AustinTalks | Page 17 | youth | AustinTalks

Juvenile justice system is failing West Side kids, advocates say

There are alternatives to simply sending troubled teens to jail, says the Illinois Juvenile Justice Initiative.

The event will be held from noon to 4 p.m. at Universal Family Connection’s facility at 1350 W. 103rd St.

VOISE juniors Mario Shack and Akuamoah Waldon are part of the Golden Knights Drill Team.

Seventy players participated on six teams, organized by Austin Safety Net Works.

The deadline to apply is this Friday, June 3.

Youth with Circle Urban Ministries will entertain the audience with acrobatics, drama, dance and visual art during a free show Saturday night.

Wearing T-shirts that said “Don’t shoot” and “I want to grow up, live, love, laugh,” dozens of young children took to the streets Thursday.

Parents and community members learn tips on how to keep youth safe when they’re out of school.

The Strawberry Girls, Essie Little Folks Daycare and Because I Care Inc. have been awarded Cricket Community Voices grants.

To sign up to play or to volunteer, contact the Westside Health Authority or Austin Safety Net Works.