DEAR ONE CITY FAMILY,

Who would have thought a single message on social media could help start a whole movement?

It all began when Joakim watched The Interrupters, a documentary highlighting the violence interruption work of Cure Violence Global (formerly known as CeaseFire). Moved by the film’s message and the powerful work happening in his adopted city, he gave the film a public shout-out, sparking a connection that would later evolve into a shared mission. Cobe, a central feature in the movie, responded in typical Cobe fashion, saying, “Thanks for watching my movie.” One conversation led to another, and we looked for ways Joakim could use his platform with the Chicago Bulls to give back to the community. We have been at it for 12 years now. 

Our work led to using basketball to bring people together, build trust, and create opportunities. That shared vision eventually became One City—a safe space where rivals become teammates and young men become leaders.

But this is bigger than basketball. It’s about giving players the tools to win in life. 

Since those early days, detailed in the pages ahead, we’ve integrated mentorship, conflict resolution, job training, and workshops into the program. In 2023, we received $2 million in support from the State of Illinois to expand our reach in Chicago, bringing together twenty-eight violence prevention organizations on the South and Westside and creating even more opportunities for our players to succeed.

We’ve seen firsthand how One City changes lives on the court and in the community. In the pages ahead, you will read how players go from opponents to friends, from uncertainty to stability, from surviving to thriving. 

And as we grow beyond Chicago, we know this is just the beginning.

To the players, coaches, mentors, and supporters, you are why One City is more than just a league. You are One City.

Let’s keep building. Let’s keep leading. Let’s keep proving that we are stronger together.

With gratitude and peace,

Joakim Noah & Cobe Williams
Co-Founders, One City