ABOUT US
OUR VISION
We're creating a future where sustainability is accessible to everyone, everywhere.
HISTORY OF THE 548 FOUNDATION
548 Foundation was born from the mission and vision of 548 Capital, an organization dedicated to building sustainable housing in underserved communities.
When CEO A.J. Patton walked through his frst major project—a multi-million dollar development on 79th Street—he paused, struck by a powerful realization: he had the power to decide who would be working on the job site.
Determined to make a difference, he prioritized hiring people of color, women, and others often overlooked, focusing especially on individuals from surrounding neighborhoods.
This led him to see an even greater opportunity: why not empower people in underserved areas to build up their own communities?
With this vision in mind, the 548 Foundation was created, and today, it runs a sustainable energy workforce education program that helps individuals in need of a second chance gain the skills to rebuild their neighborhoods.
Through hands-on training, mentorship, and job placement support, the Foundation is transforming lives and providing access to meaningful careers in the green economy.
By expanding these opportunities, the Foundation not only empowers individuals but also advocates for a future where sustainability is accessible to all, helping communities once left behind lead the way in building a more sustainable tomorrow.
MEET OUR FOUNDER
A.J. Patton grew up in unit 548 of a public housing project in Terre Haute, Indiana—an address that now inspires the name and mission of the 548 Foundation. As a child, his family struggled to make ends meet.
He remembers a time when a $400 gas bill meant no heat and boiling water for baths for over a year. “That sticks with you,” AJ says. “It’s why I’m committed to lowering utility bills with clean energy.”
A.J.’s journey to creating the 548 Foundation started in the corporate world, working as an executive at a major firm.
One day, he came across a deal about solar energy as an investment strategy. Curious, he asked the higher-ups if they planned to offer discounted solar energy to low-income families.
When the answer was no, A.J. couldn’t shake the thought: What if I owned both the real estate and the solar?
That idea became his mission.
He left his job, rolled up his sleeves, and created 548 Enterprise to renovate properties in underserved neighborhoods and make sustainability accessible to those who need it most.
MEET THE 548 TEAM
A.J. Patton
CEO
Kynnee Wallace
Administrative Director
Felicia Nixon
Director of Training
Crystal Overton
Director of Student Support
OUR IMPACT
To learn more about our organizational accomplishments, review our most recent impact report.