(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — One Chicago Police Officer is on a mission to help young kids and teens, especially those facing challenges. He is this week’s Difference Maker.
“That juvenile background kind of closed a lot of doors, whether it was job opportunities, school opportunities or opportunity period," Chicago Police Officer Carmichael Lewis said.
Officer Lewis, a Chicago native, was once one of those troubled teens.
“Last year I got my record expunged and I've been holding that weight for over 20 years.”
These days, he uses his story to help young people avoid the mistakes he made.
Lewis also started a non profit — Youth & Blue United Inc. — with programs and workshops designed specifically to help teen boys ages 13-17.
“Because that was the age where I felt like I was lost.”
His goal is simple: “becoming that person I wish I had growing up.”
With 16 years of law enforcement experience, Officer Lewis also hopes his work will help build bridges between the community and police.
“In some communities, a police officer is the only positive male role model, or a role model period, that they possibly may see.”
Mayon Lowery started attending Youth & Blue United workshops when he was 16. He says Officer Lewis — who most kids call Coach Lewis — is an inspiration.
“I think it's his background alone that is a little more touching,” Lowery said.
“Getting that extra opportunity to change his life and do a complete 180. That's an amazing thing to see as, like, a young man and it's really inspiring and motivating.”
Lowery was so inspired, the now 21-year-old wants to help mentor other young people in the program.
“Kind of just help other kids see things in a different light. That's more impactful for me, is just to change another person's life.”
For more information about Youth & Blue United, visit their website.
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