Charismatic Chicago-Based Pastor Prepares for Transcontinental Voyage to Aid Struggling American Youth
Pastor Corey Brooks Embarks on "Walk Across America" to Raise Funds and Promote Values
Pastor Corey Brooks, known as the "Rooftop Pastor," is set to embark on a 3,000-mile journey from New York City to Los Angeles, starting on September 1, 2025. The purpose of this walk is twofold: to raise awareness and funding for community development in Chicago and for underserved youth across the nation, and to promote the values of Project H.O.O.D., a non-profit organization he founded.
The walk serves as a symbolic and practical campaign aimed at restoring America's cultural and spiritual foundation. Pastor Brooks' message centers around merit, faith, and opportunity, and he views the walk as a rebellion against government dependency and cultural decline. He intends to rally communities across 50 anchor cities, sharing stories of resilience and reigniting belief in the American Dream centered on God, family, and sacrifice.
The specific fundraising goal is $25 million, which Pastor Brooks aims to raise through this endeavor to complete the construction of Project H.O.O.D.'s Leadership and Economic Opportunity Center in Chicago, debt-free. This 90,000-square-foot facility will be a significant step in realizing Pastor Brooks' vision for Project H.O.O.D. and its expansion across the country. The funds will also support community-based programs nationwide, including mentorship, mental health services, and youth job training initiatives in the cities the walk passes through.
Pastor Brooks believes that this walk will demonstrate the power of faith and hard work in achieving great things. He gained national attention in 2011 when he lived on the roof of a rundown motel in Chicago for 94 days to protest violence and raise money to build a community center. This demonstration led to the founding of Project H.O.O.D., which provides mentorship, training, and community support to local residents.
In Chicago, the Leadership and Economic Opportunity Center is made possible by support from private citizens, business leaders, and donors, including Fox Network. The construction of this center is a significant step in realizing Pastor Brooks' vision for Project H.O.O.D. and its expansion beyond Chicago.
Pastor Brooks has previously worked in one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in America and claims to have transformed it. He expresses optimism about America's potential, stating that with faith, hard work, and vision, anything can be accomplished in America. The "Walk Across America" is not just about raising funds, but also about raising awareness and promoting the values of Project H.O.O.D.
References:
[1] Chicago Tribune
[2] CNN
[3] NBC News
[4] ABC News
[5] Washington Post
- "Pastor Corey Brooks' 'Walk Across America' strives to rekindle the American Dream, advocating for merit, faith, and opportunities, just as in sports like basketball and the NBA."
- "Brooklyn-bound, Pastor Brooks embarks on a 3,000-mile journey, upholding the values of his mission amidst the politics, paralleling the tenacity of athletes journeying up the NBA ranks."
