Team UCAN, a North Lawndale-based nonprofit, used the chant “UCAN!” (or “You can!”) to paddle in sync with each other. (Evan Garcia / WTTW)

Thirty-four teams competed Saturday in the Dragon Boat Race for Literacy in Chinatown’s Ping Tom Park – the most competitors in the event’s 19-year history. 

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An anonymous donation will be used to treat child abuse, mental health issues and the direct and indirect effects of violence on Chicago’s youth.

The third annual Peace Hub Impact Youth Conference takes place May 5-6, 2017.

Nearly 1,000 young adults and social service professionals are expected to attend a conference this weekend to talk about the daily challenges of life in Chicago, from gun and gang violence to poverty.

Participants, facilitators and organizers of the pilot program WePlay take a picture in the Chicago Children's Museum Pritzker Playspace, where they've been spending time over the past 12 weeks. (Courtesy of Chicago Children's Museum)

Five years ago, Saleem Penny decided to create a program offering safe play spaces in Chicago to young parents and their children. Learn about WePlay, which just wrapped up its first session.

Anthony Green, left, and his youth development coach Patrick Daniels at the UCAN headquarters in North Lawndale. (Maya Miller / Chicago Tonight)

North Lawndale native Patrick Daniels says his neighborhood is defined by more than violence, and he’s working to change that narrative at UCAN.