WE BELIEVE IN CHANGE
At Access Freedom, we are committed to creating a haven for youth impacted by gun violence, gangs, homelessness, and exploitation. Founded in 2017 by Pastor Tracey G. Lee, we work with youth and their families aged 13 to 35, offering trauma-informed care and comprehensive support. We understand their heavy burdens and our programs are designed to help them heal and build brighter futures.
We provide a range of resources and solutions, addressing the immediate crises these individuals face and the systemic issues that perpetuate their struggles, such as racial injustice, poverty, and mental health challenges. By focusing on holistic care, we help youth not only survive but also find the freedom to thrive according to their own dreams and aspirations.
Through strong partnerships with grassroots organizations, faith-based communities, and local businesses, Access Freedom extends opportunities and resources where they are needed most. We believe that real change happens when we work together, and we are dedicated to creating pathways for young people to unlock their true potential and break free from the cycles of violence and hardship that have held them back.
Our work is guided by the belief that freedom begins from within, but sometimes, it requires a helping hand to discover that inner strength. At Access Freedom, we are honored to be that support for so many young lives, walking alongside them as they pursue healing, hope, and lasting change.
Our services include Street Outreach, which is focused on building relationships with the highest-risk individuals, mediating conflicts, and interrupting violence to prevent shootings and retaliation. Victim Advocacy offers support to those impacted by violence, ensuring they have the resources and assistance needed for recovery. Case Management provides personalized guidance, helping youth navigate challenges and connect with vital resources, while our Mentorship program offers young people positive role models and support systems to encourage long-term growth and success.
We are proud of the impact we’ve made in the communities we serve, but there is still much work to be done. Our vision is to continue expanding our reach, offering more youth the chance to reclaim their futures and live free from the barriers that have defined their past.
Our Mission
Access Freedom mission is to empowers high-risk youth by providing a sanctuary and transformative resources amidst adversities like poverty, gangs, gun violence, socio-economic and societal injustices. We aim to pave pathways to prosperity and true freedom through holistic programs focusing on mental health, trauma-informed care,education, and financial literacy. Together, we turn dreams into reachable destinations, ensuring every individual achieves their fullest potential.
Meet our Founder
Tracey G. Lee is a pastor on the south side of Chicago, IL. She founded Access Freedom Nonprofit Organization as she began to work intently with the homeless and the highest high-risk populations. She shared both parts of the spectrum at one point and another in her own life, both being what is considered a “high risk” youth and homelessness.
Seeing how she was able to make a major transformation in her own life through mentorship programs, financial literacy, and the opportunity to taste true freedom, Tracey decided it was time to present the same kinds of opportunities she had to local communities that suffered from high crime, gun violence, prostitution, low economics, and so much more. Hence, Access Freedom was birthed.