Woodlawn New Communities Program - Latest news

Woodlawn Youth Connect to Success: “Show Me Your Friends and I’ll show You Your future”

9/11/2009, 4:07 PM

Friday, September 11, 2009

On Friday, July 24, 2009 thirty boys from various parts of Woodlawn were temporarily escorted by Officer Charles O’Connor, Officer Smith and other police officers of the 3^rd district Police Department (not to jail) but to a part of Woodlawn that none of the boys had ever dreamed or considered— the University of Chicago campus.

The program known as the Chicago Youth Leadership Academy will encourage the young men to change their “mindset” with respect to their behavior.

The program was modeled after the Michigan Leadership Academy developed by Lieutenant Bowers. Several officers participated in this week long 24 hour program. The program is designed to establish a mentor relationship with each boy not just for the week but to establish a lifelong mentoring relationship.

For one week the Chicago Youth Leadership Academy provided a ratio of 6:1 boys to police officers. For that week the boys had no access to television, radio, cell phones, or beepers and could not make contact with anyone from their home or the “hood”.

For the first time many were exposed to an early 5:30 a.m. rise, daily calisthenics, fishing instruction, university gym facilities, a tour of the airport in Gary, Indiana with a Tuskegee Airman, as well as a surprise visit to Michael Jackson’s boyhood home in Gary, Indiana.

Slowly the young men not only adopted but understood the motto of the program, “show me your friends and I’ll show you your future”.. The University of Chicago provided regular dorms, fine food, great hospitality and an overall great summer experience.

A week later the graduation ceremony was held at New Beginnings Church with a host of dignitaries and sponsors from Preservation of Affordable Housing (P.O.A.H.), the University of Chicago, the Chicago Police Department, Woodlawn leaders and NCP Woodlawn.

Thirty young men were given certificates for completing the first Annual Chicago Youth Leadership Academy.More importantly, thirty young men emerged from this program confident, with new attitudes, a sense of accomplishment, and well equipped to be productive students and citizens.

NCP Woodlawn Education Committee Shares “Promise”

9/11/2009, 3:43 PM

Friday, September 11, 2009

Arvin Strange

On Saturday, August 15, 2009 the NCP Woodlawn Education committee hosted a breakfast meeting at the beautiful Grand Ballroom to share the concept of a “Woodlawn Children’s Promise Zone (WCPZ)” with 75 Woodlawn Local School Council members, principals and NCP Woodlawn members.

The following Area 15 schools were well represented: Emmitt Till, Fermi, Dulles, Dumas, Sexton, Wadsworth, Carnegie, Fiske and the Woodlawn Community School.

After a traditional breakfast Bishop Arthur M. Brazier gave a brief overview of historical efforts to improve academic performance levels in Woodlawn schools.

Bishop Brazier concluded by emphasizing the need for strong parental participation in the educational process.

As presenters Bishop Arthur M. Brazier introduced Dr. Charles Payne of the University of Chicago (School of Education) and Mrs. Cynthia Miller (Principal at Fiske Elementary School).

Dr. Payne shared some striking statistics relative to overall school successes and provided a detailed explanation outlining the positive long term attributes associated with implementing the Woodlawn Children’s Promise Zone.

Mrs. Miller (Principal at Fiske) described a vision as set forth by Woodlawn Instructional Leaders in conjunction with the Woodlawn Children’s Promise Zone.

All agreed parental participation is a key ingredient for this program to be successful.

Building a youth movement against HIV/AIDS, disease

7/28/2009, 4:12 PM

Sunday, February 15, 2009

Richard Muhammad

MAGIC’s National Teen Test Day is an example of the Woodlawn non-profit’s determination to grapple with serious issues and have young people save themselves when it comes to things that affect their lives. Teen Test Day, which is actually a year round program, hosts an annual major health and awareness fair devoted to testing and prevention of HIV/AIDS and other diseases.

Sakinah Muhammad, left, and MAGIC youth demonstrate oral quick swab HIV test.

Richard Muhammad

The group was founded almost two years ago by Vanessa Muhammad, Carlos Meyers and Kenneth Parker to address the problem of HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted disease epidemics plaguing inner city youth.

The goal is a teen-led movement built on awareness, responsibility and healthy choices. The foundations of the movement are testing, partnerships and peer to peer contact to increase knowledge about HIV/AIDS and general health issues.

“We’re going to do our best to make sure that the complacency of youth is eliminated, because we’re going to be leaders for ending the spread of HIV and AIDS especially among young African Americans, 13-24, half of new cases are in that demographic,” said Allen Linton II, a 19-year-old college sophomore and MAGIC leader.

The disease impacts everyone, whether you have it or not, said Linton. It impacts how people interact with friends and family and impacts schools and workplaces, he said. Knowledge can slow down and end the disease, which can be acquired through one bad decision or one partner, Linton noted.

“IF you’re not going to help yourself, you can’t expect anyone else to help you,” he said.

Forging effective partnerships

A commitment to stopping the spread of the AIDS pandemic and other diseases has brought Teen Test Day and its young leaders to the attention of major partners. Talks are underway for a month-long focus on adolescents and HIV/AIDS in April through a partnership with Stroger Hospital and the Centers for Disease Control, said Muhammad.

Vanessa Muhammad, Teen Test Day co-founder

Richard Muhammad

National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, observed Feb. 7, found MAGIC group members participating in the Black Life Is Worth Saving forum at Malcolm X College. The group’s namesake event, Teen Test Day, was held Jan. 3 at the South Shore Cultural Center and drew 2,000 people, according to organizers. The all-day affair included disease testing, a press conference and mayoral proclamation, a demonstration of the quick swab HIV test, games, a martial arts demonstration, a live radio broadcast from a hip hop station, food and 42 organizations delivering everything from asthma to vision screenings and offering tons of information. It closed with an evening hip hop concert, with tickets disbursed after taking an HIV/AIDS test, and a jazz concert.

Participants walked away with test results and University of Chicago Medical Hospital doctors and professionals were on hand to offer counseling, one year of free medical assistance and after care for anyone who tested positive, Muhammad said.

Carlos Meyers, co-founder Teen Test Day

Richard Muhammad

HIV/AIDS is not a death sentence, you don’t have to be a millionaire to get treatment while research, testing and awareness fairs are used to prevent infection, Linton said. “We have to take the steps to use all these resources and to maximize what we have now and improve what we have in the future. Helping out now sets us up for a better future,” said the second year University of Chicago student.

Chloe Rose Jackson, a 16-year-old, booked acts, planned activities, and met with representatives of radio stations, community groups and churches to connect with potential Teen Test Day partners. She also underwent six-weeks of training about HIV/AIDS.

“If we don’t know that’s just another body dying and for us to come speak to each other ourselves l think it’s more effective. We hear adults speaking about it all the time, every day, and it seems that it doesn’t connect to us. If you know about it, then you can change. If you don’t know life is going past in like seconds,” she said.

Jackson is motivated by compassion for peers who have suffered from pregnancy and contracted diseases but don’t have treatment. “A lot of people are not scared anymore to be tested. A lot of people last year we like, ‘Oh, I’m scared.’ Everything is confidential,” she said.

The story of Teen Test Day was covered by community and daily media, including the Associated Press, with stories picked up by the New York Times, BBC News, and publications in Canada and Africa, said Muhammad.

'The statistics are real'

“The impact of Teen Test Day is starting to resonate internationally as the rates of adolescent and young adult sexually transmitted infections and HIV infections continue to rise,” said co-founder Carlos Meyers, who is MAGIC’s director of adolescent and young adult health advocacy. “If the problems are not addressed with the urgency they deserve … our future is in dire jeopardy.”

Chloe Rose Jackson, MAGIC youth leader

Richard Muhammad

Teens from MAGIC will partner with the University of Chicago Medical Center March 7 for the “Our Daughters, Our Duty” conference at Kennedy-King College, said Muhammad. The conference will focus on prevention of the HPV virus and cervical cancer and teens will speak and distribute information, she said. The University of Chicago will train teens about the health issues Feb. 28 at MAGIC’s offices as part of the group’s leadership development mission.

“We need to know what it is ailing us,” said community epidemiologist Yaa Simpson, of The Association of Clinical Trial Services. She is also a MAGIC board member and specializes in HIV-AIDS. Black youth ages 13 to 24 are heavily impacted by STDS and HIV. Just seven percent of Chicago’s population, the age group accounts for 47 percent of nearly 34,000 STD and HIV cases, Simpson said, citing 2006 statistics from the city Dept. of Public Health.

“The statistics are real. The Black community is disproportionately impacted We have more numbers and we need to get that number to zero for everybody, but definitely for Blacks. How else are we going to get there, if we don’t get our young people involved and to be the leaders they need to be?” Simpson asked.

Entrepreneurs today — no wait for tomorrow

2/18/2009, 10:40 PM

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Richard Muhammad

Talk of product expenses, hourly price rates, industry competitors, customer service, marketing strategies, and business pitches might seem odd for teenagers. But young people at Sunshine Gospel Ministries recently tossed around business lingo readily.

Ashley Jones, with her mother, Chotsani Baylis, shows off her perfect attendance award. She did not miss one day in the 10-week entrepreneurship program.

Richard Muhammad

The youth were participants in the Small Business Expo held Dec. 11 at Sunshine’s Woodlawn headquarters on East 61st Street as part of a program sponsored by the National Foundation for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE) and After School Matters.

The youth developed business proposals — and were paid to do so — as part of a technology curriculum at Sunshine Gospel Ministries, with After School Matters paying stipends based on program attendance.

From the PowerPoint presentations flashed via an electronic clicker on a flat screen TV to the natty business attire of some presenters, it was clear the young entrepreneurs were serious about their work – and nearly all put in extra time on their presentations, according to program staffers and parents.

Kiara Davis' business would teach older people, in particular retirees, how to use computers.

Richard Muhammad

The ideas were varied and innovative. They ranged from a talent agency, to a music studio for young people, a Caribbean restaurant, a mommy-friendly beauty salon, a computer instruction service for the elderly, and a resume prep service especially for people trying to switch careers in a bad economy.

Brittany Fisher won first prize and $100 for her Dynamic Resume service idea. With the downturn in the economy, the young entrepreneur's idea was to specialize in helping people who are trying to change careers and to specialize in helping people who were hard to employ — all at a reasonable price.

But as the judges from NFTE, After School Matters, and Sunshine Gospel Ministries observed, there were no losers here. The 10-week program pushed the youth to create businesses, said Lew Williams, a judge from Sunshine Gospel Ministries. Youth focused on their interests and talents, but they were told to think beyond just getting jobs in appealing areas — and to focus on making jobs for themselves.

Barbara Brown and daughter Cassandra Williams, who came dressed to business-impress for her presentation.

Richard Muhammad

“They need to know that they could operate without being dependent on someone to hire them in,” said Williams. “And at the same time, if the business becomes profitable, which we really hope it does, they can hire on other people and help the economy to start to thrive again.”

All of the participants did great and presented ideas they focused on for five weeks, he said. The presentations included business plans, long and short range personal goals, qualifications they possess to make the businesses successful now – and a social responsibility, or "give-back," component.

It was also a time to dream, learn business concepts and acquire skills such as being on time and operating Microsoft Office, PowerPoint and other software. “Not everybody wants to be an entrepreneur,” said Vince McCaskill, an expo judge and director of Sunshine’s community technology center. “But I think the main thing they all gain is that to be a good entrepreneur, you need to be a good employee. Those are the cross set of skills we’re trying to build in our youth.”

Ashley Jones shows off her concept, which combines food and fun.

Richard Muhammad

Maurice Moore, a 17-year-old, presented Class X-Muscle, which was his concept for a business that specializes in car art. “It seems like this is a growing business because everywhere I go, I see people with their names or favorite characters on their cars,” said Moore. “It felt good because I got to put my love of cars and art together.”

The competition involved two rounds of idea pitches before two sets of judges. Four winners in the first round went on to repeat their presentations for a second group of judges.

Barbara Brown, whose sharply dressed daughter Cassandra Williams won honorable mention in the competition’s first round for her catering business, looked forward to seeing the presentations become reality. What made her proud? “To see her in action and actually presenting her plan made me proud as a parent and educator,” said Brown. “To see and hear our children do something positive and to speak positively unlike we’re portrayed in the news most times.”

Youth had to include short- and long-term goals in their PowerPoint presentations.

Richard Muhammad

Chotsani Baylis watched daughter Ashley Jones present her Entre Tainment restaurant concept. The 10th grader envisioned a place to play, socialize and eat. Her competition is Dave & Busters, which provides food and arcade games. Baylis was proud of her daughter, who received an award for perfect attendance, came in during her day off, and arrived early to complete her PowerPoint.

“They all worked real hard,” Baylis said. She was impressed by the youths’ willingness to speak before the judges and audience – something she would have been nervous doing.

Students self-select for the entrepreneurship program and pass interviews to join, said Keri Teplitzky, NFTE program director. Eighteen youth were interns at Sunshine Gospel Ministries. Students in 40 city high schools participate in the NFTE program, which has served over 9,000 Chicago youngsters since 2003.

Joel Hamernick, executive director of Sunshine Gospel Ministries, offered to find mentors for youth ready to pursue their business dreams. Referrals may come from word of mouth or from teachers, counselors or others who know about the program, which is advertised in schools, or in Sunshine Gospel Ministries’ case, through its other programs.

Richard Muhammad

“Our biggest goal is that students have to create a business idea based on the skills and resources they have today so that they can do something even part time or after school,” said Teplitzky. “They can use their passion and their skills and their resources that they have and start making a business.”

In the spring, the youth will come back and build on their presentations, adding financial information and sales forecasting. There will be another competition to win a slot representing Sunshine Gospel Ministries in a May citywide competition.

Joel Harmernick, executive director of Sunshine Gospel Ministries and one of the judges for the four finalists, promised to find mentors if any youth wanted to pursue their business ideas.

It was exciting to see teens who see themselves “as people who will produce things much bigger than who they are,” he said. “The goal of our community technology center is access, training and entrepreneurialism, and this is a piece in the entrepreneurialism side."

Healthy hearts focus of February, free screenings offered

2/18/2009, 8:59 PM

Sunday, February 8, 2009

Richard Muhammad

When it comes to women, hearts and February, there first thing that may come to mind is Valentine’s Day, but hold on a minute. February is also National Heart Month and the first weekend in the month was devoted to highlighting the need for women to be especially careful when it comes to heart health. And a partnership with Advocate Health Care will allow some women in Illinois to receive free screenings the week of Valentine’s Day.

The Health Committee for the NCP Program in Woodlawn is focusing on National Heart Month with its upcoming "Ask the Doctor" interactive session. Dr. Thomas Fisher, of the University of Chicago, will take questions during a Feb. 11 presentation at 6250 S. Park Shore East. The program begins at 6 p.m.

The “Go Red for Women” weekend, Feb. 6-8, included programs and activities to interest women and GoRedForWomen.org offered women an easy way to evaluate their risk factors and consider changes to improve their health status. The website also provided a personalized action plan that can be taken to a doctor for evaluation and approval.

To raise awareness of heart disease, Dr. Damon T. Arnold, director of the Illinois Department of Public Health, along with the American Heart Association and members of the Conference of Women Legislators, celebrated Women’s Heart Disease Awareness Month at the State Capitol and encouraged Illinois residents to wear red on Friday, February 6, 2009—National Wear Red Day.

The “Go Red for Women” movement encourages everyone to wear red as a simple, yet powerful way to raise awareness of heart disease and stroke.

Although heart disease is sometimes thought of as a “man's disease,” it is the leading cause of death for both women and men in the United States, and women account for 52.8 percent of the total heart disease deaths according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In fact, almost one in three women will die of heart disease. The latest statistics showed more than 13,000 women in Illinois died from heart disease in 2006.

In recognition of Women’s Heart Disease Awareness Month, Advocate Health Care, in partnership with the Conference of Women Legislators and area legislators, is offering free cardiac screenings for women at several locations during the week of Valentine’s Day. The following Advocate hospitals will be providing free cardiac screenings to women over the age of 45:

Advocate Illinois Masonic Hospital, Chicago
Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital, Barrington

To register for one of these screenings or to find out about additional screenings and classes at other Advocate sites, please call 1-800-3-ADVOCATE (1-800-323-8622).

“Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and is a major cause of disability. In 2009, an estimated 785,000 Americans with have a new coronary attack, and about 470,000 will have a recurrent attack. Heart disease is a term that includes several more specific heart conditions. The most common heart disease in the United States is coronary heart disease, which can lead to heart attack,” according to the Centers for Disease Control.

You can lessen your risk factors for heart disease by getting regular check-ups, knowing your blood pressure and cholesterol numbers and keeping them under control; following your doctor's recommendations for diet and exercise; taking medications as prescribed; by stopping smoking or not starting; doing at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity each day; eating a healthy diet that includes vegetables, whole grain foods and fish; limiting foods high in saturated fats and cholesterol; limiting salt and sodium intake and limiting alcoholic beverages on average to one drink or less per day.

Ask The Doctor

1/18/2009, 8:11 AM

Sunday, January 18, 2009

NCP/Woodlawn and TWO Health and Human Services Committee

Overview

The Ask the Doctor initiative was borne out of discussions that arose from the Life Smart for Women Program at the St. Ailbe Catholic Church developed and funded by the state of Illinois Department of Public Health. The program was managed there by the Health and Wellness Ministry and was subsequently transferred to the Woodlawn community, New Community Program/Woodlawn (NCP) and The Woodlawn Organization (TWO) Health and Human Services Committee.

What is it

The Ask the Doctor program is one that engages community stakeholders to express medical concerns anonymously. The questions are responded to and explained by a physician in a seminar format at a Woodlawn community facility. This approach encourages people to ask questions they have always been afraid to ask, but always wanted to have answered, without embarrassment.

How it began

This initiative began with stakeholders submitting medical questions on index cards to NCP/TWO committee members that were later given to the participating physician for review to ensure appropriate responses. Meetings were advertised thru diverse media and scheduled to ensure availability to the community at large. The 1st meeting, held on April 8, 2008, was held at the Bessie Coleman Library on 63rd St. Subsequent meetings were held at 6250 South Park Shore East. Attendance has grown from 6 attendees initially to an average of 35-40 people per session. In addition to the medical content, socialization is inherent and light refreshments are provided. Each session is 1.5 hours in duration.

Program Expansion

Dr. Thomas Fisher, M.D.

The program has expanded from responding to anonymous questions to reviewing the 7 part PBS Documentary Series, “Unnatural Causes.” A lively and probing discussion follows review of the video and is conducted by our partner physician, Thomas Fisher, M.D., assistant professor of emergency medicine at the University of Chicago Medical Center.

Program Expansion: PBS Documentary, “Unnatural Causes”

Topics included in the documentary are:

“In Sickness and In Health,” which raises the question “Is inequality making us sick?”

“When the Bough Breaks,” a segment that examines the mystery of the Black-white infant mortality gap.

“Becoming American,” which sheds light on the shifting health status of newly arrived Latino immigrants.

“Bad Sugar,” a two topic presentation with Part 1 exploring the causes and effects of diabetes within two Native American communities; Part 2 “Place Matters” connects the dots between health, wealth and zip codes.

“Collateral Damage” traces the health challenges of Marshall Islanders from the South Pacific to Springdale, Arkansas. The second part of this segment explores the toll taken by layoffs and job insecurity in Western Michigan.

Future Goals

The Health and Human Services Committee, NCP Woodlawn and TWO will continue to address the issues of health education, screening and promotion.

While the program has been open to a diverse group, our central population has been middle aged and senior participants. We will actively pursue youth, and teen parents. We hope to achieve this goal through partnerships with the NCP Youth Committee and community agencies.

Ask The Doctor is one of many efforts by the the Health and Human Services Committee of NCP Woodlawn and TWO.

LISC Names Bishop Brazier as First Senior Fellow

11/14/2008, 10:45 AM

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Bishop Arthur M. Brazier has been named the first LISC/Chicago Senior Fellow. Bishop Brazier is a nationally renowned civil rights leader and a founder of The Woodlawn Organization (TWO) in Chicago, a participant in LISC’s New Communities Program.

Bishop Arthur Brazier

Richard Muhammad

He also founded a community development corporation, the Woodlawn Preservation and Investment Corporation (WPIC), and served as a vice president for the Center for Community Change in Washington, D.C.

After decorated service in WWII, Bishop Brazier entered the pastorate of Apostolic Church of God in Woodlawn, which he then built into the largest congregation in the city of Chicago. He recently retired after 48 years as pastor.

During the year-long fellowship at LISC/Chicago, Bishop Brazier will make several presentations on his experiences in community development and will advise on a number of Chicago and national projects, including national LISC’s Sustainable Communities program, which is replicating many of the principles and practices from the New Communities Program in 10 cities around the country.

“Improving my community isn’t a job, it’s been my whole life,” said Bishop Brazier. “Working with LISC has always been an effective way to improve the quality of life for those around me, and I hope to continue this work in my new role as Senior Fellow,” said Bishop Brazier, in a South Street Journal news article.

The South Street Journal also quoted LISC Chicago executive director Andy Mooney, who said the non-profit was honored to have the longtime community leader on board. “His insight, passion and experience will be tremendous assets to LISC/Chicago, National LISC and our partner organizations, just as they have been an asset to his community and the city for years,” said Mooney.

This story is compiled from an article that first appeared in the Fall 2008 issue of Working Capital, the quarterly newsletter of LISC/Chicago, and the South Street Journal.

Genetics, race, health and history

11/13/2008, 10:43 PM

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Richard Muhammad

Dr. Rick Kittles took Woodlawn residents on a journey through genetic science, history, and medical research to explain how these areas intersect and impact the lives of African Americans.

Dr. Rick Kittles, Ph.D., talked about genetics, health and the Black community.

Richard Muhammad

Dr. Kittles, an associate professor at the University of Chicago, used humor and plain talk to describe differences in genes and how they impact health.

With the medical industry eyeing preemptive over curative approaches to diseases, Blacks need to get involved in medical research and policy—including wary participation in clinical trials and making sure Black scientists and professionals are doing the research, he said.

Everyone has a different genetic makeup and the variations in genetic makeup in different racial groups are part of the reason why some people are more prone to diseases than others, he said. Sickle cell disease in Black Americans can be traced back to a gene that helped them survive malaria in tropical Africa, he explained. The gene was valuable in the African context but in America, where malaria is not a problem, the sickle cell trait restricts oxygen and blood flow, leading to painful and sometimes serious flare-ups, he said.

Blacks in Africa didn’t use salt in their diets, but salt was part of the trans-Atlantic slave trade and is used throughout the cooking and preservation process in America, Dr. Kittles said. But the majority of Blacks are salt sensitive and when salt gets into the kidneys it impacts blood pressure, he explained.

Dr. Kittles doubts race-based medicines will work, but sees more individualized medicine that takes genetics into account as a distinct possibility and a definite area of interest. Technology is allowing for comparisons and the ability to hold vast amounts of data on a single computer chip, said the researcher who holds a PhD. in biological sciences from George Washington University.

Dr. Kittles has focused on the issues of race, genetic differences and how stress, poverty, racism, environment and other issues influence health and disease. He has spent much time studying prostate cancer and its disproportionate affect on Black men.

Researchers are shifting their focus to see where genetics and outside factors meet and impact health, he said. It doesn’t mean a onetime battle with a landlord over a rent payment or the inability to get a cab, but looking at the lifelong impact of racism and negative social factors, Dr. Kittles said.

Audience listens during presentation at Bessie Coleman Library.

Richard Muhammad

The diversity found in Blacks and Latinos make the groups attractive subjects for studies, he said. Blacks should be well-informed and involved in the decision-making and actual research, Dr. Kittles stressed.

Genetics account for race and traces from different races can be found in Blacks and Whites in the United States, Dr. Kittles noted. But racial definitions in America are connected to slavery, racial oppression, segregation, anti-race mixing laws and the one-drop rule, he said. The one-drop rule meant a single drop of Black blood meant you could be sold as a slave instead of an heir to a White slave master father’s fortune, said Dr. Kittles.

Though a light-skinned Black like Halle Barry may carry more European genetic material than some Whites, the actress is deemed a Black woman in American society, he noted.

Dr. Kittles pointed out that about 30 percent of Black men have European DNA and he carries a German Y chromosome. “It doesn’t help. If the cops pull me over I’m not driving while having a European Y chromosome. I am Driving While Black. I can’t put it on the mortgage application, cabs they don’t see it,” he said, as the audience laughed.

Dr. Kittles is also the owner of African Ancestry, Inc., and explained how genetics can help trace the roots of Black ancestry. Given slavery and segregation, African Americans often get stuck in the 1850s or 1860s when trying to research their roots, he said. DNA testing can often point out the area of Africa or other parts of the world ancestors came from, he said to the audience at the Bessie Coleman Library on 63rd St.

The audience listened intently as Dr. Kittles talked about African migration, genetic richness, and how sedentary and western lifestyles have taken Blacks out of a natural existence and opened the door for health problems. In Nigeria, everyone walks or rides bikes and obesity isn’t a problem, he said. In Maywood, Ill., Black people with a similar genetic makeup are overweight and suffering from high blood pressure and major health problems, Dr. Kittles said.

Dr. Kittles also worked on the PBS Series “African American Lives,” which traced the genetic and personal history of several prominent Blacks, including TV show queen Oprah Winfrey, comedian Chris Rock, civil rights leader Al Sharpton, businesswoman Linda Johnson Rice and religious leader T.D. Jakes.

Woodlawn residents had a chance to learn how DNA can be used to trace African ancestors.

Richard Muhammad

An interest in why some people get sick and others don’t and physical differences he saw in high school classmates led to Dr. Kittles’ work in genetics. His interest in learning where he came from resulted in genealogical work. It turned out that his scientific knowledge helped trace his roots and others were interested in using the same tools.

“The way Dr. Kittles presented the information was very much professional. It was on target, it was humorous, light-hearted at times but also serious and balanced,” said Chandrea T. Hopkins, a Woodlawn resident and member of the Kenwood Point Homeowners Association. The presentation also challenged parents to look at what they are feeding children and consider fixing meals at home, she said.

Annie Pope, chair of the Health and Human Service Committee for NCP Woodlawn and TWO, said the point of the session was to get the word out about health. Her committee sponsored the event. “If we gain knowledge it puts us in a position to do something about things that are really happening to us,” she said. “We bring with us our history and we need to understand that history. It’s a cumulative kind of situation. If we understand that history it puts us in a better position to bring about change.”

Future planned Health Committee events include sessions on aging, depression and Alzheimer’s disease and drug and alcohol abuse.

Check Out The Strand Artists Lofts in Woodlawn

10/6/2008, 10:18 PM

Thursday, July 10, 2008

Starving artists may at last be able to find a place to live at The Strand Artists Lofts in Woodlawn. Three community meetings about the affordable, south side condominium

Artists rendering of The Strand Artists Lofts in Woodlawn.

development are scheduled, including Saturday July 12, Sunday July 20, and Saturday July 26. Meetings will be held at the Grand Ballroom located at 6351 S. Cottage Grove Ave. (1/2 block from The Strand).

The Strand Hotel was a major commercial and entertainment venue during the roaring 1920s.

The Strand Artists Lofts is steps away from the Chicago Transit Authority’s 63rd Street Green line station and Cottage Grove Avenue bus line. Just a few blocks south is the planned Lerner Center for the Creative and Performing Arts at the University of Chicago.

The complex will complement the building’s historic architecture and will feature an intercom system, hardwood floors, large sliding windows, on-site parking, wide doorways and halls, an elevator and other amenities.

The Strand Artists Lofts will offer 36 homes, ranging from 960 to 1060 square feet. Prime ground floor commercial space is also available. Housing preference will be given to applicants who can demonstrate an active pursuit and commitment to an art form through a body of work, experience, and/or training. Candidates will be interviewed by a panel of arts and community representatives.

Interested? Click here for more information.

Please RSVP by phone (773) 784-7900 or by email to noelia.vega@ameritech.net.

Information Is Power When It Comes to Health

7/10/2008, 11:13 AM

Wednesday, July 9, 2008

Richard Muhammad

Woodlawn residents will have the opportunity to undergo kidney screening July 26 thanks to the NCP Woodlawn Health and Human Services Committee. The screenings will run from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Jackson Parkside Apartments, located at 6040 S. Harper Avenue.

The screening is another example of how a small but determined group of neighborhood residents and stakeholders leverage relationships to promote health education and provide access to health services.

Colleen Fuller, left, gets help from Barbara Burgess at kidney screening in Woodlawn earlier this year.

Eric Young Smith

“We know that kidney disease is very prevalent among African-Americans. We know that African-Americans have high blood pressure. They have diabetes and these are the forerunners to kidney disease, especially when they go untreated, which is often the case,” said Annie R. Pope, who has lived in Woodlawn for 13 years. Pope and Joyce Nimocks, who has lived in Woodlawn for 38 years, are leading the committee.

Whether the screenings and information sessions are in senior buildings, apartments managed by The Woodlawn Organization or the Bessie Coleman Library, the old adage information is power takes new meaning as the women say literally thousands of dollars worth of services have been delivered.

“We’ve been able to bring quality services to the Woodlawn community as a result of this committee and as a result of the committee’s ability to partner with significant experts and resources,” said Pope.

A kidney screening early this year provided about $1,000 worth of medical work per person and 43 to 47 people participated in the session. That comes out to $43,000-$47,000 worth of services, Pope said. The health committee works with the American Kidney Fund’s MIKE (Minority Intervention Kidney Education) initiative to provide kidney screenings.

Barbara Tood watches as Jackie Cook draws blood at screening.

Eric Young Smith

The extensive screening includes a urinalysis, blood pressure check and blood tests are used for 30 different health values, Nimocks explained. The tests cover things like cholesterol levels, levels of iron and liver function, she said. Screening participants are also told how to handle health issues that surface. Best of all, when an official looking, post-screening package arrives, the information inside is easy to understand, Nimocks continued.

The screening and tests results are so thorough that after Nimocks participated in a screening, her personal physician canceled annual blood work and simply put the screening results in her medical file.

What drives the group? “I think the impetus is the recognition that there is such a disparity in terms of health issues for African-Americans,” said Pope. “We just believe that if we are better informed about health care issues and how to manage ourselves, hopefully it will lead to a better outcome.”

The group’s work is shaped by community health issues and partners assist in areas of concern or provide facilities, the women explained. Feedback comes directly from participants and through interaction at neighborhood meetings. None of the Quality-of-Life Plan features can be accessed if residents are sickly or dying prematurely, they added.

“This is especially a benefit for those who don’t have health insurance,” Pope noted.

The committee has created an “Ask The Doctor” forum, which allows residents to write questions down for Dr. Thomas Fisher, of the University of Chicago. After an initial round of anonymous questions, the audience asks follow ups. The health committee showed a documentary about urban health issues and had Dr. Fisher lead a discussion and answer questions. The group will soon plot out the “Ask the Doctor” schedule for next year. Dr. Fisher is also affiliated with Community Solutions In Action.

From left, Barbara Burgess, Annie R. Pope, Mabel Wayne, Courtney Nicholas, Carol Phillips and Joyce Nimocks at screening organized by Woodlawn health committee.

Eric Young Smith

A seminar on DNA and its relationship to health issues will be presented by Dr. Rick Kittles, PhD., an associate professor of genetic medicine at the University of Chicago Cancer Center, Saturday, August 23, 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m., at the Bessie Coleman Library. A diabetes screening to be conducted by University of Chicago medical students at 6250 S. Park Shore Ave. at the Park Shore Apartments is slated for August.

The current health committee is about a year and a half old, but Pope and Nimocks have been part of the NCP process for five years. Another key committee member is Carol Phillips, a TWO building manager at 6052 S. Harper Ave., Smith-Blair Building senior housing, who has opened her doors for screenings and meetings. TWO’s Ingrid Silmon and Myra Johnson Nash, Patricia Tatum Smith, R.N., Violet Johnson and University of Chicago medical employees Dawnavan Davis and Susan Peters round out the group.

“We’re a small committee trying to do big things,” said Nimocks.

University of Chicago Medical Center GIVES BIG

5/24/2008, 10:46 AM

Thursday, May 22, 2008

Arvin K. Strange

U of C volunteers carefully plant flowers and spruce up Grove Parc site for summer

Alex Fedderjohn

University of Chicago med personnel volunteers assisted with beautification efforts in Grove Parc on Saturday, May 17, 2008. The project was well appreciated and well-received by U of C's Grove Parc neighbors.

Woodlawn's Community Heroes for 2008

5/22/2008, 3:46 PM

Friday, May 16, 2008

Arvin K. Strange

As the Executive Director for Metropolitan Area Group for Igniting Civilization, Inc. (MAGIC), Bryan Echols has worked close to 10 hours a day for 5 years helping to build the organization, even though he was paid a meager stipend of $600 monthly in the early going. Under his watch the Metropolitan Area Group for Igniting Civilization (M.A.G.I.C) has launched exciting programs for teens, such as a young women's leadership development program, mural arts programs, youth organizing training, and the NCP-funded gem Woodlawn String Instrument Program.

In addition to his MAGIC duties, Bryan has chaired the Woodlawn Social Service Network, comprised of human service providers who meet regularly to help facilitate collaboration and cooperation on issues.

He has also become a big brother and counselor to youth and always encourages them to develop a spiritual side so that good decision-making becomes more intuitive and easier to execute. From the Woodlawn Heroes mural at the Harris Park Center, to the African mosaics enhancing the playground on 62nd and Kimbark, to the melodic sounds of string instruments coming out of Carnegie Elementary, evidence of Bryan Echols' acts of heroism abound in Woodlawn.

61st Street Farmer's Market Opens

5/21/2008, 8:58 PM

Thursday, May 15, 2008

The 61^st Street Farmers Market aims to create an oasis in the local ‘food desert’ by providing residents throughout the Woodlawn neighborhood and the neighboring areas with the opportunity to buy fresh, regionally grown farm products that are nutritious and affordable, and that cater to the culinary needs of Southside Chicago’s diverse population. In addition to providing nutritious foods, the ‘Market School’ will provide nutrition education programming for children and adults throughout the summer. We will also offer chef demos on food preparation.

Time: Saturdays, May 17-Oct 25, 2008
9am-2pm
Location: 61^st Street, between Dorchester and Blackstone Avenues

View an audio slideshow of opening day here.

The 61^st Street Farmers Market is a program of the Experimental Station, an independent and not-for-profit incubator of innovative cultural, educational, environmental projects and small-scale enterprises.

We thank our many volunteers and partners for their generous support, including: Alderman Willie B. Cochran, LISC/NCP, LaSalle Bank, The University of Chicago Office of Community Affairs, The University of Chicago Cancer Research Center, The Kovler Diabetes Center.

http://www.experimentalstation.org/about

WECAN Weatherization Workshop is a Rousing Success

5/21/2008, 2:57 PM

Wednesday, May 21, 2008

Arvin K. Strange

Gail Taylor of Woodlawn Community Service Corporation shares information regarding city services with community resident.

Alex Fedderjohn

WECAN held a weatherization workshop at AKA Community Center, 6228 South
Ingleside Avenue, on Saturday May 17, 2008. The Workshop was a huge success with Woodlawn residents. WECAN partnered with Neighborhood Housing Services (NHS), Woodlawn Community Service Corporation, The Cook County Assessor's office and the South Side Federal Credit Union.

Residents enthusiastically participated in the following information sessions:

WECAN accepted applications for weatherization grants and provided information on weatherstripping techniques.
NHS provided a foreclosure specialist with information on loan re-financing.
The Cook County Assessor's office provided information on obtaining senior exemptions and handicap exemptions.
The South Side Federal Credit Union provided information on the advantages/benefits of using credit unions.
The Woodlawn Community Service Corporation shared information about city services available to residents.

Attend WECAN's "Weatherization Workshop" Saturday, May 17, 2008

5/21/2008, 1:32 PM

Friday, May 16, 2008

Workshop will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2008: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

at: Akarama Foundation, Inc Theta Omega Chapter Community Service Center

6228 South Ingleside Avenue

Chicago, Illinois 60637

Admission is free.

Learn about CEDA's FREE weatherization resource and complete an application.

At this event you can also take advantage of other resources.

Open a share account at the South Side Credit Union with two pieces of ID.
Check you current property assessment and tax bill with the Cook County Tax Assessor.
Contest your assessment
Find out about homeownership preservation-foreclosure prevention
Find out about volunteer opportunities from Woodlawn Community Service Corporation.

For more information call WECAN at (773) 288 3000

WECAN NEWS

5/20/2008, 10:56 AM

Thursday, May 22, 2008

Arvin K. Strange

The WECAN Housing Resource Center continues to look for technical, innovative ways to expand it's marketing and outreach message. WECAN plans to publish and distribute both paper and electronic editions of it's HRC newsletter in June, 2008.

WECAN also has plans to record it's first podcast in June, 2008. Stay tuned.

Woodlawn's Community Heroes for 2008-2009

5/20/2008, 10:02 AM

Friday, May 16, 2008

For the past eight years, lifelong Woodlawn resident N. Jeane Clark has been dedicated to the upkeep and renovation of her neighborhood. Jeane has been a staunch advocate for community beautification and safety through her leadership fo the 6100 S. Rhodes Block Club, and she has also assisted other residents in organizing and maintaining functioning block clubs. As a member of The Woodlawn Organization's Steering committee, she serves on the housing and youth subcommittees to help catalyze other grassroots initiatives throughout the neighborhood.

A CAPS volunteer, Jeane has taken it upon herself to be a whistleblower for poor building management, slum landlords and criminal activity. She was akey organizer of the annual "Hands Across 3rd District" and "Ring the Bell, Sound the Alarm" safety campaigns, and she was an advocate for closing liquor stores that sold to minors. Jeane has received numerous awards from CAPS, T.W.O., and NCP for her innovative thinking and endless dedication.

MAYOR DALEY's CLEAN & GREEN

5/16/2008, 1:24 PM

Friday, May 16, 2008

For the past 20 years Chicagoans like yourself have teamed up with community groups and the City of Chicago to help beautify your communities by cleaning up and recycling accumulated litter and trash. All you have to do is sign up and join us at a location close to you that could really use a good cleaning. The City will work with you and with your community organization to provide use on that day of all the brooms, rakes, shovels, and bags needed to get the job.

Join us on May 17th and help make a big diference in your neighborhood.

To register or for more information. call us at 3-1-1

40 youngsters join Woodlawn Little League

4/14/2008, 1:29 PM

Monday, April 14, 2008

Renita Austin

Baseball, America’s favorite past time, has made it to Woodlawn in the form of the Woodlawn Little League!!!

In the recent past, this sport has been all but non existent to the youth in Woodlawn and other areas in the 20th Ward, though Woodlawn is known as home of such great and legendary baseball players as Minnie Minosa and others. To change that situation, the New Communities Program of Woodlawn with the support of LISC and the MacArthur Foundation has assembled a little league developmental camp for youth who are 12 years and under to train them in the fundamentals of baseball.

The league focuses on the fundamentals of swinging, throwing and catching.

Renita Austin

The youth committee of NCP/Woodlawn and its chairman, Mr. Joseph Strickland, recognize that our youth should not only be exposed to a great sport such as baseball, but also have some very vital life skills taught and reiterated, such as team building, sportsmanship, and even conflict resolution. It is the goal of the youth committee and the faithful volunteers of the little league developmental camp to assist our youth in being the best that they can be.

The Woodlawn Little League began on March 15, 2008 with 40 youth from the Woodlawn community and their parents attending the first session. We were able to get eight volunteers who are from the Woodlawn community or have ties to the community. Semi–pro baseball players as well as high school baseball coaches have participated as volunteer coaches and trainers.

View more photos of the Little Leaguers and volunteers in a web album here.

NCP Woodlawn looks forward to working with youth in transitioning into one or more little league baseball teams in the near future. NCP/Woodlawn thanks all of their partners who helped to make this camp happen: Hyde Park High School for the use of their gymnasium, LISC for seed funding, the volunteers for their time and effort, and last but not least the youth and their parents for actively participating in this effort and being a joy to work with.

MAGIC Teen Talk Chicago amplifies view, voices of youth

8/6/2007, 2:19 PM

Monday, August 6, 2007

MAGIC Teen Talk Chicago, a new television show for and about teens, was the subject of a recent article in The Final Call Newspaper. MAGIC, a non-profit, is an NCP-Woodlawn partner that focuses on youth issues and the piece was written by one of MAGIC's youth leaders. The article read in part:

"As the summer of 2007 moves on with all its tradition and glory, something new is here to challenge the norm and provide an outlet of positive motivation to a constantly attacked idea. Almost every day, news reports air that portray inner city teenagers as perpetrators or victims of crime and violence. Rarely are teenagers heralded for positive events in the mass media. That negative media dominance was challenged this summer as the non-profit organization MAGIC (Metropolitan Area Group for Igniting Civilization,Inc.) launched MAGIC Teen Talk Chicago, an innovative magazine television program. MAGIC Teen Talk Chicago is the official, new, mature teen talk show in the city. It is "by teens, for teens, and about teens. Each week teens present a topic relevant to high school age youth, with engaging conversation and information on where to go for help to address the issue. The first show discussed "Teen Dating Violence ..."

Click to read the article in PDF format.

Woodlawn New Communities Program - Latest news

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How it began

Program Expansion Dr. Thomas Fisher, M.D.

Program Expansion: PBS Documentary, “Unnatural Causes”

Future Goals

LISC Names Bishop Brazier as First Senior Fellow

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Genetics, race, health and history

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Richard Muhammad

Check Out The Strand Artists Lofts in Woodlawn

Thursday, July 10, 2008

Information Is Power When It Comes to Health

Wednesday, July 9, 2008

Richard Muhammad

University of Chicago Medical Center GIVES BIG

Thursday, May 22, 2008

Arvin K. Strange

Woodlawn's Community Heroes for 2008

Friday, May 16, 2008

Arvin K. Strange

61st Street Farmer's Market Opens

Thursday, May 15, 2008

WECAN Weatherization Workshop is a Rousing Success

Wednesday, May 21, 2008

Arvin K. Strange

Attend WECAN's "Weatherization Workshop" Saturday, May 17, 2008

Friday, May 16, 2008

WECAN NEWS

Thursday, May 22, 2008

Arvin K. Strange

Woodlawn's Community Heroes for 2008-2009

Friday, May 16, 2008

MAYOR DALEY's CLEAN & GREEN

Friday, May 16, 2008

40 youngsters join Woodlawn Little League

Monday, April 14, 2008

Renita Austin

MAGIC Teen Talk Chicago amplifies view, voices of youth

Monday, August 6, 2007

Program Expansion

Dr. Thomas Fisher, M.D.