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January 2026 Mission: My Block My Hood My City


  • First United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights 1903 East Euclid Avenue Arlington Heights, IL, 60004 United States (map)

My Block My Hood My City is a South and West Side Chicago-based nonprofit organization founded in 2015 by Jahmal Cole. The inspiration for M3 emerged from Jahmal's experiences volunteering at the Cook County Juvenile Detention Center, where he observed that many teens had never ventured beyond their neighborhoods. Many teens had never been to the lake, never ridden in a taxi, never taken the elevator to the top of the Sears Tower. This realization highlighted the profound impact of limited exposure on individuals' perspectives and opportunities.

To address the issue, Jahmal launched the Explorers Program, designed to broaden the horizons of underprivileged youth by introducing them to diverse cultures, cuisines, careers, and communities throughout Chicago. The program aims to inspire students to envision possibilities beyond their block or hood and take ownership of their city. Through their diverse and multifaceted lineup of programs and initiatives, My Block My Hood My City continues to empower Chicagoans, encouraging them to explore beyond their immediate surroundings and actively contribute to the betterment of their communities. Visit https://www.formyblock.org for more information.

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December 1

December 2025 Mission: Sustainable Action International