“If the first woman God ever made was strong enough to turn the world upside down all alone, these women together ought to be able to turn it back , and get it right side up again! And now they is asking to do it, the men better let them.“
Sojourner Truth: Ain’t I A Woman?
Crime in the Chicago Housing Authority has decreased by 90 percent in a three year period. That decrease, in large part, is due to the work of Black women who are in the top ranks of AGB, the largest Black owned employer in the city of Chicago and largest Black owned security firm in the nation. Security is a man’s world– women only comprise 11 percent of the industry. AT AGB, however, 60 percent of their top (Captain) roles are filled by women and 50 percent of their executive team is comprised of women. Like Sojourner Truth, the ladies of AGB can “work as much…as a man,” the numbers don’t lie.
Women represent a mere 25 percent of executives, senior-level officials and managers, at S&P 500 companies. AGB doubles that average for women at 50 percent and the strategy is clearly working. According to Inc. 5000 & Crain’s, AGB is one of the fastest growing businesses in the nation, with a growth of over 350% over the last three years. This multi-million-dollar firm isn’t just in the business of safety, they are also securing the futures of communities. AGB is the largest Community Policing entity protecting local businesses across the Chicagoland area and they do it with women at the forefront. AGB believes in impacting businesses and valuing individuals that are very often overlooked– like Black women. Through job creation, workforce development, scholarships and life skills, AGB is “Always Giving Back.”
AGB Investigative Services, Inc., offers expertise in all aspects of security, including physical and cyber. Founded in 2001 in the basement of Dr. Denitra and John Griffin’s home, the firm is focused on protecting “your people, property, and data.” Today, AGB combines state-of-the-art technology with physical security and education, employing 800+ full- and part-time security professionals who provide armed and unarmed security services, cyber security, private investigations and expert-level training. The firm’s growth was enhanced exponentially when, Dr. Denitra Griffin (Ed.D.), helped the company expand its offerings. A former Chicago Public Schools program manager, Dr. Griffin was able to develop the firm’s management and training systems, steering the company into providing more corporate services.
The nation is celebrating Women’s History Month in March and that is commendable. AGB is celebrating and empowering Black women all year long. Join them in celebrating the women that aren’t only helping to keep Chicago safe, but that are also providing opportunities for workforce development and life skill training through the AGB’s two 501(c ) 3’s, the Always Giving Back Foundation & The AGB Institute. Sojouner Truth asked the question, “Ain’t I A Woman?” and the ladies of AGB are answering emphatically, yes.