DeKalb Council to Consider $149,500 Grant for Youth Center Purchase

DEKALB — The DeKalb City Council will consider a $149,500 grant to Building Leaders Advocating for Change, Inc. to help the nonprofit purchase the former Congregation Beth Shalom facility at 820 Russell Road. The proposed grant would cover about 75% of the $200,000 purchase price and help B.L.A.C. establish a permanent youth programming center in the Annie Glidden North neighborhood. The organization, founded in 2020 by Executive Director Tiffany Tucker, provides after school and summer programs focused on recreation, counseling, STEM education and employment pathways for youth ages 10 to 18. City officials said funding would come from unused money in the Emergency Assistance Fund and remaining American Rescue Plan Act funds that must be spent in 2026. The former Beth Shalom building includes about 2,400 square feet of usable space and is located near Welsh Park, which hosts the annual Fun Jam events. City staff said the new facility would strengthen services available to families in the neighborhood. The council will vote on the resolution during its meeting tonight.