About

South Shore, the Soul Coast of Chicago, naturally begin with our nature and recreational spaces. Lush, green public parks and spacious beaches, for many just minutes away by foot; for others, these spaces are just a short trip away by car or convenient public transportation. Outdoor experiences like nature sanctuaries, tennis, basketball and handball courts, bike trails, and swimming are available at no cost. These jewels of the South Shore environment lay the foundation for a vision of a community standing as a Center for Black Excellence, a continuously evolving model for a predominantly Black urban neighborhoods, and a hub for artists, creatives, and entrepreneurs involved in innovative work. Fueled by the dynamic character of a neighborhood with a population over 93% Black, South Shore is a microcosm of Black America, and it is home to Michelle Obama, organizing ground for President Barack Obama and married at the South Shore Cultural Center. South Shore is a community that is rich with history, teeming with creative energy, with people from every level of income and education, many religious faiths and nationalities, a distinctly Black character and rhythm open to all, living together side-by-side, some of them for decades.

Besides these natural, recreational, cultural, and historical amenities, South Shore has everything Chicago lakefront neighborhoods are known for- proximity to downtown, housing with varied architectural distinction and many different types and levels of affordability, and a variety of available transportation options, shopping, and services. Perhaps the most valuable South Shore asset is the network of talented and experienced people, community organizations representing every section of the community, local businesses, elected and other government officials, together with concerned residents, all committed to the transformative revitalization of the community to which they are connected.