About LOGIC
Look back. Build forward.
LOGIC Mentoring is a Chicago 501(c)(3) nonprofit preparing young people to shape what comes next.
The Sankofa philosophy
Go back and get it.
Sankofa is an Akan symbol from Ghana: a bird moving forward while looking back, carrying an egg — the future — in its beak. It teaches that wisdom from the past is how we build what's ahead.
That's why the bird sits inside our name. Every LOGIC learner carries their history, culture, and community with them as they build.
Mission
LOGIC Mentoring connects young people to mentorship, financial capability, technology, and pathways to opportunity.
Values
- Rooted.
- We honor where young people come from and build on that strength.
- Rigorous.
- High expectations, real skills, real work.
- Relational.
- Growth happens through trusted, consistent relationships.
- Resourceful.
- We connect young people to tools, people, and opportunity.
Founder's vision
John Caldwell — Founder & Executive Director
John Caldwell is the founder and executive director of LOGIC Mentoring, a Chicago-based nonprofit dedicated to helping young people build the skills, confidence, and opportunities they need to succeed.
His commitment to youth development grew from his work at Dulles School of Excellence, where he served as Dean of Students and Youth Intervention Specialist. Working directly with students, he created the original LOGIC mentoring program to address academic challenges, social-emotional needs, and the importance of trusted relationships during critical stages of development.
Through mentoring, student intervention programs, and community partnerships, John helped connect young people with opportunities beyond the classroom — work that emphasized conflict resolution, academic support, family engagement, and enrichment experiences that introduced students to mentors and new possibilities.
John earned a Bachelor of Arts in African American Studies from Chicago State University, with a focus on the educational, social, and economic issues affecting Black communities.
Today, he leads LOGIC Mentoring with a vision to expand access to mentorship, technology education, financial literacy, career exploration, and practical life skills. His goal is to help young people recognize their potential, overcome challenges, and build stronger futures for themselves and their communities.