We feel blessed and humbled as our kids, along with several dignitaries, families, friends and staff, “crossed over” from our old building to a gleaming new $6 million, 26,000-square-foot center that is being called the “gem of Austin.” The nationally acclaimed Marching Band of Proviso East High School led the way.
“This is a banner day for the nearly 1,000 kids who attend By The Hand Clubs in four areas of Chicago,” said Donnita Travis, founder and executive director of the club. “Today we open the doors to a new building that will provide hope and new opportunities for not only kids who otherwise might not have a chance, but for the surrounding Austin community.”
A long-time area ministry leader once described the location of the new By The Hand Center as “the darkest and toughest corner” in Austin. What a blessing that kids lives will now be changed on that same corner.
Dignitaries celebrating the opening included Ald. Jason C. Ervin (28th), Chicago Police Commander Barbara West, Rev. John Hannah of New Life Covenant Church, representatives from Novak Construction, Tragil Wade of the Dwyane Wade Foundation and others.
The new center was constructed in less than six months and opened in time for summer school activities.
You can see a virtual tour here.
Our students have the power to impact Chicago’s greatest needs. You have the power to show these young men and women abundant life—mind, body and soul.