Community SPotlight: Jackie Brooks

Jacqueline “Jackie” Brooks has been part of Harmony Community Cares since its very beginning. She first got involved at the organization’s conception, drawn to a mission rooted in care, access, and presence in North Lawndale. Outside of Harmony, Jackie is a registered nurse and adjunct nursing faculty, combining clinical expertise with a deep commitment to education and service.

Her involvement with Harmony began through hands-on service in the food pantry and grew alongside the organization as she stepped into leadership focused on youth engagement and Academic Enrichment.

“Over the years, my involvement with Harmony Community Cares had evolved alongside the organization’s growth,” she said. “I saw a need for youth engagement and over time stepped into more strategic volunteer leadership role as the Community Programs Director for Academic Enrichment.”

Jackie has served as the Community Programs Director for Academic Enrichment for ten years. For her, the work is deeply personal.

“Academic enrichment means creating safe, consistent spaces where young people are challenged, supported, and reminded of their purpose, and their brilliance matter,” Jackie says. 

When asked what keeps her so dedicated to Harmony and its mission, Jackie points directly to the young people and the long-term commitment behind the work.

“The students keep me committed. Their resilience, creativity, and desire to be seen and supported fuel my dedication,” she said. “I’m also dedicated because I believe in legacy work which creating systems and opportunities that will outlast me and continue to serve future generations keeps me dedicated.”

What connects her most to Harmony’s mission is its consistency and long-term presence in the community. Jackie believes Harmony’s commitment to showing up, building trust, and staying engaged over time is what makes the work meaningful and sustainable.