Growing up on the South Side of Chicago, the path to adulthood isn’t always clear. For many teens, finding a safe and productive way to spend time during those critical formative years can make all the difference. Enter CHIshorties, a program that began with a simple idea but quickly evolved into a powerful movement for change. Through photography, filmmaking, and storytelling, CHIshorties gives young people the tools to stay out of trouble, discover their talents, and realize their dreams.
It all started back in 2012. The idea was simple: give teens a camera and a chance to document their lives through artistic expression storytelling and experiences. What began as a weekend photography class soon evolved into a robust summer filmmaking program, giving young people a platform to capture their world through the lenses of cameras, film, and even drones. This initiative, led by a passionate team, has been transforming lives by providing youth with the tools to own their narratives and explore the economic potential of their creative talents.
For kids growing up in Chicago, where distractions and challenges are everywhere, CHIshorties became a lifeline. Instead of getting caught up in the negative influences that can often pull teens off track, these young people were learning something fun. And they weren’t just learning how to use a camera, they were learning how to see the world differently and tell their own stories. They weren’t just snapping photos, they were creating art. They weren’t just recording videos they were producing films. And through it all, they were learning they had the power to shape their futures.
Originally, CHIshorties focused on helping teens document their summer experiences through photography. The program quickly revealed that storytelling, whether through a camera or film, was more than just a hobby for these youth, it was a means of self-expression. The teens began documenting their communities and sharing their perspectives, highlighting the unique beauty and challenges of growing up in Chicago. In 2014, CHIshorties partnered with South Shore Current Magazine, now known as South Shore Drive, to provide a platform for these stories, building a community archive of photography and film that continues to resonate today.
Despite setbacks during the COVID-19 pandemic, which temporarily reduced participation, CHIshorties has bounced back stronger than ever.
One student, Jaila, even returned after a break, showcasing the lasting impact the program has had on its participants. The older students have stepped into leadership roles, mentoring younger members and helping guide the next generation of storytellers.
They’ve captured stunning outdoor photography and documented events with chess pieces, expanding their creative horizons.
The program didn’t stop at photography and filmmaking. Today, CHIshorties has grown to include a variety of multimedia opportunities for teens. They’re learning to podcast, create Instagram and YouTube content, CapCut, and even fly drones. Thanks to partnerships with local organizations like Captain Ken’s CHIYachts Charter, the students had the opportunity to visit boats, adding a fun twist to their summer experiences.
The importance of CHIshorties goes beyond just keeping kids busy. It’s about giving them the tools to thrive. These teens are discovering talents they didn’t know they had and exploring career possibilities they hadn’t considered. They’re staying out of trouble because they have something to work toward, something they care about, and something that gives them pride. They’re becoming young adults with confidence, creativity, and a sense of purpose.
The program’s success wouldn’t be possible without the support of Organizations like Real Men Charities, The Quarry, Hood Hope, Fun with Chess and Vance Walker, and the Chicago Community Trust Safe and Peaceful Chi have played crucial roles in helping CHIshorties continue its mission. With these partnerships, the program has become a safe, creative haven for Chicago youth, particularly those on the South Side, where opportunities like this can sometimes feel out of reach.
But CHIshorties is only getting started. With big dreams of finding a permanent space and expanding its programming year-round, the future looks bright. The goal is to create a place where creativity can thrive all year, giving young people more opportunities to learn, grow, and tell their stories.
In a world that often feels like it’s moving too fast, CHIshorties has created a space where young people can slow down, focus, and realize they can be anything they desire. Through the lens of a camera, the pages of a script, or the swoop of a drone, these teens are rewriting their futures one story at a time. And in the process, they’re proving that the South Side is filled with talent, creativity, and hope.
