DeKalb Council Approves $149,500 Grant for Youth Center Purchase

DEKALB — The DeKalb City Council has approved 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 funding will support B.L.A.C.’s purchase of the property in the Annie Glidden North neighborhood, allowing the organization to establish a permanent location for youth programs. B.L.A.C., founded in 2020 by Executive Director Tiffany Tucker, provides after school and summer programs focused on recreation, counseling, STEM education and career opportunities for youth ages 10 to 18. The grant represents 75% of the $200,000 purchase price and will be funded through $50,000 from the city’s Emergency Assistance Fund and $99,500 from remaining American Rescue Plan Act funds. The former one story building includes about 2,400 square feet of usable space and is located near Welsh Park, where many community events are held. City officials said Monday the new facility will help expand services for families in the Annie Glidden North neighborhood.