501(c)(3) Nonprofit

Empowering youth. Uplifting community.

Forgive My Grind Foundation Inc. delivers dynamic skill development, mentorship, and real resources to youth and neighbors who need them most.

10+
years on the ground
3
annual flagship events
75%
of proceeds to mission
Forgive My Grind Foundation crest
Since day one ⚡
Made with love ✊
MentorshipSkill BuildingCommunityJob CreationHopeOpportunityMentorshipSkill BuildingCommunityJob CreationHopeOpportunityMentorshipSkill BuildingCommunityJob CreationHopeOpportunity
Mo The Barber, President and founder of Forgive My Grind Foundation Inc.
Mo The Barber ✊
A message from our president

From the barber chair to the boardroom.

"Real change starts with understanding."

For years, I've had a growing concern about our youth and underprivileged community members, who see potential go untapped due to limited access to resources and opportunities.

Through my work as a barber, neighbor, and volunteer, I've witnessed these challenges firsthand. Seeing the need, I founded Forgive My Grind Foundation Inc. to help restore balance and create opportunity where it's needed most.

Through job creation and skill development, I strive to empower individuals to build stronger futures for themselves and their families. With the continued support of an amazing community, we can uplift lives and create pathways toward lasting impact.

What drives us every day.

A catalyst for change — providing resources, education, and support to those who need them most.

Mission

Unlock potential, every day.

Empowering youth through dynamic skill development and transformative mentorship — equipping them with the tools they need to not just survive, but thrive.

Vision

A fearless next generation.

A future where every young person is empowered with the skills and confidence to chase their dreams fearlessly — growing and thriving together.

Purpose

Skills for the long run.

Tackle the pressing challenges youth face by providing innovative educational programs that build practical skills and foster personal development.

1

Empower youth with essential life skills for success.

2

Cultivate mentorship that inspires personal & professional growth.

3

Build a vibrant community where youth chase their dreams.

Programs

How we show up.

🎒

Back to School Bash

Backpacks & school supplies for ages 5–18 so every kid starts the year ready to win.

🍽️

Feed the Homeless

Food, clothing, shoes & care packages distributed during the Thanksgiving season.

🎄

The Giving Tree

Adopt a child or family for the holidays. Smiles delivered on Christmas morning.

🤝

Community Connections

We bridge people who want to help with neighbors who need support.

🥫

Community Food Bank

Donations from local businesses fueling the fight against hunger.

Upcoming events

Mark your calendar.

Volunteer →
Aug 9

Back to School Bash

Backpacks + supplies giveaway

01 / 03
Nov 26

Happy Thanksgiving

Hot food, drinks & essentials for neighbors in need

02 / 03
Dec 20

Christmas Winter Wonderland

Holiday joy for all ages

03 / 03
Aug 9 · Featured

Back to School Bash 🎒

Join us for our biggest back-to-school giveaway yet! We're giving away 150 bookbags filled with school supplies, plus free food, music, raffle giveaways, and free haircuts. Come out, get connected, and get ready for a great school year.

What we'll provide
  • 🎒 150 bookbags + supplies
  • 🍔 Free food & drinks
  • 🎶 Music & community
  • 🎟️ 2 raffle giveaways
  • 💈 Free haircuts
  • 🤝 Connections & resources
Get involved →
Back to School Bash flyer: 150 bookbags with supplies, free food, music, raffle giveaways, and haircuts on Sunday August 9, 2026
Nov 26 · Featured

Happy Thanksgiving 🦃

FMG Foundation Inc. is teaming up this Thanksgiving to bless others. We'll be passing out hot food, hot drinks, and water to our neighbors in need.

What to donate
  • 🥫 Canned / boxed foods
  • 🍼 Baby formula + baby essentials
  • 🧼 Hygiene + cleaning products
  • 🍪 Non-perishable snacks
  • 🧤 Clothes
  • 👟 Shoes
Ways to give

No amount is too small.

  • 📍 Drop off: TBD
  • 💜 Zelle: (708) 971-6916 or fmgfoundinc@gmail.com
  • 💸 Cash App: $fmgfoundinc
  • 🙌 Volunteer with our team
Contact us →

*All donations can be picked up per request or dropped off year-round. Any monies donated will be used toward toiletries, socks, underwear, blankets, rooms for the night, and other necessities.

Annual Drive

🌟 Join Us for Our Clothing & Coat Drive!

As the temperatures drop and the holiday season approaches, many in our community find themselves in need of a little extra warmth and support. We're thrilled to announce our Annual Clothing and Coat Drive — and we need YOUR help to make it a success!

📅 When
Thursday – Saturday
📍 Where
8936 S Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619
What we're collecting
  • • Warm coats — all sizes (children's & adults')
  • • Sweaters and hoodies
  • • Winter accessories — hats, gloves, scarves, socks
  • • Gently used seasonal clothing
Why it matters

Every year, countless individuals and families face the harsh realities of winter without proper clothing. Your donations go directly to those in need — keeping neighbors warm and comfortable during the cold months ahead.

Together, we can make a difference and show our community the power of compassion.

Volunteer / Ask a question →

This drive is not just about clothing — it's about building a community that cares. What item from your closet will you donate?

The Giving Tree 🎄

Adopt a child or family this holiday season.

Submissions open October 1 and close December 14. Recipients are selected by December 20. Share the circumstances, ages, and shoe/clothing sizes — and don't forget a wish list of real needs and a few dream gifts.

  • Tell the real story — what's preventing Christmas this year.
  • List real needs first: coats, shoes, school supplies.
  • Include a wish list of dream gifts, too.
  • Always include names, ages, shoe & clothing sizes, contact number.

Submissions are private and reviewed by the foundation. We never share your info.

Lend a helping hand

Let's build something together.

A nonprofit is as strong as the community that holds it up. Volunteer, partner, or just say hi — we'd love to hear from you.

We never share your info. We just want to connect.