Built on Legacy
From the great migration to hosting one of the largest parades in the country.
About Us
The Chicago Defender Charities was founded by the late Chicago Defender Publisher John H. Sengstacke in 1945 as the charities arm of the Chicago Defender Newspaper. Its focus is the African American community with the production of the Bud Billiken ® Parade as its primary mission.
Our Mission
-
Education First
-
Bridging Community Gaps
-
Supporting Underrepresented Families
-
Family and Student Resources
Get Involved
We intend to expand support throughout the year for all generations covering mentorship, health, wellness, training, and more. We intend to lead by example, encouraging others to join our mission for a collective approach to better serve our communities. We invite you to join us in this endeavor to make a difference that better serves us all.
Building on Our History
-
Bud Billiken
The Bud Billiken® Parade, the largest African American parade in the United States, spans generations of families across the country, many who have participated for decades. With education as its foundation, the parade takes place every second Saturday in August. Bud Billiken® is a celebration of the community and kicks off the school year with high energy and enthusiasm.
-
Bronzeville Life
Bronzeville Life is a publication of the Chicago Defender Charities, available online and in print. It is a huge part of the Chicago Defender Charities’ legacy. It was born out of a desire to build on nearly 120 years of highlighting, uplifting, and encouraging Black excellence. Throughout this publication, we are building on the vision of our forefathers. Mr. Abbott’s love of humanity is the thread that connects across time and space from his heart to ours, and gently asks the question, what will your legacy be?