SOUTH SHORE — As a way to keep young people safe during the summer, a South Side community organizer is sponsoring a free mentoring and basketball program.
The citywide Fresh Start Youth Mentoring and Basketball Program for youths ages 10 to 17 begins 6 p.m. Tuesday at Christ Bible Church and Gym, 7877 S. Coles Ave., and will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday. Parents unable to attend Tuesday's kickoff can call 773-437-5819 to register their youth.
The event was organized by South Chicago resident Keiana Barrett, who said her goal is to keep young people safe and to provide fun activities for them.
"During each session, we will deliberately dedicate time to talk with each participant about their daily experiences, concerns, fears and future plans," she said. "We will offer interactive exercises on peace circles, morale strengthening, conflict resolution and team building."
Barrett, an aldermanic candidate for the seventh ward, added that the program could accommodate up to 75 kids, and hopes to expand the program next year to include more youths.
"In order for our community to thrive and be transformed, we must reinvest in our most prized commodity — our youths and our families," Barrett said. "The program is designed to afford area youth and their families a slate of safe, meaningful and affordable activities over the course of the summer."
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