The R.A.G.E. Economic Upliftment Project, or the 'Re-Up', is a bold, community-driven initiative designed to reclaim and transform Englewood’s economic and physical landscape. Through strategic real estate development, business investment, and workforce training, we are laying the foundation for an Englewood that is owned, led, and powered by us.

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We are committed to closing the wealth gap, investing in our community, and fostering real economic sustainability. Through our impact-driven programs, we are equipping residents with the tools and resources to build a thriving, self-sustaining Englewood. If you’re passionate about economic justice and want to build with us, join our Re-Up Working Group. This is where we strategize, organize, and make sure the economic power stays where it belongs—with us.

 

 

 

Buy the Block Fast-Track Series

A 5-week virtual program guiding first-time homebuyers through the purchasing process—from credit readiness to closing on a home. We partner with real estate experts, many of whom are R.A.G.E. members, to lead the sessions and provide real-world insights. Participants gain the resources and connections they need to confidently navigate the process and take steps toward owning property in their community.

Re-Up Homebuyer Grants

An incentive and resource for families actively seeking to invest and live in single or multi-family homes in Greater Englewood, R.A.G.E. offers two grants: Blacklining Grant for homeowners of Black descent whom recently purchased in the community and Buy the Block Homebuyer Grant for participants that complete the virtual series. 

Homeowner Support

Owning a home is one thing—keeping it is another. R.A.G.E. is committed to helping Englewood homeowners stay in their homes, build equity, and create generational wealth. Through our Blacklining and Buy the Block homeowner grants, legal clinics, and a real estate resource guide, we provide the tools and support residents need to sustain homeownership. Through our work with the Chicago Neighborhood Recovery Program (CNRP), we also connect with homeowners while surveying vacant properties, ensuring they have access to resources that help them maintain and protect their homes.

Re-Up'ing Black Owned Businesses Through Events & Activities

 

A strong local economy starts with us. That’s why we host 'Re-Up' events and activities that create opportunities for Greater Englewood residents and stakeholders to connect, support, and invest in Black-owned businesses. Events like 5 After 5 and Community Cash Mobs boost sales, build exposure, and keep our money in our community.

The R.A.G.E. Greater Englewood Black-Owned Business Directory 
 

Over 90% of Englewood residents are Black, but less than 10% of businesses are Black-owned. That’s why we launched the Greater Englewood Black-Owned Business Directory in 2021—to spotlight and support the businesses that reflect and reinvest in our community. It’s the only directory of its kind in Greater Englewood, with over 100 businesses listed (and growing). Whether you're looking to invest in Englewood’s growth by buying black or expand your business reach, this directory is a resource for building a stronger local economy.

Our Committment to Local Investment

 

 

Over the last 15 years, we have reinvested nearly a million dollars into local Black-owned businesses by hiring small businesses to help support and sustain R.A.G.E. programs and activities. We invest in a variety of ways, such as hiring local caterers to provide food for events, hosting gatherings at venues within the community, and prioritizing local talent by hiring from within for staff and contractor positions. This investment not only strengthens the local economy but also fosters sustainable growth and empowerment for community entrepreneurs.