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ABOUT US:
OUR MISSION
A Greater Good Foundation focuses on the power of self-education, unique experiences, wellness, and service to inspire young people and communities to live more holistic lives.
OUR VISION
Our vision is to create a world where all young people have the knowledge, opportunities, and support to thrive mentally, physically, and spiritually, becoming empowered leaders who positively shape their communities and the world.
OUR HISTORY
A Greater Good Foundation (AGGF) was founded in June 2016 by four young men from Chicago who, after facing personal and environmental challenges, realized that opportunities for growth and development were limited in their communities.
While in college, the founders were introduced to personal development concepts, like social-emotional learning, through a network marketing venture. Excited by the positive impact it had on their own lives, they shared this knowledge with their peers. As a result, they saw their friends grow—challenging their belief systems, setting new goals, improving their habits, and forming meaningful connections. Although the business venture didn’t last, the commitment to personal growth stayed strong.
Inspired by the transformation they witnessed, the founders made a promise to bring these valuable lessons and resources back to their communities, determined to create lasting change where it was needed most.
2016
2025
TODAY
We are still Mentoring Youth, Building Community, and Modeling Wellness! With our mentees, we practice and model what it means to live in a healthy community—with ourselves and with others. We encourage them to love themselves, set boundaries, and explore new possibilities. We believe that how we treat others is often a reflection of how we treat ourselves. That’s why, to strengthen the communities we serve, our vision starts with helping each person cultivate the love they have for themselves.
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We’re excited to expand our reach into northwest Indiana, Chicago’s Englewood neighborhood, and deepen our impact in the communities we already serve. To build a strong foundation for this growth, we’re actively partnering with local colleges and universities to create a pipeline of mentors who are passionate about serving the communities they’re connected to. Each mentor will undergo training in Restorative Practices as well as our unique education program on the conscious and subconscious mind, ensuring they’re equipped to guide and support our youth with understanding and empathy.
FUTURE
OUR FOUNDERS
CHARLES CARTER JR.
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
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Charles, born on the south side of Chicago and raised in Gary, IN is a graduate of Valparaiso University and former division-I athlete. Having a troubled childhood himself, Charles discovered a sincere passion for giving other misguided youth a second chance at discovering their greatness. He is a product of a support team that refused to give up on him. He brings this very heart and mindset to the foundation every day.
CODY K. COTTON
CHIEF OF HEART
Serving, Connecting, and Growing is a passion for Cody(Maywood, IL). Early in his journey, his passion to serve communities emanates from his innate love for people. Cody was blessed with the opportunity to graduate from Valparaiso University in May and start building his dream that same month. Following years of self-growth, diverse experiences, and the burning desire to invest in his community, holistically, it provoked him to help create the lasting vision of A Greater Good Foundation.
JOSHUA M. EASTERÂ
CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER
Joshua was born in Oak Park, IL and raised in Chicago and western suburbs. Being around different communities made him want to improve neighborhoods that were less fortunate economically. Joshua attended Saint Augustine’s University in Raleigh,NC where he majored in Sport Management. He recently completed his Master’s Degree in Sports Administration from Northwestern University, while also
working as a Teaching Assistant for children with Autism. He strives to create positive relationships and improve self-confidence through sports, recreation, personal development and mentorship.