Nonprofit hosts 'field takeover' at Bronzeville school as alternative to disruptive teen gatherings

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Some Chicagoans who are fed up with teen takeovers did something about it on Saturday.

The field behind Mollison Elementary in Bronzeville was busy with athletics and affirmations. Personal trainers and speakers volunteered their time to engage and motivate young people at the Restore the Youth Field Takeover.

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"You are lovable. You are capable of being loved. You are capable of doing something positive, so any negative behavior that you have cultivated because of the hardship you've had all your life, change that around," said Sunny Akhigbe.

Akhigbe founded the nonprofit A Boy and His Dream. Having done youth programs in Chicago and Nigeria, he came up with idea of a Field Takeover as an antidote to the large teen gatherings that have garnered attention for getting out of hand.

On Monday, several young people were arrested at 57th Street Beach.

"Children need to understand that positivity will help them the most," Akhigbe said.

Among the participants were some young people and parents who appreciated having a safe, positive event on a Saturday.

"Gun violence happens and all this stuff with all these teens, so it's hard to have fun with my friends and avoid that," said 13-year-old Hunter Adkins.

"We need to change the focus on organizations that are providing opportunities for young people. They exist everywhere. It's getting the word out," said parent Tanya Uyigue.

"It's very disheartening, what's going on with our youth today, and if I had it my way, what we need is more community activities for our youth to be involved in," said youth program coordinator Rita Beasley-Lawson.

Akhigbe had hoped more teens would have participated on Saturday, but he's not giving up.

"We are just getting started because we are tired of children taking over the street in a negative way. So, we help them flip that. So, the next one, you better be out," Akhigbe said.

Organizers of Saturday's event say they will do more of these events. They aim to get the attention of teens to help them make the most of their lives now and in the future.