About Us
Our Story
Over the course of our proud twelve-year history, Bright Star Community Outreach has made significant contributions to the renewal of Chicago’s most vulnerable communities as a 501C3 nonprofit organization. Driven by our hope for change in this city and the families that call it home, Bright Star’s presence has been marked by effective programming, social development, and advocacy; particularly in the 3rd and 4th wards of Chicago’s south side.
Led by founder and CEO, Pastor Chris Harris, Sr., who grew up in the Bronzeville neighborhood where we are currently located, our strategy includes developing impactful community development initiatives aimed at facing our largest societal challenges: violence in our communities, poor economic opportunities, inadequate mental health services, homelessness, child safety, and drug abuse. These efforts are designed to strengthen local families and communities, as well as leverage our key partnerships with organizations and businesses that share our passion for seeing renewal in Chicago.
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”
- Mahatma Gandhi
Our Mission
Our mission is to empower residents to share in the responsibility of building community through resource development and collaborative partnerships. We will accomplish our mission by developing innovative performance-based practices and programs to address the need for Violence Prevention, Community Engagement, Economic Development, Education, Healthy Children/Youth and Families.
Our Vision
We envision today’s underserved communities becoming self-sufficient livable communities for individuals, families and organizations. Communities strong and nurturing in positive thought and behavior in the home, community and marketplace.