South Chicago

 

"The Art Center is the neighborhood's only real safe place.
The kids know it-I've seen them running full speed out of school
down 91st Street to get to the Center. I've seen parents show up to help
paint the walls of the Center, nurturing the place that offers love,
creative inspiration, and hope to their children everyday."
-Greg Dezulskis supporter since 2001, board member since 2004.

 

Despite critical progress made in the last decade, South Chicago remains a tough place for a kid to live. The neighborhood still suffers from unemployment, poverty, crime, gang activity, vacant lots and substandard housing, most acutely in the Millgate area, where the Art Center is located.

 

 

This sector, bounded by 87th Street, 93rd Street, Brandon Avenue, and the former USX steel mill site on Lake Michigan, reflects the ethnic and racial diversity of South Chicago. The racial make-up of Millgate is approximately 60% African-American, 35% Latino, and 5% other.

 

The community is overwhelmingly poor. More than 95% of the children attending the local elementary school are eligible for free or subsidized lunch. In addition to facing uncertain economic prospects, youths are vulnerable to the lure of gang affiliation and the drug trade. South Chicago consistently ranks among Chicago's most violent neighborhoods. At least twelve street gangs are active in the area, creating territory issues that discourage young adults and families from using certain streets, parks, and other recreational facilities. The Art Center is an alternative to the streets, destructive youth activity, and unsupervised time at home.

 

Click here for South Chicago maps & data