* Have never been on a YouthWorks trip
* Have previously attended a YouthWorks trip
Chicago is a spectacular city that is home to residents of countless ethnicities and walks of life. This midwestern metropolis attracts visitors for business, shopping, sports, music, and art. Known as "The Windy City," Chicago's location on Lake Michigan gives it a beautiful lakefront as well as many recreational opportunities. This bustling and beautiful city also has its share of struggles, as residents face poverty, difficult family situations and a lack of affordable housing.
Canaryville is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the south side of Chicago, and in the past, it boasted a largely Irish population. Canaryville’s Irish gangs were active in attacks on African Americans in the 1919 Race Riots, and this tragedy spurred the development of more ethnic gangs and continued racial violence. The ramifications of the 1919 Race Riots – the economic effect on local businesses, racial tensions, division, and the high level of policing throughout Chicago – can still be felt and seen today. Additionally, the decline of the livestock and meatpacking industries significantly affected both the population and the economic livelihood of this neighborhood. Since then, more people of other ethnic backgrounds have been moving into the south side, which has challenged the "closed-off" mindset this community once held. Despite the historical tensions and present distrust that exists among the people of the south side, YouthWorks is in the community because of our deep relationships with community members. Since 1999 we have been helping local ministries meet the needs of their community, and our hope is to continue to invest in these long-standing relationships with people who are passionate about serving and caring for Chicago. YouthWorks seeks to deepen our existing partnerships with local community gardens, children’s summer programs, food shelves, and homeless ministries for many more years to come.