Ald. Sharlen Moore used an event she called “unacceptable” to promote resources like jobs for local youths.
The event: the arrest of more than a dozen youths March 29 at Bayshore Mall following what police described as a “teen takeover.”
The event sparked fights, disorder and dysfunction, she said.
Another “teen takeover” at Moody Park the next day led to more violence.
By increasing access to employment, education and recreational opportunities, Moore is hoping to avoid other incidents in the future.
“Our youth and the community deserve better, and our families and community members must do better,” she said.
Here’s what the youths and others said
Teens NNS spoke with were especially interested in employment opportunities.
Elijah Zollicoffer, 15, said he attended the fair with his future on his mind. He wore a wide grin as he made his way through the Baird Ballroom downtown, where the resource fair was held.
“I was really just looking for a job or an internship. Something I could use to jumpstart my life,” Zollicoffer said. “I’m starting to get older and life is starting to get more serious.”
He said he was interested in several opportunities, including learning to cut hair.
Vendors at the event included well-known organizations, such as the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee; local staples, such as United Neighborhood Centers of Milwaukee; and large corporations, such as Lime.
Meech Williams, who works for the Milwaukee County Department of Health and Human Services, said they have many ways to support youths now and in the summer.
“All I know is the people that come to our table and get our resources and get our information, they’re leaving with a smile,” Williams said. “They’re leaving with an ‘OK, this is helping me.’ And that’s all I care about.”
Friends Janiya Brown and Ramiyah Watts visited tables and spoke with people together.
Brown, 17, said she found ways to build on her previous work experience there.
“I like this summer camp thing – because we both work in child care,” Brown said.
Watts, 18, was impressed with the number of people and opportunities.
“They got a lot,” she said. “Everything you need.”
Jonathan Aguilar is a visual journalist at Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service who is supported through a partnership between CatchLight Local and Report for America.
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