AYE in the News: Street Beat with Syma Chowdry
Empowering Youth To Make Detroit A Better Place
Published June 3rd 2011
http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2011/06/03/empowering-youth-to-make-detroit-a-better-place/
Can we make Detroit a better place by starting from our youth? That is what some community leaders believe. Think of it as an investment for our future. On this week’s “Street Beat,” we will be talking to organizations that promote healthy growing and living. Each of their messages come from a positive place.
David Abramson and Rasheda Williams from the Association for Youth Empowerment explain the “Bridging Eight Mile” project. They explain, how going into schools and breaking down barriers is a great start. AYE tries to eliminate social oppression and foster respect, compassion and acceptance.
What about promoting a healthy message through dance, music and art? That’s where Melanie Knoll and Cedric Miller of the Living Arts organization steps in. They explain the importance of children being introduced into art, as a form of self-expression and how its improving lives in Southwest Detroit.
We also spoke with Christine Geoghegan the manager of Generation of Promise. For 16 years, this group has provided a year long experience for high school juniors from all different parts of Metro Detroit. Their focus is promoting diversity awareness and leadership skills. We met Daniel Cook who is now the co-Valedictorian of University of Detroit Jesuit High School. He was part of the Generation of Promise program. You won’t want to miss his interview. I was amazed by him! Daniel is only 17-year-old, but he is mature beyond his years. He talks about his experience with Generation of Promise and how it’s shaped his future.