People Powered Projects on Chicago's Westside
Donation protected
Communities thrive when we invest in our own—our artists, our businesses, our spaces, and the people who are doing the work. I am one of those people. For years, I’ve been building sustainable projects in Chicago’s Westside—spaces for artists to create, businesses to grow, and communities to flourish. Now, I need your support to take it to the next level.
I’m Vanessa Stokes, and for years, I’ve been creating spaces that bring art, culture, and economic opportunity to Chicago’s Westside. I am the force behind projects like:
- POPCourts Community Plaza – Right next door to Outwest Gallery & Cafe, this catalytic development is helping to shape Chicago Ave as a cultural corridor.
- The Outwest Gallery & Cafe – A cultural hub that fosters Black creativity, food, and community. And Westside Review – A publication housed at Outwest Gallery & Cafe that highlights Westside stories, artists, and cultural movements.
- Third City Studio & Third City Cafe – A creative and entrepreneurial space activating the North Austin Arts District.
- North Austin Arts District – Creating a thriving art and cultural district at North Ave and Central to continue to connect along our neighborhood corridors.
These aren’t just ideas. They are real, tangible spaces that are already impacting communities. Now, it’s time to sustain and scale them.
Why This Fundraiser?
People always ask, "How do you do all of this? When do you sleep?"
The truth? I sleep well. But I’ve been funding these projects on my own, with partnerships and community support, while also making sure artists, entrepreneurs, and independent creatives get the work they need.
I want to show that WE can sustain our own projects in our own communities. If we invest in our people—people like me—we create a ripple effect.
These funds will allow me to:
✅ Sustain myself so I can continue doing this work without burnout.
✅ Invest in these projects to expand and create more opportunities for artists and entrepreneurs.
✅ Build a model for how communities can fund their own initiatives—no waiting on outside investors, no relying on slow-moving grants.
Join the Movement
This is not charity. This is power-building. When we fund each other, we change the game. Your contribution isn’t just helping me—it’s investing in a future where BIPOC artists, creatives, and entrepreneurs don’t have to wait for permission to build.
Donate today.
Share this campaign with your network.
Be part of the proof that WE can sustain our own communities.
Final Call to Action
This has to be it. We always say we need more spaces, more opportunities, more ownership. This is how we make it happen. Fund the people who are already doing the work. Fund the movement. Let’s show the world how powerful we are when we invest in ourselves.
Organizer
Vanessa Stokes
Organizer
Chicago, IL