The 2007 Chester Youth Empowerment Summit

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On May 12, 2007, the Chester Youth Collaborative (CYC) and Delaware County District Attorney G. Michael Green co-hosted “The Remix, 2007 Chester Youth Empowerment Summit” at Widener University. This free event attracted over 300 community members.

The Summit included workshops and a talent showcase. Mike Green, Chester Mayor Wendell N. Butler, Jr. and Assistant District Attorney Erica Parham were among the speakers. Lamarr Darnell Shield gave the keynote address. Mr. Shield is an author and co-founder of the Urban Leadership Institute. Mr. Shield’s speech focused on self-empowerment, determination and goal setting. Hip-hop legend Slick Rick entertained the crowd.

The Summit Planning Committee presented Chester Education Foundation member Elaine Greene-Upton with a Visionary Award. CYC member Romir Kirksey was honored for his leadership skills.

After the successful event, Assistant District Attorney Parham said, “I was inspired by the young people who coordinated the Chester Youth Summit. Their desire to control their own destiny through positive actions and hard work is commendable. I was so proud of them. I am grateful to work in an environment that encourages community involvement and fosters partnerships in our community, especially with young people.” Organizers hope that lessons learned at the summit will inspire youth to bring about positive changes in their lifestyle choices, their communities and their schools.

The CYC thanks the following organizations for their partnership with the Collaborative:

Bethany Baptist Church, Big Brothers Big Sisters SEPA, Chester Arts Alive, Chester Biddy Association, Chester Boys & Girls Club, Chester Branch NAACP, Chester Community Improvement Project, Chester Education Foundation, Chester Housing Authority, Chester Mural Collective, Chester PAL, Chester Rotary Club, Chester Upland School District, Chester Weed and Seed, Chester Youth Build, City of Chester Mayor’s Office, CKHS Healthy Start, Community Action Counsel Wesley House, Crozer-Keystone Health System, Delaware County Chamber of Commerce, Delaware County District Attorney’s Office, Department of Public Welfare, Eastside Neighborhood Connection, Envision Youth Center, Franklin Mint Credit Union, Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance, Islamic Center of Chester, J. Lewis Crozer Library, Lighthouse Community Church, Majestic, Inc., Millions More Movement, Musicopia, Pendle Hill, Peniel Recovery Center, Proverbs Basketball League, Saber Program, Siloam United Methodist Church, South Chester Optimist Club, Swarthmore College, Team Mac, The Achievement Project, The Nia Center, Inc., United Way SEPA, United Way Southeastern Delaware County, Wallingford Community Arts Center, Widener University, William Penn Foundation, Youth for Christ, and YWCA of Chester