Some of Chicago's most promising youth are falling into hopelessness. Teens disheartened by generational poverty, academic neglect, and the trauma of community violence are turning to the streets. We contribute to the momentum improving Chicago's future by attracting youth least likely to join mentoring and tutoring programs-- the kids who like to fight.
We offer an enriching opportunity for no cost to the youth or their families. Once enrolled, we connect them to mentors, engage them in academic services, and expand their horizons with college trips and explorational learning. Since 2016, we have maintained 100% high school graduation and college acceptance rates.
We offer an enriching opportunity for no cost to the youth or their families. Once enrolled, we connect them to mentors, engage them in academic services, and expand their horizons with college trips and explorational learning. Since 2016, we have maintained 100% high school graduation and college acceptance rates.
Services
Cannon's program, the Bloc, "spreads the love for boxing" while providing tutoring and more! Block Club Chicago drops in just before Punches with Purpose to help spread the news of the work we do. Lauren Jiggetts stops by to share The Bloc's work with Chicago teens. Learn about The Bloc from fighters Chikita Davis and Keyon Pass, and founder Jamyle Cannon.
From tutoring and mentoring to securing sponsorships and using professional skills, volunteers make our program sustainable and successful. Joining The Bloc as a volunteer connects you with a supportive group of like-minded adults, inspiring youth, and a chance to make a profound difference. Whether seeking partnership opportunities, considering a donation, or thinking about enrolling a child, we welcome visitors!
Digital Dukes is the one-of-a-kind industry experience that takes volunteer boxers from the tech, advertising and media community, trains them for four months, and puts them in the ring for a full-scale amateur boxing match in front of their friends and colleagues. Join with other civic-minded professionals as we come together for drinks, appetizers, and new ways to impact one of Chicago's most promising nonprofits.
Reviews (12)
Amit Khatkhate
Dec 26, 2021
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The Bloc is an amazing community organization that brings so many opportunities for kids on the West Side. The Bloc also contributes to the local community and both kids and staff are involved in these events (e.g. food pantries) as well. This is an overall game-changing space for kids, and I'm proud to support and contribute to the organization in the tiny way that I do!
Life Will Nino
Oct 28, 2021
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The Bloc is an amazing place! Not only does it uplift and support the community, but it provides a safe haven, and an amazing coupling of growth and opportunity through Boxing for our Youth! As an SEL coach and counselor I see the strength and cognizant development nourished. As a pugilist, and a true student of the sweet science I am again amazed at the training, discipline, space built and quality of teaching that is provided. They are Positively Fighting for our Future!
Jacob Weiner
Oct 02, 2021
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Raymond Cekus
Sep 29, 2021
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Went to the Punches for A Purpose event and had a fantastic experience. Saw kids interact well with adults and teach stations that gave those involved an insight on boxing technique as well as a great workout. Hearing the experiences these kids have had and how the Bloc has been an outlet for them was part of the overall great experience and why I would recommend being a part of the Blog.
Stephanie Acker
Sep 27, 2021
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The Bloc creates a warm and inviting atmosphere for youth to explore new passions and flourish creatively. The staff and volunteers are committed to ensuring that each fighter gets the appropriate mentorship and guidance to achieve their goals. Aside from the boxing program and conditioning provided, The Bloc is a community staple - going out of the way to serve its neighbors through a food pantry with fresh produce, food and medical support for animals via One Tail at a Time, clothing and winter jacket drives, and more. Can't recommend them enough!
Miranda Lambert
Sep 24, 2021
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Nicole Brettman
Sep 23, 2021
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The Bloc is an ever giving haven where i’ve witnessed people of all ages from the community come, feel welcome and at peace. It was born as a boxing gym and during some of Chicago’s toughest months it became a food pantry, gently used & new clothing store, “school” and several other resources the community needed in that moment. The building (old church) is being re-purposed as a boxing gym, academic excellence center and safe space for kids who want it. The walls have been painted by artists and the kitchen was updated by generous donors. The program and building runs on donations. I’ve
Elena Fresquez
Sep 23, 2021
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Cannot say enough good things about my experiences at The Bloc. The environment is so welcoming and the people who work there are willing to go above and beyond to help folks not just in the building, but in the community as well. Very grateful for this organization and the work they do and opportunities they provide for Chicago’s youth!
Aniyah Sutton
Sep 22, 2021
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Adrian Mazon
Sep 19, 2021
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The bloc is more than a boxing program. They’ve grown into a great community organization that goes above and beyond for their children. From physical activity to mentoring and field trips, this org checks all the boxes. There needs to be more places like this who serve the best interest of our youth!
Dee Rosa
Sep 25, 2018
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Lali Armijo
Nov 29, 2017
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