This June, I’m participating in the Race Against Gun Violence with Team R CITY alongside some of the incredible kids we serve in West Humboldt Park. Each year it has been an incredible blessing to see our big and little kids participate in the race and run their hearts out! It's a tangible way they are striving for PEACE in their own community and it keeps my heart hopeful during the most difficult days for our vulnerable neighborhoods.

Through my work at R CITY, I see how much our young people need safe spaces, caring mentors, and opportunities to grow — especially during the summer months when so many kids are left without positive programs or support.

This year, my family isn't able to join me in Chicago, but I’m personally trying to raise $500 to support our R CITY youth runners!  I would like to invite you to donate to help provide space for more kids in summer programming at R CITY. Even a gift of $50 or $100 helps provide opportunities for kids in the neighborhood.

Here’s the impact you can make:

• $250 Provides a fun summer field trip for youth
• $500 Sends one child to FULL summer camp
• $1,000 Sponsors a summer community event for neighborhood families
• $2,000 Provides summer job training for a teen apprentice in Harambee
• $5,000 Funds a FULL staff mentor who leads summer programs

Every gift, large or small, moves us closer to our goal and helps ensure no child is turned away from summer camp.