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Mayor Brandon Johnson, DFSS, My Chi. My Future., Host Fifth Annual Teen Bash at Navy Pier, Empowering Young Chicagoans

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CHICAGO ~ Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson proudly welcomed youth from all corners of the city to Navy Pier today for the Fifth Annual Teen Bash, a signature event hosted by My CHI. My Future. The event aims to provide young people with a safe and positive outlet to have fun, strengthen community ties, and explore employment opportunities.

Organized by the Mayor's Office in partnership with the Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS), Teen Bash is a critical example of the Johnson administration's commitment to creating inclusive, constructive, and safe spaces for young people to grow as individuals and enjoy time with friends.

In a statement, Mayor Johnson emphasized the importance of dedicated spaces for young people to grow and socialize safely. He also highlighted the event as an opportunity to celebrate youth while reaffirming the city's commitment to supporting, recognizing, and empowering them. By connecting teens with employment opportunities, programming, creativity, and community within welcoming spaces, Chicago is building a city where every young person has access to opportunity, safety, and belonging.

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The 2026 Teen Bash features two core components designed to engage and empower youth: the Teen Resource Expo and the Teen Bash Celebration. The Expo connects teens with summer job opportunities, year-round programming, and critical resources from across the city. Meanwhile, the Celebration offers a vibrant experience with live performances by youth artists, DJs, gaming stations, art activities, skateboarding sessions, and free food.

DFSS Commissioner Angela Green expressed her excitement about welcoming Chicago's youth to Navy Pier for this highly anticipated annual event celebrating community and exceptional opportunities for young people. She described it as an energizing day filled with fun activities that also serves as an important connection point for Chicago's youth who are eager to develop their skills and explore new experiences through engagement with employment programs and safe year-round activities.

Launched in 2023 by the City of Chicago, My CHI. My Future. is committed to providing safe, enriching, year-round programming for young people aged 13 to 19. According to DFSS Deputy Commissioner of Youth Services Kathy Cullick, the initiative is powerful because it not only creates opportunities for young people but also puts them in the driver's seat. She emphasized that events like Teen Bash are more than just a space to have fun; they are a reflection of what is possible when young people are trusted to lead, create, and shape experiences for their peers. Cullick also highlighted the range of activities offered through the initiative, from basketball tournaments to art classes to game nights and fashion shows. She emphasized that these activities are designed based on what young people need - safe spaces, connection, and opportunities to express themselves - and through this work, they are not only designing those experiences but also being invested in as leaders. This approach builds confidence, community, and pathways for young people to see their value and voice in the city.

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With more than 1,200 attendees at last year's event, the 2025 Teen Bash was a huge success. This year's turnout is expected to be similar as the annual event continues to serve as a cornerstone of the city's investment in young people. It expands access to opportunity, strengthens community partnerships, and ensures that Chicago's youth have the resources they need to succeed.

Filed Under: Government, City

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