Nicole Vaughn is a lifelong resident of Chicago’s Englewood neighborhood. Nicole worked in Englewood Cure Violence (formerly Ceasefire) to end senseless shootings and killings that plagued the neighborhodd. She is currently the leadorganizer in Englewood to end mass incarceration.
In 2012, Nicole co-founded and became the Executive Director of We R Englewood, a recognized 501 (c) 3, serving youth and families in the Englewood community. We R Englewood provide the community with the resources needed to raise awareness of health and safety. We R Englewood also hosts several events throughout the year to educate and provide the community with information and additional resources.
In 2016, Nicole ran for political office, State Representative in the 6th legislative district. She was unsuccessful in winning her election but was very proud of garnishing over 20% of the vote which equated to over 4,700 votes. The real victory was running a grassroots campaign and the residents in the 6th district believed in her mission to change the status quo.
Nicole may be most proud of restoring the historic Englewood Back to School Parade in 2014. The Parade is truly a gem and has been a part of the community for 59 years. She was able to bring organizations and families back together to continue a great tradition. It is her belief that this event will help revitalize hope and restore the sense of community and pride that once existed in the Englewood community. Through her leadership, the parade in 2014-2019 had over 6,000 attendees. At the parades, over 5,000 bags of school supplies were given away, there was free food and drinks, free haircuts, fun activities and other giveaways. Nicole desires to pursue entrepreneurship in her community in efforts to make an even greater impact. But more than anything, Nicole is a proud resident of Englewood.