We are trying to challenge pre-conceived notions, widen perspectives, interrupt trauma, and create new opportunities: We believe Exposure is the first step. Isolation is a common issue in a large number of neighborhoods in the city. Many of the young people we serve have barely left their block, and have never experienced Chicago outside of their neighborhood. By taking teenagers outside of their comfort zones, but right next door in their own city, they can see what Chicago has to offer, and experience a different perspective that will awaken ownership and pride in them.
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setting everyone up for success.
My Block My Hood My City is here to start the conversations that cultivate a deeper connection to our communities and the people within them in order to ensure everyone has what they need to succeed. We work tirelessly to empower our neighbors with knowledge and inspire them with opportunity so they can take positive action with confidence, creating a new world of possibilities for themselves and their families - and ultimately, the block, the hood, and the city, too.
Our volunteering efforts.
We believe that the city reflects who we are, and we have a responsibility to what it is. Therefore we host multiple volunteer events per month through our Community Development Initiatives. We support Chicago communities by cleaning alleys, mowing lawns, shoveling for seniors, and more.
The explorers program
My Block, My Hood, My City provides youth from divested neighborhoods with an awareness of the world and opportunities beyond their neighborhood. We take students on explorations focused on Vocation/Education, Arts Expression, Culinary Experiences, and Recreation. In 5 Years of its existence, the Explorers Program has taken young Chicagoans to hundreds of different exploration sites, both within the city and beyond!