Ashland Youth Group Chalk-Full of Positivity

Though their artwork may not be permanent, members of Furthering Youth Inspiration (FYI) hope their message will leave a lasting impression in the community.

FYI, a youth group aimed at solving local issues such as violence, is part of the Alameda County Deputy Sheriffs' Activities League (DSAL).

"We try to tackle places where all [the violence] happens at," said youth mentor coordinator Roy Terry Jr.

The most recent incident, , was one of several that motivated the group to focus on the Ashland area. So far, they have done six chalk sessions along East 14th Street.

Each Wednesday at 4 p.m., about a dozen members meet at the DSAL office on 164th Avenue and East 14th Street. There, they pick an area in Ashland to re-enforce value through the positive words and images of their chalk art.

So far, Terry says they have received strong support from most of the community, but not all. He said they had some trouble with security personnel at the Jack Holland Sr. Park a few weeks back.

Despite getting approval from the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District (HARD) to hold a chalk session on the sidewalk of the park, the group created their artwork inside of it instead. Terry said security didn't seem pleased with the idea.

"The next day, [our picture and message] was washed off," he said. "It's not like it's tagging."

Calvina Brown, 17, was originally from Oakland and said violence was the norm in her daily life. However, after joining FYI and getting involved with , she said she has become a better person and student.

"It's like a second family for me," she said. "We all work together and we always compromise."

If you are interested in learning more about FYI, their events and activities, visit their website or contact DSAL program director Hilary Bass by phone (510)667-3285 or e-mail hbass@acgov.org.