
2010-2020
High School Impact
Supporting 3,652 students through leadership development, mentorship, and community engagement opportunities.
Our Story

Since 2010
What started in Chicago as a commitment to mentoring youth has become a multi-stage leadership development community with local and global reach to young adults everywhere.
Core Pillars
Our Mission
Equip youth and adults with the tools to develop their maximum potential and become purposeful leaders in their communities and beyond.
Our Vision
Provide training and life-transforming experiences that create a ripple effect of world changers.
Our History
Since its inception in 2010, Legacy Leaders has been committed to developing the potential of individuals from Black and Brown communities by equipping them with the confidence, leadership skills, and support needed to pursue greater opportunities and create lasting change.
What began as a passion for mentoring and developing youth throughout the city of Chicago has grown into a multifaceted leadership development organization impacting individuals across multiple stages of life. In our early years, Legacy Leaders focused on creating youth leadership programs, mentorship opportunities, and community-based experiences that empowered young people to overcome barriers, discover their strengths, and envision a brighter future.
As our impact expanded, so did our vision. Today, Legacy Leaders serves emerging leaders through a robust Young Adult Fellowship Program, now entering its fifth program cycle. This flagship initiative connects young adults with mentors, leadership training, professional development opportunities, community service experiences, and a network of support designed to help them thrive personally and professionally. Through this program, participants gain the tools, confidence, and relationships needed to become influential leaders within their families, workplaces, and communities.
Our commitment to leadership development extends beyond our local communities. Through strategic partnerships and global outreach efforts, Legacy Leaders also supports a children's home in South Africa, providing resources, encouragement, and opportunities that help young people flourish despite challenging circumstances. This international partnership reflects our belief that leadership, hope, and opportunity should know no geographic boundaries.
At the heart of everything we do is the belief that every individual possesses untapped potential and the ability to positively influence the world around them. Through mentorship, leadership development, coaching, service-learning experiences, and collaborative partnerships, Legacy Leaders helps individuals identify their strengths, overcome obstacles, and transform their futures.
More than a leadership organization, Legacy Leaders is a community dedicated to raising up the next generation of purpose-driven leaders who will create meaningful impact in their families, organizations, neighborhoods, and beyond.






Our Fellows
Every cohort adds a new chapter to the Legacy Leaders story. Scroll through our fellowship cycles to see a growing community of emerging leaders.
The Leadership

Board Chair
Creative Entrepreneur, Liv More Media
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Vice Chair
Chief Executive Officer, JADA Construction & Design
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Ex-Officio
President & Founder, Legacy Leaders
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Treasurer
Financial Advisor, WestPoint Financial Group
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Secretary
Vice President of Public Affairs, Maze of Life
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Advisory Board Chair
Inside Sales Specialist, KeHE Food Distributors
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Young Professionals Board
Director of Operations, Esther Grace Foundation
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From the President
Thank you for your interest in Legacy Leaders. Since 2010, we have been committed to helping individuals discover their potential, develop their leadership abilities, and create meaningful impact in their communities and beyond.
We believe leadership is not defined by a title. It is defined by influence. Through mentorship, leadership development, coaching, speaking engagements, workshops, and service opportunities, we help people build confidence, strengthen their skills, discover purpose, and pursue their goals with greater clarity.
None of this work happens alone. It takes mentors, donors, volunteers, alumni, and partners who are willing to invest in the next generation. Whether you want to grow as a leader, support the mission, or create opportunities for others, we invite you to join us in building a legacy that lasts.
Leading for Change,
Everett Gutierrez Jr.
President & Founder, Legacy Leaders
Legacy Sneaker Gala
Our signature biannual event brings together mentors, supporters, and emerging leaders for an evening of inspiration. More than a fundraiser, it is a reminder that leadership can be both authentic and accessible.
Arrival
An opening hour designed for connection, mentorship, and community celebration.
Stories
Transformational testimonies that remind supporters why investment matters.
Honoring impact
Recognizing leaders and partners whose example ripples outward.
Community
A room full of mentors and fellows celebrating investment in each other.
Connection
Every gala creates space for meaningful introductions and future collaborations.
Momentum
Translating the energy of the night into resources that fuel mentorship.