Renita White’s Economic Empowerment in Chicago

Renita White combined her executive experience and roots in Chicago’s South Side to create Of Color, Inc.,  an organization committed to economic empowerment and social equity.  Here, White details her journey and the impact of her work.

What is Of Color Inc.’s mission? 

Of Color, Inc. focuses on providing sustainable employment and stable housing to at-risk families, embodying White’s belief that everyone, of all colors, can thrive when given access to the right resources. 

Where did you get the idea for Of Color, Inc.?

The name ‘Of Color’ was chosen to emphasize inclusivity. I didn’t want to exclude anyone based on race or ethnicity. Although services are particularly needed for Black and Brown residents in Chicago, our mission is to be inclusive to all. We focus on economic sustainability, starting with employment and housing because these are fundamental needs.

Would you say your background helped you launch Of Color, Inc.?

After resigning as an Executive VP, many of my former team members joined me, and together we established Of Color, Inc,. five years ago. Based on the South Side of Chicago, where I’m from and where many of our employees are from, we now run programs focused on housing, homelessness, and workforce development. The name reflects our commitment to inclusivity; we strive to ensure that our services are accessible to everyone, as we all belong to some community of color.

Can you speak about what service means to you?

Service means starting with respect and recognizing the trauma and systemic barriers faced by individuals. We treat clients with dignity and strive to create a home-like environment where they feel comfortable. Our approach includes getting clients ‘work ready’ and linking them to stable housing. We abide by Illinois’ housing-first policy, focusing on ensuring clients have safe, secure living conditions and the support they need to thrive.

We partner with over 100 employers across 14 industries and have numerous community and church partnerships. Outreach to veterans is particularly important to me due to my upbringing in a veteran family. Veterans deserve to access the resources they need without barriers.

Why is outreach to veterans particularly important to you?

Outreach to veterans is crucial because they have served our country and deserve our support. I was raised by veterans, and it is fundamental to our values to ensure they receive the help they need without having to ask for it.

What is the most compelling need you see in your community, and how do you address it?

Homelessness remains a significant issue, exacerbated by systemic racism and economic challenges. Our goal is not to eradicate it entirely, which is unrealistic, but to advocate for those in need and provide essential services. We focus on both employment and housing, assisting clients in navigating administrative processes and connecting them with job opportunities.

As a Black, female-owned nonprofit, what unique perspectives or challenges do you bring to your work, and how do these factors shape the way you support and empower the communities you serve?

Well, a mentor once told me that if you want something done right, you go to a woman of color. That was a significant endorsement from someone I respect. The unique aspect is that being a Black, female-led organization, we’ve faced challenges due to systemic racism. We’ve had to work exceptionally hard to prove ourselves and our capabilities.

This experience has made our mission even more vital. It drives us to advocate for those who might not otherwise be served. We’ve found that clients are proud and appreciative of our presence and work. They see value in a female-led, minority-led organization being deeply involved in their community.

What does ‘Aging with attitude’ mean to you?

Aging with attitude means embracing the freedom to speak my mind and act on my beliefs. When I turned 50, I felt a shift in my confidence. I no longer held back; I began to express myself more openly and assertively.

For me, aging with attitude signifies the wisdom and freedom that comes with experience. It’s about not being afraid to say what I think, do what I believe in, and run my organization with conviction. Wisdom and life experience guide me, allowing me to make bold decisions and stand by my principles.

 Photo Credit: Of Color, Inc.

NaBeela Washington, an emerging Black writer, holds a Master’s in Creative Writing and English from Southern New Hampshire University and Bachelor’s in Visual Advertising from The University of Alabama at Birmingham. She has been published in Eater, The Cincinnati Review, and others. Learn more at nabeelawashington.com.