How a neighborhood commitment became a recognized nonprofit
Less Fortunate Charity was born from a straightforward conviction: neighbors should look out for one another. Founded by Patrickson Durand at 2132 East 72nd Street on Chicago's South Side, the organization started small — a few people, a few resources, and an unwavering commitment to the families around them.
What began as informal assistance to community members in need gradually took shape as a structured nonprofit — one with programs, volunteers, donors, and measurable impact. Today, Less Fortunate Charity holds 501(c)(3) federal tax-exempt status (EIN: 99-3459999) and continues to grow its reach across Chicago.
At 2132 East 72nd Street in Chicago, Patrickson Durand formally establishes Less Fortunate Charity. The organization begins with a simple mission: to meet the immediate needs of less fortunate individuals and families on Chicago's South Side.
The organization launches its first formal program — an emergency food pantry providing grocery assistance to families in crisis. Utility support and emergency financial grants soon follow, responding to the community's most urgent needs.
Less Fortunate Charity receives IRS recognition as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt public charity (EIN: 99-3459999). This milestone enables donors to contribute with full tax deductibility and opens the door to grant funding and institutional partnerships.
Recognizing that emergency aid alone cannot break cycles of poverty, the organization launches its Education Support Program — providing tutoring, school supplies, scholarships, and academic mentorship to K–12 students in the community.
The Job Training program launches, empowering adults with resume writing, interview coaching, and job placement support. Within its first cohort, 82% of participants secure employment within six months — a benchmark the program maintains to this day.
Less Fortunate Charity now operates five active programs, serves 100+ families annually, and relies on a growing network of volunteers and donors. From a single address on East 72nd Street, the organization continues to expand its reach and deepen its impact across Chicago.