Renita White, drawing on her executive experience and Chicago South Side roots, founded Of Color, Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to economic empowerment and social equity. In this interview, White shares her journey and the impact of her work.
What is the mission of Of Color Inc.?
Of Color, Inc. is focused on providing sustainable employment and stable housing to at-risk families, reflecting White’s belief that access to the right resources can help individuals thrive regardless of their race.
How did the idea for Of Color Inc. come about?
The name ‘Of Color’ was chosen to emphasize inclusivity and avoid excluding individuals based on race or ethnicity. While services are particularly vital for Black and Brown communities in Chicago, the organization’s mission is to be inclusive to all. Prioritizing economic sustainability, starting with employment and housing, as fundamental needs.
How did your background influence the launch of Of Color Inc.?
After leaving her role as Executive VP, White was joined by former team members to establish Of Color, Inc. five years ago. Based on Chicago’s South Side, where White and many employees are from, the organization runs programs focusing on housing, homelessness, and workforce development. Their commitment to inclusivity is reflected in the name, aiming to make services accessible to all members of communities of color.
What does service mean to you?
Service, for White, begins with respect and acknowledging the trauma and systemic barriers faced by individuals. Clients are treated with dignity and provided with a welcoming environment. The organization’s approach includes preparing clients for employment and connecting them with stable housing, following Illinois’ housing-first policy for safe and secure living conditions.
We collaborate with over 100 employers in 14 industries and have various partnerships with communities and churches. Special attention is given to outreach to veterans, reflecting White’s background in a veteran family.
Why is veteran outreach particularly significant to you?
White emphasizes the importance of supporting veterans who have served the country, driven by her upbringing in a veteran family and the belief that they deserve access to resources without obstacles.
What is the most pressing need in your community and how do you address it?
Homelessness remains a critical issue exacerbated by systemic racism and economic difficulties. Of Color, Inc. aims to advocate for those in need and provide essential services, focusing on employment and housing support while helping clients navigate administrative processes and secure job opportunities.
As a Black, female-owned non-profit, what unique perspectives or challenges do you bring to your work?
White acknowledges that being a Black, female-led organization has presented challenges due to systemic racism. Nevertheless, it has reinforced the organization’s commitment to serving communities that may otherwise be overlooked. Clients appreciate the presence and efforts of a female-led, minority-led organization in their community.
What does ‘Aging with attitude’ mean to you?
For White, aging with attitude symbolizes embracing the freedom to express oneself openly and assertively, guided by wisdom and life experience. It signifies the confidence to make bold decisions and lead with conviction.
Photo Credit: Of Color, Inc.
NaBeela Washington, a talented Black writer with a Master’s in Creative Writing and English, along with a Bachelor’s in Visual Advertising, has been published in several reputable publications.
