More than 700 people attended Heal the Hood’s two-day summer block party at the Parklawn YMCA, 4340 N. 46th St., according to founder Ajamou Butler. In comparison, the spring block party drew roughly 250 people each day.

“It was just an idea of something to do for the people, but the campaign grew and just became a full-steam engine,” said Butler. The first block party, four years ago, started with 30 people.

Sponsors of the Heal the Hood Fest included 7th District Alderman Khalif Rainey, the YMCA of Metropolitan Milwaukee and A Cry for Help Foundation, Inc.

Heal the Hood Fest features vendors, a DJ, two African drumming troupes, the Milwaukee Flyers tumbling team, a martial arts group to discuss self defense, a fitness course, speakers, spoken-word artists, free food, free book bags and even free haircuts.

“The list goes on and on,” said Butler. “Whatever we can do for our people, that’s what we try to do.”