Youth March to "Stop the Violence"

Wow! Has it been a month since we last posted?! That's not because there hasn't been any excitement around Sunshine. We'll have to catch you up to speed.

We've mentioned the uptick in violence this past end-of-summer/beginning-of-fall as local gangs renewed their fight over turf. Extra, and unanticipated, measures were taken to ensure the safety of those who consider our center a second home and of our staff members and building. The violence, however, afforded us interactions with the community that have only strengthened our relationships. Long-term community residents, which include block club leaders, police, agents at local social service agencies, along with Sunshine, have mobilized. Our joint efforts have included youth, in particular those who are being tutored and mentored to grow in their character and academic achievements. Back in November, at the tail-end of the violent spree, a march of youth, who refuse to stand for this violence, was organized and Sunshine endorsed the march, acting home base for the event.

The newspaper, The Chicago Defender, covered the story. Click Here.



Dave Clark, our City Team Leader, is pictured along with a number of youth who are involved in our programs.