The Regenerator: A hub for housing, reentry services and green innovation
Beacon of Hope
Following one of the most devastating waves of Chicago Public School closures in 2013, Go Green partner R.A.G.E. led initiatives to find creative ways to repurpose these vacant schools as beacons of hope. Go Green will transform former Granville T. Woods Academy into a community asset: “The Regenerator”—A space for renewal, radical re-imagination, and regenerative source of opportunity. It will house multiple programs and be an innovative response to the expected release of thousands of incarcerated individuals. By serving more than 3,500 returning citizens annually with an holistic approach, it will bring stability to at-risk populations, improve public safety, and fuel Englewood’s growing green movement.
Renewed Opportunity
Housing, employment, and health care are the critical components of successful reentry, yet many returning citizens struggle to access all three. The Regenerator will immediately tackle this problem: providing housing during the first 1-2 years of release, workforce development with stable career trajectories, and an on-site healthcare home. These direct supports will enable thousands of individuals to help revitalize Englewood as engaged and active residents. As employees. As entrepreneurs, and homeowners. Bonus? the Regenerator's training center will create a workforce that’s the driving force for Go Green’s housing strategy and other two developments—it's all connected!
A Hub of Innovation
Global concerns like climate change often hit low-income communities hardest. For example, asthma rates are correlated with poor environmental conditions, and Englewood’s asthma rates are five times higher than those on the near north side. The Green Hub, its associated businesses (including the cardboard box resale enterprise), and our community programming (through the Upcycling and Creativity Lab, Kitchen Facilities and Food Forest) will nurture a thriving ecosystem. These regenerative businesses will be a destination for eco-oriented goods and services. There will be robust representation from entrepreneurs and fair trade communities. Living wage jobs will be created. Green spaces will be supported, all for the benefit of not just Englewood, but all of Chicago.