THE CHICAGO SOUTHSIDE’S PREMIER CULTURAL & CREATIVE COLLECTIVE

Celebrating Heritage. Elevating Artistry. Building Community.

UPCOMING EXPERIENCES

Donated to Southside Youth & Community Programs

Attendees engaged across our events

Black-owned vendors & businesses supported

Juneteenth curated events

WHAT WE DO

Creating Opportunities

Since launching, The Low End Collective has grown into one of Chicago’s most influential Southside cultural platforms—bridging community, creativity, and legacy. We honor the history of the Low End while elevating the next generation of Chicago talent through immersive cultural events, strategic collaborations, and community-centered initiatives.

The Low End Collective curates experiences that celebrate the richness of Southside culture. From honoring the history of the Low End to amplifying today’s creative voices, our work preserves legacy while pushing culture forward through storytelling, artistry, and intentional representation.

Our signature events—including the annual Juneteenth Block Party, The Gift Chi showcases, and intimate creative gatherings—serve as platforms for artists, entrepreneurs, and residents to connect. We design high-impact, culturally rooted experiences that highlight Chicago’s talent and bring communities together.

We invest directly into the neighborhoods we serve through strategic giving, partnerships with Southside nonprofits, support for Black-owned vendors, and accessible community programming. Our mission is to uplift, empower, and reinvest into the communities that shaped us.

We collaborate with artists, small businesses, brands, and cultural institutions to build meaningful partnerships. From brand activations to content creation to lifestyle initiatives, we support our partners through strategy, production, and creative alignment—helping them grow their reach and impact.

WHO’S AT THE TABLE

Our Partners

The Low End Collective partners with standout organizations across culture and community to enhance our offerings and bring powerful experiences to the neighborhoods we serve.

Learn more

WHO WE ARE

Our Team

Kenneth “KT” Thompson

Founder, CEO & Director of Operations

Audrey V.

Director, Entertainment

C The Future

Director, Media & Content

Rico Acoff

Director, Brand & Design