If you follow the news, our city can seem like a bad place to grow up. There are tons of headlines about the toll of gun violence, or how young people have fewer safe places they can go to just be kids. But there are local groups working every day to change that narrative. Host Trenae Nuri speaks with Shawna Smith, founder and owner of A Chance At Life Inc., and Prentice Boone, founder of the Junior Barber Academy, about what it takes to run an organization aimed at helping youth in Philadelphia. They also discuss how they create space and mentorship opportunities for young people, from bowling nights to barbering classes.

Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly.

We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly.

Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170.

Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.