CYC Joins My CHI, My Future for the Summer Kickback Series

Chicago recently launched the “Summer Kickback Series”, an initiative to create safe spaces for youth on the South and West sides. The program hires teens from the communities to host youth-focused activities as part of Mayor Lightfoot’s My CHI, My Future, which connects Chicago youth with out-of-school experiences to help them connect, play, learn, and explore pathways to college and future careers. 

CYC is extremely grateful to be included in the Series and served as the site for the first event: Jam and Paint! 

Right outside CYC-Sidney Epstein Center at the expansive park, participants gathered to use their creative skills and imagination to paint what they wanted their future to look like. 

Guests could enjoy a stand with delicious tacos, freshly blended smoothies, a lounge and video game area, and a DJ booth. Teens and local families alike came through to snack, mingle, and paint their own canvases to take home.  

CYC was fortunate enough to have participation and assistance from the Parks Department and CPD, who engaged with teens and staff, and even created some masterpieces of their own. 

Hope, a former member of CYC Fellowship House who now works with teens in the Summer Kickback Series, believes that the events offer “a great experience for our teens, it allows them to gain experience with community event planning and also getting to learn more about their community. At first we were unsure as to what we were going to do because when people hear ‘Lawndale’ they don't see all the great things it has to offer. Our goal is to change that! We want to highlight all the assets the community has to provide for teens, but mostly the neighborhood in general.” 

There are many more Summer Kickback Series scheduled for the summer, each happening at different parks and organizations throughout the South and West sides. So far, CYC has participated in a fun Splish n Splash teen event, complete with a slip and slide and water games, as well as a Culture Fest, both held at Homan Square.  

“We picked events that would bring teens out of their shells and do something fun,” Hope shared. “It's been a great experience working with a group of talented individuals who share fun new exciting ideas for some of the most amazing memorable events throughout the summer. We hope to have this program for future generations.” 

We look forward to seeing you all at a Kickback Series soon! Please follow our Instagram for all the latest updates.