Common's AAHH Fest underway in Union Park

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Chicago rapper Common kicked off his two-day "AAHH Fest" on Saturday at Union Park in Chicago, an effort to raise awareness about youth violence in the city.

The music festival also featured some of Common's famous friends.

Hundreds of teens and families attended the event, including teens from the crime-ridden Englewood neighborhood.

The fest is the brainchild of the rapper-turned-actor Common.

"Chicago has had some issues for some years now, so this message is definitely about peace, love and unity," Common said.

The highlight of the two-day event, held in the West Loop, was a community day on Saturday which featured local artists including Ace da Vinci.

"I'm non-violent and also a firm believer in taking care of one another and protecting one another,' da Vinci said.

Several community groups also offered family resources at the event, including one of the sponsors, the Common Ground Foundation.

"It's really bring together diverse groups, neighborhoods, schools, churches, all different types of kids," said Leslie Pappas, the foundation's executive director.

Chance the Rapper also stopped by the event, as well as actor/comedian Deon Cole from the ABC's hit comedy "Black-ish." Cole grew up in Chicago's Roseland and Englewood neighborhoods.

"As long as we can influence the youth and give people a chance that's good," Cole said.