On Saturday, June 3, 2017, ALSO hosted the 22nd Annual Walk for Peace on the grounds of the now closed Von Humboldt Elementary School in Humboldt Park. The event’s theme of “Peacing the Blocks” was a concept developed by community residents during our Community Collaboration and Resident Empowerment grant from Get IN Chicago in summer 2016.

Before the walk, ALSO Executive Director Lori Crowder welcomed community partners, residents, and ALSO supporters gathered together to bring peace to the blocks of Humboldt Park. Her words demonstrated how the strength of our community increases every time we make new connections and convert our enthusiasm for Humboldt Park into positive engagement and action. Crowder also emphasized need of community to hold each other and systems accountable. She then introduced further remarks from Kara Ervin (ALSO Board president), Milagros Burgos (mother of deceased community violence victim, Alexandria Burgos), and Board member Pastor Bruce Ray of Kimball Avenue Church. ALSO staff also recognized the youth participants enrolled in the 10-10-10 Program.

Following the walk were free food, raffles, a basketball tournament, and entertainment including youth dance contests. Special thanks to our performers and presenters, Jazmine Graciani (emcee and singer), Zarena Leblanc (Z Flava fitness), Rina Kyles (spoken word artist), Jayce Christian (singer), and Baskets Not Bullets and to 10-10-10 and New Level Sound, who provided music and technical support. We’d also like to recognize our partner and friend, Pastor Ed from New City Fellowship, who helped make the Walk for Peace happen!

Thank you to all who came out for peace. Special thanks to our in-kind donors: Wintrust Community Bank, Defined Fades, Delta Dental, Jelly Belly, Eats and Sweets, Global Maintenance Solutions, Evergreen Food Mart, Genotype Media, Illinois Facilities Fund, Edward Enriquez, Twisted Scissors, West Town Bikes, and Brookfield Zoo.  

Visit flickr to see photos from the event!

Watch local news coverage of the event. Vea el reportage local del evento.

Next time, don’t miss out! Get involved with ALSO today!