Using video and new media to give a voice -- and powerful options -- to urban youth.

Chicago's Street-Level Youth Media teaches inner-city youth how to use media arts and emerging technologies (video production, computer art and the Internet) for self-expression, communication and social change.

Street-Level's work dramatically affects young people's lives. For example, in summer 1997, 16-year-old Edda Meza and three friends were recruited by a Street-Level Youth Media instructor for a video project at their local neighborhood park. They worked on a short video called Misunderstood, which focused on teens' stereotyping and adults' negative perceptions of youth. At the end of that summer, Misunderstood was shown at Street-Level's 1997 block party, and Edda discovered the power of the media in raising awareness.

A year later, Edda, curious about why a particular community was referred to as "the ghetto," sought out Street-Level to explore the question. Her original video, What Is Ghetto? was featured at the organization's 1998 summer block party.

Edda's involvement with the organization continued. It deepened when, shortly after high school, she became pregnant and found the support she needed at Street-Level. In 2001, Edda was chosen as Street-Level's Alexandroff Scholar, winning a full four-year scholarship to Columbia College Chicago, a visual, performing, media and communication arts college, and a part-time internship at Street-Level. Today, Edda is finishing her senior year as an early childhood education major. She credits Street-Level for introducing her to a video camera, helping her develop critical-thinking skills, and providing supportive peers and mentors.

www.street-level.org