Prevention First Supports Department of Human Services

Doin Good in the ‘Hood Challenge

Recognizes Nine Teens for Community Involvement

CHICAGO, October 31, 2007 – Nine Chicago south side teens discovered that it “pays to do good in your hood.”

The Englewood neighborhood youths were recognized by the Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS) for their commitment for positively impacting their community.

Johnny Butler, Diane Bullock, Ashley Evans, Mercedes McKinnis, Raven Johnson, Lanette Smith, Geneva Perkins, Dwayne Golden and Keai Gatewood received kudos for completing a Community Garden project in the area in an effort to bring beauty to the neighborhood that has recently been torn by violent incidents.

Englewood made local headlines recently following the tragic death of a 10-year-old boy who was gunned down in the crossfire between two rival gangs.

Prevention First, in recognition of the teens' positive endeavors and in support of violence prevention, awarded the teens a $100 gift card each. DHS recognized the teens’ achievement with a “Doin Good in the Hood” certificate of recognition.

The awards presentation Oct. 23 was attended by Prevention First director of special initiatives Dovetta McKee who applauded the teens for their efforts.

“In this time when all we hear is about the senseless violence in our neighborhoods, it is refreshing to look around and see faces of youth who are setting positive examples for others to follow,” she said.

McKee was also joined by DHS special assistant to the secretary Gloster Mahon and Imagine Englewood If executive director Jean Carter-Hill.

Hill said the garden project was well underway when the teens’ tools were stolen, hampering their progress.

“But the kids didn’t stop,” she explained. “They found a way to continue and did not rest until they were done, and the neighborhood can now see the beauty they have created amidst the daily chaos in our neighborhood.”

For more information, contact Imagine Englewood If at 773.778.1304 or Prevention First at 800.252.8951, ext 254.

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Media Calls:

Manju Batmanathan
312.988.4646, ext. 254 (Chicago)

Dorothy Hutchinson-Gross
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