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Springfield's 'Outlet' Mentors Young Fatherless Males

kids in gymnasium
The Outlet
An event hosted by the Outlet

The Outletin Springfield is a non-profit organization that mentors fatherless male youth ages 8 thru 22 and helps them make responsible decisions and explore their talents. It also hosts events meant to bridge the gap between police and the community at large.

This fall we spoke with one of the mentors, Michael May. The conversation took place outside of the large gray cement building where The Outlet is housed (2525 S. 12th St.) It's close to Harvard Park Elementary School, where about 80% of students come from low-income families, and most are of color.

For more information on The Outlet and upcoming events, follow it on Facebook.

Rachel Otwell of the Illinois Times is a former NPR Illinois reporter.