This is a difficult talk to share with you, because it requires a level of vulnerability that I don't usually exhibit. Over the last month, I've been sharing videos about my work and professional philosophies. I've received so much positive and encouraging feedback, which I truly appreciate. One thing that drives me is challenge. Believe it or not, making the decision to begin posting my videos to social media was a pretty big challenge for me. Here's why: the "F" word - FEAR

The Chicago violence that's being reported is real. However, there's a whole other side of the story that doesn't get nearly as much exposure. The truth is there are a lot of individuals, groups, neighbors, organizations, etc. who love Chicago and are working everyday to do something about what's going on. Two years ago, EEE had an opportunity to showcase our Summer training and employment programs, on a citywide scale. Here's a snippet of that event, which highlights the ini

Sometimes I get discouraged or overwhelmed by the load of the work that I do in service to the young people of Chicago. Then out of the blue, I’ll run into one of my youth alumni who is doing well and overcoming challenges, or I’ll receive a phone call from a parent expressing appreciation for the effort it takes to provide alternative options for our young people, or an unexpected angel in disguise will come along to offer some “right on time” support…And it will give me fue