Who Are We
Officially established as a 501(c)(3) in 2024, JF Fresh Start “Fresh Start” is more than just a nonprofit—it is a movement dedicated to empowering inner-city youth in the Chicagoland area.
The mission of Fresh Start is to provide consistent, structured, and positive youth development opportunities through sports, fitness, and mentorship that foster building accountability, leadership, and life skills among youth ages 7–18.
We envision strengthening communities across the Chicagoland area by empowering youth to develop responsibility, healthy relationships, and the skills needed for lifelong success.
Our goal is to provide a consistent and uplifting presence for youth ages 7-17 through physical fitness, mentorship, and lifestyle changing programming aimed at reducing violence, improving well-being, and fostering leadership.
FOUNDING EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
The organization was founded by John “Johnny” Fort, a former All-American basketball player whose journey is one of redemption and purpose. Known in the community as the “gentle giant,” Johnny’s life took an unexpected turn when his promising basketball career was derailed by multiple drug convictions. In 2009, he was indicted on drug possession and distribution charges, ultimately serving a decade in prison. However, upon his early release for good behavior, Johnny saw an opportunity to redefine his life—not just for himself but for the young people who faced the same challenges he once did. Rather than becoming another statistic, he committed himself to being a positive force in his community.
Using sports and fitness as the foundation, Fresh Start was born. Johnny designed a program that teaches accountability, leadership, and resilience. The BALL (Building Accountability, Leadership, and Life Skills) Program became the organization’s core initiative—an afterschool and summer program that utilizes sports and structured activities to instill critical skills. The program helps young people navigate life’s challenges, fostering a sense of responsibility and perseverance while providing a positive alternative to the cycle of violence that affects so many.
Fresh Start’s impact in the community began even before its official incorporation. In 2023, Johnny volunteered as a youth mentor at Ring of Hope, a local nonprofit serving Greater Grand Crossing. By 2024, Fresh Start was contracted by Ring of Hope to run a summer basketball and fitness program. Over this 18-week pilot program, Fresh Start engaged 15 young participants, providing four-hour sessions, four days a week. Youth learned fundamental basketball techniques—dribbling, shooting, and passing— while also improving their teamwork, agility, and endurance. Like any new program, there were challenges: keeping youth engaged, ensuring instructions were understood and retained, and teaching the difference between casual play and technical skill development. However, by the program’s end, enrollment had grown, particularly among female participants, and every youth reported increased confidence and physical well-being.