The Carradine–Coleman Foundation (CCF) was born from two powerful family legacies — one rooted in entrepreneurship and construction, the other in education and civil rights.

From Russell and Dorothy Carradine’s community stewardship to Kermit and Letha Coleman’s work in law and education, their shared values have shaped generations dedicated to empowerment, opportunity, and justice.

In 2021, their children and grandchildren — Zollie Carradine, Dr. Karen Carradine, Lauren Green, and Ashley Coleman — united these traditions to create a foundation that bridges education, trades, and wealth-building for minority youth across Chicago.

CCF stands as both a tribute and a promise: to honor our ancestors’ work by ensuring that equity and access remain cornerstones for every young person’s success.