Aleta Clark

Aleta Clark, known as Englewood Barbie, founder of Hugs No Slugs, developed the initiative to promote nonviolence in underprivileged neighborhoods on Chicago’s South Side. The foundation was created in light of the fatal shooting of Tyshawn Lee, the young 9-year-old victim of a targeted shooting; Clark desired a haven for the children of Englewood. As a resident, Clark continues to serve those in need. In order to finance the foundation, she sells “Hugs No Slugs” T-shirts to raise money to help those who are victims of violence and poverty. The Back To School drive is just one of many events that Clark creates to bring unity to the Englewood area. She has created a Black History Month talent show, a Celebrity Basketball game, and other family-oriented events. As the Back To School event gears up, Clark is giving each student the gift of pampering and fun while providing continuous support through the duration of the school year.