Austin violence drops between holiday weekends as BUILD, Inc. devotes funding to young people

 

 

CHICAGO (WLS) — The renovation of BUILD, Inc. in Austin is nearly done.

Chicago police reported that homicides were down 64.7% and shootings were down 54% in Austin from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Citywide, during the same time, homicides down were 23.3% and shootings were down 24.9%.

But, work of the nonprofit has never stopped during the expansion. A drop in crime is, perhaps, evidence of that work.

“When we get the appropriate resources to do the work, we do it. Should be a surprise to no one,” said BUILD, Inc. CEO Adam Alonso.

Alonso said they and partner agencies are starting to get funding they need to devote more to Chicago’s young people.

“We inspire them,” Alonso said. “We give them opportunities. More than anything, it’s the opportunity. ‘Try it. Oh, it’s not for you. Great, what else are you interested in? Let’s find that avenue.'”

Among the programs at Build, Music to Me shows students the business and creative sides to the music industry while giving the teens an emotional outlet.

Read the full story from ABC7 Chicago here.