Though not all youth are born into productive environments, organizations like Kids Off The Block help at-risk youth achieve the success they are destined for! An amazing organization that provides at-risk low-income youth positive alternatives to gangs, drugs, truancy, violence, and the juvenile justice system.
The Beginning
Founded in 2003 by Diane Latiker, this organization that provides at-risk low-income youth positive alternatives to gangs, drugs, truancy, violence, and the juvenile justice system. Diane and her associates act as wonderful examples of how small changes can make a massive impact on the world. At first, Latiker opened her home to youth in her community to prevent them from engaging the negative influences around them. After a time, she officially created Kids Off The Block (KOB) to work with youth, teens, and young adults who sought academic support, mentoring, and a safe haven.
Their Work
By developing such an environment, Latiker is able to emphasize the need for self-development in youth to promote change. Over a decade later, KOB continues to promote the idea of self-development with its “at-risk” youth are involved in Health Workshops, Cultural Events, Educational Tutoring, and celebrations in their honor for achievements and participation. Ultimately, this organization has helped immensely in reaching out to youth and providing them with "access to a path that leads away from self-destruction and economic impoverishment" through programs focused on promoting good health, educational achievement, and personal and social growth. To learn more about some of these programs, read about them here: https://kidsofftheblock.us/author/diane-latiker/