
Heritage Community Development Corporation (HCDC)
In 2000, Third Baptist Church of Chicago sought to create new ways for the church to expand its ability to work with and serve communities outside the church’s walls. Heritage Community Development Corporation (HCDC), a 501(c)(3) organization, was launched as a partner to help secure funding and other resource opportunities not available to churches.
With an impressive 20-year record of community service, HCDC has created programs and services to help meet the needs of residents in challenged communities throughout Chicago. Driven by key demographic data and community engagement, HCDC has worked tirelessly to combat barriers of homelessness and poverty, violence, unemployment, education, jobs and workforce development, mass incarceration, socialization gaps, and community economic development.
Mission Statement
Heritage Community Development Corporation (HCDC) exists to transform lives and uplift communities by addressing the root causes of poverty, injustice, and inequality. As a trusted partner of Third Baptist Church of Chicago, HCDC is dedicated to advancing equity and opportunity through innovative programs and partnerships that empower youth, support families, and strengthen neighborhoods. We serve as a beacon of hope delivering impactful solutions in education, re-entry support, workforce development, and community wellness to help build a more just, thriving, and resilient Chicago.
Vision Statement
Heritage Community Development Corporation envisions a future where every resident in Chicago’s most challenged communities has access to the resources, opportunities, and support needed to thrive. We strive to build vibrant, resilient neighborhoods free from poverty, violence, and systemic barriers where youth are empowered, families are supported, and justice-involved individuals find pathways to restoration and purpose. Through faith-driven service and strategic collaboration, HCDC seeks to be a catalyst for sustainable community transformation for generations to come.
Historically
HCDC programming includes:
Women in Community Corrections, a societal re-entry program that was developed in collaboration with Congressmen Bobby Rush for first-time female offenders ages 16-21
Foster Grandparent Tutoring and Mentoring Program, which supported families and the maternal needs of youth
Most notably is Destination Safe Haven (DSH), which for the last 15 years has operated as an after-school and summer youth enrichment program for youth K-12, teaching academics, socialization, cultural awareness, health, and nutrition
"As senior pastor, I am honored to continue our years of community service by working with Heritage Community Development Corporation to broaden our reach and capacity."
Reverend T.D. Hughes
Senior Pastor
Third Baptist Church of Chicago
We can do this work together
Serving as the church’s community resource partner, HCDC has big responsibilities to the people we serve. The work is rewarding but equally challenging, especially as we dwell amid surrounding neighborhoods that have been further economically distressed by the pandemic and its lingering effects.
Third Baptist and HCDC remain committed to actively engage our communities. We are constantly exploring how to work with resourceful, like-minded partners and supporters like you to help us achieve our goals.