I think that this is the first time that I have used this blog to appeal for concrete support for youth in conflict with the law in Chicago. I have decided to use this space today to ask those who might be inclined to help to support two initiatives.

Regular readers know that my organization has revived a project called Girl Talk this year in partnership with a terrific leadership team of young women of color. Girl talk will organize two “self-care” days for incarcerated girls on December 17th and 18th. We are seeking volunteers and as importantly we are accepting donations of supplies and money to make both days a success. You can find details about the self-care days here.

Next, my friend Matt runs a terrific program called Urban Life Skills in Little Village. This is basically a volunteer-run program that support court-involved and gang-involved youth and provides them with a real opportunity to change their lives. Dedicated mentors are assigned to the youth and ULS provides holistic services.

A couple of weeks ago, ULS had all of its video games stolen from their center. They took over $1000 worth of stuff including 2 xbox 360s, 8 controllers, and over 10 games. If you have any Xbox 360 equipment that you aren’t using, would be willing to sell for cheap, or if you’d like to give a donation to ULS to be able to purchase new equipment let me know in the comments section.

I can attest to the amazing work that ULS does with young people. Financial donations can be made online or if you have want to mail a check:

Checks should be made out to New Life Centers and mailed to ULS Program – Attention: Matt DeMateo, 3057 S. Drake, Chicago IL 60623. Xbox games can also be directly mailed to the same address.

As the holidays approach, please consider supporting either of these initiatives. Thanks for your consideration.