Overview
- My Block, My Hood, My City held its fourth annual Downtown Day on Saturday, July 11, offering workshops, tours and partner-hosted experiences for youth from the South and West Sides.
- Coverage reported turnout inconsistently, with some outlets describing the crowd as hundreds and others reporting roughly 1,000 participants.
- Founder Jahmal Cole said the one-day program cost about $250,000 and urged public and private investment to expand similar programs as preventive alternatives to unsanctioned teen gatherings.
- Participating teens recommended more affordable events, targeted outreach to Gen Z, indoor recreational spaces and greater autonomy for older teens to help make downtown welcoming year-round.
- The initiative depends on partnerships with more than 30 institutions, including the Art Institute, Shedd Aquarium and Navy Pier, and organizers say sustainability will require new funding and city support.