Who we are. Why we do it.
ABOUT US
Graphene Gangway is a community technology initiative in North Lawndale, Chicago. We're bridging the digital divide through education, services, and grassroots action.
OUR MISSION
North Lawndale has been systematically disinvested for decades. 42% of residents live below the poverty line. Most households don't have broadband. The "digital economy" everyone talks about? It's passing this neighborhood by.
We're not waiting for someone to save us. We're building our own bridge.
Graphene Gangway provides free technology education, affordable tech services, and community programs that put real tools in people's hands. Not charity — capacity.
WHAT WE STAND FOR
Community First
Every decision we make starts with one question: does this serve North Lawndale? We build for our neighbors, not for metrics.
Radical Transparency
We share our process, our progress, and our challenges openly. Trust is built through honesty, not polished presentations.
Action Over Talk
We don't wait for permission or perfect conditions. We build, we iterate, we ship. Progress happens when you start.
Where we've been
OUR JOURNEY
The Spark
The idea for Graphene Gangway is born — a community-driven technology initiative rooted in North Lawndale. Late nights sketching the vision, talking to neighbors, and believing something bigger was possible.
The Spark
The idea for Graphene Gangway is born — a community-driven technology initiative rooted in North Lawndale. Late nights sketching the vision, talking to neighbors, and believing something bigger was possible.
Foundation
First website launch, YN Academy pilot program, and initial partnerships with local organizations. The community starts showing up — and showing out.
Foundation
First website launch, YN Academy pilot program, and initial partnerships with local organizations. The community starts showing up — and showing out.
Growth
Expanding programs, launching tech services, and building a sustainable model for community technology access. From one neighborhood to a blueprint for the nation.
Growth
Expanding programs, launching tech services, and building a sustainable model for community technology access. From one neighborhood to a blueprint for the nation.
JOIN THE MOVEMENT
Whether you want to learn, build, volunteer, or partner — there's a place for you here.