Kids Off The Block, Inc.

We are asking for donations to enhance programs, expand our outreach capabilities, hire more staff, and be able to continue to offer free programming to our participants. KOB programs provide diverse youth development programs which build character and enhance academic ability of its participants. Youth who live in Roseland are generally labeled as “at-risk” youth. The crime rate is high. The socioeconomic status of families in the community is severely low. Human service organizations and recreation centers are either far in-between or non-existent. The mission of KOB is social change – an offer of alternatives to gang violence, drugs sales/usage, school truancy and the juvenile justice system. KOB provides services to over 300 youth in the Roseland Community (inner-city Chicago) on a yearly basis through after-school programs such as; Tutoring, homework assistance GED Preparation Financial literacy Physical education, health & nutrition Male & female mentorship Music Drama/Theatre Community Service Local/Out of Town Travel Career Development/Workshops Job Referral/Training Programs 94.8% of the Roseland population is African-American • 12.5% have a college degree • 20.2% have not completed high school • 43.1% are unemployed • 37.5% of the population is below poverty level • 26.3% of the families are headed by women These statistics show why the Roseland area is a breeding ground for at-risk youth to be involved in negative behaviors. During the past 5 years, the level of violence has increased to the point where it is impossible for youth not to be affected – either directly or indirectly. Youth from the ages of 12 through 19 years are targeted for the programs; however no one is turned away or denied benefit of KOB programs. As of December, 2008 KOB had an active membership of 252, with a waiting list of more than 100 youth. Youth enjoy being involved in KOB activities. Our goals are: • To increase awareness and understanding of violence prevention • To develop and apply violence prevention skills • To increase self respect, self awareness, and pride • To give youth the opportunity to become caring and successful adults in their communities To accomplish these goals, the KOB board of directors plans to provide a safe haven for the youth to congregate and enjoy learning. From its inception to date KOB activities have been held in the home of its founder – Diane Latiker. Kids Off the Block operates five days a week, on average, 25 to 35 attend daily, we service young people between 12-19 years, for 42 weeks a year and from 4 pm-8 pm in the evening Monday thru Friday. In the summer, KOB provides 2 months filled with various activities (sports, workshops, field trips) from 2 pm – 6 pm. KOB’s volunteer staff recognize the importance of being there for the youth in the community. Our program offers the tutoring needed to improve grades and test scores. Featured speakers expose the youth to information concerning careers, the environment and issues on handling life skills topics.