Stories: Celebrating Black Heritage and Civic Engagement at YPC

02.27.2026

This past week at Youth Peace Center has been nothing short of inspiring, as we brought together youth, staff, and community leaders to celebrate Black history, civic engagement, and community strength. Our programs foster learning, connection, and pride, reflecting our ongoing commitment to empowering the next generation.

One of the highlights was hosting Trustee Kiana Belcher, a dedicated leader actively working to serve her community. During her visit, she shared her insights on the importance of voting and emphasized how the Cook County Commissioner's office plays a vital role in supporting nonprofits and community organizations like ours. Her words reinforced the impact of strong local leadership in fostering positive change and improving resources for our community, inspiring us all to continue working toward collective progress.

In celebration of Black History Month, our participants engaged in a lively Black History Jeopardy! contest, covering topics from the Chicago Black Community to Sports Figures and Black Excellence. The event fostered pride and awareness, helping our youth deepen their understanding of Black history and culture while having fun and building confidence.

Building on this celebration, we hosted a Soul Food Lunch for staff and participants, providing a delicious opportunity for meaningful conversations about heritage, culture, and community pride. This shared meal strengthened bonds among attendees and created a space for reflection and appreciation of Black heritage.

Throughout the week, our efforts exemplified our mission to empower youth through education, cultural celebration, and civic awareness. We are deeply grateful for the support of our community partners, staff, and participants who make these impactful programs possible. Their dedication fuels our commitment to creating a safer, more vibrant community.

As we look ahead, we invite community members, supporters, and partners to join us in this important work. Whether through volunteering, sponsorship, or participating in upcoming events, your involvement helps us continue building a stronger, more connected community for our youth. Together, we can keep the momentum going and empower the next generation of leaders.


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