#CrisisProvesCharacter: What block is your crisis on?
If you live in Chicago, you’ve probably seen somebody rocking a hoodie or t-shirt My Block, My Hood, My City with those iconic Chicago flag red stars but hell, you might have had a sighting while traveling abroad too. Jahmal Cole is the founder of My Block My Hood My City and has gone international with his message of rebuilding your community with his exposure-based education program for teens and a network of volunteer initiatives that serve Chicago communities year-round. His recent book, “It’s Not Regular” depicts the inequities hiding in plain sight on the south and west side where neighborhoods are filled with currency exchanges and liquor stores. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, his organization delivered groceries to the elderly to now, helping looted small businesses with his relief fund. Jahmal refers to himself as a turned-up activist but he’s more than that to so many young people that he mentors. You can learn more about Jahmal Cole and his story at https://www.formyblock.org/jahmal-cole.