Chance The Rapper recorded his first mixtape at a Chicago Public Library YOUmedia studio and now, he’s making sure other kids have similar opportunities to make their dreams come true.
The rapper was recently on hand to help open a new digital lab at Chicago’s Woodson Regional Library. The YOUmedia program that is now part of the library will help teens have access to digital tools, including 3D printing, writing workshops and, of course, the music-related resources that were instrumental to Chance’s success.
Chance also spoke about some of those tools on Twitter.
#CarterGWoodson library @YOUmediaChicago
— Chance The Rapper (@chancetherapper) February 18, 2015
Free wifi, New Laptops, production software, studio space, instruments, video games, books FOR FREE @ #CarterGWoodson
— Chance The Rapper (@chancetherapper) February 18, 2015
Chicago’s First Lady Amy Rule was also at the opening.
“Expanding digital media labs to libraries throughout the City will provide more teens with opportunities to foster their creativity and nurture their talents,” Rule said in a statement, according to Chicago Inno. “These labs also serve as safe places for teens to stay engaged, benefit from mentorship and form lifelong friendships.”
Chance didn’t stop there. He also held his Open Mike event for high school students.
Chance The Rapper’s contributions towards youth have been celebrated. Just last year, he got his “most important award” when Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel presented him with Chicago’s Outstanding Youth of the Year Award.
more: Chance The Rapper Just Got The Most Important Award He’ll Ever Receive
Keep inspiring us all, Chance.
