Insiple Coalition for a Better Future

Allen S. Mickle is a testament to resilience and transformation. Growing up on Chicago’s South

Side, Allen entered the ranks of one of the city’s most notorious gangs as a teenager, quickly

rising to leadership. By the age of 23, he had already lived a life that rivaled those twice his age,

navigating a complex world of loyalty, conflict, and survival.

Allen’s teenage years were anything but ordinary. By 15, he was living an adult-like existence,

surrounded by material success but burdened by the heavy toll of street life. Through trials and

tribulations, he witnessed the devastating loss of friends and family to the violence that defined

those years. Arrested nearly 30 times by the age of 23, incantation became a recurring cycle,

culminating in a stint in the Illinois Department of Corrections. For Allen, bonding out and

returning to the streets had become routine. Despite the circumstances.

Allen made a pivotal decision at 24 to retire from gang life with

dignity and respect an uncommon path for someone in his position. This decision, although

misunderstood by many, marked the beginning of his journey toward redemption and purpose.

Reflecting on his past, Allen recognized the unique insight and resilience forged through his

experiences and set out to channel them into creating opportunities for others to escape the

cycle of violence and hardship.

Allen embarked on a path of personal and professional growth. He founded and managed

several successful businesses; Dream Big Painters and Construction Inc., co-founded We Run

America Inc.(trucking company) and previously owned and operated New Look Finish (painting

company), showcasing his leadership and entrepreneurial spirit. From 2010 to present Allen has

had an open door policy using his firsthand knowledge of street life to mediate conflicts and

prevent violence.