Diane Latiker

Founder of Kids Off The Block In 2003, Diane Latiker opened her home to youth in her community to help them steer away from the negative influences they saw daily. Kids Off The Block (known as KOB) began to work with youth, teens, and young adults ages 12-24 years old. After speaking with the young people about their issues and concerns, she offered them homework help, mentoring, activities and a "safe place". Her work with youth emphasized self-development that would lead to change. Through individual meetings and group discussions new recruits were encouraged to assess their current situation, identify skills and a knowledge base needed to achieve the goals they have targeted. Starting out with ten youth from the neighborhood, almost 14 years later, KOB has serviced over 3,000 participants since its inception. The “at-risk” youth are involved in Health Workshops, Cultural Events, Educational Tutoring and celebrations in their honor for achievements and participation. The density and variety of programming invites these youngsters to come “off the streets” and become engaged in events that are conducted in a safe and caring environment.

Recent Posts by Diane

Author Yusuf Ali El Donates His Books “Thank You & Please” To Kids Off The Block

Author Yusuf Ali El Donates His Books “Thank You & Please” To Kids Off The Block

Big “Thank you” to Yusuf Ali El for donating his books to us!!! We will give them as gifts to the children at our upcoming events!

So Proud Of KOB Participant Denzell Russell / Honor Roll 2 Years In A Row!

So Proud Of KOB Participant Denzell Russell / Honor Roll 2 Years In A Row!

This is Denzel, he’s a sophomore at Fenger High School. He wanted to show me his basketball award. I told him how proud I am of him, not only for his basketball skills, but because he is also an Honor Roll student! All A’s two years in a row!!! Not only that, he has the most respectful personality, just an awesome Young Man that I am so honored to know!

King College Prep Seniors Donate to Kids Off The Block

King College Prep Seniors Donate to Kids Off The Block

KOB was so excited today at King College Prep, the Graduating Seniors and the Chicago Youth Philanthropy Group chose Kids Off The Block has their choice to be honored with a 2,000.00 donation!!! Thank you so much, and Congratulations!!!

KOB Founder Is Invited To King College Prep To Encourage Junior & Seniors About Being Active In Their Communities!

KOB Founder Is Invited To King College Prep To Encourage Junior & Seniors About Being Active In Their Communities!

I was invited to King College Prep to speak to the Senior class about how to be active in their communities. I had the best time with these respectful, intelligent Young People!!! I was so proud of them when I left, they were preparing for prom and graduation. ‪#‎ILoveOurYoungPeople‬ ‪#‎KingCollegePrepStudentsRock

Kids Off The Block Launches “TEC Center” in Partnership with Blue 1647 in September 2015!

Kids Off The Block Launches “TEC Center” in Partnership with Blue 1647 in September 2015!

Kids Off The Block KOB Youth Technology Entrepreneur and Career Center (TEC)

A Youth and Young Adults Full Service Career Center Coming…………Fall, 2015!

What is “The TEC Center”? The “TEC Center is the coming launch of a career readiness project of Kids off the Block (KOB) to prepare our youth and young adults to become equipped for emerging career opportunities through technology, entrepreneurship, and the trades. “The TEC Center” A workforce development project of Kids Off the Block Sponsors/Donors Invited to invest, collaborate, and engage Chicago’s Greater Roseland community through its’ children.

Diane Latiker, Founder &CEO