Checkmate.
In an effort to curb the spike in violence around the city, local nonprofit Youth 2 Greatness Inc. is stepping up its “Chess in the Park” programming. President Yuri Smith says the game allowed him to develop critical thinking skills when he was young + saved him from going down the wrong path.
The organization recently received $75,000 to expand the project and hire community navigators to go door-to-door to help Hoosiers in need find transportation, housing, and food security. It will also be used to host events outside of Frank Young Park — where the program got its start.
Thanks to the Indianapolis Foundation, Yuri plans to bring events to the 46202 + 46208 zip codes with Saturday events like “The Kickback” on July 1, “The Cleanup” on July 8, and “The Plug” on July 15. Health, job, and educational resources will be incorporated into “The Plug” for those looking for assistance.
