11th annual Heal the Hood comes to 8th and Burleigh

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Hundreds came out to celebrate the start of summer at the 11th Annual Heal the Hood Block Party in Milwaukee.

"We are here on 8th and Burleigh with Heal the Hood MKE, it's the 11th annual Block Party and resource fair," said Jessica Butler, one of the organizers for Heal the Hood.

She says they try to host block parties like these in areas effected by gun violence to flip the script on what's happening in the neighborhood every Memorial Day weekend.

"Bringing resources directly to the community give opportunity for local entrepreneurs to sell their wares, and just fellowship," said Butler, "[To infuse the neighborhood with good energy] that's impacted by crime and a lot of gun violence, give them the opportunity to just to come and be free today."

Butler says it's a safe space for people who live nearby to learn about resources for things like getting help finding housing, food assistance and more.

Local entrepreneurs are involved as well.

"I'm amongst other people that are in the same position as myself that are wanting to be, you know, independent and you know and an entrepreneur," said Phylicia Satchel, owner of Nirvana's Essence.

She says being in this space elevates small business owners like her.

"It makes you comfortable to see all the people that have goals and dreams and aspirations as well," said Satchel.

People of all ages enjoyed music and food.

Young people, like 15-year-old DJ Qwan, aka Daqwan Suggs, were even involved. He got to DJ the event.

"I mean, I feel like I accomplished something making my family proud. That I'm getting somewhere, I'm getting far. I came a long way," said Daqwan. "And I'm making my family proud."

Mayor Cavalier Johnson says it's all part of working to try and get Milwaukee off on the right foot for the summer.

"We've done so many wonderful things throughout the entire city this week putting the spotlight on peace and unity throughout the city of Milwaukee," said Mayor Johnson.