Hyde Park Citizen 9-20-2023

According to National Partnership, Black women are three to four times more likely to experience pregnancy-related death than white women; they are more likely to experience preventable maternal death compared with white women; and their heightened risk of pregnancy-related death spans income and education levels.

MAYOR BRANDON JOHNSON ANNOUNCES EXPANDED YOUTH COMMISSION

CHICAGO — Mayor Brandon Johnson announced the 5th cohort of the Mayor’s Youth Commission, expanding the Commission from 32 young people to 40 young people.

“My administration will always center the voices and lived experiences of Chicago’s youth in order to create an agenda that reflects their priorities and passions,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson. “The expanded Youth Commission, now in its fifth cohort, is an important avenue to engage with youth and provide an opportunity for our future leaders to weigh in on decisions that impact them.”

The Youth Commission meets monthly to hear from guest speakers and to give their input on youth-related City projects and policy. Youth Commissioners are between the ages of 14-19 and were selected through a rigorous application process which saw a record number of applicants from across the city. The 2023-24 cohort is the largest cohort in the Youth Commission’s history.

The 2023-24 Commissioners are: Addison Haywood, Eliot Ticer-Wurr, Shanya Yang, Grace Paluzzi Steele, Jayla Anderson Westbrook, Metzli Hernandez, Camila Alvarado, Rishi Chandra, Alessandra Romero, Molly Wilson, Miriam Niestat, Norah Guenthner, Alexander Torzewski, Jaqueza Thomas, Damarion Spann, Leisly Bahena, Zuri Belcore, Sarah Onyewuchi, Lanya Scott, Alejandra Sotelo, Destiny Plata, Mia Colone, Bowen Chen, Leah Norwood, Fernando Gonzalez, Brooke Jenkins, Johanna Castro, Anastacia Kelly, Ayanna McCarthy, Norah Al-Hallaj, Yaretzi Ulloa, Ayan Sayani, Zuhair Alsikafi, Malcolm Pinkston, Samantha Lopez, Benjamin Kagan, Taylor Anderson, Shanyah Morris, Precious Adedokun, and Natorion Johnson. The Commissioners come from across Chicago, representing 28 distinct community areas.

Youth Commissioners have given vital input to multiple city projects, including My CHI. My Future., the Department of Housing’s youth homelessness work, environmental justice projects, and more. The first meeting of the 2023-24 cohort took place on Saturday, Sept. 9th, at City Hall.

GOV. PRITZKER ANNOUNCES MAJOR ELECTRIC VEHICLE BATTERY FACTORY COMING TO KANKAKEE COUNTY

The $2 billion investment will create 2,600 jobs at Gotion-operated plant Manteno— Governor Pritzker joined statewide and Kankakee County officials, Gotion executives, and local stakeholders today to announce a new $2 billion Gotion lithium battery plant in Manteno. This announcement came after years of work by Governor Pritzker’s administration to grow Illinois’s global reputation in the EV field, create incentives focused on the new clean energy industry, and present the state as an optimal location for businesses to expand and grow. The plant will begin production in 2024.

Notable information from this announcement includes:

This is the largest EV battery production investment in Illinois to date, and the most significant manufacturing investment in Illinois in decades.

This plant will create 2,600 jobs that pay above the average wage for similar jobs in the area.

The Reimagining Energy and Vehicles Act, signed into law by Governor Pritzker in 2021, provided essential incentives to secure this deal, including funds from the Invest in Illinois business closing fund championed by Governor Pritzker this year.

The agreement includes the establishment of a state-of-the-art manufacturing training academy to educate workers for careers in clean energy. In addition, the state will offer grants to workforce providers to train and prepare regional employees for the available jobs.

Once production begins, the plant will bolster a key supply chain line for electric vehicle manufacturing and expansion in Illinois and across the region, aiding in EV expansion and adoption as Illinois continues to work towards the Governor’s goal of putting one million EV’s on the road by 2030.

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Start Early works to close the maternal health gap

BY TIA CAROL JONES

Start Early is working to address maternal health inequities in Chicago, with programs for mothers and their babies, both prenatally and postnatally.

Start Early was founded more than 40 years ago, servicing families on the South side of Chicago as Ounce of Prevention, with the mission to provide support for developing children and their families. Since then, it has expanded to 25 states.

“We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to reach their fullest potential in life,” said Mary Towers, Senior Program manager for the Home Visiting and Doula Network at Start Early.

Towers agreed that Black maternal and infant health is an important public health issue and an unacceptable health crisis, considering the rate of maternal and infant mortality. In the United States, maternal and infant mortality continue to climb, despite continued advances in the medical field and technology. Women of color, especially Black women, experience disproportionate maternal health outcomes compared to their white counterparts. Towers described the statistics as disturbing.

Start Early is working with community leaders and other experts to create a sense of urgency amongst the public to act and drive systemic change, so that thousands of birthing parents, unborn babies and all children in their earliest years can thrive. The organization has a dedicated policy and advocacy team that works closely with legislation and state leaders to come up with accountability, to improve maternal and infant health inequities.

Start Early also partners directly with communities to provide direct services to pregnant women and new parents who live in under resourced communities in the city. It does this by working with families to promote health through pregnancy, childbirth and postnatal care. One way it does this is by providing doula and home visiting services.

Some reasons for the high rates of Black maternal and infant mortality rates, Towers said, is a predisposition to high rates of disease – preeclampsia, high blood pressure, gestational diabetes – as well as the impact of racism and how it negatively impacts health and wellness for Black birthing individuals.

“Black women experience disproportionate access to maternal health, which puts them at increased risk for poor maternal and infant health outcomes, compared to their white counterparts,” Towers said, adding the structural racism and barriers that put people of color at a disadvantage – interpersonal biases, discrimination that results in differential treatment of people based on race. “For example, pain is often underassessed and undertreated in Black women who seek help from their healthcare providers.”

Towers said there is an ethical responsibility for individuals to promote a climate of culturally responsive healthcare systems, that optimize every women’s health and practices that promote equity for all. She added that, 85% of maternal and infant death are preventable. Prenatal and postnatal services are essential to maternal health outcomes because they promote healthy live births and enhance self- advocacy for mothers.

For more information about Start Early, visit https:// www.startearly.org.

Chicagoans Mourns The Loss Of Janie Bennett

Janie Bennett, born June 13, 1935, in Maotee, Mississippi, to Rinda Bennett and Curtis Barr, passed peacefully on August 29, 2023, in Beaumont, Texas. Janie was a selfless woman guided by her faith in Christ.

After attending lectures at Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, Illinois, Janie embraced the ‘Service’ style of evangelicalism. Her regular charity and compassion for others showed her spirituality.

Janie proudly owned the Ranch Motel on Stoney Island in the Pill Hill community, where many gospel and secular artists like BB King and Bobby Bland would patronize. Her motel provided shelter for people experiencing homelessness, demonstrating her servant leadership and teaching others to appreciate life.

Janie opened Chicago’s famous Gemini Music Store on King Drive because she loved music. The business supported emerging musicians and local talent as a community center. Janie man -

aged the Faithful Wonders, a gospel singing group that won several gospel music honors and touched many people with their spiritually uplifting music.

Janie’s community service enthusiasm started early. She created and ran Mount Pisgah Missionary Baptist Church’s Food for the Hungry program in the 1980s. Janie fed and supported several Chicago communities with the help of Pastor Joseph Wells and Soft Sheen co-founder Edward Gardner. She arranged Ethiopian famine aid, saving lives and alleviating starvation.

Under former Honorable Alderman Dorothy Tillman, Janie supported the 3rd Ward community. She helped initiate programs at the homeless men’s shelter, Washington-King Resource Center; as a Seniors of the 3rd Ward board member and as a member of the Third Ward Partnership, she joined other business leaders and civic groups to help revitalize Black businesses in Bronzeville. Janie and her close friend Margaret

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“We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to reach their fullest potential in life,” said Mary Towers, Senior Program manager for the Home Visiting and Doula Network at Start Early.

Duckworth Announces $3.5 Million in Congressionally Directed Spending to Support Water Improvements in Harvey

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S.

Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), co-founder of the Senate’s first Environmental Justice Caucus, announced that $3.5 million she secured through a Fiscal Year 2022 Congressionally Directed Spending Request will be sent by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to the City of Harvey for its Central Area Water and Sewer Improvement Project. This Duckworth-secured federal funding will increase Harvey’s financial capacity to implement long-overdue water infrastructure upgrades to help address chronic flooding and reduce resource costs for breaks and leaks repairs, while also helping provide higher quality drinking water to residents.

“Our state and our nation are stronger when we invest in our communities and families—and that’s one of the things Congressionally Directed Spending allows us to do,” said Duckworth. “I’m so proud I was able to secure this critical support for the community of Harvey. I’m dedicated to ensuring historically under-resourced communities have the support they need to invest in, repair and update their drinking water and wastewater systems to have safe, reliable water. Every American has a right to clean water—no matter their zip code.”

her steadfast efforts in securing these vital funds through the FY22 Congressionally Directed Spending process and look forward to collaborating on more initiatives that lead to a better quality of life for Harvey citizens.”

In FY22, Duckworth and U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) secured $211 million through Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) for Illinois, including $1.5 million to help the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago address sanitary sewer overflows in four disproportionately impacted municipalities, including Harvey. The Senators secured another $182 million for Illinois in FY23. The CDS process does not represent new spending, rather it enables Members of Congress to allocate existing funding for specific local projects by units of government, nonprofit organizations and other organizations that meet strict eligibility requirements.

HARRIS ANNOUNCES NEARLY $7.6 MILLION IN FUNDING TO LOCAL SCHOOLS

State Senator Napoleon Harris, III is excited to announce that $7.6 million in additional funding will be awarded to local schools to help move toward fair and equitable school systems in Illinois.

“As a father, I want to ensure all of our children have the opportunity to receive an excellent education,” said Harris (D-Harvey). “The state’s budget serves as an opportunity to outline our priorities as a state, and I am proud to say that we continue to fund our schools properly to help support students and educators throughout our communities.”

In 2017, Harris joined the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus in implementing an evidencebased funding formula —an overhaul of the way the state funds K-12 education. The law made school funding more equitable by calculating the needs of individual school districts and basing its state revenue on those needs. The formula takes into account a district’s total enrollment, poverty rate and number of special education or English language learners, among other factors.

CHATHAM-SOUTHEAST

“To receive a $3.5 million award from the EPA is both an honor and a privilege,” said Harvey Mayor Christopher J. Clark. “These funds, which are earmarked for the Central Area Water and Sewage Improvement Project in the City of Harvey, will significantly enhance our city’s infrastructure, ensuring a more sustainable and prosperous future for our residents. This award also re-enforces our commitment to forging important relationships. We extend our deepest gratitude to Senator Tammy Duckworth for

CHICAGOANS...

Senator Duckworth has been a consistent advocate for environmental justice including clean water for every American. Her Drinking Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Act, which has a focus on disadvantaged communities and was included in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will help rebuild our nation’s crumbling and dangerous water infrastructure and enable communities to repair and modernize their failing drinking water, stormwater and wastewater systems, while creating jobs. Duckworth is also the co-founder of the U.S. Senate’s first-ever Environmental Justice Caucus, which focuses on advocating for communities that have been disproportionately impacted by environmental injustices and helped secure $3 billion in funding for Environmental Justice block grants in the Inflation Reduction Act.

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Jones founded the Dorcas Women’s Shelter, which provided emergency shelter and job training for women.

As a founding board member and interim president of Tobacco Road, Incorporated, the organization that owns and operates the Harold Washington Cultural Center, Janie contributed her business and spiritual expertise to community activities.

Janie leaves love and compassion. Her son Allen Glenn Fulton, daughter Sandra F. Thomas (William Arnold Thomas), Dorothy Wright Tillman (spiritual sister), Jimalita Tillman (goddaughter),

Sharon Richmond (spiritual daughter), Martin Brustin (devoted friend), nieces, nephews, and many beloved relatives and friends survive her.

Janie Bennett lived a life of service and significant effect. Her selflessness and community service will inspire and guide future generations. May she rest eternally. Her services were held at the Harold Washington Cultural Center on Monday, September 18th, with a wake at 10 a.m. and a funeral at 11 a.m. Her arrange

ments were entrusted to A.R. Leaks and Sons.

“Our schools place our children on a pathway to accomplish their goals,” said Harris. “This funding is a step in the right direction. It is important that we continue to look for ways to ensure our families have the resources and support to be successful regardless of their financial status or ZIP code.”

Nineteen schools in the 15th Senate District will receive funding support, including:

Prairie-Hills Elementary School District 144 –$1,534,161

Bremen High School District 228 – $1,531,016

Homewood School District 153 – $ 922,409

Dolton School District 149 – $719,985

Beecher School District 200-U – $530,241

For a complete list of schools in the 15th District, visit www.SenatorNapoleonHarris.com.

For more information on the Fiscal Year 2024 evidence-based funding distribution, visit the Illinois State Board of Education’s website.

HUNTER ANNOUNCES $1.6 MILLION IN LOCAL RESTAURANT BUSINESS GRANTS

To help restaurants continue to recover from financial hardship sustained over the last few years, State Senator Mattie Hunter announced that 40 businesses in the 3rd Senate District will receive over $1.6 million in funding through the Back to Business grant program.

“The Back to Business program has helped hundreds of businesses in Chicago bounce back from the lasting effects of the pandemic,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “With the support of these grants, restaurants will be able to keep their doors open, retain jobs and continue to provide valuable services within our community.”

The Back to Business grant program provides recovery grants for small businesses throughout the state, with an emphasis on businesses in the hardest hit industries. Through the Back to Business and Business Interruption Grant programs, DCEO has provided more than $535 million to more than 15,000 businesses since the start of the pandemic.

Forty restaurants in Hunter’s district will receive a combined $1,665,000 through this round of Back to Business grants.

“The restaurant industry took a big hit a few years ago, and many have relied on the support of grants and community members to stay open,” said Hunter. “I’m grateful to see these local businesses receive the assistance they need to keep going.”

For more information about the Back to Business grant program, visit DCEO’s website.

“Our state and our nation are stronger when we invest in our communities and families—and that’s one of the things Congressionally Directed Spending allows us to do,” said Duckworth.

Aunt Jackie’s Curls and Coils Partners with BIPOC Designers for First NYFW Debut

ATLANTA, PRNewswire -- Leading textured haircare brand Aunt Jackie’s Curls and Coils is set to make its monumental debut at New York Fashion Week (NYFW) through exciting partnerships with designers Bach Mai and Sami Miró. This unprecedented collaboration not only marks the brand’s first-ever appearance at NYFW but also celebrates the power of inclusivity, diversity, and supporting Blackowned & AAPI businesses, models, hairstylists, and more.

AAPI designer and CFDA Emerging Designer of 2022 Nominee, Bach Mai, shares, “Healthy hair is beautiful hair, and Aunt Jackie’s Curls and Coils has truly wonderful, quality products that help achieve healthy, beautiful hair -- we’re so proud to have them as a show partner.” He continues, “Both myself and my brand always champion diversity and believe that our version of glamour is for everyone spanning all sizes, gender identities, and backgrounds. Who better to celebrate the love and individuality of natural beauty of all kinds than Aunt Jackie’s Curls and Coils, the perfect partner!”

Aunt Jackie’s Curls and Coils is bringing textured haircare and inclusivity to the runway by choosing to align with designers Bach Mai and Sami Miró due to their unwavering commitment to a diverse range of models. The brand recognizes the importance of representation and inclusivity within the fashion industry and is proud to join forces with designers who share these values.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with Aunt Jackie’s Curls and Coils as our official hair sponsor for our first New York Fashion Week runway show. Their motto of ‘natural hair is where it’s at’

and their commitment to using natural product ingredients aligns with Sami Miro Vintage’s ethos of taking a more sustainable approach. By joining forces for New York Fashion Week, we hope to not only be a representation of Black owned, Black women founders, but also be an example of possibilities,” says Sami Miró, founder, and designer of Sami Miro Vintage.

By partnering with Sami Miró, a visionary Blackowned brand, Aunt Jackie’s underscores its dedication to supporting and uplifting businesses within the BIPOC community. Sami Miró’s own debut at NYFW synergizes perfectly with Aunt Jackie’s momentous entry onto the prestigious fashion stage. This synchronicity of firsts reflects the dynamism and innovation that both brands bring to the table, as they embark on this exciting journey together.

“We are beyond thrilled to debut Aunt Jackie’s Curls and Coils at NYFW in collaboration with designers Bach Mai and Sami Miró,” said Monique Salas, Vice President of Brand + Marketing at Aunt Jackie’s. “This momentous occasion not only represents a significant step for our brand but also symbolizes our commitment to amplifying diversity, inclusion, and Black-owned + AAPI-owned businesses. We chose these partners with intentionality due to the inclusivity and representation they display through their brand ethos and on the runway.”

Beyond the runway, Aunt Jackie’s Curls and Coils is expanding its impact by initiating important conversations within the BIPOC community.

The brand is proud to introduce “Rooted Conversations” an ongoing in-person talk series aimed at fostering discussions with influential Black and Brown women who have paved their paths to success while embodying the values that Aunt Jackie’s stands for

As Aunt Jackie’s Curls and Coils graces the spotlight of NYFW, the brand not only reaffirms its status as an award-winning leader in textured haircare but also solidifies its role as a catalyst for vital discussions surrounding beauty, fashion, and culture within the BIPOC community. Aunt Jackie’s is also continuing to give back to their community through unique giftings, including a special NYFW experience. These initiatives stand as testaments to Aunt Jackie’s unwavering commitment to connecting deeply with its community and consumers, fostering meaningful and transformative relationships.

Aunt Jackie’s Curls and Coils is an award-winning textured haircare brand known for its innovative products designed to cater to a diverse range of curl patterns and hair textures. With a commitment to quality and inclusivity, Aunt Jackie’s empowers individuals to embrace their natural beauty and express themselves authentically. Aunt Jackie’s Curls & Coils is one of the fastest growing brands in the U.S. multi-cultural hair category, with 8 unique ingredient story collections. The brand is manufactured and marketed by House of Cheatham, Inc., headquartered in Stone Mountain, GA. Products are sold in mass, drug, grocery, specialty, and beauty supply stores in over 30 countries.

Follow Aunt Jackie’s Curls and Coils on Instagram and TikTok at @AuntJackiesCurlsAndCoils for some more behind the scenes. You can also find more information about the brand at auntjackiescurlsandcoils.com.

Urban Institute’s WorkRise Announces New Resource on Economic Mobility in Labor Market

WASHINGTON, PRNewswire -- WorkRise announced the launch of Working Knowledge, a new online resource exploring policies, practices, and solutions to support workers’ advancement in the labor market.

Learn more about this new resource by visiting www.workingknowledge.info.

Working Knowledge features accessible summaries of the latest research, in-depth articles, interviews with key changemakers, and a curated selection of news stories and events. It serves as a one-stop shop for decisionmakers in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors who are making and shaping policies, offering rigorous evidence translated for their needs and presented in a format they can use for action. Members of the media can expect top-notch data that are ready to amplify with audiences interested in keeping up with best practices for creating and sustaining quality jobs.

“With the labor market in flux, economic decisionmakers need a trusted source of high-quality

research and information about what works to improve work and help more people climb the economic ladder—especially for populations who have long struggled to get ahead,” said Todd Greene, WorkRise’s executive director.

“As workers face challenges to advancing out of low-wage jobs, Working Knowledge serves as an essential resource for stakeholders who are eager to change the status quo.”

With its continually growing body of content, Working Knowledge builds a deeper understanding of opportunities working people need and evidence-based solutions to build a more equitable, resilient labor market. Learn more about this new resource by visiting https://www.workingknowledge.info.

WorkRise is a research-to-action network focused on jobs, workers, and mobility hosted by the Urban Institute. WorkRise seeks to create a more equitable and resilient labor market that expands opportunity and strengthens economic mobility for low-wage workers. WorkRise pursues its mission by investing in research on promising practices, programs, and policies aimed at creating economic security and mobility for workers, particularly Black, Latinx, and Indigenous people, women, immigrants, and others facing historic and structural disadvantages. WorkRise convenes stakeholders across silos to develop data-driven solutions for private and public sector leaders to implement and scale to transform the lives of workers and families.

Aunt Jackie’s Curls and Coils

The Urban Institute

Dress for Success® Worldwide launches

its prestigious power lunch, Women Who Inspire, with guest of honor, Gayle King

NEW YORK, PRNewswire -- Dress for Success® Worldwide is honored to announce the return of Women Who Inspire on September 27, in New York City. Bringing together corporate executives, innovative thought leaders, media, social influencers, and the women Dress for Success serves, this event aims to create practical and sustainable solutions to advance economic opportunities for women.

Guest of honor, Gayle King, television journalist and Co-Host of CBS Mornings, will join Michele C. Meyer-Shipp, CEO at Dress for Success Worldwide, and Lucy Kaylin, Senior Vice President, Content, at Hearst Magazines, for an inspiring conversation on the art of career reinvention and purposeful living.

According to recent statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the National Women’s Law Center, since February 2020, the U.S. labor market has added 3.7+ million net new jobs, with men realizing a disproportionate share of that gain. One in five unemployed women have been out of work for 6 months or longer. Black, Latina, and disabled women have fallen even further behind. Inadequate childcare and support systems for working caregivers have driven many women from full-time into part-time jobs, an upward trend that hasn’t reversed since the pan demic. The need for upskilling and reskilling has never been greater.

Women Who Inspire rais es funds for innovative, no-fee programming for women in their pursuit of economic self-indepen dence and drives awareness that every dollar counts in positively impacting the lives of the wom en Dress for Success’ affiliates serve around the world.

Michele C. Meyer-Shipp, CEO of Dress for Success Worldwide, says: “The time is now to strategically re think traditional pathways to landing a job, keeping a job, and building a career. For the unem ployed and underem ployed women Dress for Success serves, flexible work schedules, childcare, and ongoing support systems are a top priority. They are

THE LARGEST GATHERING OF BLACK CREATIVES GLOBALLY, BLACK FOOTWEAR FORUM RETURNS TO DETROIT HBCU SEPTEMBER 21-24

DETROIT, PRNewswire -- The fourth annual national Black Footwear Forum (BFF) will convene at Detroit’s HBCU Pensole Lewis College of Business & Design (PLC) in partnership with the Footwear Distributors and Retailers of America (FDRA) on September 21-24. The theme for this year is Culture is Currency: Know Your Worth.

our priority too. We provide the tools and the network to help women discover their purpose and reinvent their lives, professionally and personally.”

This power lunch is possible thanks to the generous support of the 2023 Women Who Inspire exclusive digital sponsor Arm & Hammer Laundry and lead sponsors AGE Beautiful, imPRESS Beauty, KISS, SHE Media, T.J.Maxx, TORRID, and ULTA Beauty.

Dress for Success is the leading global nonprofit employment resource for unemployed and underemployed women.

Whether it’s career coaching and jobskill readiness, upskilling and reskilling, providing networks and community, or styling and professional attire, Dress for Success ensures women gain the tools they need to succeed in work and in life. Dress for Success builds confidence and determination from the inside out.

For more than 26 years, the organization has inspired more than 1.3 million women in over 140 affiliates in 24 countries.

The Black Footwear Forum (BFF) exists to celebrate and safeguard the influence, leadership, and creativity provided by Black professionals in the global footwear industry. As a collective of footwear industry professionals and supporters from around the country, BFF encourages collaboration in establishing industry goals that center on developing and advancing black talent at all levels.

Known as “The Industry’s Homecoming,” the event is made possible thanks to the donations of over 30 major industry brands, including Nike, Microsoft, PepsiCo, Adidas, Target, Foot Locker, Millerknoll, Rock, AmazonMusic and more. BFF is a community that brings together the most significant cluster of black creatives to share, educate, motivate, network, and address diversity and inclusion challenges in the design industry.

On Thursday, 9/21, to kick off BFF, we will have the ribbon cutting ceremony of the new Pepsi x Frito-Lay Refresh and Relax Lounge at PLC designed by PLC students. The BFF opening mixer, with music sponsored by AmazonMusic, will feature Global Hip Hop Pioneer DJ and Producer DJ Clark Kent. The art competition and showcase by MARTK’D and BFF VIP dinner, sponsored by Bacardi, will end the night.

“PepsiCo is honored to unveil the new student-designed lounge to kick off the Black Footwear Forum and as part of our continued partnership with Pensole Lewis. Together, we’re combining our resources to help bridge the diversity gap in the design industry and increase representation through education, opportunities, mentorship and more to drive further innovation in our field,” said Mauro Porcini, SVP and Chief Design Officer at PepsiCo.

Friday, 9/22, PLC’s President and Founder Dr. D’Wayne Edwards and FDRA President & CEO Matt Priest, will kick off BFF on September 22nd with opening remarks, followed by Culture Raises US Co-Founder and Host Astor Chambers starting the empowering conversations to celebrate and analyze diversity in the design industry. The 1st topic “Culture is Currency: Know Your Worth”, addressed by keynote speaker hip-hop legend and pioneer, Grandmaster Caz, (The Sugarhill Gang, Bronx Walk of Fame and Technics DJ Hall of Fame inductee), “50 Deep: Examining the history of hip hop, design, & culture with Hidden Figures” lead by legendary fashion icon April Walker(Walker Wear) rounding out the rest of the day with Black Genius talk by Rupert Campbell (President of Adidas NA), “JEMS by PENSOLE Spotlight: Highlighting the first black-owned shoe factory in the U.S.”, and “The Real DEIL” (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Leadership), “The Brand of Culture”, and many other enlightening topics.

Saturday, 9/23, BFF will begin with opening remarks from a surprise guest, followed by well-rounded panel discussions. These discussions will include “Black Genius Conversation” with Larry Miller (Chairman of JORDAN/Nike), “This is the Remix”, and a second “Black Genius Conversation” with two-time Academy Award-winning costume designer, Ruth Carter.

The Breakout Sessions comprise Black Owned Everything and TappedIn. “Music Fuels Culture: Exploring and discussing the intersection between Music, Art, Sneakers, and Design”, sponsored by Amazon Music, will follow. “Claim A Seat: Emerging Leaders in Sneakers” and the Blacklight Awards are also on the list.

The BFF works to cultivate community for Black footwear professionals through national and regional chapter events and activations. For more information, please visit https://www.blackfootwearforum. com.

Gayle King, television journalist and co-host of CBS Mornings, is this year’s Women Who Inspire guest of honor. Dress for Success® Worldwide

Black Footwear Forum

West Town Chamber of Commerce Announces Art Walk 2023 in Celebration of Art in All Forms

CHICAGO, ILL. – The West Town Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce Art Walk 2023, coming up on Friday, September 29 from 5p-8p and Saturday, September 30 from 12p-8p. The West Town neighborhood has earned a reputation as Chicago’s emergent “gallery district” and will welcome one and all to discover the vibrancy and creativity that make the West Town community so unique. This free, open path event throughout West Town allows attendees to enjoy art in all forms – be it visual, culinary, fashion, musical or otherwise, as they tour the neighborhood to explore all it has to offer. From local fashion to restaurants, galleries, home and garden shops, venues and more, visitors are invited to stroll at their leisure, or catch one of the free pedicabs stationed throughout the neighborhood. Activations and artists include Jasmina Cazacu who will be painting a live mural at Chicago Avenue West and North Lessing Street. in addition to robust programming throughout the community area’s nearly 50 participating locations. The full schedule and details of each participating location’s offerings are available at westtownartwalk.com, and highlights include the following:

EGUN ARTIST COLLECTIVE’s Garden Party at THE CENTER OF ORDER AND EXPERIMENTATION: 1727 W Grand Ave

Egun Collective’s Garden Party is in its sixth installation as a curated performing arts showcase, highlighting Chicago’s thriving music, dance, and visual art communities. Created by Egun Collective, headquartered in Mana Contemporary by Brittany Harlin, Garden Party will be hosted at The Center of Order and Experimentation on Friday, September 29 from 5-8pm for an intimate secret garden themed experience featuring live musical and dance performances, botanical installations, art vendors, garden themed mocktails, and more.

LIVE PAINTING BY KOLORMORE at BARCONIA WEST TOWN: 1814 W Chicago Ave

Live painting by Kyle Michel aka

Kolormore at Bar Cocina + WTAW specialty cocktails.

SUGOI SWEETS: 937 N Ashland Ave

Hand painted chocolate bonbons by Chef Elle Lei at SUGOi Sweets and ceramic dinnerware and housewares by guest artist Danielle Chutinthranond by Monsoon Pottery.

HERITAGE RESTAURANT & CAVIAR

BAR: 2700 W Chicago Ave

Pop-up gallery at Heritage Restaurant and Caviar Bar + live performances by Taylor Morse and live painting by Ennis Martin.

OGGI TRATTORIA: 1462 W Chicago Ave

Select glasses of red and white wine will be $7, and a WTAW prosciutto and melon snack will be available for $14.

RHINE HALL DISTILLERY: 2010 W Fulton St

A discounted, WTAW specialty cocktail on the menu at Rhine Hall Distillery + work by Marissa Allegretti aka Maretti Art. Further, the West Town Chamber of Commerce, in conjunction with local artist, JP Calubaquib, and the West Town Branch of the Chicago Public Library, is thrilled to announce a collaborative editorial photo project highlighting the diverse community of West Town. This project will highlight people who have lived, worked, or been a part of the West Town community. With this project, JP intends to amplify those voices and validate their experiences through meaningful conversations during the shoot. Each final image will be accompanied by quotes and short stories from the session to be debuted during West Town Art Walk 2023, and displayed throughout the month of October in the windows of the West Town Public Library at 1625 W Chicago Ave.

EVENT DETAILS + INFO

Art Walk 2023 will take place at participating businesses on Friday, September 29 from 5p-8p and Saturday, September 30 from 12p-8p. Event headquarters

will be stationed at four locations throughout the neighborhood: Heritage Restaurant & Caviar Bar (2700 W Chicago Ave), Petals and Jackets (1105 N Ashland Ave), Rhine Hall Distillery (2010 W Fulton St) and at the West Town Chamber of Commerce (1819 W Chicago Ave). These will be the only spots to pick up a commemorative poster featuring

original art by Brianna Hines and an official West Town Art Walk button! Art guides that highlight the spots to visit will be available at all headquarter locations and at every participating business. A full list of participants and their featured artists, events, and special promotions, is available at westtownchamber.org/west-town-art-walk.

FOR THE LOVE OF SHOES: CHICAGO SNEAKER BOUTIQUE LAUNCHES PODCAST PROMOTING COMMUNITY

After the successful launch of his latest sneaker boutique in Hyde Park, Chicago entrepreneur, and businessman James Denman is using his venture to bring people together through a new podcast. The Sneakerville 88 podcast features athletes, entertainers, artists, and even politicians. Even better, each podcast coincides with a new drop. The goal is to restore a sense of community and belonging over a shared love of sneakers.

“No matter your story or background, our common love of sneakers binds us together. It’s a conversation starter and something that we can use to begin to heal the deep divide that our country is in right now,” said entrepreneur and business owner, James Denman.

Healing the country? That may seem like a far-fetched idea in our current political climate, but maybe not. Recently, two U.S. congressmen launched the Congressional Sneaker Caucus to bring politicians to the table, regardless of their views. It’s that momentum Denman hopes to bring to his podcast and spread sneakerhead positivity throughout the City of Chicago.

No stranger to challenges, the Southside native, first opened what would become the number-one Harold’s Chicken in the City of Chicago on 35th and Indiana. He followed it up in 2019

with Harold’s Chicken 88 Sports Bar, the only franchise featuring a full-service bar in the South Loop. Last year, he added entrepreneur to his title of franchisee opening Sneaker Ville 88 in Bronzeville.

“Being a franchisee taught me so much and I continue to nurture and grow the Harold’s Chicken brand, but I also had goals of creating something of my own from the ground up. Thus, Sneakerville 88 was born,” added Denman.

Denman continues to look forward to the future and hopes to one day, franchise Sneakerville 88, with locations across the nation, eventually selling the brand.

Keeping it in the family, daughter, Jamee Denman, can be found running the Hyde Park location most days.

“Sneakerville 88 isn’t about me or my accomplishments, but rather creating generational wealth. My family is my why. Retiring and ensuring their future for years to come, that’s the goal,” said Denman.

Store Locations:

Harold’s Chicken 88, 124 E. 35th St., Bronzeville; Harold’s Chicken 88 Sports Bar, 1450 S. Michigan Ave., South Loop; Sneaker Ville 88, 122 E. 35th St., Ste. B, Bronzeville; Sneakerville 88, 5241 S. Harper Ave., Chicago.

Sneakerville

88 podcast brings together athletes, entertainers, artists, and politicians

Sneakers available for sale at the original Sneaker Ville 88 location in Bronzeville. PHOTO SNEAKERVILLE 88/INSTAGRAM

Jada Pinkett Smith to Host

‘Red Table Talk’ Inspired Event Live in Abu Dhabi

ABU DHABI, UAE, PRNewswire -- Abu Dhabi will be hosting the multi-talented actor, producer, entrepreneur, musician, host, author, and advocate, Jada Pinkett Smith. She will be hosting an intimate conversation inspired by her Emmy Award-Winning talk show “Red Table Talk” Nov. 6th in Abu Dhabi. The event marks Jada’s first stop in the Middle East as she embarks on the highly anticipated world tour of her memoir, “Worthy.”

Pinkett Smith expressed excitement about the event stating, “I’m thrilled to celebrate the incredible spirit of Abu Dhabi’s businesswomen. I’m eager to intertwine our stories, exchange ideas, and explore new horizons of storytelling for Westbrook, Inc. in the capital city of the UAE. In every endeavor and story, we are all Worthy and I look forward to having unforgettable conversations at this event.”

With the worldwide release of Worthy on Oct. 17th, Pinkett Smith’s memoir is a gripping and inspirational memoir which promises to captivate readers with its raw honesty and profound insights. Spanning three decades of a multifaceted career as a musician, author, advocate, and more, Jada has earned numerous accolades. Now, as an award-winning icon, she is taking her message of resilience and self-discovery on the road, with Abu Dhabi as the first destination in the Middle East.

Co-hosting the event alongside Jada Pinkett Smith are renowned corporate brand and leadership developer Souad AlSerkal and Sarah Omolewu, co-founder of Maven Global Access. Omolewu shared her excitement, stating, “I am incredibly excited and honored to welcome Jada to the Middle East for an unforgettable series of events celebrating growth, worthiness, and self-discovery. Jada is an icon I’ve admired for her strength in vulnerability. This event beautifully highlights the synergy between Maven Global Access and ‘Worthy’s’ mission - to commend what women entrepreneurs are capable of when given opportunities and access, and the strength in unity and community.”

Inspired by her Emmy award-winning talk show, ‘Red Table Talk,’ which has fea tured guests like Venus and Serena Williams, Matthew McConaughey, Alicia Keys, Sandra Bullock, Keanu Reeves, and Demi Moore, Pinkett Smith’s event is poised to be an inspiring platform for female entrepreneurs in Abu Dhabi. The event aims to amplify their stories, highlight challenges, and most significantly, honor the cultures and narratives of women paving the way for business in Abu Dhabi.

Pinkett Smith’s savviness in entrepreneurship shines through her co-founding of Westbrook Inc. with her spouse,

Will Smith, Miguel Melendez, and Ko Yada, to empower artists to tell stories that connect the world. Since its inception in 2019, Westbrook has achieved a meteoric ascent, expanding its global footprint in entertainment, and bolstering a diverse project slate across film, television and digital content through their premium film and television division, Westbrook Studios, and their vertically - integrated IP incubator, brand content studio, and production company, Westbrook Media.

In addition to Red Table Talk, Westbrook is behind numerous critically acclaimed and wildly popular film and television projects including the smash hit series BEL-AIR, a dramatic reimagining of Will Smith’s iconic The Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air, which was recently renewed for a third season, as well as six-time Academy Award® nominated film KING RICHARD and the recently released film EMANCIPATION, which sold to Apple in the largest festival acquisition deal in film history. Upcoming projects include the highly anticipated BAD BOYS 4, REDD ZONE starring Pinkett Smith, the next chapter of I AM LEGEND, and action-comedy REGULATORS with Nicky Jam. Additional tour dates in the Middle East to be announced. Please visit www. worthymena. com for additional information and updates on MENA tour dates and ticket information.

Introducing Gaddy Bee: Crafting New Musical Horizons with a Fusion of Soul, R&B, and Hip-Hop

SAN FRANCISCO, PRNewswire -- Emerging artist Gaddy Bee is making a profound impact on the ever-changing world of music by blending together elements of Soul, R&B, and Hip-Hop. Originally from Columbia, South Carolina, Gaddy Bee released his latest single, “Play That Ukulele (Ukulele),” a captivating song that explores intense connections, breaking boundaries, and celebrating uniqueness without hesitation.

Gaddy Bee’s journey as a creative individual began in Columbia, where he started nurturing his artistic talents from a young age. As he moved from doodles to meaningful verses, his artistic skills found their true voice in the form of poems and lyrics. Gaddy Bee believes that his music is the most valuable way to express himself, stating, “Expressing myself through music is the greatest gift, and I love to embrace my creative side fully. I’m unapologetically me,” highlighting his commitment to authentic self-expression.

By blending the music of different eras and genres, Gaddy Bee bridges the gap between generations and musical styles. Drawing inspira-

tion from his early exposure to Soul, Motown, and R&B, he seamlessly weaves these timeless sounds into his hip-hop creations. This approach adds a refreshing and exciting dimension that resonates deeply with a wide range of listeners.

Diverging from the typical patterns of hip-hop artists, Gaddy Bee fearlessly explores new lyrical territories, challenging boundaries and encour-

aging listeners to embrace their true selves. His unique sound has captured the attention of both fans and critics, often drawing comparisons to innovators like E-40 and the magnetic charisma of Eddie Murphy, while also finding unexpected inspiration from the dynamic Cardi B.

Harnessing the intensity and transformative essence of a true Scorpio, Gaddy Bee infuses his music with unreserved passion. His single, “Ukulele,” encapsulates these qualities, delving into themes of intimate connections and breaking free from societal norms.

Gaddy Bee’s musical compositions bear witness to the power of embracing individuality and exploring new artistic frontiers. His unwavering commitment to creating emotionally charged and diverse music extends an invitation to audiences, inviting them to join a journey that challenges assumptions and celebrates the beauty of embracing one’s genuine self.

For the latest news and updates on Gaddy Bee’s musical journey, please visit www.gaddybee. com.

Maven Global Access

Souad Alserkal, Jada Pinkett Smith and Sarah Omolewu. Maven Global Access

Artist Life Hosted A Black Tie Student Exhibition

Photos by L.M. WarbingtonPhotography

Season 2 of Emmy® Nominated Series, Harlem Globetrotters: Play it Forward Premieres Saturday, October 7 on NBC

NEW YORK, PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE-- Season 2 of the Emmy® nominated series Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward premieres on NBC on Saturday, October 7th with a Telemundo premiere of season 1 of Harlem Globetrotters: Ganando Con La Comunidad on the same day. Both shows are produced in an exclusive partnership with Hearst Media Production Group (HMPG).

The 30-minute weekly series, hosted by actor/comedian Craig Robinson, premieres weekend mornings starting Saturday, October 7 on NBC’s “The More You Know” educational/informational (E/I) programming block (times may vary; check local listings). Additionally, Season 1 episodes will debut in Spanish on Telemundo’s “Mi Telemundo”

E/I block Saturday mornings at 10:30 a.m. Eastern. The series will also continue to be available on NBC.com and NBC VOD.

For its inaugural 2022-2023 season, the show’s unique content and format earned a daytime Emmy® nomination, two Cynopsis Awards for Best Platform Geared to Diverse Sports Interest and Athletes for Social Good TV Special or Episodes, and 11 national Telly Awards. Its overarching theme of inclusion has connected with viewers as underscored by Season

One achievements including diverse viewership strengths among 18-49 African American and Latino demographics.

“There are few sports-and-entertainment brands more iconic than the Harlem Globetrotters. We look forward to expanding the franchise to Telemundo this season, providing an even more diverse audience with the opportunity to experience this inspiring show,” said Bryan Curb, HMPG executive vice president and general manager, education/information.

Dream Exchange CEO Speaks at Historic National Black Business Conference, Forges Transformative Partnership with National Black Chamber of Commerce

CHICAGO, PRNewswire -- Joe Cecala, Founder and CEO of Dream Exchange, was invited to speak at the National Black Business Conference which took place in Atlanta, Georgia on Aug. 24-26. With a resounding commitment to empowering a new generation of entrepreneurs, a historic agreement that marked the beginning of an unprecedented partnership between Dream Exchange and the National Black Chamber of Commerce ® (NBCC) was solidified and signed.

Beyond the historic signing, Joe Cecala lent his expertise to the conference through dynamic panel discussions. Drawing upon his experience as a trailblazer in the financial and technology sectors, Cecala engaged in thought-provoking conversations about the challenges and opportunities that minority-owned businesses encounter in their pursuit of capital.

Namely, since the late 1990’s not only has the total number of public companies declined by nearly 50%, the number of

small initial public offerings (IPOs) has declined from 70-90% of the IPO market to just 20-30%, according to a white paper written by Dream Exchange in 2018. A proposed solution to this problem is the Main Street Growth Act, a new legislation that will allow for the creation of a new type of stock exchange specifically designed for small and emerging early-stage businesses providing access to capital for more underrepresented businesses.

“Participating in the National Black Business Conference has been an incredible honor. The historic signing ceremony symbolized the fusion of Dream Exchange’s cutting-edge technology and NBCC’s unwavering dedication to economic advancement. Our two entities have united under a shared vision to amplify the voices and opportunities of minority-owned enterprises, creating a powerful alliance that aims to bridge the gap in access to capital.”- said Founder and CEO, Joe Cecala

“The National Black Business Conference

“Harlem Globetrotters: Play It

Forward” enters its 2nd season on NBC and now also in Spanish on Telemundo. Hearst Media Production Group, LLC

“We’ve always been a brand that celebrates, amplifies and encourages the importance of inclusivity across all that we do. The fact that we are here for everyone has been the secret to our success for almost 100 years,” said Keith Dawkins, President of Harlem Globetrotters & Herschend Entertainment Studios. “Our partnerships with HMPG, NBCU and now Telemundo speaks to our transformation of the Harlem Globetrotters to a truly global entertainment brand that is reaching viewers across every format and wherever they are.”

For the new season, the team, which has historically been recognized by the U.S. State Department as “ambassadors of extraordinary good will,” will showcase philanthropic organizations and programs across the country including NASCAR’s Drive for Diversity program, which provides training and opportunities for women and marginalized communities of color, providing first class driver and technical experience; and the power of “street poetry” in Los Angeles, that offers creative release for formerly incarcerated youth through poetry, rap and spoken word.

served as the backdrop for these historic moments, uniting visionaries and changemakers in a collective journey towards economic empowerment and progress. Through the partnership between Dream Exchange and NBCC, a new chapter is being written in the narrative of minority-owned businesses’ access to capital.” -said Managing Member of DX Capital, Dwain Kyles.

The Dream Exchange is preparing its application and operations to become registered as the

first minority-governed and owned company to operate a stock exchange in the history of the United States. Dream Exchange’s mission is to create access and equality of opportunity for all people in a fair marketplace that instils ethics, integrity, and humanity. In furtherance of that mission, Dream Exchange will be championing the creation of a new type of stock exchange called a venture exchange, to list and trade smaller, early-stage company stock.

Dream Exchange

Meet the next generation of change-makers

For nearly two decades, our Student Leaders® program has helped prepare community-minded high school students to become successful in the workforce by connecting them to skills development, service and leadership training. They gain practical work and life experiences through paid internships with local nonprofits, including:

Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago Bridge Communities Youth Guidance

It’s just one more way we’re working together with our communities to build a better future for all.

Rita Sola Cook President, Bank of America Chicago

Procter And Gamble Becomes Newest Titanium Sponsor at TAG Oral Care Center For Excellence To Expand Access To Dental Care In Illinois

CHICAGO, PRNewswire -- The Aspen Group announced Procter and Gamble (P&G) as its latest Titanium Sponsor to help expand access to oral health care for underserved populations through the TAG Oral Care Center for Excellence (OCC) – a state-of-the-art clinical facility designed to provide comprehensive dental care at no cost to underserved Illinois residents. P&G brands Crest and Oral-B are donating oral hygiene kits including a smart electric toothbrush to all patients receiving implant therapy at the OCC. The donation will help these patients maintain their health following their treatment at the innovative care facility.

“Our sponsors make expanding access to care at the TAG Oral Care Center for Excellence possible. This year, we are thrilled to announce P&G as a Titanium Sponsor,” said Dr. Julie Franstve-Hawley, executive director of the TAG Oral Care Center for Excellence. “Crest and Oral-B’s donation will ensure that care extends beyond the treatment we provide at the OCC. Thanks to P&G, our patients will have the tools they need to help stay on top of their oral health year-round.”

P&G joins Straumann, National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics, and Henry Schein, Inc. as Titanium Sponsors. Straumann has played a fundamental role in facilitating the

Oral Care Center with needed equipment and supplies. Straumann’s support includes surgical motors, surgical kits, and additional demonstration kits for hands on learning. Straumann provides all implants for the OCC, valued at $3 million annually. The National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics, with support from Henry Schein Cares, the global corporate social responsibility program of Henry Schein, Inc., provides consumables and instruments valued at more than $500K annually.

“Corporate contributions to the TAG Oral Care Center go toward servicing as many deserv-

ing patients as possible. The OCC fills a critical gap in patient care, aiming to change the lives of 2,500 underserved patients every year in Illinois,” continued Frantsve-Hawley.

Opened in July 2022, the OCC has already served over 800 patients in the 25,000 sq. ft. clinic. Its mission is to provide comprehensive dental care at no cost to underserved patients and is the first service and training facility of its kind equipped to provide full-service, comprehensive dental treatments including fillings, extractions, non-surgical periodontal treatment, dental implants and associated restorations, 3D-imaging and scanning, and restorative dentistry, including dentures and implants. To qualify for free care, patients must be Illinois residents who are eligible for Medicaid or who are uninsured with a household income that is at or below 200% of the federal poverty level.

TAG was built on the simple idea of bringing better health care to more people. TAG and the independent health care practices it supports operate more than 1,100 locations in 45 states through its four healthcare support companies: Aspen Dental®, ClearChoice Dental Implant Centers®, WellNow Urgent Care® and Chapter Aesthetic Studio℠ . Combined, the companies serve more than 35,000 patients a day and more than 8 million patients each year. TAG is headquartered at 800 W. Fulton Market in Chicago. For more information, visit teamtag.com, and follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter.

Leading Teen and Young Adult Mental Health Treatment Provider Newport Healthcare Partners with Nonprofit To Write Love on Her Arms (TWLOHA) in Honor of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

NASHVILLE, Tenn., PRNewswire -- The statistics are staggering: more than 20% of teens have seriously considered suicide. Thirteen percent of high school girls and more than 20% of LGBTQ+ teens have actually attempted it. And an increasing number of students report persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, including 57% of girls, 29% of boys, and 69% of LGBTQ+ students. Suicidal ideation and attempts are rising among young people, with the highest rate of attempts among young adults ages 18-25.

To amplify the conversation about suicide prevention and help reverse current trends, Newport Healthcare, a national network of evidence-based treatment programs for teens and young adults with primary mental health disorders, is partnering for the seventh year with To Write Love on Her Arms (TWLOHA), a nonprofit movement dedicated to presenting hope and finding help for people struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury, and suicide. The partnership announcement coincides with September’s Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, which includes World Suicide Prevention Day and Suicide Prevention Week.

“We are honored to be a long-time partner of TWLOHA and proud to support their mission of educating communities and connecting people to life-saving resources,” said Joe Procopio, Chief Executive Officer of Newport Healthcare. “These statistics aren’t just numbers, they’re young lives, and we want to play an active

part in stemming the tide of lives lost by helping families and individuals find hope and healing.”

The Newport Healthcare and TWLOHA partnership includes raising awareness about suicide risk and prevention via cross-marketing efforts and a social media roundtable discussion. Newport further supports TWLOHA’s mission with a matching gift donation and an employee and alumni team fundraising effort.

“Our alliance with Newport Healthcare is driving real change in suicide prevention, and they are a valued and critical partner helping to turn the tides from despair to hope,” said Lindsay Kolsch, Co-Executive Director of TWLOHA. “This year, we have witnessed a record-breaking 50,000 recorded deaths by suicide in the U.S. and a drastic 72% increase in applications for our scholarships designed to address immediate mental health care needs. Our campaign, driven by powerful social media content, impactful events, and a comprehensive merchandise pack, strives to weave a robust network of support and represents a unique strategy against the devastating grip of suicide.”

The theme for TWLOHA’s 2023 Suicide Prevention Awareness Month campaign is “The World is Not Better Without You,” which speaks directly to people experiencing loneliness and suicidal ideation. You can support TWLOHA by visiting their website at TWLOHA.com.

Newport Healthcare supports mental health care ac-

cessibility and affordability by offering free mental health resources and community support groups, expanding treatment services around the nation, and accepting most major insurances. For more information, visit NewportHealthcare.com.

Newport Healthcare is the nation’s leading provider of evidence-based mental health treatment for youth, young adults, and families. Comprised of Newport Academy, Newport Institute, Center for Families, and PrairieCare, its full continuum of care includes psychiatric inpatient services, residential services, partial hospitalization programs (PHP), intensive outpatient programs (IOP), and virtual programs. Newport’s family-centered, integrated approach fosters sustainable healing from a foundation of compassionate care, clinical expertise, and unconditional love. With a commitment to advocacy, Newport is creating a movement to shift our mental health culture from awareness to action, with the primary mission to empower lives and restore families.

To Write Love on Her Arms is a non-profit dedicated to presenting hope and finding help for people struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury, and suicide. TWLOHA exists to encourage, inform, inspire, and invest directly into treatment and recovery. Since its start in 2006, they have donated over $3.7 million directly into treatment and recovery and have answered over 210,000 emails from over 100 countries, and traveled more than 3.8 million miles to meet people face-to-face at nearly 3,000 events. Each month, they connect with 10 million people online through social media and their FIND HELP Tool fields 3,500 searches made by people seeking mental health resources.

PRNewsfoto/TAG - The Aspen Group

P&G joins Straumann, National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics, and Henry Schein, Inc. to enable the center to provide free dental care to underserved populations of Illinois

PRNewsfoto/Newport Healthcare

3 Ways People of All Ages Can Give Back

(StatePoint) No matter your age, it’s likely you’ve questioned your ability to make a difference. Research from the global nonprofit Points of Light shows that 73% of people believe that volunteering is more important than ever, yet 66% think they can’t make a big impact in their communities. Activists on the ground prove otherwise. That’s why Points of Light, which is dedicated to inspiring and equipping people to take action, has recognized thousands of volunteers for their contributions to their communities through The Daily Point of Light Award.

“Points of Light’s research found that Gen Z is the most civically engaged generation to date. Our youth honorees demonstrate that people of all ages can strengthen communities and solve persistent problems,” says Diane Quest, interim CEO, Points of Light.

To inspire you to action, the organization is sharing the stories of youth honorees, along with three elements from The Points of Light Civic Circle®, a framework for helping individuals get civically engaged:

Volunteer

Nonprofit organizations and NGOs need volunteer power to deliver support to the communities they collaborate with. If you’re an adult wanting to facilitate youth volunteerism, consider organizing a youth-specific event or helping transport the young people in your life to an event. To find a volunteer opportunity that aligns with your interests and availability, check out Points of Light Engage, a database with hundreds of thousands of inperson and virtual volunteer opportunities.

The power of volunteering is apparent when considering Daily Point of Light Award honoree Nate Buescher, a high schooler who prepares food for a local food pantry and distributes home-cooked meals to tent cities around Chicago. Buescher began fighting food insecurity at age 7 with the Honeycomb Project. Today, he mentors younger volunteers while maintaining his own service projects.

Voice

The youth voice is vital, pointing us to which concerns are most important to future world leaders and helping broaden perspectives. Use your voice to advocate for causes you care about by posting on social media, attending a rally or contacting a government leader. Adults can amplify youth voices by sharing with their networks, or organizing forums for youth to be seen and heard.

Seventeen-year-old Daily Point of Light Award honoree Maanit Goel used his voice when organizing a rally of fellow activists on the Washington State Capitol steps to support legislation protecting the Chinook salmon and orca populations. He also regularly addresses state legislators, and travels statewide to speak to K-12 students about environmental issues.

Listen and Learn

Social justice and environmental issues are nuanced, involving many people with different perspectives shaped by their own experiences. Listening and learning is one way to honor others’ lived experiences and get a fuller scope of an issue.

Young people can commit to thoroughly researching causes they care about, talking to those working toward solutions and holding space for those impacted. Adults can connect with the young people in their lives, inviting dialogue that allows for sharing different perspectives and finding common ground.

These are the driving ideas behind the work of high schooler Kristie To, who became a leading force in Asian American racial justice when she founded Hearts

Against Hate. Among the initiatives of her nonprofit is distributing Asian history and Asian American Pacific Islander civil rights curriculum to children.

“Cultural sensitivity starts with exposure, and that’s what we’re trying to do with

these elementary schoolers,” says To.

To learn about other avenues for social engagement, check out the Points of Light Civic Circle by visiting pointsoflight.org/civic-circle.

“There are many formal channels for civic engagement, but simple actions make a difference too,” says Quest. “Whether it’s carrying groceries in for a neighbor or donating books to the library, the important thing is to get started when you see a need in your community.”

ELIZABETH “LIZZIE G” ELIE LICENSED REALTOR

Eshe Ukweli Howard UniversityNNPA Fellow

Solomon Hayes Morehouse CollegeNNPA Fellow

Brielle Smith Howard UniversityNNPA Fellow

Jacob Bellevue Howard UniversityNNPA Fellow

Antonio

Tullos Alabama

University

Marketing Fellow Janiya

Marketing Fellow