Bishop Dr. Claude Porter
Founder, President/CEO Emeritus
A Life of Service, Leadership, and Impact
Bishop Dr. Claude Porter was a lifelong servant leader, community activist, and faith-driven visionary whose impact spans ministry, community development, and social justice.
The Family Man and Religious Leader
Bishop Dr. Claude Porter was born on January 21, 1937, in Memphis, Tennessee, to the late James and Corean Porter.
He proudly served his country by enlisting in the U.S. Army.
He entered the ministry in 1960 under the pastorate of the late Rev. A. R. Williams at Greater White Stone Missionary Baptist Church in Memphis, Tennessee. Upon relocating to Chicago, Illinois, in November 1960 with his wife and family, Bishop Dr. Porter joined Greater Progressive M.B. Church under the leadership of the late Rev. V. B. Watts, Sr.
In 1972, following a church reorganization, Bishop Dr. Porter became the Founder and Pastor of Proviso Missionary Baptist Church in Maywood, Illinois. His commitment to spiritual leadership reached a new milestone in 2005 when, on August 25th, he was consecrated and installed as Bishop, surrounded by a council of clergymen, his church staff, and members. In May of 2002, he was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Letters Degree from Aspen Christian College, further affirming his academic and theological commitment.
The Founding of Proviso Leyden Council for Community Action Inc (PLCCA)
In 1968, Bishop Dr. Porter founded the Proviso Leyden Council for Community Action Inc (PLCCA), a not-for-profit organization based in Maywood, Illinois. As Founder, President & CEO, he has led the agency to become a cornerstone of community support across 26 municipalities in the Proviso and Leyden Townships, the broader Chicago metropolitan area, and throughout Illinois. PLCCA serves over 30,000 individuals and families annually, operating with a budget exceeding $9 million and overseeing properties valued at approximately
$9.1 million.
The organization’s mission is to “advocate for social change while promoting community development and empowering people through education, training, and supportive services.”
Mentor, Counselor, Advisor
Globally recognized for his lifelong dedication to service, Bishop Porter was a towering presence in Chicago’s civic and social landscape. His partnerships and initiatives extended far beyond boardrooms—shaping policy, strengthening neighborhoods, and mobilizing communities around shared purpose. He played a pivotal role in founding organizations such as Interfaith and the Proviso Township Ministerial Alliance Network, which continue to stand as trusted pillars of support, advocacy, and hope throughout the region.
Bishop Porter also served as a trusted advisor to community and faith leaders as well as elected officials, lending his wisdom and compassion to state and federal committees committed to the public good.
Bishop Dr. Porter was affiliated with numerous organizations and initiatives, including:
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Founder & President, Porter Family Center
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President, Maywood Phoenix Homes
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President, Goodell Place Homes
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Member, Maywood Rotary (since 1972)
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Chairman Emeritus, Proviso Township Ministerial Alliance Network (PTMAN)
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Chairman, Interfaith Illinois
Awards and Recognitions
Throughout his lifetime of service, Bishop Dr. Porter has been honored with numerous awards, including:
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Humanitarian and Community Spirit Awards
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Pioneer Award, HHS Head Start
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Hall of Fame Inductee, Partners for Progress
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V103 Radio Hometown Hero Award
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Jefferson Award, Honoring Chicago’s Unsung Heroes
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Black Heritage Eagle Award
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King Legacy Award, American Family Insurance
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Businessman of the Year, Washington, D.C.
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Chicago Defender Pastor’s Salute Honoree
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Rock of Ages Iron Sharpens Iron Honoree
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Rich Township Businessman of the Year Award
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Illinois Public Health Emergency Preparedness Award
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Father of the Community Award, Rainbow PUSH Coalition
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Community Award, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.
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MLK Keeper of the Dream Award, Gospel Tribune
In recognition of his outstanding service, the Village of Maywood honored Bishop Porter with a commemorative street sign at 5th and Madison.
Bishop Porter Entered into Enternal Rest on
December 30, 2025
Bishop Dr. Claude Porter, a pivotal figure in the Greater West Side community of Chicago and beyond, died at the age of 88 on December 30, 2025. His lifetime of work in intertwining faith, politics, and social service amounted to an extraordinary legacy that impacted countless lives and institutions.
The Legacy Continues
The PLCCA Inc Board Appoints
Claudette Harrell - President and CEO
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Beverly P. Smith -Chief Operating Officer
