MILWAUKEE, WI — Leaders Igniting Transformation (LIT) is proud to announce the grand opening of the “LIT Lounge,” a safe, restorative, and youth-led third space located at 132 W. Mineral St. in Milwaukee. The ribbon cutting and open house will take place on Friday, March 27th from 4:00 to 7:00 PM and is open to the community.
The “LIT Lounge” was born out of a critical need in Milwaukee, where Black and Brown youth often face systemic inequities, housing insecurity, and too few safe spaces after school. LIT renovated its Milwaukee office to create a space that is by and for young people, where they can simply be.
Beginning this spring, the “LIT Lounge” will be open every Monday and Wednesday from 3:30 to 6:30 PM. Students will have access to snacks and beverages, bus passes to reduce transportation barriers, unstructured activities like video games, board games, movies, art, and quiet time, and monthly wellness and cultural sessions led by community practitioners covering journaling, restorative circles, mindfulness, music, and movement.
Youth leaders will help guide the culture and programming of the Lounge, supported by LIT staff and trusted community wellness facilitators.
“The ‘LIT Lounge’ answers a critical need in our city. Young people in Milwaukee deserve more than programs. They deserve a space to rest, lead, and just be,” said Dan Maldonado, Co-Executive Director of LIT.
“There are so many spaces in Milwaukee that are restricting youth, turning them away unless they have a guardian, and not a lot of spaces that are inviting them in. I’m glad we heard the needs and were able to create a space they want to be,” said Kahina Cargile, Co-Executive Director of LIT.
The community is invited to celebrate with LIT on March 27th. There will be food, music, and games. To RSVP, visit: https://www.mobilize.us/leadersignitingtransformation/event/920930/
Those who cannot attend are encouraged to support the “LIT Lounge” by making a donation at: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/lit-ef-1
About Leaders Igniting Transformation (LIT)
Leaders Igniting Transformation (LIT) is a youth-led, nonpartisan organization working to build power, develop young leaders, and advance racial, gender, and education justice. LIT organizes high school and college students across Wisconsin through issue-based organizing, leadership development, and civic engagement for Black, Brown, and underrepresented communities. Learn more at www.litwi.org.
