Sharif Walker
Sharif Walker
Youth and Community Development & Organizational Leadership Specialist
It is my personal mission and responsibility to advocate for, and develop transformative community constructs that help youth and their families thrive!
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Personal Statement
A certified youth development practitioner, Sharif’s 20+ year career in Chicago’s philanthropic sector includes stints at the Chicago Park District and managing multi-million dollar budgets, strategic partnerships, and teams at the nationally recognized, out-of-school time organization, After School Matters®, providing programming to nearly 9,000 teenagers annually.
Deeply committed to civic engagement, Sharif is the former board chair of Austin Coming Together and founded his own nonprofit organization, Pyramid Players Productions. Since 2015, Sharif has volunteered as a Youth Advisor for Illinois State Representative LaShawn K. Ford (D-8th District), facilitating events and advising the office on issues impacting youth. Through his newest venture, Ground Game Consulting, Sharif provides strategic guidance to organizations and individuals seeking to change socioeconomic circumstances for youth and families in their local communities. Some of his clients include the Chicago Bulls, Austin Community Action Council, and the Austin Town Hall Park Advisory Council.
Major Work in the Public Way
Major Accomplishments
Awards
A well-respected community leader, Sharif has received multiple awards for his work
The Ember Award from the Black United Fund of Illinois
Planting Seeds of Change Award from Taproots, Inc.
Committee Service Award from the Westside Ministers Coalition
The Far South Community Action Council (Chicago Public Schools) Humanitarian Award