, Garfield Park, Austin, and surrounding communities. Support an organization dedicated to achieving real results!

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Our Mission & Purpose…


Light Up Lawndale is a certified 501(C)(3) nonprofit headquartered in Chicago’s Lawndale community. Our mission is to change the narrative of Chicago’s West Side communities through education, empowerment, engagement, housing, and economic development. We collaborate closely with residents and organizations in Lawndale to foster a healthier, more cohesive, and flourishing community.

Our approach is hands-on, involving active engagement and tangible efforts to effect positive change and empower underserved communities. We are deeply committed to making a meaningful difference through direct involvement and grassroots initiatives. We are truly a nonprofit representative of the communities we serve.

“As a community-based nonprofit, focused on economic empowerment, we sincerely appreciate everyone and their continued donations to our year round efforts to make Lawndale a great place.”

— Princess Shaw, Founder & Organizer

Support Services

  • Violence Prevention

    We support and deliver violence prevention services and trainings for communities in need. From conflict mediation and resolution to alternatives to gun and firearm violence, we equip our youth and residents with peace-building solutions and activities.

  • Community Building

    Community building is at the heart of everything we do. From our annual holiday lighting event to Juneteenth and Father’s Day picnics to physical activity like our “Let’s Move Lawndale” event, we keep communities engaged, empowered, and most of all, connected!

  • Youth Development

    We invest in our youth, our future. From professional development to skills training to career education, we do it all. We teach our youth life skills to prepare them for productive lives and employment skills to ready them for successful careers and a better life.

Save The Date: Light Up Lawndale 2024!

Mark your calendars!

Light Up Lawndale, our annual community holiday lighting event, is returning bigger and brighter than ever. Join us for great food, music, and a chance to connect with your community!

2023 Top Event Sponsors

On behalf of Light Up Lawndale, we would like to recognize and thank our top event sponsors and contributors of 2023.

We thank you for your sponsorship and for assisting with making the Westside of Chicago, especially Lawndale, great again.

Past Sponsors

 Past Events

Meet Our President

Schanel “Princess” Shaw
”Da Community Connector”

I am a life-long Lawndale-an that developed into a Community Connector. My passion is to bring revitalization to forgotten communities. In 2020, I proudly created and spearheaded the “Light Up Lawndale” Campaign to promote a sense of unity and harmony during the holiday season. As President, my goal is to continue to highlight causes that matter by galvanizing community, business, and political support to uplift inner city communities.

Ready to Give Back?

Support children & families in Lawndale. Your kind donation will make a difference in the lives of many. Volunteers & sponsors are also welcome!

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