WELCOME!
Thanks for stopping by! We are an organization committed to making a difference in our community with our activities which are centered around empowerment and service. Please look around and discover the programs and activities we are pursuing in the western suburbs of Chicago and beyond.
​VISION
Our vision is a community where children, youth, young adults, parents, and the entire family reach their highest potential and become contributing members of society.

MISSION
Our mission is to empower and support families, especially children, youth, and young adults by providing opportunities for learning, critical thinking, exposure, mentoring, and resiliency.
"At the dawn of a new beginning."
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WE SUPPORT FAMILY AND COMMUNITY
OUR CURRENT INITIATIVES ​​
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AALR is about being a force for good and we are always undertaking initiatives that will benefit the community. Currently, we are actively working on promoting the following:
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Youth Arts, Music & Culture (YAMC)
The goal of YAMC is for students (and their parents/guardians) to expand their view and understanding of the world through arts and music.​ The first YAMC outing was held on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Sister Act, the Musical, held at Drury Lane Theater (Oakbrook Terrace). The second outing was Fly Dance and was held on Sunday, February 1, 2026 at Dominican University (River Forest). A complimentary meal is included with the outing. The Board of Directors has approved a 2026 budget for a summer and/or fall YAMC outing.
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College Senior Program
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The College Senior Program is a career readiness initiative we are piloting with Lewis University and Chicago State University. We are working to support college seniors by providing mentoring and coaching.
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Ubuntu House
From the Bantu language, Ubuntu means "I am because we are." The dream child and passion project of AALR President, Amania Drane, Ubuntu House seeks to provide a restorative retreat space where people can gather to experience healing from racial trauma through a historical lens, utilizing healing circles and other restorative justice and empowerment practices. We are committed to developing collaborative partnerships to overcome generational racial trauma and promote opportunities that support healing, wholeness, and thriving. See more about Ubuntu House here.
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HEAL Well​​​
This program engages with United Methodist volunteers and community members to support Austin Garden
Collective throughout the summer (May-August) to do what is needed to support the 25 gardens in the community of Austin in Chicago. In addition, HEAL Well pays stipends to students living in that community to plant trees and maintain them to maturity.
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OUR GOAL FOR 2026
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As we continue to do this work, we aspire to expand our footprint into areas where we can provide the most support through collaborative partnerships. We are continuing to fundraise to obtain a property in the future. As we build our brand, we will continue our programming for children, increase the number of Board of Directors, volunteer, and expand our social media presence.
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Please help us reach this goal by making a donation.