Baltimore Mayor and NBA star join forces for Youth B’More Summer Block Party

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— On Saturday, July 27, 2013, Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake and the Baltimore City Youth Commission partnered with NBA star Josh Selby and the Josh Selby Foundation to host a Youth B’More Summer Block Party and the Josh Selby Foundation’s 4 on 4 Charity Basketball Tournament at Mund Park to benefit Baltimore City’s Safe Streets initiative.

“The city’s Youth B’More Summer Block Party series is a fun and positive program.” said Mayor Rawlings-Blake. “It’s important that the city’s youth get the support they need throughout the summer months.”

For the second consecutive year, the Josh Selby Foundation hosted its 4 on 4 Charity Basketball Tournament. “The game is an opportunity for kids to play and have fun for a cause,” said Josh Selby. “Having a kid from the same streets make it and come back gives them some hope.”

This year, Josh decided to take a stand against violence in Baltimore with his Walk Away Campaign in support of the mayor’s Safe Streets initiative. Safe Streets is a community mobilization and outreach program designed to combat gun violence and homicide. Through a media campaign and community mobilization, the initiative targets high-risk youth, ages 14 to 25, with outreach and service connection.

The Youth B’More Summer Block Parties series is in its 6th year and has seen record-breaking attendance each year. Since its inception, the initiative has grown to reach thousands of citizens each year in communities throughout Baltimore. The block parties give residents access to health screenings, employment information, and school enrollment opportunities.

The event featured live performances from the area’s top musical artists, including 92Q’s DJ Angel Baby with the Get Pumped Movement, Music by DJ Infame, and many more.

Participating city agencies include the Baltimore Health Department, Baltimore City School System, and the Mayor’s Office of Employment Development.

The event is supported and sponsored by Downtown Locker Room, Task Force Marketing, DC Nadia Group, The Baltimore City Youth Commission, and Jason’s Deli.

The Baltimore City Youth Commission works to create better schools, safer streets, and stronger neighborhoods by planning and promoting safe, productive activities for children, youth, and families in Baltimore’s communities.