WHAT WE DO.
Youth Ambassadors Initiative- A leadership and service Initiative where youth engage in mentorship, life skills training, and community service. Ambassadors participate in anti-violence walks, financial literacy workshops, and problem-solving exercises while maintaining academic and attendance standards.
Block By Block Initiative- A canvassing Initiative where youth provide residents with local resources, job opportunities, and healthcare information. Participants gain work experience while fostering civic engagement and community pride.
We Are Cleaning Initiative- A community beautification Initiative where youth lead clean-up efforts, removing litter and educating residents on environmental responsibility. This initiative promotes a cleaner, safer Linden.
We Are For the Culture Initiative- A fashion-based initiative where youth explore styling, design, and modeling. The program promotes creativity, entrepreneurship, and self-expression, culminating in a For the Culture Fashion/Performance Showcase.
Jays for A’s Initiative- An academic rewards Initiative where high-achieving students are nominated to receive new sneakers. The initiative promotes excellence and motivation in education.
We Are Sports Initiative- uses sports as a tool to reduce violence, build character, and strengthen community by engaging youth in safe, structured, and mentored athletic spaces while actively supporting local school sports teams across the Linden community.
Community Corner Initiative- is a new initiative that brings resources, connection, and community pride directly into the neighborhood. Located inside a local community store, it serves as a hub for housing, food, mental health, youth programs, job opportunities, and community updates, while also offering WE ARE LINDEN merchandise that supports youth and community work. Updated weekly, Community Corner makes support visible and accessible, building trust, strengthening unity, and ensuring Linden families know where to turn for help and hope.
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Initiatives
Programs
We Are Black History Program
It is a 4-week educational program during the month of February that showcases the contributions of Black leaders in various fields such as arts, health, technology, and life skills. This program is to educate and inspire youth about the diverse and impactful work being done by Black individuals in these areas.
Project Safe Summer Program
A Summer program that empowers youth through creative expression, life skills, mental health support, and community service, along with hands-on learning in literacy, math, and STEM. It offers a safe, supportive space for young people to grow, lead, and stay engaged all summer long.
WAV After School Program (We Are Voices)
It is an after-school and Saturday enrichment program designed to empower youth to overcome obstacles, discover their strengths, and reach their full potential. Rooted in community, culture, and care, WAV supports young people through a holistic approach that blends mental health and wellness, mentorship, creative expression, and leadership development.
Community Events
The Linden Block Party 614: Is an event to unite, uplift, and empower Linden. This free, family-friendly celebration features music, food, games, and essential resources for families. A massive giveaway provides school supplies, backpacks, clothes, and more, easing financial stress and preparing youth for success. Beyond fun, the event serves as a violence prevention initiative, fostering mentorship, community engagement, and positive connections. Powered by WE ARE LINDEN, this event brings together local organizations, businesses, and volunteers to strengthen social ties, restore hope, and create a safer, stronger, and more connected Linden.
MLK March in Linden: An annual march honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., promoting unity and social awareness through community participation, speeches, and reflection.
Wear Orange Anti-Violence Community Tailgate: A violence prevention event in partnership with Ohio Moms Demand Action, honoring survivors and victims while promoting peace and safety through advocacy and celebration
Youth Turkey Bowl: A pre-Thanksgiving flag football event promoting teamwork, sportsmanship, and physical activity while strengthening youth and community relationships.
Trunk or Treat: A safe Halloween alternative where children collect candy from decorated cars, enjoy games, and build community connections in a secure setting.
Community Love Toy Drive: A holiday initiative that provides toys to children in need, fostering generosity, community support, and holiday cheer for underserved families.
Home Game Tailgates & Hangouts: Take place during football & basketball seasons, bringing the community together to celebrate youth, school pride, and unity. At each event, WE ARE LINDEN distributes T-shirts that promote shared identity and positive messaging, turning game day into a powerful display of connection, pride, and support for our students.
The Unity Parade: is a youth- and community-led march through the Linden neighborhood celebrating peace, pride, and togetherness while raising funds to support the Linden-McKinley Unstoppable Mighty Marching Panthers Band annual competition trip. Families, schools, and community partners come together to show up for Linden, uplifting positive voices and investing directly in youth excellence.
