Where Opportunity Takes Root…
Our work is grounded in accountability, relationships, and measurable impact. We partner with educators, families, employers, and community leaders to ensure young people have consistent support systems that help them stay on track academically, develop life and career skills, and transition successfully into adulthood.
Struggle Breeds
Progress
CIRCLE Foundation was founded on March 20, 2009 during a critical and uncertain moment. Our inception rose out of a turbulent situation, as we were opening our doors to help save an alternative high school and several mentoring programs from being shut down. Faced with instability and limited time, we stepped in with purpose and resolve to protect educational pathways for students who could not afford to lose them.
In those early days, we were more than an organization, we were a safeguard for youth, educators, and families who depended on our programs. Through determination, strategic leadership, and deep belief in the potential of young people, we not only preserved the school and mentoring initiatives, but stabilized and strengthened them. Today, more than a decade later, CIRCLE stands as proof that decisive action and commitment can transform crisis into opportunity. The programs once at risk of disappearing have grown within our foundation, expanding their reach and deepening their impact.
Partners & Sponsors
From Access to Support
Our staff and volunteers are pillars of the community, serving not only as educators and mentors, but as trusted role models and consistent sources of support.
Alumni Hall of Fame
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Polo G
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DJ Oreo
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G Herbo
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Tara Washington
Meet Our
Co-Founders
LaShaun “Sah” Jackson,
CEO
LaShaun is a dynamic civic leader recognized for visionary thinking, strategic leadership, and an unwavering commitment to community advancement. Born and raised on Chicago’s South Side, his lived experience informs a service driven approach centered on equity, innovation, and expanding opportunity. With more than 30 years of experience in social services and education, he has dedicated his career to strengthening pathways for youth and young adults through education, workforce readiness, mentorship, and life skills development.
Omar Nigel Moore,
COO
Omar is a futurist and innovator who has built nearly 20 years of leadership across education, youth development, and organizational strategy. Guided by the belief that aspirations shape outcomes, he has founded 3 successful organizations and held numerous leadership roles in case management, crisis intervention, mentoring, project management, and school operations. He is also the founder of A.R.T.S. Consulting and Black Light Entertainment, blending systems thinking, stress management, and entertainment to engage and motivate inner city youth.