My Block, My Hood, My City held its fourth annual “Downtown Day” on Saturday, giving youth from the South and West Sides of Chicago a chance to explore and experience the city through a different lens.
Hundreds of kids and teens enjoyed a fun day in the heart of downtown, taking in the skyline, sights, and sounds.
“It feels nice and fun to see everybody come together to have a good time,” said Fredreuonna Warren, a youth participant.
For some, it was their first time exploring the city.
“It’s my first time here, just trying to see what it’s like to be in the city,” said Kendrick Daughtery, a youth participant.
Many of the young participants at the event said they were having a great time and praised the program.
“I’m out here with my friends having a great time,” said Jayce Nicks, youth participant. “This is a great program and I love it.”
“I feel like it’s good for kids to come out here and explore,” said Jamari Walker, youth participant.
They split into groups to explore what the city has to offer from arts and culture to its shopping and entertainment districts.
“It’s a great opportunity. I love it, I love to see them having fun,” said Lakila Henigan, a chaperone. “I love to see them doing things they normally don’t get to do in the inner city sometimes.”
The teens participating got a $50 pre-paid debit card to spend downtown.
The founder and CEO of My Block, My Hood, My City told NBC Chicago the event offers a positive alternative to the teen takeovers.
“If you show kids better they can do better they always rise to the occasion,” said Jahmal Cole. “I know we call them takeovers, but this is a perfect example, the teenagers planned this we didn’t plan it—they planned it.”
Cole has made it his mission to inspire the youth and empower communities. He wants teens to feel accepted, included, and welcomed downtown.
“You guys are the future of our city, and this belongs to you — Chicago belongs to everybody,” he said.
Cole said more events and safe spaces are needed for teens and calls for support and funding.
“This event cost $250,000 but we’re going to do it as much as we can, like, it’s really not about the money, but showing kids better, so they can do better, and that takes investments,” he said.
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