From makeshift studios on the South Side to the bright lights of Downtown runways, young entrepreneurs are redefining fashion as a movement rooted in community, vision, and empowerment.
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After Pandemic Sent Their Schooling Online, Young Chicagoans Are Creating Their Own Community Spaces
With mental health at the forefront, young people are finding new ways to gather and find community, with or without help from older adults.
From after-hours recreation to mental health care, youth programs remain a lifeline to children and families in vulnerable neighborhoods. But shifts, threats and cuts to grant programs risk endangering critical support.
Artist Zahra Baker came up in “a system of care” before the HIV/AIDS epidemic decimated communities. With health crises and cultural shifts disproportionately affecting Black, queer Chicagoans, Baker says forming lasting relationships is crucial now more than ever.
Changosnakedog uses puppets, music and multiple languages to connect people across languages and generations. Founder Otto Anzures Dadda speaks on the group’s mission.
Dominic Pacyga, an urban historian and author, has researched immigration history for decades. As ICE raids hit local communities, he sees parallels to how different groups have mobilized around a common cause.
The Inner-City Muslim Action Network’s Green ReEntry program brings younger people and elders together for mentorship and community care after prison. Chief Executive Director Alia Bilal discusses how leaders blend spirituality, justice, healing and community organizing to support people.
Whether it’s through outreach or mentorship, many are eager to connect across age groups and pass down their knowledge and wisdom.
Near West Side grocery shoppers describe how intergenerational ties are shifting — from church pews to chosen families — and what younger people are carrying forward on the South and West sides.
Beyond seasonal employment programs, community organizations across Chicago are building year-round, comprehensive youth development.
Chicago Documenters explored how intergenerational relationships shape how people live, work, organize and build community as part of a collaboration with the Civic Reporting Fellowship.
Muralist Ahmed Burson reflected on his journey into Chicago’s mural scene and his hopes for using art as a tool for connection, visibility and youth empowerment.
Brave Space Alliance's Jahiem Jones discusses the power of holistic support and safe spaces to set young people up for success.
Documenters asked young people in Chicago about how they navigate finding work and career development opportunities.
Young people don’t always feel safe in parks by themselves, especially ones where violent crime is more common. But group outings such as those with Chicago Run offer a sense of security, they said.
In search of opportunity, some young South and West siders are turning hobbies into side hustles, building skills for possible careers and leveraging personal connections.
Young trans people came to Chicago for safety and community. Increased anti-trans attacks and policy from President Donald Trump’s administration are making it harder to put down roots as they look for good jobs and affordable housing.
Ante el aumento vertiginoso de los precios de la vivienda en un barrio de Chicago en proceso de gentrificación, vivir en la casa familiar es una forma para que los jóvenes latinos permanezcan en su comunidad.
Artists on the South and West sides rely on free or subsidized community housing and the support of mission-driven arts organizations to maintain their art practices.
As housing prices skyrocket in the gentrifying neighborhood, living in the family home is one way for young Latino adults to stay in their community.